Podcast Summary: Good One: A Podcast About Jokes Episode: Jason Segel Might Still Make that Dracula Musical
Release Date: June 12, 2025
Host: Jesse David Fox, Vulture.com Senior Editor

Introduction

In this episode of Good One: A Podcast About Jokes, host Jesse David Fox sits down with renowned actor, comedian, and writer Jason Segel. The conversation delves deep into Segel's multifaceted career, exploring his journey from comedic roles in How I Met Your Mother and films like Forgetting Sarah Marshall to his more introspective work in the Apple TV+ series Shrinking. Additionally, Segel opens up about his long-unsent Dracula puppet musical project, offering listeners a rare glimpse into his creative process and personal reflections.

Current Projects and Acting Philosophy

Jesse David Fox introduces Jason Segel by highlighting his significant contributions to comedy and his recent role in Shrinking, an Apple TV+ show about a therapist rebuilding his life after personal tragedy.

Key Discussion Points:

• Authenticity in Acting: Segel emphasizes the importance of being honest on screen, especially during dramatic moments. He cites a scene from Shrinking's season two finale where his character confesses to his daughter about his perceived failures as a father.

  Jason Segel [01:16]: "Are you willing to not show off? ... people under stress, to me are, like, super funny."

• Balancing Comedy and Drama: Segel discusses how incorporating humor into serious situations makes scenes more relatable and less emotionally taxing for both actors and audiences.

  Jason Segel [02:29]: "But people under stress ... are really fraught. ... how funny are you allowed to swear?"

The Making of Forgetting Sarah Marshall

Segel recounts the genesis of Forgetting Sarah Marshall, sharing personal anecdotes that inspired key scenes in the film.

Key Discussion Points:

• Real-Life Inspirations: The renowned breakup scene where Segel's character is naked on the couch was inspired by his own painful breakup experience.

  Jason Segel [10:48]: "I was waiting ... completely naked ... when my breakup began."

• Creative Process and Acceptance: Despite initial resistance to elements like full frontal nudity, Segel persisted, believing it would subvert audience expectations and enhance comedic value.

  Jason Segel [13:39]: "This is what makes it different. ... You're forced to throw out your expectations."

Personal Creativity and the Dracula Musical

One of the most intriguing parts of the conversation revolves around Segel's unmade Dracula puppet musical, a project that has lingered in his creative mind for decades.

Key Discussion Points:

• Origins of the Idea: Segel initially wrote a melancholic song reflecting his own heartbreak, which evolved into the concept of Dracula struggling with love.

  Jason Segel [20:39]: "I wrote the song as me. ... Dracula has a really hard time with love."

• Judd Apatow's Influence: After presenting his Dracula idea to Judd Apatow, Segel decided to shelve the project, though the concept persists as a personal creative endeavor.

  Jason Segel [21:39]: "He said, you can't play this for anyone ever. And I sort of put it away."

• Potential Future Projects: Segel hints at possible spin-offs or sequels related to the Dracula musical within the Forgetting Sarah Marshall universe, showcasing his enduring passion for the project.

  Jason Segel [23:05]: "Nick Stoller and I have a really good idea ... spin-off of Forgetting Sarah Marshall."

Reflections on Past Projects and Lessons Learned

Segel reflects on his earlier work, particularly his time on Freaks and Geeks and How I Met Your Mother, highlighting pivotal moments that shaped his career.

Key Discussion Points:

• Experiences on Freaks and Geeks: Segel reminisces about the camaraderie and creative freedom during the show's run, despite its eventual cancellation.

  Jason Segel [26:24]: "We had Our eye on the prize. ... we were making the best show that ever existed on TV."

• Advice from Judd Apatow: Early in his career, Segel received crucial guidance on the importance of writing his own material to express his unique voice.

  Jason Segel [31:01]: "If you can improv like this, then you can write. ... the only way you're gonna make it in this business is if you write your own material."

• Artistic Evolution: Segel discusses his transition from mainstream romantic comedies to more personal and experimental projects, emphasizing the need to align his work with his current emotional and creative state.

  Jason Segel [34:56]: "I just was feeling like none of this is really what I'm actually thinking about right now."

Working with Notable Co-Stars and Lessons Learned

Throughout his career, Segel has collaborated with various esteemed actors and directors, each imparting valuable lessons.

Key Discussion Points:

• Learning from Jesse Eisenberg: Segel admires Eisenberg's subtle facial expressions and integrates similar techniques into his performances.

  Jason Segel [50:53]: "His ... micro expressions of dissatisfaction ... I think he's a master at that duality."

• Insights from Adrien Brody: Working with Brody on Winning Time taught Segel the importance of understanding the camera's presence to maximize emotional impact.

  Jason Segel [51:04]: "He really understands, like, film acting and where the camera is."

• Admiration for Andre 3000: Segel praises Andre 3000's professionalism and ability to remain focused solely on the work, serving as a model for on-set behavior.

  Jason Segel [51:44]: "He ... is a leave no trace performer. ... no pretense. There was no ego."

• Wisdom from Harrison Ford: Segel shares how Ford's humility and genuine interactions provided personal encouragement and professional growth.

  Jason Segel [53:39]: "He ... is so generous ... Like, it's ... never gonna go away. So give into it and just know you're doing great."

Future Projects and Aspirations

Looking ahead, Segel expresses his desire to take on new challenges and evolve his craft further.

Key Discussion Points:

• Potential Final Seasons and Continuation of Shrinking: While currently shooting the third season of Shrinking, Segel remains open to the show's future, emphasizing creative fulfillment over contractual obligations.

  Jason Segel [55:02]: "I'd be really surprised if it was the final season. ... the stories haven't run dry."

• Desire to Play a Villain: Segel expresses interest in portraying a bona fide antagonist, aiming to explore the "charming to creepy" spectrum in his acting.

  Jason Segel [56:47]: "I would really like to play a proper villain. ... tip Hero, but is not a great guy."

• Unfinished Projects: He briefly mentions Dispatches from Elsewhere, highlighting his commitment to projects that resonate personally, even if they don't achieve mainstream success.

  Jason Segel [40:00]: "What I do is write. ... Dispatches from Elsewhere ... Meaningful to me."

Final Advice and Summary

As the episode wraps up, Segel imparts valuable advice to aspiring actors, writers, and comedians, emphasizing perseverance and authenticity.

Key Discussion Points:

• Celebrate Every Step: Segel advises individuals to acknowledge and rejoice in each milestone, preventing the endless postponement of gratification.

  Jason Segel [59:38]: "I think it's important to celebrate every step, ... don't miss it. That's the key for me."

• Embrace Unique Creative Ideas: He encourages creatives to pursue unconventional ideas, even if they face skepticism, as these projects often hold personal significance and potential for innovation.

  Jason Segel [60:11]: "Space Ghost ... didn't end up getting made. But it's one of my favorite things that I've ever written with them."

• Overcoming Fear: Segel shares his belief in overcoming fear to achieve creative breakthroughs, drawing from his own experiences of taking artistic risks.

  Jason Segel [30:32]: "Of all of us, and, like, fear gets in the way. But I do believe ... I will figure it out."

Notable Quotes

• On Honesty in Acting:

  Jason Segel [01:16]: "Are you willing to not show off? ... but being honest about how awkward life is."

• On Creative Persistence:

  Jason Segel [13:39]: "If you're going to do comedy so people feel like, oh, this is gonna be fun. And then you knock them with some drama."

• On Artistic Identity:

  Jason Segel [32:25]: "I need to shed it and figure out who I am today. ... grown-up shit, really."

• On Collaboration and Learning:

  Jason Segel [51:04]: "He really understands, like, film acting and where the camera is ... maximize the emotion of a moment."

Conclusion

Jason Segel's candid discussion with Jesse David Fox offers a comprehensive look into the mind of a versatile comedian and actor navigating the complexities of creative authenticity, personal growth, and the ever-evolving landscape of the entertainment industry. From his heartfelt reflections on past successes and failures to his unwavering commitment to personal and artistic integrity, Segel provides invaluable insights for both fans and aspiring creatives alike.