Podcast Summary: This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von - Episode #580 featuring David Spade

Introduction and Welcome (02:36 – 05:00)

In this episode of This Past Weekend with Theo Von, host Theo Von warmly welcomes legendary comedian and actor David Spade. Theo expresses his deep appreciation for David's friendship and comedic prowess, highlighting David's iconic roles in classics like Tommy Boy, Black Sheep, and Joe Dirt.

Notable Quote:
Theo Von [02:36]: "Today's guest is a legendary comedian, an actor. He's a friend of mine, probably my closest friend in Hollywood... I'm happy to welcome back today's guest, Mr. David Spade."

Discussion on "Busboys" Movie Project (05:00 – 16:00)

Theo and David delve into their collaborative project, the movie Busboys. They reminisce about the challenging yet rewarding process of creating a film independently, without the backing of major studios like Paramount or Netflix. David shares insights into the complexities of pre-production, budgeting, casting, and the overall grind of movie-making.

Notable Quotes:
David Spade [05:45]: "It's very tough to get through a movie. I always say, after a movie, I'm not doing this again. It's too hard."
Theo Von [09:04]: "But you have to ask, what do you think is kind of one of the toughest parts?"

Challenges and Experiences During Filming (16:00 – 28:22)

The conversation shifts to the day-to-day experiences on set. David recounts humorous and stressful moments, such as dealing with malfunctioning cars and improvising scenes under difficult conditions. They discuss the mental and physical toll of filming, emphasizing the dedication required to bring a project to fruition.

Notable Quotes:
David Spade [22:04]: "It was quite humiliating. The guy didn't believe for a second we were special."
Theo Von [29:26]: "It's funny because we're actually good together because I think you're great."

Comedy Specials and Career Insights (28:22 – 58:12)

David shares his journey in the comedy world, including his experiences working on Saturday Night Live (SNL) and the difficulties of maintaining originality in his acts. He touches upon the evolution of his comedy specials, highlighting the balance between old favorites and new material. Theo and David also discuss the impact of personal struggles on their comedic styles.

Notable Quotes:
David Spade [35:07]: "We have to pick one, lock it down. And then we'll probably... get a feel for where there's a dead spot."
Theo Von [39:50]: "Yeah, you want somebody who's in there sandblasting their fucking clavicles in the morning."

Anecdotes from Life on the Road (58:12 – 77:51)

Theo and David engage in a series of humorous anecdotes about touring, interacting with fans, and the quirks of life on the road. They share memorable stories, including encounters with friends, mishaps during performances, and the lighter side of managing a hectic schedule. Their camaraderie shines through as they navigate various funny and awkward situations together.

Notable Quotes:
David Spade [61:12]: "He looks like a reptilian."
Theo Von [64:36]: "You have to make a million to clear 350."

Reflections on Legacy and Collaborations (77:51 – 78:25)

As the episode wraps up, Theo reflects on the enduring legacy of their collaborations and the impact of past projects on their careers. David expresses his gratitude for the opportunity to work closely with Theo and looks forward to the fruition of their current projects.

Notable Quotes:
Theo Von [77:51]: "And you look great, dude."
David Spade [78:03]: "I love it, dude. You always crack me up."

Conclusion

Theo Von concludes the episode by reiterating his appreciation for David Spade’s participation and humor. He encourages listeners to check out David’s latest work and promotes the ongoing Busboys project as it approaches its release.

Notable Quote:
Theo Von [78:25]: "You guys, one of the greats. One of the funniest people I've ever met, man. I feel lucky to be able to know you."

Key Takeaways:

• Collaborative Creativity: Theo and David emphasize the challenges and rewards of creating independent projects, highlighting the importance of creative control and collaboration.

• Resilience in Comedy: Both comedians discuss maintaining originality and adapting to personal and professional challenges, showcasing their resilience in the evolving comedy landscape.

• Life on the Road: The anecdotes shared provide insight into the unpredictable and humorous aspects of touring, underscoring the strong friendship and mutual support between Theo and David.

• Legacy and Impact: Reflecting on past collaborations, the duo underscores the lasting impact of their work and the excitement surrounding their future projects.

This episode offers listeners an engaging glimpse into the dynamic between two beloved comedians, enriched with humor, candid reflections, and relatable stories from their careers.