Tony Hale

Summary

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

Guest: Tony Hale

Air Date: August 27, 2025

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Episode Overview

In this warmly candid and characteristically playful episode, Ted Danson welcomes actor Tony Hale for an in-depth conversation spanning creativity, career struggles, family bonds, faith, anxiety, and the joy of being part of creative "families" both on and off set.

The episode provides listeners with unique insight into Tony Hale’s new projects (notably his upcoming film "Sketch"), his path from quirky commercial gigs to iconic sitcom roles, and a refreshingly open dialogue on mental health and faith. It’s filled with laughter, humility, and the gentle ribbing between two actors who deeply admire each other.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Pandemic Bonds and the Power of Community (00:45–05:29)

• Ted and Tony recall forming a “Saturday night dinner group” in Vancouver during COVID when both were filming respective projects—an experience that became a precious lifeline amid isolation.
• They reminisce about makeshift family celebrations and simple joys like movie nights, puzzles, and birthday cakes.
  • Tony: "It was just such a slice of heaven in the midst of a lot of chaos." (04:20)

2. 'Sketch': Tony's New Film and the Creative Journey (05:34–10:21)

• Tony discusses his new film "Sketch" with co-star D'Arcy Carden—a project eight years in the making, blending family fun with poignant emotional themes.
• The film is described as “Inside Out meets Jurassic Park,” about a single dad (Tony) navigating grief and his daughter’s powerful imagination, where her dark drawings become real.
  • Tony: "It's this really fun family movie with really deep themes of processing feelings." (07:01)
• Unique visual effects: the monsters look hand-drawn, preserving a child’s perspective rather than sleek CGI.

3. The Actor’s Life: Perception, Hustle & Rejection (10:22–11:15)

• They poke fun at how actors’ lives appear busier than they are, noting that periods of work are punctuated by lengthy stretches of uncertainty and ‘hustle’.
  • Tony: "We've signed up for a career of rejection." (10:35)

4. Vulnerability & Self-Acceptance (11:16–13:26)

• Both discuss the quirks of watching oneself on screen, with Tony sharing a family anecdote:
  • Tony: “My sister once saw me on Fallon and she says, ‘Anthony… don’t take this the wrong way, but you look like a buzzard.’” (11:38)
• Reflections on posture, stage presence, and physical comedy, citing influences like Tim Conway and Bob Newhart.

5. Comedy as Catharsis and the Roots of Physical Humor (13:27–16:47)

• A conversation about the genius of Tim Conway and Carol Burnett, and the art of physical comedy and ensemble generosity.
  • Ted: “You are a master of something… Your physicality, your reactions to stuff that's happening in front of us is really spectacular.” (14:10)

6. Anxiety, Panic, and Using Inner Turmoil for Creative Good (17:09–21:39)

• Tony opens up about his struggles with anxiety and panic attacks, describing how this vulnerability informs his comedy.
  • Tony: "When you've had anxiety… it’s not a show. It's an internal battle." (17:25)
• He shares therapeutic advice: “Start having compassion for [anxious feelings]. Thank them… Hey, I appreciate you being here. I know you’re trying to help. I’m gonna go do the show.” (20:33–21:27)
  • Ted agrees, connecting anxiety with the importance of distinguishing between fear (of things actually present) and anxiety (the imagined).

7. Tony's Career Path: From Quirky Commercials to ‘Arrested Development’ (25:51–32:05)

• Tony walks through his circuitous early acting career—from temp jobs to “Shakespeare in the Parking Lot” to incessant auditions for ‘quirky’ roles.
  • On audition types: “Anytime I saw the word quirky, I was like, quirky, quirky.” (26:02)
• The casting story of 'Arrested Development': the importance of right timing and the value of being “not all there”—a self-deprecating industry label.
• Discovery of comedic community and writer “royalty”—parallels between Tony’s and Ted’s early days.

8. Longevity & Humility in Hollywood (32:06–34:58)

• Lessons on staying humble and grateful, with Tony comparing Ted to Henry Winkler as examples of “lasting kindness” in the business.
  • Ted: “Later, when you become successful and you're nice, then you're working at staying grateful… and not taking things for granted.” (33:19)

9. Advice for Aspiring Actors (34:04–35:12)

• Ted’s advice: “Find the joy of creativity. If you really want to be an actor, go act. And if you decide you can’t do anything but this, then you’ll... do well. And study. Study.” (34:30)
• Both reflect on the importance of study, play, and finding “true community.”

10. The Role of Faith in Tony’s Life (37:26–44:43)

• Ted asks Tony to discuss his faith—how personal relationship with God evolved from inherited tradition to deep personal belief, especially during difficult times.
• Tony shares involvement in arts and faith communities in NYC, citing the importance of asking questions and acknowledging others’ experiences with “religious trauma.”
  • Tony: “There’s so many different filters people are looking at… So if anything, I’m just so curious about their experience.” (41:11)
• Faith described as relationship, daily challenge, comfort in facing the unknown.
  • “Life is hard. And there's part of me that's like, give me two crutches.” (43:20)

11. Families, Parents, and Comic Support (53:44–58:32)

• Funny stories about parental support and not ‘getting’ one’s work.
  • Tony: "Our friends told us they love Arrested Development. We still don't get it, but when Martin Short was on... now he's funny." (53:54)
• On the Emmys, nervousness, and how a therapist helped Tony be present to the moment.

12. Podcasting and New Creative Outlets (55:47–57:24)

• Tony discusses his podcast "Extraordinarians" with Kristen Schaal and Matt Oberg—interviewing eccentric Guinness World Record holders and finding unexpected inspiration in their stories.

13. The Emotional Weight of Rejection and Perception (62:53–65:57)

• They riff on fame, self-doubt, and the ongoing sting of rejection, even after decades in the industry.
  • Ted: “‘You are great! I just did not like anyone else in it.’ ... That freedom of people coming up to you—‘that thing you did, I wasn't crazy about it.’” (65:42)
• Reflections on their own scientific/academic family backgrounds and the influence of critical support.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “It was just such a slice of heaven in the midst of a lot of chaos.” – Tony (04:20)
• “We've signed up for a career of rejection. That’s just how.” – Tony (10:35)
• “My sister...said…‘You look like a buzzard’...How the hell do I not take that the wrong way?” – Tony (11:38)
• "The funniest thing to watch [is] somebody trying to keep it together, to be present in a moment of terror, panic, or anxiety." – Ted (18:08)
• “If you really want to be an actor, go act. If you decide you can’t do anything but this, then you’ll... do well.” – Ted (34:30)
• "There’s so many different filters people are looking at [regarding faith]...So if anything, I’m just so curious about their experience." – Tony (41:11)
• “Later, when you become successful and you're nice, then you're working at staying grateful… I'm one of the most actually humble people.” – Ted (33:26–33:41, jokingly)

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Timestamps for Important Segments

• 00:45–05:29: Pandemic 'pod’ and Vancouver dinners
• 05:34–10:21: 'Sketch’ movie – concept, process, release details
• 11:38: On watching oneself on talk shows (the “buzzard” story)
• 13:38–16:47: Physical comedy, Tim Conway, Carol Burnett
• 17:09–21:39: Anxiety in acting, techniques for coping
• 25:51–32:05: Early career, “not all there,” Arrested Development
• 34:04–35:12: Ted’s advice for young actors
• 37:26–44:43: Tony’s faith journey and dealing with religious stigma
• 53:44: Parents not “getting” Arrested Development, Martin Short moment
• 55:47: “Extraordinarians” podcast
• 62:53–65:57: Family, science backgrounds, and artistic rejection

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Tone & Style

The exchange is candid, self-effacing, and full of kind-hearted teasing. Both Ted and Tony interweave laughter with moments of vulnerability and deep thought, offering a comforting, inspirational atmosphere. The episode stands out for its honesty about the emotional toll of creative life and a wide-ranging, open-hearted discussion of topics often side-stepped in showbiz interviews.

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Final Thoughts

This episode gives listeners far more than showbiz anecdotes; it’s a window into the emotional interior of creative people wrestling—joyfully and reflectively—with what it means to live a full, connected, imperfect life. Whether you’re a fan of Tony Hale’s work or seek comfort in creative companionship, this is a can't-miss conversation filled with memorable wisdom and warmth.

Transcript

[A]

Where everybody knows your name with Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson sometimes is brought to you by Progressive Insurance. Do you ever find yourself playing the budgeting game? Well, with the name your price tool from Progressive, you can find options that fit your budget and potentially lower your bills. Try [e-mail] Progressive Casualty Insurance Company and and affiliates price and coverage match limited by state law. Not available in all states. We're just a mess.

[B]

We definitely can't do a podcast together.

[A]

Welcome back to where everybody knows your name. I'm so excited to be talking with Tony Hale, Just a terrific actor who brings something so distinctive, so uniquely him to any character he's playing, whether it's Arrested Development, Veep, Toy Story 4, and most recently the Decameron on Netflix. Tony Hale co stars with Darcy Carden in the movie sketch. I've seen the trailer, and it looks amazing. I'm very excited to see it. So let's talk to him. Here's Tony Hale.

[B]

Are we starting?

[A]

Oh, we've been starting.

[B]

Oh.

[A]

All right. Here's where I shouldn't say fall in love. It's a bad way to start. Not for me podcast, but here's how. When I fell in love with you and went, oh. And this was up in Vancouver. It was the height of the COVID pandemic, but people were starting to shoot again. Excuse me. And you were working with Kristin Schall. Mary was up doing Zoe's extraordinary playlist.

[B]

That's right.

[A]

And you literally were basically allowed to go to your home, go to work, and that was it.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And it was scary.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And rightfully so, but also lonely, you know.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And we formed this little group. Saturday night dinner group. Yes. And I had never hung out with you before, but it was. It was a combination of the euphoria of being able to be with people without masks.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

We were all being safe.

[B]

Very safe.

[A]

And socializing. It was like.

[B]

It was.

[A]

Seriously, it's like. It was like Christmas.

[B]

Yeah. I can't tell you how much. I mean, that was, gosh, 2020 maybe. But I looked. So we. We were doing Chris. Chris and I were doing this show called the mysterious Benedict society. And back then, because of COVID your set was separated into zones. It was like A, zones B, C, D. And if anybody in your zone got Covid, then the whole zone was taken out. So you just were walking on eggshells. All we can. Also, as the performers, there was a deep fear of, like, if I get sick, then no one works.

[A]

Right.

[B]

Because they can't. All the shit Zone shut down. So there was this kind of anxiety. So knowing that we had this pod on Saturday where it was the time that I could freely laugh with people. It wasn't over. Zoom. We had just met and it was just. I think Mary brought her keyboard and would sing songs.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

And then. And Kristen and Rich's little girl was there. I mean. Cause I was away from my family. I was there for six months and I took this job for. I was so. I mean, I'm always so grateful for a gig. I took this job and then Covid hit and I was. I still had this job and the borders shut, so I couldn't go home.

[A]

Cause that's what you envision when you take a job in Vancouver. I'll be home for the weekend.

[B]

Yeah, just be home for the weekend.

[A]

Same time zone.

[B]

Yeah. And then Covid hit and so I was stuck out there. So we had Thanksgiving, Christmas all together.

[A]

Cause you stayed longer, I think, than Mary and I did. Cause you guys went on shooting and.

[B]

We always love coming to your house. Cause it was the nice place. Cause ours was just gross. And we were like, let's go to Ted and Mary's. Their place is much nicer.

[A]

It was a brand new build and it looked like. And there's no art on the walls and it looked like an upside down. You were living in an upside down wedding cage. For some reason. It was very strange.

[B]

A screening room and stuff. So we would watch movies and it was just such a slice of heaven in the midst of a lot of chaos. That was so nice.

[A]

It really was.

[B]

Yeah. And then we'd been wanting to do a reunion, but everybody kind of has gotten busy and stuff like that. And now their little girl is really. She's already like 8 or 9.

[A]

I know.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Our goddaughter.

[B]

Oh, I didn't know. I didn't know that.

[A]

And Rich, who I adore.

[B]

Oh my gosh. He's just a quiet saint.

[A]

Husband of Kristen Scholl.

[B]

Yeah, yeah, yeah. Great cook.

[A]

Very good cook. I used to love going to his house kind of the most.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Sorry, Mary. That came out bad. Poorly. Sorry.

[B]

And somebody's. It was. We always celebrated birthdays and everybody. I don't know. I remember Mary bringing a great cake. Oh, puzzles. There was also a puzzle situation there.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

Oh, this is great.

[A]

And Kristen, for her birthday. I wasn't here for that one. I went back down. But she wanted a fried ice cream. Something where you had to take ice cream and then fry. It was like breaded and then you fry it and then you cover it. Chocolate. Anyhow, it's nice to see you again.

[B]

It's really nice to see you. Really nice to see you.

[A]

One thing I saw recently, first off, the trailer of you. Sorry, you. And another one of my favorite women, Darcy Carden.

[B]

Yes. She says hi. She knew I was coming today. And she was like, ah. I said hi.

[A]

Adore her.

[B]

She's the best. She's the best. So she plays my sister in this movie sketch.

[A]

That looks fantastic.

[B]

It's so special, man. It's taken us eight years to get this made. And so, like eight years ago, the director and writer Seth Worley came to me with this idea. And it was just. We went back and forth and he had written the script. We went back and forth, like tweaking and coming up with ideas and then trying to find financing. It was gonna be.

[A]

Who's we? Just you, me and Seth.

[B]

And Seth, the writer, director, trying to find financing. And then it was gonna be a TV show at one point, then a film. And then, as you know, finally the money comes in and then you're shooting three months later. After eight years. No, sorry, after like six years. And then it was like two and a half years in post. Cause there's a lot of special effects. And then Darcy came on board and it's such a beautiful film.

[A]

Can you. I mean, in the trailer I got a glimpse of what it is. I'm not quite sure I saw everything that happens in the turn.

[B]

Sure, sure.

[A]

But it looks sweet, funny, and then scarier than I'll get out in a kid friendly way. Is it kid friendly? Because your actors are kidding. A lot of kids. Yes, yes.

[B]

And we just. Okay, so the basis of it is I play a single dad who's. He's very worried because his daughter is just drawing these comically dark pictures. And after something that happens, they end up coming to life. And so we describe it like Inside out meets Jurassic Park. And so, because it's this really fun family movie with these really deep themes of processing feelings. Because in the movie, my wife has passed away.

[A]

And.

[B]

And it is so well done, Ted. It is so. Seth Worley has done such a beautiful job. And it's. After eight years, it just feels like you're launching something and you're like, oh, please, please tell me now.

[A]

It's going on August 6th.

[B]

On August 6th it's going to be in theaters. Yeah. And it's great. And Darcy is just as, you know, so natural and funny. And you guys on Good Place was just. Were just like magic we'll get to.

[A]

Me in a minute.

[B]

Let's circle back.

[A]

What is her relationship to you who has lost your sister?

[B]

She's my sister. Yeah, she's my sister.

[A]

So the aunt of these troubled. Troubled daughter or kids, the daughter's going.

[B]

Through it, and then there's my daughter and son. And it's just the big theme of it is me as a dad just not knowing what to do with these emotions, you know? And she's writing, and it kind of came from really quickly. The director's sister, when he was. She was younger, was also drawing. This is a True Story, was also drawing these pictures. They were pretty dark. And they took her to a therapist. And the therapist asked her because it was a bullying situation and said, do you want these things to happen? And she was honest, and she said yes. And the therapist said, well, I think it's a really good idea. You drew them out rather than did them. And it talked. Cause then she showed her a blank page and said, because what we don't want is this blank page and everything festering and living in your head. And it was just that sense of, like, this having so many different creative ways to process feelings and stuff and giving license and giving license to it. And not as a parent, of course. It's jarring at first. You're like, ah. But just allowing that process, like that's its own process. But it's so fun. The movie's just great. Really great.

[A]

Who did you go to for the animation part? Not the animation, but the. Seth.

[B]

Yeah. Seth Worley, the writer and director, has a history of special effects, and he did a lot of them, and then we took them, and then he farmed them out at the end because the work got too big. But this is what's so cool. When she draws these monsters and they come to life, they don't look cgi. They don't look AI. You can see that a kid drew them. So it's like, you see the crayons, you see the markers, the shots.

[A]

Oh, that's great. I didn't see that.

[B]

Yeah. And it's like, you see the elements of that, what she uses, and it's. I mean, I just. I'm such a fan of this movie, you know, and what he's done. So I'm excited. But it's weird, man. It's like, you know, it's just the launching of. It is like, are you going around.

[A]

Talking to a lot of folks and everything?

[B]

Yeah, yeah, yeah. And then what's cool is I. I'm. We're going to do a screening at home with family and, you know, all that stuff, which would be really special.

[A]

That's fantastic. Well, good luck with it, because it really genuinely. I went, oh, shoot. I want to see this.

[B]

Yeah, please. I think you would love it. I think you and Mary would love it. Really?

[A]

Sure.

[B]

You're busy, man.

[A]

Kind of. You know, all actors look way busier.

[B]

Sure.

[A]

Because if you count the days of the year, it's like, literally the Life of Riley.

[B]

And it's weird where you. If you're promoting something, like, say, like. Like in a summer, like our season, two or three, things come out. It does look like, golly, you're working nonstop. But there is so much time of hustle and just like. Did I get that? I didn't get that. We're signing up. We've signed up for a career of rejection. That's just how.

[A]

With watching your work.

[B]

I love it.

[A]

Well, yes, but is it a loop?

[B]

In my home, my daughter's like, dad. I'm like, more, More.

[A]

No, there's some truth in that joke, but it takes me forever to get there.

[B]

I have a harder time. I don't know if you're like this. I have a harder time watching myself on talk shows or something like this than I do in a. In a scripted thing. Because, like, Veep, I kind of have a bit of an emotional detachment of it. It's like, you know, I had such a great time, but I can kind of disengage. This is like, I'm watching me, you know?

[A]

Yes.

[B]

I mean, don't think there wasn't, like, impulse for me to do this just because I could feel myself. My sister once saw me on Fallon and she says, anthony. She calls me Anthony. She says, don't take this the wrong way, but you look like a buzzard. And I was like, how in the hell do I not take that the wrong way? And then I saw it, and she was right. I was like, jimmy, how you doing, Jimmy? It was just this, like, insect back.

[A]

What's sad is I know about posture because I'm of the age where my spine is wanting to kind of do that.

[B]

Totally.

[A]

So I go way out of my way to stand erect and all of that. And I watch myself recently and be like, fuck. So I'm hunched.

[B]

Totally. I remember on Arrested Development, years ago, Tommy Tune was guest starring, and he probably. He was probably like in his mid-70s, and he was just gliding across the room, just tall and just statuesque. And I was like, damn, that's a guy who is really focused on that posture. And he's a dancer, so that helps.

[A]

That's Jane Fondo. When you ask her the secret of anything she throws in posture as one.

[B]

Of the most important things, I mean, it makes sense. If it just happened naturally, I'd love it.

[A]

Yeah, no, it's a workout.

[B]

Also, there's.

[A]

I remember.

[B]

Sorry. But I remember on Veep, um, you know, Gary, my character was so. So worshiped Selena that she. Obviously, Julia's shorter than I am. So he just. The fact that he was taller than her, he just hated it. If he could somehow cut off a foot of his body so that he could be under her, that would be his ideal. So I was constantly just trying to get lower than her. And then I'd come home and I'd be like, I gotta straighten up. Like, this is rough.

[A]

I know. It's not. It's like you always want people to pick something grand in your work to talk about in this moment. But this was grand. And I watched it three or four times. The Oscar. Julia's Oscar, Except.

[B]

Oh, the Emmy. The Emmy one.

[A]

And you, in character, stood behind her. But you are a master of something. You were throwing focus just like you would to her character in the show. But you could see it coming. You'd see it like, oh, oh, she's losing it. Oh, I better step. And it made me think about what you said somewhere about the Carol Burnett show.

[B]

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

[A]

And watching Tim.

[B]

Tim Conway. Yeah, yeah.

[A]

Who could, with a shift of his eyes, make you have steps. You are that actor. You are. Your physicality, your reactions to stuff that's happening in front of us is really.

[B]

Spectacular coming from you. That means a lot. You can't receive. Was him and Bob Newhart, actually, because I would watch the Newhart show and he would have so much tension in his body and would just be standing there. And there was something about him darting his eyes or something. You just lost it because you could feel that release. And then Tim Conway. Damn. Just even talking about him, he brought me so much joy because he never forced the comedy. It was just so fluid. And, I mean, there's so many things. Like when he's at the dentist chair with Harvey Korman and he accidentally. He actually numbs himself and just constantly, like, arms are going limp and legs are going limp, and it's just so genius. And there's that famous blooper. I don't know if you're like this. I watch blooper reels more than I watch shows. But there's this Famous blooper where they're all sitting on the couch during Mama's Family. Do you know what I'm about to talk about? It was Carol and her and Tim on the side. And Tim was just going on and on and on, ad libbing. And Mama goes, is that asshole finished?

[A]

And they all just finished.

[B]

Fell off the couch. And it was so full of joy. It was just so full of joy. And Tim constantly was making Harvey laugh. And he would walk slowly across the stage as the old man. And just there was such.

[A]

There was such restraint, see that the other characters break up.

[B]

And Carol. Some of my favorite stuff she ever did was when she would talk to the audience at the end. Well, you saw.

[A]

I mean, not only was she a comedic genius, but you saw her heart, you know, because she. That was, that was not planned. That was not staged. Whatever happened, happened.

[B]

And she was very much like you, where it's like, there's a. You have to receive this, Ted, but you're a very kind soul thinking about others and not. And, and also an actor. You're not about yourself. And you can see in Carol, she really cared for her cast. She took care of them. Like, that's, that's very apparent in the work.

[A]

Yeah. You know, let everyone shine.

[B]

Yes. Yes. You don't do that. But, like, she did that.

[A]

Yeah. That's actually a bad move. She's not on the air anymore, so clearly it didn't work.

[B]

Carol, take some lessons from Ted.

[A]

I got to hang out with her a little bit. And royalty.

[B]

Yeah. Did you know she did Julia's podcast that wiser than me.

[A]

That's right.

[B]

And she just hearing. You can hear the humility in her voice of just. And just. Lessons learned. And also, she's had a really tough life. You know, she's been through a lot, you know.

[A]

Yep. She has it really quick.

[B]

It makes me think of.

[A]

Let's talk about your tough life. Sorry, please. Open wound. What were you going to say about me?

[B]

No, I was. There was a time in Cheers that. No, I, I, it made me think of, like, Bob and Tim and his anxiety. You know, there's something about, as comic actors, you almost using what we've been through in life for good and funny. Because it's, I mean, I've dealt with anxiety and, like, sitting in that tension because when I've had, I've had panic attacks in my past, and when you've had anxiety, it's not, it's not a show. It's not like a da, da, da, da, da, da. It's an internal battle, you know, and you're. And you're trying to calm yourself down. And so when you're doing. When you're sitting in that tension, going through it is crap. But with comedy, it's, I think, the.

[A]

Funniest thing to watch somebody trying to keep it together, to be present in a moment of terror, panic, or anxiety.

[B]

And you can just see it in the eyes, you know.

[A]

Anyways, character wise, you're talking about not somebody literally having a meltdown. You're talking about using that.

[B]

I'm so sorry. What if that's what I mean, where it's like. I love to watch YouTube videos of people having panic attacks. It is the biggest laugh I have.

[A]

I have one of those to this day. I'll have one of those a year.

[B]

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

[A]

Performing.

[B]

Sure.

[A]

And just high school. Having trouble breathing.

[B]

Oh, I'm so.

[A]

So no one sees this.

[B]

Yeah. And no one knows what's going on in my head. Yeah. It's awful. It's. And it's. I have such empathy for people that really deal with it. It's so terrifying.

[A]

You know, it is the thing that's kind of calming if you can get your brain there is. If something was real, you would deal with it.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And when you realize that this terror and panic is not based on somebody cut your hand off or here comes a monster, literally, then you would deal with that. But I somehow do.

[B]

You know, that's reassuring. Back to my work.

[A]

Hold on one sec. Okay, go ahead.

[B]

Thank you.

[A]

I have to shift gears.

[B]

No, that's why I loved Inside out is because they made a very distinct difference between fear and anxiety in the movie. Fear is what responds to actually what's in front of you. Anxiety was a perceived what. What narrative you form, what could happen.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And so that's great because right when I came in, I was like, that's interesting. You guys have both. And they made that very distinct. And I will live in anxiety. I'll have all these narratives and all these safety plans of what could happen when more than not, they don't happen.

[A]

Was that with you as a kid?

[B]

Yeah, yeah, I would. I was a kid. I was, I think, at the time. I mean, you know, anxiety was not really talked about back then. So I just. I think I was more like. I was a very energetic kid, just wanted a lot of attention and then just somehow managing anxiety. And I think nowadays people having a language for it. What a great gift to these kids. But back then, we didn't really talk about it.

[A]

No.

[B]

I did this show in San Francisco actually, right before Vancouver and it was a one man show and I was absolutely petrified. It was at the American Conservatory Theater. And I remember rehearsing in my mind thinking, we can rehearse, but I'm going to have a panic attack in front of a thousand people. So it's like, we can do this, but this is going to spiral out. And I remember my therapist, it was just something I had never thought about. He said, before you go on, he's kind of getting me in the practice of when you start feeling those feelings, start having compassion for them. And he said, thank them. And so I would, whenever that voice would come in, I've been like, get ready, you're about to have a panic attack. I would always say, hey, I appreciate you being here. I know you're trying to help. I'm gonna go do the show. But I just wanted to say, I.

[A]

Promise I'll revisit your panic.

[B]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. But like, almost like come alongside. I really appreciate that because before I'd been like, buck up, they're not there. You know, whatever it takes.

[A]

It's really great advice.

[B]

Yeah. And embracing them, it just, it was still there. That anxiety was still there. And I even had somebody off just in case I forgot a line. But it just dissipated, that sting of it, which was nice.

[A]

I heard of some actors who got so burned by that moment that they forever wore an earwig or, you know, and I can totally understand.

[B]

Totally understand.

[A]

Yeah. I've just heard about a serious but rare heart condition called attr, Cardiac amyloidosis or attrcm. If you have attrcm, you may experience symptoms related to heart failure like breathlessness and swelling of the legs, but also have issues that seem unrelated, like carpal tunnel. There's a treatment option that may help called Atrube or Acharamidis. Atrube is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with ATTRCM to reduce death and hospitalization due to heart issues. In a study, people taking a truby saw an impact on their health related quality of life and 50% fewer hospitalizations due to heart issues than people who didn't take a truby, giving you more chances to do what you love with who you love. Tell your doctor if you're pregnant, plan to become pregnant or are breastfeeding and about the medications you take. The most common side effects were mild and included diarrhea and abdominal pain. If you have ATTR CM, talk to a cardiologist about a Truby or visit attruby.com that's a T T R U B Y.com to learn more Maine where life, the way it should be transforms all who encounter its spectacular landscapes. Rugged coastlines, pine scented trails, sandy beaches, sparkling lakes and tranquil forests inspire you to reflect and make meaningful moments. They offer endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. Whether pedaling or paddling, hiking or biking, Maine has more than enough outdoor spaces to make the most of long summer days. Relish in exquisite flavors harvested from the ocean and the rich soils of orchards and fields. Maine's makers are rooted to its heritage while boldly branching into new ways of thinking, doing and being. Connect with its people in warm and authentic towns which beckon you to stroll art galleries and locally owned shops where generations of artists, writers, entrepreneurs and craftspeople see the world anew. It's tempting to do it all when you visit, but take a beat and a breath. Get a feel for the time and tempo of Maine simple pleasures, scenic adventures where every route is the scenic one. Discover more at visitmain.com what better time to get Green Chef the number one meal kit for clean eating? Pick from Mediterranean, gluten free, plant based and protein heavy even gut and brain health and calorie. Smart choices too. And with week to week flexibility, you can adjust your plan to match your mood and your schedule. I confess that Mary and I had planned to cook together and make Moroccan spiced shrimp and pistachio rice, but I was working and so I didn't get home until after she had prepared it. She really enjoyed it. And then I came home and you know, reaped the benefits. It was delicious. So we'll definitely do it again. Make this summer your healthiest yet. With Green chef. Head to greenchef.com 50ted and Woody and use code 50ted and Woody to get 50% off your first month. Then 20% off for two months with free shipping. That's code 50ted and [e-mail] 50ted and woody Tell me how you got arrested development. Tell me about that.

[B]

So, well, I was in 95. I moved to New York and I didn't know anybody and so I just started. Look, remember Backstage magazine?

[A]

Yes.

[B]

Yeah. So I would, I would get backstage every week and I would circle, you know, anytime I saw the word quirky, I was like, quirky, quirky. But I would just, you know. And my very first show was Shakespeare in the Parking Lot where I did Shakespeare in the parking lot in a parking lot in the East Village.

[A]

And you would make your entrances sometimes.

[B]

From A taxi cab. And then I had every job under the sun. So many jobs, actually, randomly. I was at this temp agency that I would go every morning because you didn't want to get a long term commitment because you had to be available for auditions. So I would sit in this room, and it was a purple room. And I remember they would always play Jim Carrey movies every single day. And they would send me on, they would always send me to Conde Nast. So it was like this guy who looked like a. I looked like a bad Gap ad, just like walking into like Vogue because I needed a warm body just to sit. And it was so bizarre. So I did that. And then I started getting like an agent and I got commercials, right? And I started auditioning for commercials. And my type was not all there. That's what they would say.

[A]

And how did you know that that was the description?

[B]

That was my description that you ended up getting. Or they would describe me as. Are you guys looking for a character that's kind of not all there? Tony Hale. And they would also say he's like David Schwimmer, but not that good looking.

[A]

Keep doing that. Because I loved what you wrote.

[B]

Did I write that down?

[A]

You wrote that down. You know, the not so good look. But what about those people out there who don't think David Schwimmer is. I know. I was like, okay, well, I'm really lucky.

[B]

I mean, it would be one thing. It was Brad Pitt, but not as good looking, but like, all right. But anyways, David, you're an attractive dude.

[A]

So.

[B]

But then I started getting commercials. And so then I didn't have as many of jobs. And then the commercials kind of became my main thing. And a commercial Volkswagen. I did Volkswagen. And a commercial casting director named Marcia DeBonis, she was casting Arrested Development and she saw the description. He's not all there. He's kind of checked out. She's like, I know a guy. And so brought me in. And I remember because Buster always massaged people's shoulders. That was a part of his bit. And so I was massaging my knees and I think the camera stopped here. And Mitch Hurwitz was like, what is he doing down there? And so then they flew me out and I was able to get in.

[A]

This was on tape.

[B]

This was on tape. Cause back then you just, you know, you sent VHS tapes back and forth from New York to la.

[A]

But you did it in person. You did show up. You weren't doing that thing they're doing now where you self.

[B]

No, no, no, no. Yeah. Cause I. Yeah. Woof. And then so I auditioned in person in New York. And then they flew me out to meet the network and stuff. And I was so nervous. But. Yeah. And so then we ended up shooting. I remember we ended up shooting the pilot after I got cast, right after went out there and I didn't know we were gonna do that. And I remember having to go to Old Navy to buy underwear. Cause I ran out of underwear. That's like a very strong memory. But it was like. It was a great cast. And I was also so overwhelmed. And it seems, like, excited overwhelmed or.

[A]

Just, can I do it? Or am I.

[B]

It was excited, but it was more overwhelmed. Like, I had. I remember we were. So I shot the pilot and then I was engaged to be married. And then 10 days before we got married, the show got picked up and I was like, sweetheart, I think we're moving to la. So everything was just kind of happening fast. I had never been on a studio lot.

[A]

This was your first la.

[B]

This was my first thing in la.

[A]

Oh, wow.

[B]

And I'd never been on steel lot. I had never. I just didn't. I didn't know what any. I didn't know what a manager did. I didn't know what a public. I just didn't know anything.

[A]

Right.

[B]

And so it kind of worked because I'm playing Buster, who's just overwhelmed. And why am I not quite there? I mean, I could not have played a confident character then, you know.

[A]

Yeah. Wow.

[B]

Yeah. But it's also. And you know, when you have great writing, you know, it's just like. It was so. Just the situations they gave me of. Like, okay, by the way, Liza Minnelli is going to be your girlfriend. You know, oh, by the way, a seal is going to bite off your hand. You know? You know, all these.

[A]

Like, you must have been in heaven.

[B]

Heaven. And at the same time, like, what? Like, okay, that's great. Tobias was my favorite character who David Cross played. My favorite joke was him. Him joining the Blue Men group because he thought it was a support group for depressed men. I forgot that. And just like. But that kind of those. And then those kind of layers of comedy. Back then, no. 1. I mean, comedy was so good, but it wasn't something you really had to think about. It was just kind of a one, two joke. Like, everybody kind of got the joke arrested. Was almost like a drama where you had to think about it. Like there was layers to stuff. And then you had to rewind it, be like, what does that mean? And it was.

[A]

It challenged you.

[B]

Yeah. It was like a grid that hadn't been really done much. You know.

[A]

We were both very blessed. There's so many similarities. I started off in New York not just doing commercials. Being the extra in the back of the commercials. There's actually a clip of me playing a lemon chiffon box which meant of some pudding. You know. So I had the box and the lemon colored cowl and my tights and Yeah. I would do anything. I was enamored. I mean, I love my acting class. I went to. I was studying with somebody who had gone to the neighborhood playhouse and then started teaching.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And it was. I was dedicated student and I just loved it. I almost didn't care except that I needed to make money to survive. I didn't care whether I was being hired or that I was doing a scene in class. I just loved it.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

So I started commercials and then got lucky after time and got Cheers. But we both kind of were in writer royalty. You know, people who really totally. What a great kind of. You will always have that.

[B]

Yeah. You felt with the writing which was nice. It wasn't something you felt like you had to come in and go, how.

[A]

Can I make this better?

[B]

How can I make this better? I always put you in the category of like Henry Winkler where such longevity in the business and staying kind and humble and like giving to people.

[A]

It's not kind.

[B]

Am I just learning right now? He's an assad with Henry. Oh man. He's a really good actor because he's been so kind to me.

[A]

He is one of the nicest.

[B]

He's the nicest guy. But do you. Is there. What is that? I mean I.

[A]

Well, you can tell it's not real for me because I immediately attacked the person you put me.

[B]

No, but is it something that you. I mean, I don't know how you even answer that. But is it something you were taught as a kid or just not nice?

[A]

You're not not nice.

[B]

Oh no. And I do think. But is it something like a gratefulness that you always practiced that kind of kept you having.

[A]

I think later when you become successful and you're nice, then you're working at staying grateful.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And not taking things for granted or assuming that this will come your way or stuff. Then you do need to work to stay humble and present. I'm one of the most actually humble people. Now that's. Wait a minute.

[B]

Am I meeting the most humble person in Hollywood?

[A]

I blew it. I knew it.

[B]

It's funny. I've Never met a humble person that announces. They're humble, but great. This is a first for me.

[A]

So you're not into that competitive meditation thing either? Probably.

[B]

Okay, this is my last question because I.

[A]

No, no, this is fun. Ask me. I'm so tired of. If you.

[B]

I know you get this question all the time, but coming from you, someone who. A kid who's in their late 20s who wants the same kind of longevity that you have, you've had. What kind of. What advice do you give them?

[A]

I. You know, I shouldn't ever give advice, and I always get suckered into it. But, you know, my. The only thing. Even if it's not the longevity thing, but just. How do you get started or whatever?

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Find the joy of creativity. If you really want to be an actor, go act. And if you decide you can't do anything but this, then you'll. You'll be fine. You'll do well. But stay, you know, creative. Creative. Yeah. And study. Study. Don't you know?

[B]

Where did you study?

[A]

Carnegie Mellon.

[B]

Did you really?

[A]

Stanford. I fell in love, took an acting class and just went. Whoa.

[B]

Wow.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

My friend Dusty Brown went to Carnegie Mellon. It's a great. My other friend's daughter is going there now. It's a great program.

[A]

It's. It's. I mean, now it's even. It's become this feeder for musical. Broadway musicals. They didn't have music when I was there, thank God.

[B]

Yeah. Then they're small classes. I've heard.

[A]

They're not big classes. It's a really good thing. And then I went to New York and I was so scared, and I went straight to Juilliard. And I remember the very sweet. What's his name? Sorry, I'm blanking. John Houseman.

[B]

Oh, yeah.

[A]

Thank you. Boom, it fell. John Houseman, who was so sweet and said, I tell you what, if you still feel this way. Because he could tell that New York City was scaring the shit out of me. And I wanted to, you know, get. And keep the burp, too. Tony just burped in the middle of my. I was talking about something.

[B]

This is why I should not be drinking Diet Coke. I need to get back to water.

[A]

Bodily functions are my favorite thing. Do you acknowledge farts in your family?

[B]

We don't acknowledge them, but we freely let them go.

[A]

Oh, it's just such a source of humor for us. Is it really? Yes. Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah.

[B]

I. Yeah. Please feel free.

[A]

Oh, they. No need.

[B]

You're, like, already five times today.

[A]

Today. Did you say. Are you so Naive.

[B]

I do love that you. Because I studied the Barrow Group. Did you ever hear the Barrow Group in New York? They. Well, first of all, let me back up. I remember studying. I won't say his name, but there was an actor teacher I went to, and there was such an eggshell environment in the class.

[A]

Was the neighborhood Playhousey?

[B]

No, no.

[A]

So many friends.

[B]

But it was. Everybody was just trying to please him.

[A]

Right? Bengali teacher.

[B]

Yeah. And it was kind of like there was no freedom and just tension and like. Did he like it? Did he like it? I don't know if he liked it. And then I went to the Barrow Group and it was like, oh, this is supposed to be play.

[A]

Yeah, this is.

[B]

And it was like I had never. That had not even entered my mind. It was all great work. Your work's amazing, your work. And it was this heaviness to it.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

You know, and that play was absent.

[A]

Yeah. I think it took me a while to get to the play part because it was so significant. It was such a big deal. It was very significant. And yeah, you would, you know, you would. You were outraged that John Wayne won the Academy Award. Not, you know, what was it, Midnight Cowboy, you know, Dustin Hoffman. Can we talk about faith?

[B]

Oh, sure.

[A]

Really? How wonderful. Because I know it's a big part of your life.

[B]

It is a part of your life.

[A]

And it was even a big part of your life. When you were in New York, didn't you start something about creativity for faith based people? Yeah. Did I say that wrong?

[B]

No, I'm kidding. I just love it. I want to start using it. Um, it's true. I. So I. Yeah, I. When I moved to New York. Well, my faith is very important to me. And I was.

[A]

As a kid.

[B]

As a kid, not so much as a kid. I was raised Baptist. It was kind of a bit of a. I mean, again, nothing against Baptist, but it was a little more of just what you did in the South. It wasn't really personal faith. And then in college, I went through a pretty difficult time where I really hit this place where it's like, oh, are you really who you say you are? Can I lean on you? This God that I've heard about. And that was the time when I think my faith started becoming really real to me because there was more of like a. I mean, just a father, a presence, and kind of got more concrete for me.

[A]

Were you all on your own or was there a mentor or a book.

[B]

Or a. I started reading a lot of CS Lewis. And then when I moved to New York I would go hear Tim Keller, who was a really great teacher. And he. In New York, it's a very cynical audience. So with a lot of questions, which I think God is not afraid of our questions. I continue asking questions and I continue screaming at him and all that stuff. But Tim was very open to questions and I just appreciated that.

[A]

Is he. Sorry, was Tim a theologian or.

[B]

He was a pastor. He was a. Just for this church Redeemer. And what was your question, though? Oh, the group. So when I moved to New York, I met a bunch of people who were artists and their faith was also really important to them, you know, and we just wanted to support each other and see each other's work. And then also since we're selling ourselves so much, we wanted to do these projects just to get our eyes off of ourselves. And if I'm honest, it was really. I mainly just didn't know anybody and I just was wanting to meet friends. So we just. That kind of how that started.

[A]

But that.

[B]

That thought that was a long like story.

[A]

No, no, no, no. Thank you for doing. It's so strange that all of us went talking about our faith or our spiritual center or whatever it is that, you know, higher self or. I'm doing it right now. I'm kind of equivocating. Whatever that relationship is.

[B]

Yeah, sure.

[A]

Is slightly embarrassing or you don't want to put it out in a wrong way or something. It's too bad.

[B]

Yeah. And it's so like for instance, when somebody finds out that my faith is very important to me, I never am surprised if I get a reaction of anger or maybe I'm dumb or something because there's been so much. There's so many different filters people are looking at to my faith, religious trauma. So many things have been done and said in the name of God and it's just like it breaks my heart. But that's the filter they're looking at through to my stuff. So if anything, I'm just so curious about their experience. And many times I've apologized. Like, I'm so sorry that you. That was said to you or done to you. And that this person calls himself a person of faith. That is not like. I mean, Christ in the scripture says the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control. I may be working on two or three of those on a good day.

[A]

Right, right.

[B]

But when somebody is not exhibiting any of them, is doing these actions that are completely against that. That's not in the faith category. In my opinion, you know, so if they're open to the conversation, it's like, really.

[A]

Well, I think you challenge people because if you're calmly, not happily, but very centered in what it is that your faith sounds to me like I'm putting my thing on it. So forgive me if I am, please. That faith is a living, everyday, wake up, challenge yourself.

[B]

Absolutely.

[A]

To be in that, you know, trajectory.

[B]

Yeah. In a relationship.

[A]

Yes. In a relationship that's ever, you know, evolving all the time. If you bump into somebody who's. It's a very rigid thing for them. It is. I'm sure it's a challenge. But that's the good thing about what I was really looking forward to talking to you today because I knew that you put it out that faith, your faith is a very important part of your life. To me, that's the most important conversation I think you could possibly have. So people bump into you and get angry or this or that. It's still an amazing service.

[B]

Oh, it's. Well, thanks.

[A]

Not that that's why you do it, but it is a service to them.

[B]

Well, thanks for saying that. I mean, I just recently had something where something happened to somebody that was really awful and they were asking, like, how would you know? How could God allow this to happen? And I think in my younger years I probably would have tried to come up with the perfect answer, you know, for feeling, thinking I had to defend or something. And I just simply. I said, I don't. I don't know. I don't know. But I do. I do know a lot of people who have been through really, really hard things. And it's. It's wild to watch how their relationship with God has gotten stronger. And, and I can't explain it. I don't, I don't. And I, I don't know how that happens, but I've seen that happen.

[A]

And that. Isn't that partly the definition of faith? Yeah, it's not evidence. It's called faith.

[B]

Sure.

[A]

Yeah. It's not transactional. It's called faith.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And he's. And, and for me, and some people might think this is a crutch, you know, thinking. But life is hard. And there's part of me that's like, give me two crutches. Because sometimes life is really, really hard.

[A]

Not as hard as having a faith that you declare it to be central to your life. That's much harder in a way. I mean, to say that faith is a crutch is kind of misreading. I think what you're gonna have to go through to literally, truly live in faith.

[B]

Yeah, that's hard.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Yeah. Having faith is definitely. That's why you call it blind faith. Like it's. You are. There's a surrender aspect of it that is. Is many times very hard. But what's wild though, and again, I can't explain it, but when you. Knowing that a higher power sees a bigger picture than I do is incredibly comforting. And having had the experience of leaning on this presence and crying to this presence and just being still with this presence and the strength that I get from it is. I can't explain it, but that's what keeps me going. You know.

[A]

I'm. I'm. No, I'm really grateful we're talking about this, actually.

[B]

Sorry.

[A]

No, no. Yeah, none, please.

[B]

I need to burp again.

[A]

One of the most important, you know, conversations I think you can have, especially nowadays.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Yeah. You don't have to get political and everything, but it is a tough time. There's a lot of suffering.

[B]

It's a lot of suffering going.

[A]

And fear. Yeah. You know, especially here in la. Maybe it's true. It's probably true everywhere, but LA is really tough. Yeah.

[B]

There's a great author I love called. He's passed, but his name's Henry now. And. And I've been reading his book called the Inner Voice of Love and it's. It's a kind of his journal and he was a Catholic priest who worked with people with disabilities and himself had many, many struggles. And. And just his honesty of the simple honesty he gives and his truthfulness is such a balm to me. This is where my memory kicks in because at my desk at home I have all of these post its taped to the walls of just stuff he said. And I for the life of me can't remember one of them right now. Now I'm having that stage fright moment of it's all gone. I need my.

[A]

It's fun. It makes for a nice break. And a few minutes later it'll come back.

[B]

I need my cue. Person off stage. It's like Tony Henry Nouwen said this.

[A]

I'm waiting for Apple glasses that will have a facial recognition. They'll go, that's Tony Hale, Pet. Pet. That's Tony Hale. And you like it.

[B]

Dude, what a great. That's like its own Devil Wears Prada where you're whispering in her ear about the person. I never thought about that.

[A]

That's you and Veep.

[B]

That's me and Veep also. Do you ever want to. When I'm talking to somebody. I want that notepad on the iPhone that I can make a note of it.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

Because the minute it's my turn to speak in a conversation, it's gone. And then I'm like, I had something to say. And I'm sure I've done that twice or three times.

[A]

This time I love the actual the moment. Let's have one right now where we both just who's going to break first? Maine, where life, the way it should be transforms all who encounter its spectacular landscapes. Rugged coastlines, pine scented trails, sandy beaches, sparkling lakes and tranquil forests inspire you to reflect and make meaningful moments. They offer endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. Whether pedaling or paddling, hiking or biking, Maine has more than enough outdoor spaces to make the most of long summer days. Relish in exquisite flavors harvested from the ocean and the rich soils of orchards and fields, Maine's makers are rooted to its heritage while boldly branching into new ways of thinking, doing and being. Connect with its people in warm and authentic towns, which beckon you to stroll art galleries and locally owned shops where generations of artists, writers, entrepreneurs and craftspeople see the world anew. It's tempting to do it all when you visit, but take a beat and a breath. Get a feel for the time and tempo of Maine simple pleasures scenic adventures where every route is the scenic one. Discover more at visitmain.com Nature's Bounty is the life hack we've all been needing. And being rather lazy myself, I enjoy a good shortcut. And I just said that because I want you to know that I know what hack actually means in this case. So Nature's Bounty has a bounty of solutions to supplement your health and wellness. New Superfoods Plus Energy packs nutrients from a powdered blend of 23 fruits and veggies in just one capsule per day. I love that. I take a lot of pills and I love adding just one and not a fistful. Help reduce the appearance of wrinkles. You just got my attention. And improve skin elasticity in just 12 weeks with new ultra collagen booster. All right, I'm 77. I'm going to make this a test. I'm loving the thought of it. And new Probiotic gummies contain prebiotic and postbiotics for gut health, regularity and immune health in just one gummy per day. Nature's Bounty. It's in your nature. Learn [e-mail] these statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat Cure or prevent any disease. Wow.

[B]

Did you break a lot on Good Place?

[A]

No, I don't break.

[B]

Do you not?

[A]

No. Very. I mean, if I get tired, punchy, I will. I will start breaking.

[B]

That's a supernatural strength right there.

[A]

I think I'm so. You know, I need every brain cell to be able to remember where I am and what I'm doing, what's going on. I have. And other people don't make me break. Break. Sometimes. No, wait. Sometimes they do. That's not. That's not fair.

[B]

Julie would always say on Veep when she. She would dig her nails into her hand, right? Just. And be in so much pain just to keep it together because it's. You don't. When your body is literally vibrating because you can't keep it together, it is the hardest thing.

[A]

I will get giggles, but by and large, I do. Done. And once I get giggles, it's fine, you know?

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

It's like, let's take 15 minutes even.

[B]

Back to Cheers. You didn't really break much.

[A]

That's different.

[B]

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

[A]

That was different. Maybe I'm just breaking less now because it's like my brain goes, no, yeah, focus.

[B]

That's good.

[A]

That's good. Yeah. There's nothing about. On Cheers, what made us laugh the most was when you would have a joke that just. You all could not, during rehearsal, just couldn't stop laughing. It was the funniest moment. You couldn't wait to perform it, and you did. And there was crickets. No one laughed. And it was such a shock to your body that we'd all just stop and have hysterics and the audience wouldn't know what we were doing.

[B]

Oh, man. That is. It's always. It's always a challenge. Just. I remember being on Veep, and we were so desperate for response of if something is working, that if we could hear the slightest chuckle behind Video Village, we were like. It was like, just panting for breath. Like, oh, I think it's working. I think it's working.

[A]

Yeah. I prefer single camera. I prefer. And I think the world is heading more with cable and all the movies we watch that you're more likely to want to watch A single camera, I think, do comedy, and it's more relaxing to my adrenaline system. Because you are doing theater. When you do three cameras, do you.

[B]

Have a hard time watching heavy things?

[A]

Yes.

[B]

So do I.

[A]

Here's how hard time I have. We're watching Sound of Music, and as soon as the Nazis come, I'm out. And Mary, I have this Coat. I gotta go. The Nazis are coming. Nazis are coming. Unless it's. Unless it's. It's more about real sec. End of second act. Major sadness coming your way. Yeah. In the story, you know, I can watch certain kinds of violence. You know, war. I'm a guy who loves watching. Yeah.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Knowing the guy will never lose. Because that's what we're watching. Yeah.

[B]

Yeah. Cause my wife makes fun of me because I can't watch heavy stuff like Handmaid's. I mean, I think Handmaid's Tale is such a good show. She loves it. But there are certain scenes. I'm like, I can't. This is too much. It's too heavy. And she's like, you're an actor. You know that that's not real. You've seen how the sausage is made. And I said, I know, but I know that's not happening. But I know something like that has happened somewhere in the world. And I just. It's like, I can't shake it. It's too much for me sometimes, which is maybe it's just too. I think that's good.

[A]

Mary's the exact same way.

[B]

Really?

[A]

Yeah. She cannot watch. I think most of her movies haven't been that violent or have violence in them. But she can't do violence at all. I mean, she'll just get up. You keep watching. I've learned now that I need to mute it. Well, she closes her eyes. The sound alone would drive her nuts.

[B]

Oh, yeah. And anything with children, it's like, bye, bye, I'm out.

[A]

I remember, as I'm looking at you, one quote that you said about your parents. Say something about Arrested Development. Just stupid.

[B]

No, they said Arrested Development. No, this is what they said. They said, our friends told us they love Arrested Development. We still don't get it, but when Martin Short was on, they were like, now he's funny.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

I was like, I've been on every episode. And he was on, I don't know, maybe two. She's like, now that guy. That guy's funny. I'm like, all right, noted.

[A]

He is funny, but come on.

[B]

Oh, he's. I know. Bless their heart. And Veep, I remember taking him to the. And again, they were very supportive. But I took him to this screening in D.C. once, and we got back in the car, and my dad had notes. He was like, I think this was a little harsh. And I was like, well, I'm not a producer. I can't change this.

[A]

It was a big deal. It was a huge deal. Beep. Did you feel it while you were doing that? You were becoming this iconic show.

[B]

I don't know if you ever. I don't know if I ever have. Maybe it's that actor. Starving actor in me all the time that thinks someone's gonna take it away or. I never had that because our ratings on Arrested Development were never good. There's another burp.

[A]

I've had two. Thank.

[B]

Really? Did they come out of your butt? Because I didn't see you burp.

[A]

Yes. Oh, you burp.

[B]

Oh, I burped in my mouth.

[A]

Oh, that's so funny. So weird.

[B]

That's so funny. This is a fart. That's fart. But I. So now I've already lost my phone.

[A]

We're just a mess.

[B]

We definitely can't do a podcast together. Oh, anyway.

[A]

Hold that thought. Yeah, tell me about your podcast. Hold that thought. You lost. Hold that pause. Tell me about your. Aren't you doing Extraordinaires.

[B]

Extraordinarians.

[A]

Extraordinarians.

[B]

And it's Kristen Schaal and Matt Oberg and I, and we interview people who have beaten Guinness World Records.

[A]

But isn't that amazing?

[B]

Tell me about that. And so, like, we would talk to one guy who slacklined between two hot air balloons.

[A]

Slack.

[B]

So it's like this. It's kind of like a tightrope, but it's a little bit thicker. But he walked across.

[A]

He walked. It walked.

[B]

And then we talked to this other guy who got the.

[A]

With a parachute. No, no, no.

[B]

Yeah. And just fascinated. And we all talk about, like, our. We'll laugh about our own fear of heights and stuff. And then we talk to them. We talked to one guy who won the competition for drinking the most hot sauce. And it's just like, what was that person? But, like, here's the thing. You kind of come in going, here we go. This is gonna be nutty. But it's super. Like, we just talked to a woman who got the record for the longest hula hoop. Like, she could do the hula hoop. And she was so inspiring. Cause she's like, you know what? I got to an age and my kids were out of the house, and I saw this YouTube video of this woman working out. Working out with hula hoop. And she says, I love that. And she just became passionate about it. And now she has this whole. They call them hoopers or something, and they conventions, and she has this whole new life of hula hooping.

[A]

More than one hoop at a time. Did she do it for you?

[B]

Yeah, I think she's Done. Like, I think she can do like, six or seven at a time, but you go and, like, you leave inspired, and it's like, wow, these people are really, really inspiring.

[A]

How many have you done?

[B]

I think we're done maybe nine or 10.

[A]

And you're doing them now?

[B]

Yeah. And it's really fun. And, you know, the thing is, like, even seeing you, it's just so nice. It's an opportunity just to hang out with friends and laugh. Like, Kristen Schaal makes me laugh.

[A]

Oh, dear Lord, so hard. I love her so much.

[B]

She's so great. And Matt Oberg is so funny. So I just. To get that comedy muscle just exercised all the time with them. Oh, I remember what my dad said. I'm going back to that thought. I remember him, and I. And he's just. He really is the sweetest man. But these things make me laugh. We were in our tuxes in the dining room. The car was gonna pick us up for the Emmys, because I was taking him to the Emmys. My mom was and my wife were getting ready, and my dad goes, anthony, so do you think this is gonna, like, lead to anything? And I said, dad, I think I've peaked. Like, I don't know. I don't think this is, like. I think I've. They might go down from here, actually. He was like, oh, okay. Really? You don't think something's gonna come from this? I was like, we're going to the Emmys, Dad. That's pretty good.

[A]

How are you at the Emmys? Be real. Be real.

[B]

Yeah, I'll tell you, because I talked to my therapist about it.

[A]

Oh, good. Just the fact you introduced the therapist.

[B]

Yeah, he.

[A]

He.

[B]

I. I would always minimize it to get through it. So I would be like, we're spinning on a planet. We're all gonna die. It doesn't matter.

[A]

We're all gonna die thing always.

[B]

We're all gonna die. Like, people 50 years ago thought they were the shit too, and they're dead. Like, it's like that's where my head just to kind of. Cause I wouldn't know how to embrace the mag.

[A]

Those people over there don't even know who Marlon Brando is.

[B]

They don't know who gives him, though. He's dead.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

You know, so it's like my. My. Just to kind of help my anxiety of the weight I was wanting to give it. And this therapist was like, tony, when you get there, I want you to take a deep breath and look around and just look around and just keep breathing and the cool thing about it.

[A]

Is it's great advice.

[B]

It's great advice, but I remember it. I remember that night. I was still overwhelmed, but I have a memory of it. Whereas before, when you're minimizing and you're thinking all these narratives of, like, you're.

[A]

Working so hard, or like, how big.

[B]

Are we in space? Nothing. You know, you're working so hard to protect yourself. I don't remember it.

[A]

Yeah. And the funny thing is, not a single person in that room can even see you because they're all doing the same thing.

[B]

I know everybody's thinking about themselves, but it's also this thing of. And then you. It's something that. It's a party I never thought I'd be invited to. You know, so there's that, like.

[A]

And you miss that if you're trying to protect yourself. It is. Yeah. Little boy from Arizona.

[B]

Totally.

[A]

The heck.

[B]

Totally.

[A]

Was your daddy a scientist?

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Human around.

[B]

Zoom.

[A]

I love it.

[B]

He's. Yeah, he was. He. He taught nuclear physics at West Point, and then he. So he went to West Point and then he taught nuclear physics at West Point. Very smart.

[A]

Big deal.

[B]

And then he. Then this is his child right here. Exhibit A.

[A]

That's my kid. He's. Well, he's an actor.

[B]

And have you seen his characters? The emasculated, checked out ones. That's my kid. Huh?

[A]

All right. My father was a scientist. Not at that nuclear level, but he was an archaeologist, anthropologist, and a director of a museum and a research center. And I was surrounded by scientists. Scientists do this thing where when they write a paper or they do whatever, it's peer review time. Which means basically how you build on science is by poking holes on what, the last paper that you read or something. Well, see, this is where they're wrong. And this is. So their eye is very critical. I'm not saying your daddy's was, but my family, who not worship but love me so much, all of them, but their eye always goes to. And mine does a little bit this, too. I'm terrible to find that thing that doesn't quite work. All of this is wonderful. But you know that thing right over there? You may want to take a look at that. Because that does not work.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And that's. Did you get that from your science father or not?

[B]

My dad was very. And I get it. Like, his son wants to go into a career that doesn't have any kind of structure or any kind of plan that he understands or any. Even though. And this is why I think he was very Supportive. His dad, my grandfather, was an opera singer and was in the Follies in New York. He was one of the singers, and he was in one of his shows. He was with Jack Benny and Vincent Minnelli directed one of his shows. And then years later, I'm girlfriend. My girlfriend is Liza Minnelli on arrest development. Like, it's really full circle. And he died when my dad was 6. And my dad's a singer, so my dad has appreciation for the arts. But when you. It's different. When you see your son, all of a sudden be like, I want to. I'm moving to New York to be an actor. He's like, that framework doesn't match up. So he, I think to his credit, he was like, are you sure? Like, I have a friend who does this in Atlanta. And what about instead of love? I mean, a sign of like, yeah, 100%.

[A]

Because, I mean, our kids wanted to and then didn't want to. And I think there was a relief in Mary and myself because there is a lot of not shaming, but there's a lot of, no, you're wrong. No, you're not right. No, you're wrong. That was bad.

[B]

And it never gets. I don't know about. For you, maybe it gets a little bit. You never stop feeling it.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

I mean, I've been doing this for 30 years. And rejection, it always stings.

[A]

How old do you, May I ask? 50. Some age.

[B]

I'm 54.

[A]

54. When you're 75, I'm 77. But when you're in those mid-70s, you become Mr. Hale, I'm Mr. Danson, and I have enough weight of. Or just longevity of being around that people think that it'd be wrong to criticize me. They may want to, they may feel it, but you get this kind of. He's of an age, so you can't attack him.

[B]

But do you also get. I get this. Do you get this? They love you. It's like, tony, they love you. It's not gonna work out, but my God, they love you.

[A]

My favorite version of that was when I had to sing. We all had to sing a song. And I'm just seriously the worst singer ever. I don't even sing in the shower. But at Carnegie Mellon, first week, you had to sing a song. And all my newfound friends came up after I, you know, sang something from My Fair lady and said, oh, Teddy, we love you, sweet schmuck.

[B]

Oh, that makes me think of just the number of times when, you know, a film you've Done or a show you've done is not received well and you get the, like, Tony, oh my God.

[A]

Oh, my God.

[B]

Good job. Like, seriously, that was so great. That was so great.

[A]

You can almost live with it. But if you're doing theater and you know that it got a bad route and you have to go, you know, get back up the next day, that's really hard.

[B]

That's hard. It's hard when people come being like, congratulations, yeah, you did that.

[A]

There should be. There should be a coffee table book or something.

[B]

Man. That worked out.

[A]

Wow.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

How long was that?

[B]

Or this is. This is what I would get a lot. What a beautiful show.

[A]

It looks beautiful.

[B]

Yes. I'm like, all right, what about the story?

[A]

Yeah, you are great. I just did not like anyone else in it.

[B]

Oh, yeah. That freedom of people coming up to you. I don't know if you get this a lot of like, man, that thing you did. I didn't. I wasn't crazy about it. Right. I'm like, I don't know why you need to tell me that.

[A]

Yeah. You know, I just find it easier. Oh, yeah, right. Horrible. Good to see you. Bye. Hey. I have had so much fun talking to you. Just hanging out.

[B]

So nice.

[A]

Really.

[B]

Thank you for having me.

[A]

I admire you hugely and I do that stupid wallflower thing where who am I? And I'm blah. So anyway, I'm really glad, really glad.

[B]

Thanks for having me, man.

[A]

Yeah. Really enjoyed talking with you. Tony. If you're listening, that's all for our show this week. Special thanks to our friends at Team Coco. If you enjoyed this episode, send it to somebody you love. Subscribe on your favorite podcast app and maybe give us a great rating and review on Apple Podcasts if you're in the mood. If you like watching your podcasts, all our full length episodes are on YouTube. Visit YouTube.comteamcoco See you next time. Where everybody knows your names.

[B]

You've been listening to where everybody knows your name with Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson sometimes. The show is produced by me, Nick Leow. Our executive producers are Adam Sachs, Jeff Ross and myself. Sarah Fedorovich is our supervising producer. Engineering and mixing by Joanna Samuel with support from Eduardo Perez. Research by Alyssa Grohl. Talent booking by Paula Davis and Gina Batista. Our theme music is by Woody Harrelson, Antony Gen, Mary Steenbergen and John Osborne. This is comedy bang bang. The podcast, the promo and in 30 seconds, I'm going to tell you why. You should check out the show.

[A]

I the host, Scott Aukerman.

[B]

Have a lighthearted conversation with famous celebrities like Jon Hamm, Alison Williams, Phoebe Bridgers, Jason Alexander, Natasha Lyonne, Bob Odenkirk, just to name a few. Things go a little off the rails when different eccentric characters and oddballs drop by to be interviewed as well. Each week is a blend of conversations and character work from your favorite comedians as well as some new hilarious voices. Comedy Bang Bang the Podcast Listen Every Monday wherever you get your podcasts, your.

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