The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert Episode: "Stephen Presents: Harvey Guillen" Release Date: November 27, 2024

Introduction

In this engaging episode of The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert, host Stephen Colbert welcomes the versatile actor Harvey Guillen. Known for his roles in animated and live-action projects such as Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, Blue Beetle, Garfield, and most recently as Guillermo in the final season of What We Do in the Shadows, Guillen offers listeners a deep dive into his acting journey, personal anecdotes, and the nuances of his craft.

Early Inspirations and Pursuit of Acting

Harvey Guillen reminisces about his early fascination with acting, tracing it back to his childhood. At [09:02], he shares:

"I was 6 years old, and I grew up single mom, very poor. And I was watching this new TV show. It was Annie the Musical, the movie from 1984. And I remember watching it and saying, oh, my gosh, I want to be that, mom. I want to be that when I grow up. I want to be an orphan."

Guillen's passion for performing led him to seek out improv classes despite financial constraints. As he explains at [11:24]:

"I ran into her closet, got a wire hanger and hooked it to a long finger, and went and got a plastic bag underneath the sink. And I went through trash cans to collect enough trash to pay for my first improv class."

This resourcefulness highlights his determination to pursue his dreams against the odds.

Breaking into Acting and Memorable Auditions

Guillen recounts his first foray into professional acting with a humorous anecdote about his audition for Universal Studios in Japan. At [13:05], he admits:

"I didn't know you were supposed to have a monologue ready. It was only like 16 bars of music. And so, like, what's your monologue? And I was like, uh. And the only monologue that I had memorized was the monologue that you wrote for Strangers with Candy, 'Packing a Musket by Jerry Blank.'"

His spontaneous choice to perform a cheeky monologue showcases his unique approach to auditions and his ability to bring humor into unexpected situations.

Role as Jorge Santos and Character Development

Harvey discusses his portrayal of Jorge Santos, a character he has embodied multiple times on The Late Show. At [09:09], he reflects on the character's persona:

"I was trying to be as despicable as possible, and I just fell into it."

Guillen describes the seamless fit of the character, emphasizing his commitment to bringing depth and authenticity to Jorge Santos. His performance not only adds layers to the show but also resonates with audiences, showcasing his range as an actor.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond his professional life, Guillen shares personal interests that offer a glimpse into his life off-camera. At [04:35], he mentions his and his spouse Evie's penchant for British crime procedurals, detailing their journey through various series:

"Our gateway drug was a very, very soft, gentle, like, 1970s kind of pot, you know, joint, which is Foyle's War, which is in the town of Hastings in England... And now we're on season six of Shetland with Jimmy Perez."

This conversation not only humanizes Guillen but also connects him with listeners who share similar viewing habits.

Behind the Scenes: The Making of the Podcast Episode

Stephen Colbert and producer Becca engage in a relaxed conversation before transitioning to the main interview. They share light-hearted banter about their favorite shows and personal preferences, setting a comfortable tone for Guillen's appearance. Notably, at [14:37], Guillen humorously interacts with an off-script moment:

"Hey, Colter, we have a job for you. Send me the info."

This snippet underscores the spontaneous and personable nature of the podcast, creating an inviting atmosphere for both the guest and the audience.

Conclusion

The episode culminates with Guillen's memorable performance and reflections on his career trajectory. His ability to intertwine humor with heartfelt storytelling makes for a compelling listen, providing both entertainment and inspiration. Listeners are left with a deeper appreciation of Harvey Guillen's talents and his journey in the entertainment industry.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Guillen on Character Immersion ([09:09])

  "I was trying to be as despicable as possible, and I just fell into it."

• Guillen on Resourcefulness ([11:24])

  "I ran into her closet, got a wire hanger and hooked it to a long finger, and went and got a plastic bag underneath the sink. And I went through trash cans to collect enough trash to pay for my first improv class."

• Guillen on Early Performances ([12:25])

  "Do you mind if I have a chase?" "I couldn't poss love my tiger."

• Guillen on Auditioning for Universal Studios ([13:10])

  "So I went in, and I didn't know you were supposed to have monologue ready... I go ahead and when you work from home and John's call on the phone, you're a call girl..."

These quotes encapsulate the essence of Guillen's experiences and his humorous take on the challenges he faced while building his career.

This detailed summary captures the essence of Harvey Guillen's appearance on The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert, highlighting key discussions, personal stories, and his professional insights. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his work, this episode offers valuable perspectives into the life of a dedicated actor.