WTF with Marc Maron Podcast: Episode 1642 - Bridget Everett

Release Date: May 12, 2025
Guest: Bridget Everett
Topic: Exploring Bridget Everett's journey in the cabaret scene, her HBO series Somebody Somewhere, personal struggles with grief, and the creative process behind her performances.

Introduction and Connection to Somebody Somewhere

Marc Maron begins the episode by expressing his admiration for Bridget Everett's work, particularly her HBO series Somebody Somewhere. He shares how, despite initially not being familiar with her, he became deeply invested in the show after watching all three seasons back-to-back.

Marc Maron (00:02): "I started watching the show Somebody Somewhere, and I was locked in. I loved her. I loved her character. I loved the comedy of it."

Bridget echoes Marc's sentiments, highlighting the emotional and comedic depth of the series, and how it resonated with her on a personal level.

Bridget Everett (22:33): "It changed my life, my outlook. It helped me with my grief, with finding a little more happiness."

Creating Her HBO Special at Bam Harvey Theater

Marc delves into his personal experience preparing for a special taping at the historic Bam Harvey Theater in Brooklyn. He describes the unique ambiance of the venue, which retains its early 1900s charm, and how the production design, inspired by the Japanese art form kintsugi, complemented the theater's personality.

Marc Maron (05:50): "The production design just melded perfectly with the spirit of the structure. It was almost too good for me."

Despite some challenges during the taping—such as minor stumbles and technical issues—Marc reflects on the fulfillment of completing a project he had been working on for over a year and a half.

Marc Maron (14:00): "I worked on that thing for a year and a half or more, and that was it. That was what I was working towards."

Bridget Everett's Journey in Cabaret and Television

Bridget shares her path from being a classically trained opera singer to embracing the vibrant New York cabaret scene. She recounts her initial struggles with confidence and self-expression, which transformed through her performances and collaborations with influential figures like Amy Schumer.

Bridget Everett (32:00): "Singing and music, to me, are the best ways to connect with other people."

Her involvement in Somebody Somewhere stemmed from a holding deal with HBO and the support of producers who believed in her unique blend of comedy and emotional depth. Bridget emphasizes the importance of her relationships and support system in navigating the challenges of both her personal life and her career.

Bridget Everett (54:40): "Everyone, mostly, does it. Unless you're, like... a different kind."

Dealing with Personal Grief and Its Influence on Her Work

A significant portion of the conversation delves into Bridget's personal experiences with grief, particularly the loss of her sister, father, and mother. She discusses how these losses have profoundly influenced her performances and the narrative of her show, allowing her to process and honor her loved ones through her art.

Bridget Everett (75:44): "My brother Brock, who's been to see me in New York. But, you know, at one point, I finally made it into People magazine. And they're like, okay, that's."

Bridget reflects on the therapeutic aspect of her work, explaining how creating and performing her show has provided her with a sense of peace and a way to confront her grief head-on.

Bridget Everett (77:28): "I think this is kind of a way of honoring her. That sounds like such a shitty thing to do, like, after somebody's gone. But I think about her all the time."

Marc relates by sharing his own struggles with grief and how his performances serve as a medium to navigate his emotions, drawing parallels between their experiences.

Marc Maron (80:35): "But once it's out and you see, it's okay. It's like a fucking gift."

The Creative Process and Emotional Vulnerability

Throughout the episode, Bridget and Marc explore the intersection of creativity and emotional vulnerability. Bridget discusses her fear of letting others see her true self, which drives her to seek authenticity in her performances. She emphasizes the importance of genuine connection with her audience as a means to overcome personal barriers.

Bridget Everett (46:47): "I feel like I'm always worried to, like, talk to somebody when it's gonna be for more than 15 minutes, because it could go."

Marc shares his own challenges with vulnerability, particularly in personal relationships, and how public performances offer a controlled environment to express his deeper emotions.

Marc Maron (86:00): "But it's so controlling when you get into the zone of it. But there were two things that kind of were in my mind, which was like, this isn't unusual. It happens to everybody. This is part of life."

Conclusion: Finding Peace Through Performance

As the conversation wraps up, both Marc and Bridget reflect on the cathartic nature of their work. Bridget acknowledges the support and care from her collaborators, which has been instrumental in her journey towards healing. Marc appreciates the deep, authentic connections formed through shared vulnerabilities, reinforcing the therapeutic power of storytelling and performance.

Bridget Everett (82:57): "But, like, grief, it's just there."

Marc Maron (83:22): "You can't stop it. And so that feeling of not having control of these emotions, it's hard. But, like... Yeah, once it’s out, it's okay."

Notable Quotes

• Marc Maron (00:02): "I watched it, like, nonstop all the way through all three seasons. She just got me, man."

• Bridget Everett (22:33): "It changed my life, my outlook. It helped me with my grief, with finding a little more happiness."

• Marc Maron (05:50): "The set and the production design just melded perfectly with the spirit of the structure."

• Bridget Everett (75:44): "My mom now, and so on. So on."

• Marc Maron (80:35): "Once it's out and you see, it's okay. It's like a fucking gift."

Final Thoughts

Episode 1642 of WTF with Marc Maron offers an intimate glimpse into Bridget Everett's life, her artistic endeavors, and her profound journey through personal loss. The candid dialogue between Marc and Bridget not only highlights the therapeutic nature of performance art but also underscores the importance of authentic connections and emotional honesty in both personal healing and creative expression.

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