David Alan Grier (Extended) - The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert

Summary

The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert Featuring David Alan Grier (Extended)

Release Date: February 15, 2025
Guest: David Alan Grier
Host: Stephen Colbert
Podcast: CBS
Episode Duration: Approximately 20 minutes

Introduction and Welcome

The episode opens with a humorous and light-hearted moment as Stephen Colbert introduces David Alan Grier, highlighting his impressive resume that spans iconic shows like In Living Color, blockbuster films such as Jumanji, and his recent role in the drama series Joe Pickett. Colbert enthusiastically welcomes Grier back to the show, setting the stage for an engaging and entertaining conversation.

Stephen Colbert [01:00]: "Welcome back, everybody. Ladies and gentlemen, my guest tonight is a newly minted Tony award-winning actor... Please welcome back to the late show, sir David Alan Grier."

Tony Award Triumph

A significant portion of the conversation centers around Grier's recent Tony Award win. Grier shares candid moments from his acceptance speech, emphasizing his honesty and the authenticity of his words during the emotional milestone.

David Alan Grier [02:05]: "I’m just glad you called, baby. Thank you, guys. And to the other nominees, tough bananas. I won."

Colbert praises Grier's sincerity, reflecting on the importance of honesty in such public acknowledgments.

Stephen Colbert [02:28]: "I love honesty. I love honesty. Love honesty."

Grier delves deeper into his feelings during the acceptance, describing a moment of introspection and heart-felt decision-making.

David Alan Grier [02:33]: "I was like, should I say this thing or do this other thing that I really want to do? So I just. It was all from my heart."

Personal Anecdotes and Humor

Transitioning from his professional achievements, Grier shares personal anecdotes, including a humorous take on how his Tony Award trophy came into his possession. He narrates the mishaps involving Tony thieves and his resourceful (albeit humorous) solution to preserve the award.

David Alan Grier [05:59]: "I threw it in my car... Then I threw it in the laundry room. My dog chewed part of the box... I MacGyvered that bitch."

Colbert joins in the laughter, highlighting the entertaining nature of Grier's storytelling.

Stephen Colbert [06:37]: "Roller coaster of motion."

Fashion Forward: The Overalls Segment

One of the standout segments of the episode is the light-hearted debate on fashion, specifically the public wearing of overalls. Grier passionately defends his love for overalls, describing them as “adult onesies” and sharing his experiences of wearing them both in college and in his current lifestyle.

David Alan Grier [08:14]: "It's an Adult onesie. Look at it. It's like baby clothes for old people."

Colbert engages with Grier's fashion philosophy, playfully suggesting he might need some overalls for Christmas.

Stephen Colbert [12:38]: "I think I might want some overalls for Christmas at this point."

Grier responds with his trademark humor, reinforcing his status as a self-proclaimed fashion icon.

David Alan Grier [09:53]: "GQ magazine said I'm a fashion guy. Tell them."

The conversation illustrates Grier's unique blend of humor and sincerity, making the topic both amusing and relatable.

**Inside Joe Pickett: Behind the Scenes**

Shifting focus to Grier's latest project, Joe Pickett, the discussion delves into the show's premise and Grier's role as Vern Dunnigan, an older, retiring game warden. He describes the show's themes, including land rights and the gritty realities of dealing with poachers and murders in Wyoming.

David Alan Grier [10:30]: "Joe Pickett is about a game warden... it's all about land rights and dirty dealing and shady poachers and murders."

Grier shares his experience filming in Calgary, Canada, touching on the challenges and camaraderie with fellow actors, particularly actor Jerry O'Connell, who humorously predicted Grier's Tony win early on.

David Alan Grier [13:16]: "Jerry O'Connell was in the play with me... he said, 'You're gonna win a Tony for this.'"

This segment offers listeners an insider's view of the show's production and Grier's interactions with his co-stars, adding depth to his portrayal of Vern Dunnigan.

**Discussing The Beatles: Get Back Documentary**

In a delightful departure from his acting career, Grier and Colbert discuss the Get Back documentary on The Beatles. Grier poignantly compares the documentary to Scenes from a Marriage, highlighting the emotional turmoil and interpersonal dynamics depicted.

David Alan Grier [16:27]: "It was like watching Scenes from a Marriage, really... break up already."

Colbert probes deeper into the narrative, focusing on the love story element and the eventual breakup of the band, to which Grier reflects on the bittersweet nature of their performances and personal relationships.

Stephen Colbert [17:04]: "But it's also a love story. Like, where was the love she loves?"

The conversation touches on the creative tensions within the band and the influence of individuals like Yoko Ono, providing a nuanced take on the legendary group's legacy.

David Alan Grier [17:52]: "Yoko Ono really did want to sing with the band... it was wild."

Colbert humorously interjects, reminiscing about the band's dynamics and Grier's own interactions with Paul McCartney in the documentary.

Stephen Colbert [19:26]: "You know, I would get back together with you in a minute."

Grier concludes the segment with a reflective note on the documentary's portrayal of The Beatles, emphasizing the authentic emotions captured during their final days together.

David Alan Grier [19:48]: "Yeah, we are. And scene."

Closing Remarks

As the episode draws to a close, Colbert and Grier share light-hearted banter, transitioning into a humorous improvisation segment where Grier humorously reenacts a reluctant exit from an improv scene, solidifying the genuine rapport between host and guest.

Stephen Colbert [19:53]: "Are you familiar with the term union overtime?"

David Alan Grier [19:56]: "No, but I had this monologue..."

The episode wraps up with Colbert expressing gratitude towards Grier, encouraging listeners to seek more content on The Late Show YouTube channel.

Stephen Colbert [20:21]: "Thank you for listening to the Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert."

Key Takeaways

David Alan Grier's Achievements: Grier celebrates his Tony Award win with humor and authenticity, discussing the challenges and triumphs associated with the accolade.
Personal Insights: Through anecdotes about his Tony Award trophy and his fashion choices, Grier offers a glimpse into his personal life, blending humor with heartfelt sincerity.
Professional Endeavors: Grier provides an in-depth look at his role in Joe Pickett, sharing behind-the-scenes experiences and the complexities of portraying a retiring game warden.
Cultural Commentary: The discussion on the Get Back documentary showcases Grier's thoughtful analysis of The Beatles' dynamics and the emotional narrative captured in the film.
Engaging Dialogue: The chemistry between Colbert and Grier enhances the episode, making it both informative and entertaining for listeners.

Notable Quotes

David Alan Grier on Honesty:

"You know, in that moment, I was down the road and sincerity was on one side and douchebaggery was on the other and I just grabbed the wheel and went left. [...] It was all from my heart."
[02:33]
Grier on Overalls as Fashion:

"It's an Adult onesie. Look at it. It's like baby clothes for old people."
[08:14]
Grier on the Tony Award Trophy Mishap:

"I threw it in my car... Then I threw it in the laundry room. My dog chewed part of the box... I MacGyvered that bitch."
[05:59]
Grier Comparing Get Back to Scenes from a Marriage:

"It was like watching Scenes from a Marriage, really... break up already."
[16:27]

Conclusion

This extended episode of The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert featuring David Alan Grier is a blend of humor, personal storytelling, and insightful discussions about Grier's career and cultural observations. From celebrating his Tony Award victory to dissecting The Beatles' final days, Grier's candidness and comedic flair make for a compelling and enjoyable listen. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to Grier's work, this episode offers valuable perspectives and plenty of laughs.