Podcast Summary: "Greg Kinnear" Episode of Where Everybody Knows Your Name
Introduction In the July 30, 2025 episode of Where Everybody Knows Your Name, hosts Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson reconnect with the esteemed actor Greg Kinnear. The conversation delves into Kinnear's illustrious career, his experiences working alongside Danson, and personal anecdotes that highlight their enduring friendship since their days on the iconic sitcom Cheers.
Early Career and “Talk Soup” Ted Danson begins by reminiscing about his brief stint hosting Talk Soup. Reflecting on the challenges of juggling acting with hosting responsibilities, Danson admits, “[02:58] I did it for a few years and then had to leave because of movie commitments.” Kinnear expresses skepticism about the show's existence, leading to a humorous exchange where Danson clarifies his time on the show despite the absence of records.
Interactions with Industry Legends The duo shares memorable interactions with industry heavyweights. Danson recounts his encounter with Johnny Carson, describing Carson as “the sweetest, most nurturing person I've ever done a talk show with” despite his intimidating pre-interview style ([03:32]). Kinnear adds, “Mary Steenburgen actually dropped out because Carson scared her,” highlighting Carson's formidable presence.
“Little Miss Sunshine” Insights A significant portion of the discussion centers around the critically acclaimed film Little Miss Sunshine. Kinnear praises the ensemble cast, stating, “[30:24] What a cast. Everybody was just so perfect.” Danson echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the quality of the script and the depth of the characters: “[31:02] I did not think Little Miss Sunshine was a shit script. It was a good script, and rehearsals made its brilliance evident.”
They delve into specific scenes, such as the poignant moment where Steve Carell's character reveals his struggles, with Danson noting, “[33:05] That is just such an amazing scene.” The hosts discuss the collaborative environment during rehearsals, which allowed actors to fully develop their roles and contribute meaningfully to the film’s success.
Transition to Current Projects Kinnear shifts the conversation to his current work on the Apple TV series Smoke, highlighting its positive reception and collaborative nature. Danson shares his enthusiasm for the project, mentioning, “[45:04] It’s doing really well for Apple, and it’s great fun to do.” They discuss the show's intricate storytelling and the involvement of esteemed writer Dennis Lehane, reinforcing the high caliber of the production.
Personal Reflections and Family Life The conversation takes a more personal turn as Danson and Kinnear discuss their families and the balance between work and home life. Danson reflects on the importance of maintaining strong family bonds despite a hectic career: “[38:08] There's nothing better for the first [years] till they get to about 9 or 10.” Kinnear shares insights into his blended family dynamics, emphasizing the joys and challenges that come with it.
Challenges in the Acting World Both actors candidly discuss the pressures and uncertainties within the acting industry. Danson speaks about his initial struggles and rejections, stating, “[15:00] It's just like this. Not as good as this. And then he said, I don't want you to act. If you're going to act, don't come back.” Kinnear relates by sharing his own experiences of facing skepticism and pushing through to achieve success.
Theater Experiences and COVID-19 Impact Danson touches upon his brief foray into theater, lamenting the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on live performances: “[52:14] It was a great show destroyed by me.” He expresses regret over the lost opportunity to fully engage with the theatrical experience, highlighting the resilience required to navigate such unforeseen challenges.
Closing Remarks and Future Endeavors As the episode wraps up, Danson and Kinnear reflect on their enduring friendship and mutual respect. They express excitement about future projects and remain optimistic about the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry. Danson concludes with, “[60:12] It's great to do this. I really enjoyed it,” underscoring the genuine connection fostered through their collaborative dialogue.
Notable Quotes
- Ted Danson ([03:32]): "Johnny Carson was the sweetest, most nurturing person I've ever done a talk show with."
- Greg Kinnear ([30:24]): "What a cast. Everybody was just so perfect."
- Ted Danson ([31:02]): "I did not think Little Miss Sunshine was a shit script. It was a good script, and rehearsals made its brilliance evident."
- Ted Danson ([38:08]): "There's nothing better for the first [years] till they get to about 9 or 10."
Conclusion This episode of Where Everybody Knows Your Name offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of Greg Kinnear and Ted Danson, showcasing their professional journeys, personal growth, and the cherished bond that has withstood the test of time. Through engaging anecdotes and heartfelt reflections, listeners gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and dedication that define these celebrated actors.