Podcast Summary: SmartLess – Episode Featuring Laura Linney

Release Date: September 30, 2024
Hosts: Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, Will Arnett
Guest: Laura Linney

1. Welcoming Laura Linney

The episode kicks off with a warm and humorous introduction as hosts Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett surprise their co-hosts with the esteemed actress Laura Linney. The hosts express their admiration and excitement to have her on the show.

• Will Arnett [00:50]: "There's a princess."
• Laura Linney [11:03]: "Hi, guys. Hi."

2. Laura Linney’s Journey in Acting

Laura Linney delves into her early inspirations and journey into acting, highlighting her formative experiences in theater influenced by her playwright father.

• Laura Linney [15:00]: "I grew up around the theater, so I always knew I wanted to be a part of it in some way."
• Sean Hayes [14:13]: "I love the idea of being a waiter just for the performative element of it..."

3. Education and Early Career

Linney discusses her academic pursuits at Brown University and Juilliard, emphasizing the transition from academic theater studies to professional acting. She shares anecdotes about her first roles and the challenges of transitioning to professional settings.

• Laura Linney [17:57]: "I was more an academic theater nerd at Brown, studying theater history..."
• Jason Bateman [18:22]: "Oh, wow."

4. Professional Challenges and Growth

The conversation shifts to the rigorous demands of acting, particularly in theater, where Linney performed multiple shows a week. She contrasts this with her experiences in film and television, illustrating the physical and emotional toll of different acting mediums.

• Laura Linney [20:37]: "It does not get easy."
• Sean Hayes [21:00]: "You have to deliver."

5. Transition to Directing

Laura shares her foray into directing, particularly her work on the limited series "Black Rabbit." She credits Jason Bateman for encouraging her to explore this role and discusses the learning curve involved in shifting from acting to directing.

• Laura Linney [42:44]: "I couldn't have done this unless Jason really pushed me to do it."
• Will Arnett [41:32]: "She crushed this so hard."

6. Personal Stories and Relationships

Hosts and Linney exchange personal stories, including how Linney met her husband Mark Schauer at the Telluride Film Festival. They reflect on the importance of friendships and professional relationships in their lives.

• Laura Linney [35:21]: "Mark sort of bounded up to us and said, hi, I'm Mark Schauer."
• Will Arnett [37:18]: "How do you get rid of bodies? You put them in a car and...?"

7. Supporting the Arts and Mentorship

Linney emphasizes the critical role of the arts in society and discusses her involvement with Juilliard, where she serves on the board and mentors aspiring actors. She advocates for increased support and funding for arts education.

• Laura Linney [56:16]: "It's unbelievably medicinal. You cannot... engage with the arts. It will make everything better."
• Sean Hayes [62:07]: "Listen, what's going on at the house?"

8. Advice for Aspiring Actors

Laura offers practical advice for young actors, highlighting financial challenges and the importance of perseverance. She stresses the need for supportive communities and accessible arts education.

• Laura Linney [58:05]: "Money. It's impossible... Juilliard's making such a concerted effort to go tuition-free."
• Jason Bateman [58:25]: "Right."

9. Reflections on Collaboration and Friendship

The hosts and Linney reflect on their collaborative projects, particularly "Ozark," and how working together has strengthened their bonds. They celebrate Linney's contributions and her multifaceted talents as both an actress and director.

• Sean Hayes [49:46]: "What is something that Jason, Doug does that's kind of unique that you've noticed about him?"
• Laura Linney [50:12]: "We work completely differently. I love watching him work."

10. Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

As the episode wraps up, the hosts express their gratitude towards Laura Linney, reaffirming her integral role in their projects and personal lives. They share lighthearted banter and plan for future collaborations.

• Jason Bateman [67:07]: "I love all three of you."
• Will Arnett [70:11]: "That was lovely. It was painful for me. It was a lot of love to receive."

Key Takeaways

• Versatility in Acting and Directing: Laura Linney showcases her ability to excel both as an accomplished actress and a budding director, highlighting the importance of continuous growth and exploration in the arts.

• Importance of Mentorship and Support: Linney’s involvement with Juilliard underscores the value of mentoring the next generation of artists and advocating for accessible arts education.

• Balancing Personal and Professional Lives: The episode sheds light on maintaining friendships and professional relationships, emphasizing mutual support and understanding amidst demanding careers.

Notable Quotes

• Laura Linney [20:37]: "It does not get easy."
• Laura Linney [56:16]: "The arts are unbelievably medicinal."
• Sean Hayes [62:07]: "What can people do to support the arts wherever they live?"

This episode of SmartLess offers an insightful and heartfelt conversation with Laura Linney, exploring her journey in the performing arts, her transition into directing, and her dedication to mentoring young artists. The hosts' camaraderie and genuine admiration create an engaging narrative that underscores the significance of the arts in personal and societal development.