Pod Meets World: "Nick Bakay Meets World" Summary
Release Date: March 31, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts
Guest: Will Friedle
Introduction
In this engaging episode of Pod Meets World, hosts Danielle Fishel, Ryder Strong, and Will Friedle delve deep into the illustrious career of actor, voice artist, and writer Will Friedle. Known for his iconic roles in "Boy Meets World" and voicing Salem Saberhagen in "Sabrina the Teenage Witch," Friedle shares behind-the-scenes insights, career pivots, and personal anecdotes that have shaped his journey in Hollywood.
Early Career and Writing Beginnings ([11:02]-[16:22])
Will Friedle opens up about his initial foray into the world of comedy and writing:
-
National Lampoon Contribution:
"I was a young actor in New York... started by writing fake letters to the editor... became a contributing editor."
(11:45) -
Transition to Television Writing:
"That portfolio caught the eye of people at what is now Comedy Central... got my first TV writing job."
(12:47)
Friedle recounts his early days working on Comedy Central's late-night talk show with Alan Havey, highlighting the vibrant and unjaded atmosphere that fostered lifelong friendships, including meeting his wife, Robin.
- Memorable Colleagues:
"Jon Stewart got his start... met Steve Higgins, Jimmy Kimmel... They became some of my best friends."
(15:14-16:22)
Collaboration with Comedy Legends ([16:22]-[25:30])
Friedle discusses his experiences working with legendary comedians and television personalities:
-
Dennis Miller's Show:
"Dennis hired me to write and be his sidekick on his talk show in LA... This got me to LA."
(16:55) -
Interaction with Jim Carrey:
"Shared a writing office... wrote sketches together like the Menendez brothers dancing to 'Risky Business'."
(23:36-24:32) -
In Living Color:
"Joined 'In Living Color' through Les Fierstain... Collaborated with David Alan Grier and Tommy Davidson... A year of intense pitch sessions."
(25:16-25:51)
Friedle highlights the creative synergy and challenges faced while working in high-pressure environments, shaping his comedic voice and prowess.
Voice Acting: Bringing Salem to Life ([32:27]-[39:41])
A significant portion of the episode focuses on Friedle's role as Salem Saberhagen, the witty cat from "Sabrina the Teenage Witch":
-
Voice Recording Process:
"Didn't tape night; went on set off-camera with a boom mic... collaborated closely with the puppeteer."
(32:27-34:05) -
Realization of Salem's Popularity:
"Bought a silver credit card at Billy Martin... Salesperson recognized my voice as Salem."
(34:37-36:18) -
Impact and Challenges:
"People wanted to tell their kids I was Salem... Balancing voice work with other writing responsibilities."
(36:19-39:41)
Friedle shares humorous and heartfelt moments, illustrating the unexpected fame that came with voicing Salem and the delicate balance of maintaining the character's mystique.
Expanding Horizons: From Voice Acting to Producing ([39:43]-[47:59])
Friedle elaborates on his ventures beyond acting, including writing, producing, and creating new content:
-
Bookie on Max:
"Created 'Bookie' with Chuck Lorre... A show about a bookie in LA navigating the gray areas of the gambling world."
(46:32-49:40) -
Animated Projects and Guest Appearances:
"Voiced Salem on 'The Simpsons' during a cameo at the Smithsonian... Participated in various animated series and movie references."
(43:02-44:47) -
Sports Commentary:
"Wrote for ESPN's 'SportsMonster' and hosted segments like the 'Bad Beats' on SportsCenter... Engaged audiences with satirical takes on sports events."
(50:18-54:38)
Friedle highlights his versatility in the entertainment industry, seamlessly transitioning between writing, voice acting, and producing, while maintaining a commitment to comedic authenticity.
Reflections and Future Endeavors ([55:00]-[60:37])
As the episode draws to a close, Friedle reflects on his career trajectory and shares insights into his future projects:
-
Creation of Paul Blart:
"Developed the concept with Kevin James... A dreamer mall cop inspired by our experiences as security guards."
(54:45-55:00) -
Legacy of Salem:
"Grateful for the lasting impact of Salem... Surprised by how enduring the character has been across generations."
(57:08-57:39) -
Upcoming Projects:
"Shooting a new show on Netflix with comedian Leanne Morgan... Excited about the multi-cam, audience-driven format."
(59:44-60:26)
Friedle emphasizes the importance of adaptability and embracing unexpected opportunities, underscoring his passion for creative storytelling and audience engagement.
Notable Quotes
-
On Career Pivots:
"You never know what door B opens..."
(59:15) -
On Voice Acting and Fame:
"I did something with legs... Realizing I actually did something with legs."
(57:39) -
On Writing for TV:
"Writing is like being a left-handed pitcher. There's a need."
(12:47)
Conclusion
This episode of Pod Meets World offers a comprehensive look into Will Friedle's multifaceted career. From his roots in comedy writing to his beloved role as Salem and his ventures into producing impactful television, Friedle's journey is a testament to versatility and perseverance in the entertainment industry. Listeners are treated to a candid and insightful conversation, enriched with personal stories and professional milestones that highlight the breadth of Friedle's contributions to television and beyond.
Connect with Pod Meets World:
- Instagram: @podmeetsworldshow
- Email: podmeetsworldshow@mail.com
- Merchandise: podmeetsworldshow.com
Follow Will Friedle:
- Instagram: @willfriedle
- Twitter: @willfriedle
- IMDb: Will Friedle