Sunday Sitdown with Willie Geist: SNL 50 Featuring Steve Martin & Martin Short

Episode Release Date: February 13, 2025
Podcast: Sunday TODAY with Willie Geist
Episode Title: SNL 50: Steve Martin & Martin Short

Introduction

In this special episode of the "Sunday Sitdown with Willie Geist," host Willie Geist welcomes two comedy legends, Steve Martin and Martin Short, celebrating the 50th season of "Saturday Night Live" (SNL). The conversation delves into their acclaimed collaboration on Hulu's hit series "Only Murders in the Building," their enduring friendship spanning over three decades, and their experiences navigating the evolving landscape of show business.

Reuniting for "Only Murders in the Building"

Steve Martin and Martin Short discuss the genesis and development of their collaboration on "Only Murders in the Building," a series that has garnered multiple Golden Globe nominations, including Best Drama Series and acting nods for both Steve and Marty.

• Genesis of the Show
  Steve Martin recounts the initial idea of creating a show about three older men obsessed with true crime podcasts who decide to solve murders within their own building.

  “It was at least 10 years ago… I was at a party with Sandy Gallen, and he suggested I write something for [the three older Broadway actors present]. That’s where the idea came from.”
  [02:18]

• Martin's Immediate Enthusiasm
  Martin Short expresses his immediate excitement upon hearing Steve’s idea, highlighting their instant connection and shared enthusiasm.

  “I had the feeling it was not a bad idea. It’s a fabulous idea, really. In a building. And make it about New York.”
  [07:20]

• Casting Selena Gomez
  The duo discusses the unexpected yet perfect addition of Selena Gomez to the series, enhancing the dynamic trio.

  “She’s fantastic. She’s got this slight New York accent… It’s beautiful for the triangle of performances.”
  [05:27]

Navigating the Streaming Era

Steve and Marty reflect on the shift from traditional media to streaming platforms, emphasizing how this transition has benefited their current projects.

• Advantages of Streaming
  Steve Martin appreciates the accessibility of streaming platforms, allowing their show to reach audiences without being overshadowed by competitors.

  “Here you can do a good show and somebody will find it. You’re not going to be wiped out by competition.”
  [17:54]

• Audience Engagement
  Martin Short discusses the unique way streaming allows content to find its audience over time, potentially becoming a cult classic.

  “Things always find itself. It’s fascinating because some people hesitate to watch it all at once.”
  [18:23]

Enduring Friendship and Professional Partnership

A significant portion of the conversation centers on the enduring friendship between Steve Martin and Martin Short, which has been a cornerstone of their successful professional collaborations.

• Building a Friendship
  Martin Short shares anecdotes from their early days working together on "Three Amigos," highlighting the initial intimidation and how laughter cemented their bond.

  “We immediately bonded through laughter and Scrabble… It was a great thing to be doing.”
  [22:52]

• Mutual Respect and Support
  The friends discuss their mutual support during challenging times, including Martin’s loss of his wife, Nancy, and Steve’s role in providing comfort.

  “It was magnificent to have those kind of friends in those tough situations.”
  [34:46]

• Complementary Personalities
  They explore how their differing personalities complement each other, creating a balanced and dynamic partnership both on and off the screen.

  Steve Martin: “We have other lives. This is a fun thing. We get along on a humor level.”
  Martin Short: “We like a loosed, happy set. Joking… it makes us better.”
  [30:02]

Creative Processes and Collaborative Dynamics

The duo delves into their creative processes, detailing how they develop material, collaborate with writers, and incorporate improvisation into their performances.

• Writing and Structuring the Show
  Steve Martin explains their incremental approach to writing, integrating new bits into the structured format of their live shows to ensure seamless performances.

  “We write. We have a structured show… We can put in a new bit that might be one minute out of a show that works.”
  [40:27]

• Live Performances and Tour Dynamics
  They discuss the logistics of touring together, maintaining tight performances without the typical stand-up club environment.

  Martin Short: “We talk and have little sessions. We work with writers.”
  [40:09]

• Incorporating Music and Variety Elements
  The inclusion of music and variety elements adds depth to their performances, making each show a unique experience.

  Unknown Speaker: “What’s great about the show is you have music, you have the ability to insert music into it so it becomes a full almost variety.”
  [40:21]

Reflection on Career Highlights and Legacy

Steve and Marty reflect on their illustrious careers, touching upon memorable roles, iconic performances, and their contributions to comedy and entertainment.

• Iconic Roles and Performances
  Martin Short shares his admiration for Steve’s early performances, citing the SNL moment where Steve humorously dealt with wardrobe malfunctions.

  “That is the most brilliant joke. I would pay a gillion dollars if I could have done that joke.”
  [31:10]

• Favorite Characters and Projects
  They discuss their favorite characters and projects, with Martin Short highlighting "Roxanne" as a high-water mark for Steve’s comedic prowess.

  “Roxanne seemed to combine it all. And great, great acting.”
  [33:46]

• Future Projects and Creative Endeavors
  Steve Martin teases upcoming projects, including a cartoon book collaboration and further developments in "Only Murders in the Building."

  “We’re working on a book called A Memoir of the Movies, which we’re gonna do cartoon strips of stories and anecdotes.”
  [36:22]

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

As the conversation wraps up, Willie Geist thanks Steve Martin and Martin Short for their candid and insightful discussion. The trio shares final thoughts on the importance of humor, friendship, and the joy of creating together.

• The Importance of Fun in Show Business
  Martin Short emphasizes that having fun is paramount in their work, stating,

  “We do a conscientious effort to have fun while doing it.”
  [19:36]

• Legacy and Impact
  Both comedians reflect on the impact of their work and the legacy they hope to leave behind, underscoring the timeless nature of their friendship and collaborative spirit.

Notable Quotes

1. Steve Martin on Crafting a Hit:

   “As long as you have a hit, that's fantastic… a real hit is a very, very rare thing.”
   [16:35]

2. Martin Short on Friendship Dynamics:

   “The only thing you can really control in a work situation is the hang.”
   [19:36]

3. Steve Martin on Creativity:

   “I just wake up and there's nothing to do. So I come up with stuff.”
   [36:22]

Final Thoughts

This episode of "Sunday Sitdown with Willie Geist" offers an intimate glimpse into the creative minds and enduring friendship of Steve Martin and Martin Short. Their stories of collaboration, resilience in the entertainment industry, and the joy of making each other laugh provide valuable insights for fans and aspiring creatives alike. Whether you're a longtime admirer or new to their work, this conversation underscores the timeless appeal of genuine humor and the strength of lasting friendships.

Listen to "Only Murders in the Building" streaming every Tuesday on Hulu.
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