Podcast Summary: "Ed Helms on What Makes Andy from 'The Office' Funny"
Good One: A Podcast About Jokes
Host: Jesse David Fox, Senior Editor at Vulture
Guest: Ed Helms
Release Date: July 3, 2025
Introduction
In this engaging episode of Good One: A Podcast About Jokes, host Jesse David Fox welcomes comedian and actor Ed Helms to delve into the comedic intricacies of one of television's most beloved characters—Andy Bernard from the American version of The Office. The conversation spans Helms's experiences on The Office, his role in The Hangover movie series, the creative processes behind iconic comedy scenes, and insights into his podcasting venture, Snafu. Additionally, Helms shares a fascinating historical anecdote about a time the U.S. Government contemplated blowing up the moon.
The Evolution of Andy Bernard on The Office
Recruitment and Character Development
Ed Helms discusses his initial attraction to The Office, primarily due to his admiration for Steve Carell from their time together on The Daily Show. Helms shared his excitement upon learning that Carell would be portraying Michael Scott in the American adaptation.
Helms states, “[...] I was already enamored with the show before it even took to the airwaves.” [03:05]
During his initial audition process, Helms auditioned for other roles but ultimately was cast as Andy Bernard. The creation of Andy's character was a collaborative and organic process with show creators Greg Daniels and Paul Lieberstein. Helms contributed ideas that shaped Andy's "Connecticut yacht club kind of douchey" persona, including quirky fashion choices like pastel-colored pants with sailboat patterns.
Helms recounts, “He’s someone who makes you laugh from a distance, but, like, up close, like, you can’t kind of stand him.” [04:52]
Balancing Obnoxiousness with Relatability
Jesse David Fox probes how Helms managed to portray Andy's incessant annoyingness without alienating the audience. Helms emphasizes that his approach was never to make Andy outright annoying but to infuse the character with volatility and underlying emotional turmoil that made his outbursts both humorous and relatable.
Helms explains, “I think I'm grateful that I could see. I can see why some real person like, that would actually be horrifying and tragic. But in the context of the office, it is so funny.” [09:03-09:57]
Memorable Scenes and Interactions with Steve Carell
Helms shares anecdotes about working with Steve Carell, highlighting Carell's ability to convey profound emotions while delivering comedic lines. One standout moment was a scene where Michael Scott (Carell) reacts to Andy's antics, blending humor with genuine character depth.
Helms reminisces, “There were a lot of times when I couldn’t keep it together. I really would break just doing a one-on-one scene with Steve because there’s so much going on in his face.” [12:01]
Another memorable scene involves Kevin sitting on Michael's lap as Santa Claus, which Helms describes as both hilarious and challenging to perform due to the physical comedy involved.
Helms recounts, “I still couldn't keep it together. And it was the commitment like that. As one of the things I could just tell Steve was so present that all of that flailing around with a sleep leg was like, I don’t think that was in the script.” [14:34-15:03]
Reflecting on the End of The Office
When discussing the series finale, Helms reflects on the bittersweet emotions tied to leaving the show. He acknowledges that it took considerable time and personal growth to appreciate the significance of his time on The Office fully.
Helms shares, “It took some real distance and like grief, truly of like the end of that chapter of my life to then be like, oh no. It was so much more special than you ever realized.” [15:23-16:24]
Behind the Scenes of The Hangover Movies
Navigating Fame and Physical Demands
Transitioning to his role in The Hangover series, Helms discusses the physical and logistical challenges of filming large-scale comedy movies. From enduring hot desert shoots to intricate stunt scenes, Helms highlights the grueling nature of movie production.
Helms describes, “We were fully in the car for car chases and, like, fighting, wrestling. Some of the fight scenes are, again, just take after take. It’s grueling.” [25:06]
Creative Process: Writing and Performing Songs
Helms elaborates on his involvement in writing and performing original songs for The Hangover movies. These musical interludes added a unique comedic layer that resonated with audiences.
Helms explains, “I would just sit at the piano, plink around, and I can place. I’m like an okay piano player. I’m not good. But I would just make up songs about crew members.” [27:22]
One notable example is the spontaneous creation of a silly song about tigers that evolved through collaboration with director Todd Phillips.
Helms recounts, “We together cracked this really fun and silly song.” [29:06]
Reflections on the Trilogy's Impact
Discussing the commercial success of the Hangover trilogy, Helms reflects on the overwhelming fame that accompanied it. He candidly shares that the rapid rise to stardom was something he wasn't fully prepared for emotionally, leading to a "fame hangover."
Helms states, “I just didn’t have the sort of tools for that. Ultimately, I have such a positive take on all of it.” [30:06-31:30]
He also touches upon how the trilogy influenced his subsequent career choices, highlighting a desire to remain authentic and connected to his comedic roots.
Helms notes, “I loved every minute of it, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.” [29:59]
The Story of Blowing Up the Moon
One of the most intriguing segments of the podcast revolves around a historical event where the U.S. Government contemplated detonating a nuclear missile on the moon during the 1950s. This story, part of Helms's book discussed in the podcast, sheds light on the absurdity of certain Cold War-era proposals.
Concept and Feasibility
Helms narrates the idea originated as a means to showcase American might visibly to the world, particularly to the Soviet Union. However, practical considerations, such as the moon's gravitational pull potentially redirecting the missile back to Earth, and the negligible visual impact of a lunar explosion, led to the project's abandonment.
Helms explains, “The moon just becomes this object of maybe we can use it to prove ourselves to the Soviets.” [51:13]
Involvement of Carl Sagan
Young Carl Sagan was part of the team evaluating the feasibility of the moon detonation plan. The realization of potential catastrophic outcomes contributed significantly to the project's termination.
Helms recounts, “We got to see that any minor miscalculation or rocket malfunction could very easily result in the missile slingshotting around the Moon's gravitational field and just hitting, flying right back to Earth.” [51:13-52:34]
Creating and Hosting the Snafu Podcast
Conceptualization and Execution
Ed Helms introduces his podcast, Snafu, a departure from typical celebrity-centered podcasts. Instead, Snafu focuses on deeply researched historical events, blending humor with informative storytelling. Helms's collaboration with his college friend, Jad Abumrad of Radiolab, inspired the podcast's format.
Helms shares, “I just wanted to bring sort of that style of storytelling that Jad is so brilliant at into the history space. But I want it to be funny as a comedian.” [38:04]
Exploring Historical Snafus
The podcast delves into various historical mishaps and "snafus," emphasizing the humor in human folly. Each episode is designed to be accessible, allowing listeners to engage with intriguing historical narratives without requiring extensive prior knowledge.
Helms explains, “It's a survey. 31 different snafus. It's a very easy book to just pick up, thumb through, find a fun chapter, and read in 15 minutes.” [57:10]
Second Season Focus: Activism and Civil Courage
In the second season, Snafu explores the complexities of activism during the Vietnam War era. The podcast highlights the bravery and discipline of activists who infiltrated the FBI to expose governmental malfeasance, drawing parallels to contemporary issues surrounding institutional accountability.
Helms states, “These activists in season two of Snafu really make a compelling case for civil disobedience in the face of catastrophic breakdown of our institutions.” [45:43]
Advice and Anecdotes
Advice for Aspiring Comedians
Helms offers heartfelt advice to those pursuing careers in acting, writing, or comedy. He emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with like-minded, passionate individuals who inspire and support each other.
Helms advises, “Surround yourself with like-minded people, people that love comedy, and they will inspire you and you will inspire them.” [59:03]
Memorable Interactions with Comedians
Reflecting on his journey, Helms shares a touching encounter with George Carlin, showcasing his admiration for legendary comedians.
Helms recounts, “George Carlin... just peeks his head in. I was so stunned, and I just said, Mr. Carlin, it's such an honor to have you here.” [60:50]
Stand-Up Failures and Lessons
Helms narrates a challenging experience during his early stand-up career, where a poorly received performance at Mohegan Sun taught him the importance of focusing on one's strengths and commitments.
Helms shares, “I just have a terrible night, and I’m like, okay, I still have three nights or whatever. Three more shows. I’ll get it back.” [63:12]
Final Segments: Laughing Round and Personal Favorites
Favorite Jokes
In the light-hearted concluding segment, Helms shares jokes that resonate with his comedic sensibilities, showcasing his enduring love for classic humor.
Helms jokes, “Why did the chicken cross the playground? To get to the other slide.” [58:20]
He also explores a deeper twist on the traditional "chicken crossing the road" joke, pondering its underlying meaning.
Helms muses, “What if the chicken is crossing the road to deliberately get hit by a car and get to the other side?” [58:38]
Favorite The Office Moments
Helms expresses his fondness for the elaborate choreography scenes in The Office, highlighting their comedic brilliance and visual creativity.
Helms shares, “And that was glorious.” [59:18]
Conclusion
This episode of Good One: A Podcast About Jokes offers a comprehensive exploration of Ed Helms's contributions to modern comedy through his roles in The Office and The Hangover series, as well as his endeavors in podcasting. Helms's insights into character development, comedic timing, and the blending of humor with historical storytelling provide valuable lessons for aspiring comedians and entertainers. The episode is enriched with personal anecdotes, memorable quotes, and a deep appreciation for the craft of comedy.
Notable Quotes:
- Ed Helms: “I was already enamored with the show before it even took to the airwaves.” [03:05]
- Ed Helms: “I only thought of it as, like, what makes me laugh about Andy.” [05:14]
- Ed Helms: “Andy always wants to be a good guy, but he has so many demons.” [10:19]
- Ed Helms: “It was the first time we saw a script for an episode was at the table read.” [08:23]
- Ed Helms: “These guys never broke, which is incredible.” [47:34]
- Ed Helms: “The craft of like trying to make something as funny as possible is still like one of the greatest thrills of my life.” [35:00]
- Ed Helms: “Surround yourself with like-minded people, people that love comedy.” [59:03]
Disclaimer: This summary is based on the provided transcript and may not cover every detail discussed in the actual podcast episode.