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JB Smoove

Where Everybody Knows Your Name with Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson (sometimes)

Published: Wed Dec 11 2024

The incomparable JB Smoove graces the podcast! Ted Danson is talking to his “Curb Your Enthusiasm” colleague about dealing with Larry David, the role of fate in JB’s comedy career, encounters with legends like Sidney Poitier and Don Rickles, and much more. Like watching your podcasts? Visit http://youtube.com/teamcoco to see full episodes.

Summary

Podcast Summary: "Where Everybody Knows Your Name with Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson (sometimes)"

Episode Title: JB Smoove
Release Date: December 11, 2024

Introduction

In this engaging episode of "Where Everybody Knows Your Name," hosts Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson reconnect with the charismatic JB Smoove. Known for his standout role as Leon Black on the acclaimed series "Curb Your Enthusiasm," JB brings a wealth of comedic experience and personal anecdotes that delve deep into his life beyond the screen.

Reconnecting with JB Smoove

The conversation kicks off with Ted reminiscing about his collaboration with JB on "Curb Your Enthusiasm":

Ted Danson [03:05]: "Of course, you know him as Leon Black, one of the most hilarious TV characters of all time. He's an amazing comic. He's an amazing actor and pitch man."

JB reciprocates with heartfelt appreciation and shares insights into his relationship with Larry David:

JB Smoove [04:10]: "Larry's very amazing. He's an amazing, smart guy. But I can tell he's always thinking... he listens very intently."

Navigating Fame and Public Recognition

A significant portion of the episode explores the challenges and nuances of fame. JB opens up about his experiences in New York, dealing with fan interactions, and the balance between maintaining privacy and embracing public recognition.

JB Smoove [09:06]: "People do that to you all the time. But I do that."

Ted reflects on his own approach to fame and interactions with fans:

Ted Danson [12:54]: "People come up to you and smile. People think it's all the time because you made them laugh."

They discuss strategies for handling fan requests and the importance of genuine connections:

JB Smoove [12:09]: "People tell me some stories, and I say, oh, my God, that's great to hear, man. The show got me through this. It got me through that."

JB Smoove’s Comedy Journey and Influences

JB shares his rich background in comedy, emphasizing the significance of versatility and persistence in the entertainment industry. He recounts his early days in New York, his first jobs, and pivotal moments that shaped his career.

JB Smoove [24:07]: "Always been the life of the party... I just always been the guy that makes people laugh."

He highlights the influence of his family and mentors, underscoring how personal experiences fuel his comedic style:

JB Smoove [25:39]: "My whole family's funny. You go to my family reunion, you wouldn't get a word in because everybody wants to."

Meeting Legends: Personal Anecdotes

A delightful segment features JB recounting memorable encounters with legendary figures in entertainment. From meeting Sidney Poitier and Gregory Peck to interacting with comedians like Don Rickles and Richard Pryor, JB illustrates the profound impact these moments had on him.

JB Smoove [64:41]: "He took me to the table with... Don Rickles, John Mayer, and Bob Saget... I gave him a little shit."

Ted shares his own experiences meeting icons like Dick Van Dyke and Mel Brooks, fostering a mutual respect and admiration between the hosts and their guest.

Ted Danson [73:42]: "I got to meet Mel Brooks... and Carl Reiner, all those people."

A Pivotal Moment: The Basketball Injury Story

One of the episode's most gripping moments is JB’s candid narration of a severe injury sustained during a celebrity basketball game. He details the events leading up to the injury, the immediate aftermath, and the harrowing experience in the hospital.

JB Smoove [46:02]: "He caught me right there with that shoulder, my whole lung was full of blood."

Ted interjects with concern, highlighting the intensity of JB’s experience:

Ted Danson [54:37]: "Wow."

The story serves as a testament to JB's resilience and the unpredictable nature of life, emphasizing the importance of perseverance:

JB Smoove [93:03]: "If you can keep your mind and keep your senses and don't panic, you can figure your way out of anything."

Reflections on Career Paths and Personal Growth

The dialogue transitions into deep reflections on career choices, personal growth, and the balance between ambition and contentment. JB advises young comedians on the importance of versatility and believing in oneself:

JB Smoove [42:48]: "You gotta trust the process and trust what you do and what you bring to something in order for you to get there."

Ted resonates with this philosophy, sharing his journey of embracing friendships with younger, dynamic individuals and learning to admire rather than compete:

Ted Danson [81:22]: "I decided to enjoy my younger, brighter, funnier friends as opposed to feel like, oh, I have to compete."

The Power of Comedy and Human Connection

Central to the episode is the belief in comedy's transformative power. Both JB and Ted emphasize how humor serves as a bridge, fostering connections and bringing joy to people's lives.

JB Smoove [12:38]: "Laughter changes the world. It really does."

They discuss the essence of being an icon versus a legend, focusing on the impact and memories created through genuine interactions and comedic excellence.

JB Smoove [37:52]: "Icon means it's someone that touched you in a way that made you remember who they were in that moment."

Conclusion: Celebrating Friendship and Legacy

As the episode wraps up, Ted and JB celebrate their friendship, mutual respect, and shared commitment to comedy. They reflect on their journeys, the importance of staying true to oneself, and the joy of creating laughter together.

Ted Danson [94:13]: "I can't tell you how much I enjoy you. I can't tell you it makes sense. Because before I knew anything about you, all I wanted to do was hug you."

JB echoes this sentiment, highlighting the deep bond formed through their shared experiences and laughter.

JB Smoove [94:49]: "We so deep. And you said it earlier. This is the first time we really, like, dove into life."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

  • Ted Danson [03:05]: "He's an amazing comic. He's an amazing actor and pitch man."

  • JB Smoove [09:06]: "People do that to you all the time. But I do that."

  • JB Smoove [24:07]: "Always been the life of the party... I just always been the guy that makes people laugh."

  • JB Smoove [46:02]: "He caught me right there with that shoulder, my whole lung was full of blood."

  • JB Smoove [93:03]: "If you can keep your mind and keep your senses and don't panic, you can figure your way out of anything."

  • JB Smoove [12:38]: "Laughter changes the world. It really does."

  • Ted Danson [94:13]: "I can't tell you how much I enjoy you... all I really wanted to do every time I saw you was hug you."

Takeaways

This episode offers a profound exploration of the life and career of JB Smoove, intertwined with heartfelt conversations about friendship, resilience, and the unifying power of comedy. Listeners are treated to personal stories, industry insights, and the warm camaraderie between seasoned actors and a beloved comedian, making it a must-listen for fans of humor and genuine human connection.

No transcript available.