The Moth Podcast Episode Summary

Episode Title: Steve Burns: Fameishness
Host/Author: The Moth
Release Date: October 4, 2010

Introduction to Steve Burns and Blue's Clues

Steve Burns, best known for his role as the beloved host of Nickelodeon's Blue's Clues from 1996 to 2002, shares his personal journey navigating fame and identity in his Moth story titled Fameishness. Recorded live at The Moth’s main stage on September 15, 2010, Steve delves into the complexities of being a "micro-celebrity" and the enduring impact of his time on the iconic children's show.

The Pressure of Fame and Identity Crisis

Steve begins by reflecting on his unique position of fame, describing it as "micro celebrity"—a state where one is well-known within a specific niche without the broader recognition that comes with mainstream fame.

"I would tell everybody that I was famous, which is actually different. I would say that, you know, being like famous people are like famous people without the public dignity is involved in being actually famous."
[05:20]

He explains the foundational concept of Blue's Clues, where his character interacts directly with the audience, fostering a sense of personal connection with each child viewer.

"My job in the show was to talk directly through the camera and to actually cultivate, if I could, a relationship with an individual child through a TV."
[08:15]

Despite the show's success, Steve grapples with the immense responsibility of influencing young minds and begins to question whether he is the right person for the role. This internal conflict leads to an identity crisis, as he struggles to reconcile his on-screen persona with his true self.

"I was really worrying, I was like, am I the right guy for this job?"
[11:45]

The Unexpected Fan Interaction: Playboy Model

As Steve contemplates his future with Blue's Clues, his life takes an unexpected turn when he becomes one of People magazine's "most eligible bachelors." This newfound attention introduces him to a surge of fan mail, including a provocative letter from a Playboy model interested in a date.

"One of them made it to my desk, and it was an 8 by 10 glossy of an incredibly gorgeous woman in a swimsuit."
[14:30]

Initially skeptical, Steve dismisses the possibility, suspecting it to be either a joke or something sinister.

"She's clearly an axe murderer, and this isn't real. So I didn't."
[16:00]

However, encouragement from his fellow animators propels him to take the plunge and contact the mysterious admirer, leading to an awkward and transformative experience.

"At that moment, I realized, yes, this is my John Hughes moment. And I have to call the Playboy model."
[18:10]

The Awkward Date

Steve's date with the Playboy model unfolds awkwardly as the reality starkly contrasts the embellished image portrayed in her fan mail. The encounter is marked by mismatched expectations, leading to discomfort and tension.

"She has giant fake boobs. Just giant. And they weren't in the swimsuit picture."
[21:50]

Throughout dinner, the lack of common ground becomes evident. Steve finds himself dealing with a host of anxieties, amplified by the internal voices of his fellow animators urging him to maintain composure.

"I've got to make this right for the animators and me."
[25:30]

The evening culminates in further awkwardness when she reveals her side job as a stripper, pushing Steve into an uncomfortable situation that challenges his self-perception and professional identity.

"She's a kid show host. Everybody's got to do something."
[31:15]

The Elaborate Plot Reveal

The narrative takes an unexpected twist when Steve discovers that the entire rendezvous was orchestrated as part of a pitch for a new children's television show. This revelation underscores the blurred lines between his personal experiences and professional life.

"It turns out that much of this was an elaborate plot to pitch me a children's television show about giant inflatable balloon animals called the Balloonies."
[38:45]

Faced with the reality of the situation, Steve reflects on his dual identity—being both Steve Burns the individual and Steve the Blue's Clues host—and the impact this has on his interactions and self-understanding.

Reflection on Identity and Meaning

Steve concludes his story with a poignant reflection on identity and purpose, especially in the context of his work with Make a Wish, an organization that grants wishes to children facing critical illnesses. This experience reinforces his understanding of the significance of his role and the genuine connections he makes with his audience.

"Whether I wanted it to be true or not, whether I expected it to be true or not, the answer was both."
[50:10]

He grapples with the concept of being chosen by a child and the responsibility that comes with it, ultimately finding solace and meaning in the blend of his public persona and private self.

"I thought that was the greatest thing in the world."
[53:20]

Steve's journey through fame, personal dilemmas, and unexpected encounters offers a heartfelt exploration of self-identity and the profound impact of one's role in the lives of others.

Conclusion

Steve Burns's Fameishness encapsulates the intricate dance between public recognition and personal authenticity. His candid storytelling provides listeners with an intimate look into the life of a former children's show host grappling with fame, identity, and the quest for genuine connections.

Notable Quotes:

• "I would tell everybody that I was famous, which is actually different."
  [05:20]

• "My job in the show was to talk directly through the camera and to actually cultivate, if I could, a relationship with an individual child through a TV."
  [08:15]

• "I'm having an identity crisis, and maybe I shouldn't do this."
  [13:35]

• "At that moment, I realized, yes, this is my John Hughes moment."
  [18:10]

• "Whether I wanted it to be true or not, the answer was both."
  [50:10]

This summary encapsulates Steve Burns's Moth story, highlighting his experiences with fame, personal identity, and the intersections between his professional persona and private self. Through engaging storytelling and introspection, Steve provides valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of being a beloved childhood figure navigating adulthood.