**Podcast Summary: "Will Forte" Episode of Where Everybody Knows Your Name with Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson (sometimes)

Release Date: March 5, 2025
Guest: Will Forte
Hosts: Ted Danson, Woody Harrelson, Mary Steenburgen

1. Welcome and Introduction

The episode kicks off with a warm welcome from Mary Steenburgen, who introduces her husband Ted Danson and co-host Woody Harrelson. They express their excitement about reuniting with longtime friends and the special guest, Will Forte.

Will Forte [00:32]: "They turn from Teddy to Ted or from Willie to Will."

Mary enthusiastically introduces Will Forte, highlighting his roles in Saturday Night Live, MacGruber, and The Last Man on Earth. She praises his talent and character, setting a friendly and engaging tone for the episode.

Mary Steenburgen [00:49]: "He's truly one of the sweetest, most thoughtful guys in the business."

2. Early Connections and Career Beginnings

The conversation delves into how Mary, Woody, and Will first crossed paths, particularly through their involvement in the show The Last Man on Earth. Will shares how he met Ted and Woody at the AARP Awards in 2013, recounting the initial impressions and humorous moments.

Will Forte [03:37]: "I met both of you for the very first time at the AARP Awards."

Woody reminisces about meeting Will, expressing admiration for his comedic prowess and ability to make others laugh effortlessly.

Woody Harrelson [04:21]: "You make me laugh so hard."

3. Experiences on The Last Man on Earth

The trio reflects on their time working together on The Last Man on Earth. Will discusses the unique challenges of writing and acting simultaneously, balancing creative responsibilities, and the intense workload that often led to sleep deprivation and stress.

Will Forte [08:24]: "I didn't really know all the responsibilities that came with... being up at the upper level stuff. It was just a crazy amount of work."

Despite the hardships, Will emphasizes the camaraderie and familial atmosphere on set, which made the demanding schedule manageable and enjoyable.

Will Forte [16:08]: "Getting to go down and just have the day acting with all you guys... it was just a delightful group we got to be with."

4. Creative Process and Challenges

Will Forte shares insights into the creative process behind The Last Man on Earth, including the complexities of editing long comedic scenes for network television. He highlights the balance between creative vision and budgetary constraints, often leading to innovative solutions that sometimes enhanced the final product.

Will Forte [14:05]: "You just gotta... take little bits of time. And then soon it was just like 10 seconds when ideally it would be 2 minutes of doing."

Woody and Mary add their perspectives, recalling memorable moments and the collaborative spirit that drove the show’s success.

Woody Harrelson [14:07]: "Thank God. It was so great."

5. Personal Lives and Family

The hosts and Will transition into personal anecdotes, discussing family life, parenting, and the impact of having children on their creative and daily routines. Will humorously shares the challenges of balancing parenting with creative pursuits, noting the limited time available for writing and exercising.

Will Forte [54:25]: "I'm more tired, so it's harder to find times to do it because it's... Everything's about your windows."

Mary and Woody chime in with their own experiences, highlighting the universal challenges and joys of family life.

Mary Steenburgen [56:15]: "We can't get our kids to watch our stuff."

6. Reflections on Acting and Life

The discussion deepens as Will reflects on his journey in the entertainment industry, from his early days at the Groundlings to his breakthrough on Saturday Night Live. He candidly talks about the struggles of creative control, the disappointment of projects like Brother Solomon, and the fulfillment found in projects that align closely with his artistic vision, such as Nebraska and MacGruber.

Will Forte [36:35]: "It was like, you know, it's tough when something... When you cave in on things and then the movie comes out and it doesn't do well."

Woody adds his admiration for Will’s resilience and creative spirit, reinforcing the mutual respect among the hosts and guest.

Woody Harrelson [37:09]: "You were amazing in that. And actually, it's a great movie."

7. Charity and Fundraising Efforts

The episode also highlights their philanthropic efforts, particularly their involvement with the Boys and Girls Club of America. Will shares stories from past fundraisers, including humorous mishaps like Mary and Woody inadvertently delivering his speech, which showcased their genuine camaraderie and support for the cause.

Will Forte [62:04]: "The conceit of the bit then was that you wanted to write stuff for me, but I said, no, don't worry."

Mary and Woody express their enthusiasm for supporting the organization, emphasizing the positive impact it has on the community.

Will Forte [62:41]: "It gives a place for kids to go in the community after school. It's just amazing."

8. Closing Remarks and Future Plans

As the episode wraps up, the hosts and Will share heartfelt compliments and reflections on their friendships. They discuss upcoming projects and potential collaborations, maintaining a light-hearted and affectionate atmosphere.

Mary Steenburgen [66:58]: "That's a good outro."

Woody delivers a poignant tribute to Will, celebrating his uniqueness and the value he brings to their lives.

Woody Harrelson [64:55]: "You are one of the most remarkable people I've ever known."

Will reciprocates the admiration, expressing gratitude for their friendship and the lessons learned from observing their partnership.

Will Forte [67:02]: "It's a real lesson to me... how you treat people and how, you know."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Will Forte [02:21]: "I woke up, I downed a coffee, wrote it up, and then got the girls up and did the morning routine with them."

• Will Forte [08:24]: "I didn't really know all the responsibilities that came with... being up at the upper level stuff. It was just a crazy amount of work."

• Will Forte [16:08]: "Getting to go down and just have the day acting with all you guys... it was just a delightful group we got to be with."

• Woody Harrelson [37:09]: "You were amazing in that. And actually, it's a great movie."

• Will Forte [67:02]: "It's a real lesson to me... how you treat people and how, you know."

Conclusion

This episode of Where Everybody Knows Your Name offers an intimate glimpse into the lives and careers of Ted Danson, Woody Harrelson, and their guest, Will Forte. Through candid conversations, humorous anecdotes, and heartfelt reflections, listeners gain a deeper understanding of their creative processes, personal lives, and the enduring bonds of friendship that sustain them both professionally and personally.

If you enjoyed this summary, consider tuning into the full episode to experience the warmth and humor of these beloved actors reconnecting and sharing their stories.