Podcast Summary: So True with Caleb Hearon - Episode: Kiernan Shipka and Nico Hiraga are Sweethearts

Release Date: December 5, 2024
Host: Caleb Hearon
Guests: Kiernan Shipka and Nico Hiraga
Platform: Headgum

Introduction to "Sweethearts"

In this engaging episode of So True with Caleb Hearon, host Caleb Hearon is joined by the talented duo Kiernan Shipka and Nico Hiraga to discuss their latest project, the film Sweethearts. The conversation centers around the film's core message and the chemistry between the cast members.

• Caleb Hearon shares his initial struggle to articulate the film's message, humorously summarizing it as "Friends are Life" ([01:35]).
• Kiernan Shipka clarifies, emphasizing the simplicity of the message: “Friends are Alive” ([01:49]).

Friendship and On-Set Dynamics

The trio delves into the essence of their friendship, both on and off the set, highlighting how genuine relationships contribute to the film’s authenticity.

• Caleb reflects on meeting Kiernan and Nico, expressing initial nervousness: “I was so nervous to meet you guys” ([02:56]).
• Kiernan reassures him, stating, “We did fall in love” ([04:00]).
• Nico adds, “We’re super dank” ([04:17]), underscoring the strong bond among the friends.

Acting Journeys and Backgrounds

A significant portion of the episode explores the actors' backgrounds and how their diverse experiences influence their performances.

• Caleb shares his long history with acting, having started at six years old with Mad Men: “When I became a little madman, you know, I came out to LA for pilot season” ([14:03]).
• Kiernan discusses her early start in acting, notably her role in Mad Men as a child ([13:46]).
• Nico, originally a skateboarder from San Francisco, explains his transition to acting after an injury halted his skating career: “I was like, what am I doing with some of my time? And I tried acting” ([18:07]).

Behind-the-Scenes Anecdotes

The guests share entertaining and heartfelt stories from the set of Sweethearts, illustrating their collaborative spirit and dedication.

• Nico recounts showing up to set with a fractured wrist from skating, demonstrating his commitment: “But I didn't tell production” ([24:23]).
• Kiernan praises Caleb's acting prowess, noting his ability to bring depth to his character: “It's a testament to how good of an actor you are” ([17:17]).

Culinary Conversations

Food plays a recurring role in the discussion, from favorite dishes to humorous mishaps during filming.

• The trio debates the differences between banana peppers and pepperoncinis, leading to playful banter ([07:00]-[08:26]).
• Caleb shares a memorable moment of heating lasagna at 5 AM on set, eliciting laughter from Kiernan and Nico ([26:28]).

Listener Interaction: Diet Sodas Debate

A voicemail from a listener named Finn sparks a lively debate on the merits and drawbacks of diet sodas.

• Finn expresses his dislike: “I personally think they taste like dirt” ([43:54]).
• Kiernan and Caleb discuss their preferences, with Kiernan favoring Diet Coke over Diet Dr. Pepper and Caleb advocating for the superiority of peppermint mocha over pumpkin spice ([45:27]-[46:06]).
• Nico firmly stands his ground against pineapple on pizza, labeling it “pretty gross” ([56:58]).

Speed Round: True or False Trivia

In a fun and interactive segment, Kiernan presents a series of true or false questions to Kiernan and Nico, testing their knowledge and quick thinking.

• Examples include: “A pigeon’s feathers weigh more than its bones” ([67:15] - True), and “No U.S. state has a one-syllable name” ([67:50] - False, as Maine is an exception).
• The questions range from pop culture facts to quirky scientific trivia, keeping the conversation lively and entertaining.

Promotion and Closing Remarks

As the episode wraps up, Kiernan, Caleb, and Nico enthusiastically promote Sweethearts, encouraging listeners to watch the film for its blend of humor, love, and friendship.

• Caleb highlights the film's appeal: “It's about love. It's friendship. It's fun. It's proper fun” ([62:58]).
• Kiernan emphasizes the stellar cast and relatable themes: “It's a beautiful movie about love and friendship” ([63:00]).
• The trio expresses heartfelt gratitude towards their fans and each other, reinforcing the episode's overarching theme that “friends are life” ([64:33]).

Notable Quotes:

• Caleb Hearon ([01:35]): “Friends are Life.”
• Kiernan Shipka ([01:49]): “Friends are Alive.”
• Nico Hiraga ([04:00]): “We’re super dank.”
• Kiernan Shipka ([17:17]): “It’s a testament to how good of an actor you are.”
• Finn ([43:54]): “I personally think they taste like dirt.”
• Caleb Hearon ([55:29]): “Peppermint mocha is superior to pumpkin spice.”
• Nico Hiraga ([56:58]): “Pineapple on pizza is gross.”

Conclusion

This episode of So True with Caleb Hearon offers listeners an intimate glimpse into the lives and friendships of Caleb Hearon, Kiernan Shipka, and Nico Hiraga. Through candid conversations, shared anecdotes, and interactive segments, the podcast underscores the importance of genuine relationships and mutual support in both personal and professional realms. Whether you're a fan of Sweethearts or simply enjoy authentic and humorous discussions, this episode delivers a heartfelt and entertaining experience.