SmartLess Podcast Episode Summary: "Julia Garner"

Release Date: July 28, 2025
Hosts: Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, Will Arnett
Guest: Julia Garner

Introduction

In this episode of SmartLess, hosts Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett welcome acclaimed actress Julia Garner. Known for her standout performance as Ruth Langmore in the hit series Ozark, Julia brings insightful discussions about her acting journey, personal growth, and upcoming projects.

Early Acting Career

Julia Garner began her acting career at the young age of 16. Discussing her initial foray into the entertainment industry, Julia shared her experiences auditioning for various roles and the challenges she faced transitioning to Hollywood.

Julia Garner [00:27]: "I never thought that my life would end up like this. I always loved movies... It didn't feel real."

Julia recounted her first audition for a Paul Thomas Anderson film, detailing the nerve-wracking experience amid an eye infection.

Julia Garner [00:56]: "I had green pus coming out of my eye... I had this chemistry read with Claire Danes."

Working on Ozark

Julia’s collaboration with Jason Bateman on Ozark has been a pivotal point in her career. The hosts delved into their professional relationship and Julia's portrayal of Ruth Langmore.

Julia Garner [12:35]: "I love working with Jason because he relaxes everybody. He makes it fun."

Jason shared his admiration for Julia's transformative skills, humorously mistaking her acting for reality in their interactions.

Jason Bateman [10:54]: "I was truly blown away because I'd never seen you before."

Winning Emmys and Its Impact

Julia has won three consecutive Emmys for her role in Ozark. The conversation explored how these accolades have affected her personally and professionally.

Julia Garner [35:56]: "It made me focus on the importance of the process rather than the result."

She emphasized that while awards are gratifying, they bring additional pressure and expectations.

Julia Garner [36:10]: "People have these expectations on you, but my problems are still following me."

Clown School Experience

During an industry strike, Julia pursued an unconventional interest by attending clown school in France. This experience highlighted her commitment to embracing discomfort to enhance her artistry.

Julia Garner [37:53]: "Failure is the friend of the clown. You can't have great art without humility."

She described the rigorous and sometimes humiliating training, which ultimately contributed to her fearless approach to acting.

Julia Garner [39:01]: "I had to constantly make myself feel uncomfortable to feel comfortable as an artist."

Upcoming Projects

Julia is actively involved in several high-profile projects, including a role in the Fantastic Four reboot and an upcoming film titled Weapons featuring Josh Brolin.

Julia Garner [47:50]: "I play a teacher in Weapons, a horror-magnolia vibe story."

The hosts expressed excitement for her roles, particularly the release of Weapons on August 8th.

Personal Life and Hobbies

Julia is married to Mark Foster of Foster the People. Despite her busy schedule, she finds time to indulge in her interests, such as fashion and acting-related projects.

Julia Garner [53:10]: "I've always loved fashion as a form of expression."

She also balanced her acting career with modeling, sometimes earning more from modeling gigs than acting roles.

Julia Garner [53:42]: "I made better money doing modeling than my acting at one point."

Conclusion

The episode concluded with heartfelt goodbyes, with the hosts expressing their admiration and excitement for Julia’s future endeavors. Julia reciprocated the warm sentiments, highlighting the genuine connection formed during the interview.

Sean Hayes [57:07]: "You're everything I hoped you would be, Julia."

Julia Garner [58:15]: "Thank you guys so much. Bye."

Notable Quotes

• Jason Bateman [10:54]: "I was truly blown away because I'd never seen you before."

• Julia Garner [35:56]: "It made me focus on the importance of the process rather than the result."

• Julia Garner [37:53]: "Failure is the friend of the clown. You can't have great art without humility."

• Sean Hayes [57:07]: "You're everything I hoped you would be, Julia."

Final Thoughts

This episode of SmartLess offers an intimate glimpse into Julia Garner's life and career. From her early beginnings and breakout role in Ozark to her fearless artistic pursuits and upcoming projects, Julia's journey is both inspiring and relatable. The authentic and humorous dialogue between the hosts and Julia makes this episode a must-listen for fans and newcomers alike.