Podcast Summary: "We Might Be Drunk - Episode 215: In LA With David Spade"
Introduction and Setting the Scene
In Episode 215 of "We Might Be Drunk," hosts Sam Morril and Mark Normand delve into their recent experiences in Los Angeles, joined by special guest David Spade. Released on January 20, 2025, and produced by Gotham Production Studios, LLC, the episode captures the trio's reflections on a hectic week filled with a Netflix roast, limited sleep, and navigating the challenging LA comedy scene.
The Netflix Roast Experience
The conversation begins at [00:06] with Mark and Sam arriving at the Comedy Store, humorously contemplating whether they're drunk or merely hungover from their recent events. They recount their participation in a Netflix roast, highlighting the absence of an after-party or refreshments, which added to their exhaustion and frustration.
Mark Normand [01:15]: "We surprised the booze."
Sam echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the lack of support post-event.
Challenges with Production and Audience
At [01:18], Mark shares the chaotic experience of waiting outside the Comedy Store, dealing with long lines and minimal facilities. The roast's organization left much to be desired, with attendees freely choosing their seats, creating a "bedlam" atmosphere.
The hosts also discuss the nature of the audience, which included celebrities like Seth Green and Brecken Meyer, making it difficult to read typical comedy crowd reactions.
Mark Normand [07:44]: "What crowd was. I mean, it was definitely a lot of industry people."
Interactions with Celebrities
A particularly tense moment unfolds around [04:20] when Sam makes a joke about John Stamos during the roast. The joke about Stamos not being memorable since Rebecca Romijn doesn't land well, leading to an awkward exchange that underscores the challenges of performing in a celebrity-heavy environment.
Sam Morril [04:24]: "There was a lot of older people. Really?"
Reflections on Comedy Writing and Stand-up Career
Mark and Sam praise the unsung heroes behind the roast—the writers who worked tirelessly to craft jokes under tight deadlines. They express concerns about the production team's ability to compile the material effectively, hoping that post-production edits will salvage the show's coherence.
The discussion shifts to broader reflections on the comedy industry, with David Spade joining in [13:30], sharing his experiences with stand-up, writing, and the pressures of maintaining relevance in a competitive field. He highlights the difficulties of balancing creative control with the demands of large production studios like Netflix.
David Spade [13:30]: "They have grips and all that. I don't know how to do any of that."
David Spade's Insights and Experiences
David Spade provides an insider's perspective on working with major comedy platforms. He recounts his time on "Saturday Night Live" ([36:13]), detailing the high-pressure environment, the struggle to secure recurring roles, and the emotional toll of trying to balance personal authenticity with external expectations.
He delves into the nuances of comedy writing, emphasizing the importance of storytelling in stand-up and the challenges posed by the shift towards filmed and edited content in the digital age.
David Spade [29:18]: "But you gotta fail. I think that's why Eddie Murphy is like, I'm gonna come back."
Conversations on Stand-up and Industry Dynamics
The hosts and Spade discuss the evolving landscape of stand-up comedy, touching upon the rise of internet platforms and the diminishing returns of traditional stand-up tours. They explore the financial and creative incentives that keep comedians on the road, as well as the personal toll it takes.
Sam Morril [32:08]: "We're trying to make a movie right now, but it's a different. It's a different."
Interactions and Anecdotes
Throughout the episode, the hosts share humorous anecdotes and personal stories, enriching the discussion with relatable experiences from the comedy world. From encounters with other comedians to behind-the-scenes tales of late-night performances, the conversation remains lively and engaging.
Mark Normand [64:33]: "We had him on this pod, and we were trying to be reverent and supportive."
Concluding Remarks
As the episode winds down, Sam and Mark reflect on their upcoming performances and tours, sharing details about their schedules across the US and Europe. They express gratitude for David Spade's participation, acknowledging his contributions and insights into the comedy industry. The episode closes with lighthearted banter and plans for future collaborations, leaving listeners with a sense of camaraderie and anticipation for what's to come.
Notable Quotes
- Mark Normand [00:08]: "We might be drunk. We're here at the Comedy Store."
- David Spade [29:18]: "But you gotta fail. I think that's why Eddie Murphy is like, I'm gonna come back."
- Sam Morril [04:24]: "I did that with Nikki because she came in the night a couple nights before, and I go, I want to do my last joke."
- Mark Normand [64:33]: "We had him on this pod, and we were trying to be reverent and supportive."
Insights and Themes
The episode delves deep into the multifaceted world of comedy—from the grueling demands of live performances and roast events to the intricate process of writing and producing comedic content for major platforms like Netflix. It highlights the delicate balance comedians must maintain between creative integrity and the pressures of industry expectations.
David Spade's insights provide a valuable perspective on sustaining a comedy career amidst evolving digital landscapes and production demands. His experiences emphasize the importance of storytelling, resilience, and adaptability in navigating the challenging terrains of modern comedy.
Listeners are left with a comprehensive understanding of the behind-the-scenes struggles and triumphs of comedians in Los Angeles, offering both humor and heartfelt reflections on the art of making people laugh.