Podcast Summary: "Where Everybody Knows Your Name with Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson (sometimes)"
Episode: D’Arcy Carden
Release Date: October 2, 2024
Introduction and Guest Welcome
The episode kicks off with Ted Danson introducing the guest, D’Arcy Carden, known for her iconic role as Janet in The Good Place. Ted reminisces about their time on the show, highlighting Carden's transformation from a seemingly mundane character to a standout performer.
- Ted Danson [01:08]: “I remember the second week of shooting with Darcy on The Good Place, who played the Universal computer that knows all in the world of The Good Place. I thought, oh, poor Darcy. What a boring part. She's just going to be playing this computer all the time.”
Personal Anecdotes and Early Experiences
Woody Harrelson shares a heartfelt story about fulfilling a childhood dream by throwing the first pitch for the Oakland A’s, inspired by his father’s experiences with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
- Woody Harrelson [02:23]: “Should I... I moved the microphone. My dad threw out a first pitch in the '80s or '90s. I remember thinking, like, that's the coolest thing that anybody's dad has ever done.”
Woody reflects on his father's influence and the serendipitous moments that shaped his childhood, including attending concerts and meeting musicians like Huey Lewis.
- Woody Harrelson [11:28]: “We saw him in concert a bunch. He was that really good Bay Area band. And he cheered him up. Little Darcy had gone in to wherever the hell he was.”
D’Arcy Carden’s Journey in Acting
D’Arcy Carden delves into her acting journey, discussing her experiences on CSI and the challenges of balancing serious roles with her innate sense of humor.
- D’Arcy Carden [36:26]: “One of the hardest jobs I ever did was CSI. It was really hard because you didn't have room to be funny.”
She contrasts this with her more recent work on The Good Place, emphasizing the importance of ensemble and chemistry within the cast.
- D’Arcy Carden [19:16]: “I grew up in the acting world, loving ensemble. Me too. I really love ensemble.”
Behind the Scenes of The Good Place
The conversation shifts to the making of The Good Place, where Woody shares his audition experience and the serendipitous casting that led him to the role of Michael.
- Woody Harrelson [38:17]: “I did an audition. I got the audition and I was excited that I knew you were attached. I knew Kristen was attached and I knew Mike Schur and some of the writers from Parks and Rec.”
D’Arcy recounts her initial skepticism about her role as Janet, fearing it would be monotonous, only to see it evolve into one of the show's most beloved characters.
- D’Arcy Carden [24:04]: “When I saw the pilot, I pulled Jimmy Burroughs aside and started crying because I thought I was so bad.”
Ethics and Purposeful Living
A significant portion of the episode delves into the themes of ethics and purposeful living, mirroring the philosophical undertones of The Good Place. Both Woody and D’Arcy share personal insights on striving to do good in small, everyday actions.
- Woody Harrelson [56:21]: “When you can do a little bit better, do a little bit better.”
- D’Arcy Carden [57:03]: “You have no idea whether you looked and smiled at somebody, whether or not that changes the ripples.”
They explore scenarios from the show, such as the dilemma of leaving a large tip anonymously, and discuss the real-world implications of ethical decisions.
- Woody Harrelson [58:07]: “It’s bringing good into the world in a bigger way.”
Reflections and Personal Growth
Towards the end of the episode, both hosts reflect on their personal growth and the impact of their collaborative work. Woody expresses deep admiration for D’Arcy’s professionalism and the positive changes she inspired in him.
- Woody Harrelson [77:34]: “You are the most connected and committed and surprising and inspiring actor I have ever worked with. When I got to be in scenes with you one on one, you made me a better actor.”
D’Arcy shares her challenges with stage performances and the fear of forgetting lines, offering a relatable glimpse into the pressures of live acting.
- D’Arcy Carden [68:15]: “I went totally blank. And it was like sticking my finger 20 seconds in, sinking my finger into a light socket... my heart raced.”
Closing Remarks
The episode wraps up with heartfelt exchanges between Woody and D’Arcy, celebrating their professional relationship and the meaningful experiences they've shared both on and off the screen.
- D’Arcy Carden [78:20]: “You really are. You're so special.”
- Woody Harrelson [79:25]: “I fucking love you.”
Notable Quotes
- Woody Harrelson [57:25]: “When faced with the option of doing good or doing bad, doing good.”
- D’Arcy Carden [75:36]: “I come from a long line of people who believe in the quiet nobility of quiet failure.”
Conclusion
This episode offers a rich tapestry of personal anecdotes, professional insights, and philosophical musings, all woven through the friendly banter between Ted Danson, Woody Harrelson, and D’Arcy Carden. Listeners gain an intimate look into the lives of these beloved actors, the dynamics of creating meaningful television, and the enduring bonds formed through shared artistic endeavors.
Note: Advertisements, sponsor messages, and non-content segments have been excluded to focus solely on the substantive discussions and interactions between the hosts and the guest.