WTF with Marc Maron: Episode 1630 - Delroy Lindo

Introduction and Context

In Episode 1630 of the "WTF with Marc Maron" podcast, host Marc Maron sits down with acclaimed actor Delroy Lindo for a profound and revealing conversation. Recorded in March 2025 from Marc's quiet hotel room overlooking Lake Michigan in Chicago, the episode delves deep into personal experiences, the challenges of the entertainment industry, and broader societal issues.

Chicago Experience and Political Climate

Marc opens the episode by sharing his reflections on Chicago's unique vibe, highlighting the city's intensity and the weight it carries. He touches on the upcoming nationwide protests on April 5th, emphasizing the importance of collective action in the face of political turmoil. Marc states, “I think a lot of people are isolated in their despair, and it's good to go out and be part of an action” (00:00).

Personal Stories and Realizations

The conversation shifts as Marc recounts a disturbing dream involving his late girlfriend, setting a somber tone. He introduces Delroy Lindo, discussing Delroy’s extensive career in film, including collaborations with Spike Lee and his upcoming role in Ryan Coogler's new horror film, "Sinners." Marc shares his excitement about the movie's unique blend of vampires and blues music, noting, “I’m a sucker for blues music” (03:35).

Discussion on Music and Vulnerability

Delroy and Marc explore the vulnerability associated with music compared to stand-up comedy. Marc admits, “I find singing very vulnerable for me... I can’t sing with any protection” (15:03). Delroy counters by acknowledging that both comedy and music require authenticity, but music’s emotional exposure poses a different kind of challenge.

Delroy Lindo's Career and New Projects

Delroy discusses his new film, "Sinners," and its significance in black horror cinema. He praises director Ryan Coogler for taking creative risks and addressing community and historical issues through the narrative. Delroy remarks, “Ryan has taken a leap with this film... he’s really committed to the story that he wants to tell” (33:14). The film, featuring a full black cast and directed by a black director, aims to resonate with 21st-century audiences by intertwining myths with contemporary themes.

Challenges in the Entertainment Industry

The dialogue shifts to the struggles artists face within the entertainment industry. Delroy shares anecdotes about industry gatekeeping and the unforgiving nature of both music and acting professions. He cites the story of a songwriter whose work was initially ignored by record companies, only to resurface years later, “the record company had blocked him because they didn’t like what he was doing” (25:23).

Personal Background and Family

Delroy opens up about his Jamaican heritage and the challenges his family faced upon immigrating to the United Kingdom during the Windrush era. He recounts being placed with a white family during his early childhood, highlighting the racial and cultural isolation he experienced. Delroy explains, “I was placed with another family. Did you follow all of that?” (56:31).

Parenting and Life Lessons

A heartfelt discussion ensues about parenting, forgiveness, and personal growth. Delroy shares his experiences with his son, emphasizing the importance of resilience and letting go of grudges. He narrates a poignant story about attending his son’s basketball game, where both faced unfair treatment but chose to move forward together. Delroy reflects, “Life ain’t fair... Onto the next phase” (69:21).

Reflections on Forgiveness and Personal Growth

Delroy speaks candidly about his strained relationship with his father, detailing the trauma of limited interactions and his journey towards forgiveness. He asserts, “I've forgiven him” (66:25), explaining that understanding his father's struggles with racism and cultural displacement helped him come to terms with their relationship. Marc adds his own reflections on parental influence and self-identity, deepening the conversation’s emotional depth.

Conclusion

The episode concludes with Delroy discussing his ongoing projects, including a memoir that explores his life and heritage. He emphasizes the therapeutic nature of writing, stating, “The whole journey of writing the book has been about processing and reprocessing” (43:48). Marc wraps up by highlighting the richness of the conversation, celebrating Delroy's achievements and resilience.

Notable Quotes

• Marc Maron on the importance of collective action: “I think a lot of people are isolated in their despair, and it's good to go out and be part of an action” (00:00).

• Delroy Lindo on committing to one’s vision: “Ryan has taken a leap with this film... he’s really committed to the story that he wants to tell” (33:14).

• Marc Maron on vulnerability in music: “I find singing very vulnerable for me... I can’t sing with any protection” (15:03).

• Delroy Lindo on forgiveness: “I've forgiven him” (66:25).

Final Thoughts

This episode of WTF with Marc Maron offers a deep dive into Delroy Lindo’s personal and professional life, exploring themes of vulnerability, resilience, and the enduring impact of heritage and family. Through candid dialogue and shared experiences, Marc and Delroy provide listeners with a rich narrative that resonates on both personal and societal levels.

Links and Further Listening

• Delroy Lindo’s New Movie "Sinners": Available in theaters, including IMAX, starting April 18th.
• Previous Episodes:
  • Episode 1419: Laurie Anderson, where Laurie shares her encounter with Andy Kaufman.
• Subscribe to WTF+: Access full show archives and weekly bonus material at wtfpod.com.

Timestamp Guide:

• 00:00: Marc’s opening monologue on Chicago and political protests.
• 03:35: Introduction of Delroy Lindo.
• 15:03: Discussion on vulnerability in music vs. comedy.
• 25:23: Challenges in the music industry.
• 33:14: Delroy on Ryan Coogler’s film "Sinners".
• 43:48: Delroy discusses his memoir and personal processing.
• 56:31: Delroy’s childhood and immigration to the UK.
• 66:25: Delroy’s journey towards forgiving his father.
• 69:21: Life lessons from parenting and resilience.
• 73:04: Delroy’s ongoing projects and memoir writing.

Note: Clickable timestamps are placeholders and should link to the corresponding sections of the podcast episode if available.