The Megyn Kelly Show with Zachary Levi: A Deep Dive into Politics, Hollywood, and Personal Redemption | Ep. 1010

Release Date: February 19, 2025

In Episode 1010 of The Megyn Kelly Show, host Megyn Kelly engages in a profound and multifaceted conversation with Hollywood actor Zachary Levi. The discussion traverses a wide range of topics, including contemporary political dynamics, the inner workings of Hollywood, personal struggles, and spiritual redemption. This detailed summary captures the essence of their dialogue, highlighting key points, notable quotes, and insightful conclusions.

1. Political Analysis: Trump’s Role in the Ukraine-Russia Conflict

Megyn Kelly begins the discussion by presenting her perspective on former President Donald Trump's involvement in the Russia-Ukraine war resolution. She criticizes Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, suggesting that Trump's direct engagement with Vladimir Putin has been more effective in seeking peace.

• Megyn Kelly [07:00]: "Zelensky would do well to just be quiet for a while to see what Trump can accomplish."

• Zachary Levi [07:28]: "Tell us a little bit more about the Russia talks..."

Kelly argues that Trump's negotiations are pivotal, emphasizing the disproportionate financial support the U.S. has provided compared to Europe and questioning the transparency of aid distribution.

• Megyn Kelly [07:35]: "Trump is taking the lead. He's dealing with Putin directly."

Conclusion: Kelly believes that Trump's assertive stance is crucial for ending the conflict, while Zelensky's outspoken nature may hinder potential agreements.

2. Zachary Levi’s Career and Film Projects

Shifting focus, Kelly highlights Zachary Levi’s recent and upcoming projects, notably his role in Shazam and the heartfelt film Unbreakable Boy. Levi discusses the themes of these movies, emphasizing their focus on family, challenges, and faith.

• Megyn Kelly [12:27]: "Zachary Levi: He came out as an open supporter of Donald Trump and of RFKJ during the primary."

• Zachary Levi [14:02]: "With the Unbreakable Boy, with American Underdog, I went after those films."

Notable Highlights:

• Shazam: Levi portrays a superhero with mass appeal, balancing humor and heart.

• Unbreakable Boy: Based on Scott Larrett’s book, it delves into the struggles of parenting a child with osteogenesis imperfecta and autism, showcasing Levi’s dedication to authentic storytelling.

3. Personal Journey: Overcoming Mental Health Struggles

Levi opens up about his personal battles with mental health, detailing his experiences with therapy, addiction, and the transformative power of faith.

• Zachary Levi [25:31]: "I fell into the darkest, dark, darkest, deepest hole that I had ever really been in."

Levi recounts his time in intensive therapy at Prive Swiss, where he received pivotal support that ultimately saved his life. He emphasizes the importance of integrating spiritual and clinical approaches to mental wellness.

• Zachary Levi [44:35]: "My mission is now is trying to democratize at the very least, mental wellness, you know, mental health services."

Conclusion: Levi underscores the necessity of continuous self-care and the role of community support in overcoming personal demons.

4. Supporting RFKJ and Trump: Navigating Backlash and Sacrifice

Levi discusses his political stance, particularly his support for Bobby Kennedy Jr. (RFKJ) and Donald Trump, despite anticipating significant backlash within Hollywood.

• Zachary Levi [64:27]: "I truly believe that you are a pivotal historical figure and you are going to transform this country."

Levi explains how his involvement with Tulsi Gabbard’s campaign to support Trump led him to moderate town halls and align with their political agenda, even at the risk of his career.

• Megyn Kelly [72:07]: "He did take over at the National Institutes of Health at the, at HHS this week, and he made a comment..."

Notable Quotes:

• Zachary Levi [70:26]: "He means it. And that should show everybody too. Like yes, he's bullish and Trumpy and all of the things, things that I don't like."

Conclusion: Levi articulates a strong conviction that his political support aligns with his values and mission to foster positive change, despite potential professional repercussions.

5. Views on Religion and Society

The conversation delves into Levi’s perspectives on organized religion, specifically Catholicism, and its influence on societal issues.

• Zachary Levi [76:29]: "Raised Catholic your whole life?"

Levi expresses skepticism towards organized religion, advocating for personal spirituality over institutionalized practices. He critiques the Catholic Church’s stances on contemporary issues, emphasizing the need for transparency and ethical leadership.

• Zachary Levi [78:53]: "There's a battle for the soul of the Catholic Church right now..."

Conclusion: Levi advocates for a more personal and transparent approach to faith, distancing himself from the perceived shortcomings of organized religious institutions.

6. Environmental and Health Concerns

Levi addresses pressing environmental issues, including the use of pesticides like glyphosate and the importance of sustainable farming practices.

• Zachary Levi [90:46]: "But what I think like one of the biggest first things that they can do is if instead of incentivizing farmers to do massive monocropping with industrial fertilizer instead start incentivizing farmers."

Levi emphasizes the detrimental effects of industrial farming on soil health and advocates for regenerative organic farming to restore environmental balance.

• Megyn Kelly [91:12]: "Ron Johnson was just saying that this is a top priority for him."

Conclusion: Levi calls for systemic changes in agricultural policies to promote sustainability and environmental stewardship.

7. Upcoming Projects and Personal Life: Expecting a New Baby

Towards the episode's conclusion, Levi shares joyous news about his impending fatherhood and discusses his excitement and preparedness for this new chapter.

• Megyn Kelly [97:34]: "So when is your baby due?"

• Zachary Levi [98:16]: "First week of April."

Levi reflects on his journey to fatherhood, linking it to his personal growth and healing. He expresses gratitude for the support systems that have enabled him to embrace this responsibility.

• Zachary Levi [100:12]: "I look at mental illness as a, as I kind of maybe said before, it's a spectrum."

Conclusion: Levi’s anticipation of fatherhood symbolizes his ongoing commitment to personal and familial growth, underpinned by his faith and resilience.

8. Notable Quotes and Insights

Throughout the conversation, Levi and Kelly exchange memorable statements that encapsulate their viewpoints:

• Levi [14:36]: "I'm not trying to insert myself. I was like, God, if you want me to go and step out in a bigger way, I need you to."

• Kelly [27:55]: "But the last one from Zach Levi in group therapy for alcoholism."

• Levi [76:10]: "Organized religion... I am not a fan of organized religion."

• Levi [70:26]: "He means it. And that should show everybody too."

• Levi [90:46]: "You got to be ready for the power that comes with the responsibility."

Final Thoughts

This episode of The Megyn Kelly Show offers listeners an intimate glimpse into Zachary Levi’s life, both personal and professional. From navigating the complexities of Hollywood and political advocacy to overcoming personal struggles and embracing fatherhood, Levi's journey is portrayed as one of resilience, faith, and unwavering commitment to his values. Megyn Kelly provides a platform for Levi to articulate his perspectives on pressing societal issues, making for an engaging and thought-provoking conversation.

Notable Quotes:

• Megyn Kelly [07:19]: "Trump basically called him a dictator and put him in his place..."

• Zachary Levi [14:02]: "From the beginning of my career... I have no intention of being a Christian actor."

• Zachary Levi [25:31]: "I fell into the darkest, dark, darkest, deepest hole that I had ever really been in."

• Zachary Levi [44:35]: "My mission is now is trying to democratize at the very least, mental wellness..."

• Megyn Kelly [72:07]: "He did take over at the National Institutes of Health..."

• Zachary Levi [76:29]: "Raised Catholic your whole life?"

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and emotional narratives shared by Megyn Kelly and Zachary Levi, providing a valuable overview for those who have not listened to the episode.