Bobby Moynihan | Full Episode | Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade
Explore the world of comedy with Dana Carvey and David Spade in their podcast ‘Fly on the Wall’. This episode features another comedy giant, Bobby Moynihan, who shares his journey from UCB to SNL. Wander down memory lane as they discuss the unique challenges of working with esteemed performers, reminisce on the 'dad boss' dynamic offered by Lorne Michaels, and reveal some behind-the-scenes insights on SNL's creative process. From memorable characters to unforgettable performances, this episode dives deep into the humor-filled world of Saturday Night Live.
It’s not just about laughs, however, as Moynihan also provides a glimpse into his diversified career beyond SNL, talks about the transformation of comedy in the digital age and discusses the subtle art of catchphrases. Alongside every chuckle, 'Fly on the Wall' also recognizes the influences and contributions of SNL and its production team, laying bare the complexity of the comedy environment. Balancing nostalgia with retrospection, this episode is a must-engaging journey for all comedy enthusiasts.
This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Jul 26, 2023 episode of the Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade
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1-Page Summary
Reflecting on Personal Experiences
Health and Technology: A Personal Discussion
The podcast begins with Dana Carvey and David Spade discussing recent health issues and the impact of technology on their lives. They express nostalgia for pre-pandemic times, missing old traditions, and expressing dissent towards some changes that the era brought.
Bobby Moynihan: The Journey to SNL
The journey of Bobby Moynihan, a renowned comedian from The Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) to Saturday Night Live (SNL), was fueled by an extended audition process. Moynihan reflects on his initial passion for comedy during college and his transformative experience with improv at UCB.
Shared Experiences on Saturday Night Live
The hosts and guest extensively detail their experiences on SNL, which includes difficulties working with established performers and strategizing in Lorne Michael's office. They also reminisce about having Lorne Micheal's as their "dad boss."
Career Advancements: Beyond SNL
Moynihan's diversified career advancements include experiences with Donald Glover, a stint with Dana Carvey on the animated movie "Secret Life of Pets," his role in the sitcom Mr. Mayor, and his debut in writing with his children's book, "Not All Sheep are Boring."
The Creative Process and Performance
Behind-the-Scenes: Insights into SNL's Creative Process
The conversation reveals various aspects of the creative process at SNL, from sketch read-throughs and seating arrangements to the psychological impact of performing. Bobby Moynihan talks about unique moments, including sitting at Chris Farley's former spot during read-throughs.
Standing Out: Notable SNL Performances and Personas
Bobby Moynihan discusses iconic SNL characters he brought to life, like the "David S. Pumpkins" and 'kitty cat guy,' both of which gained popularity for their uniqueness and comedy. The trio also considers the repercussions of performing divisive characters to illuminate societal issues.
Humor Personified: Developing Comical Characters
They discuss creating humor by developing comical personas, often taking inspiration from real-life individuals. Carvey's 'Proud Daddy', and another character, 'must be nice guy' are great examples of such personas.
Comedy in the Digital Age
Transforming Comedy: SNL and the Influence of Digital Media
The hosts consider the intersection of comedy and digital media, discussing how online platforms like YouTube have affected recurring SNL characters’ shelf-life and the increasing influence of political figures in SNL sketches.
The Power of Words: Highlighting Catchphrases in Comedy
The concept and significance of catchphrases within comedy are subtly unraveled amidst the discussion. They talk about how humor is often absorbed in the repetitive use of catchphrases, discussing "Slappy Pappy" and Shucky Ducky's "Shucky Ducky, quack, quack".
Acknowledgements and Conclusion
Honoring Influences and Significant Contributions
The hosts collectively acknowledge the role of SNL and of Lorne Michaels in their careers, demonstrating gratitude towards the show and guiding figures for shaping their journey as comedians.
Beyond the Laughter: Recognizing SNL's Production Team
The podcast credits the technical and production crew, with Greg Holtzman as the lead producer and additional support from Serena Regan and Chris Basil. As they conclude, the hosts encourage listener interaction through ratings and reviews.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- The Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) is an improvisational and sketch comedy group that originated in Chicago in 1990. It was founded by Amy Poehler, Matt Walsh, Matt Besser, and Ian Roberts, among others. UCB later expanded to New York City, where they established their own theater and became known for their innovative comedy performances and improv training.
- Lorne Michaels is a prominent Canadian-American television writer and producer known for creating and producing the iconic show Saturday Night Live. He has been involved in various television projects and has received numerous awards for his contributions to the entertainment industry. Michaels has played a significant role in shaping comedy and television programming, particularly through his work on SNL.
- "SNL" stands for "Saturday Night Live," a long-running American television sketch comedy and variety show. It has been a platform for launching the careers of many famous comedians and actors. The show features live performances, celebrity guest hosts, musical performances, and comedic sketches. "SNL" has been known for its satirical take on current events, pop culture, and politics.
- Chris Farley was an American comedian and actor known for his energetic comedic style. He was a cast member on Saturday Night Live from 1990 to 1995. Farley struggled with obesity, alcoholism, and substance abuse during his career. He passed away in 1997 at the age of 33 due to a drug overdose.
- David S. Pumpkins is a fictional character portrayed by Tom Hanks on Saturday Night Live. Created by Bobby Moynihan, Mikey Day, and Streeter Seidell, the character became popular for his quirky and enigmatic persona, appearing in a Halloween-themed sketch. David S. Pumpkins' unique charm and catchphrase "Any questions?" contributed to his cult following and subsequent return to the show. The character's unexpected and offbeat nature, along with Tom Hanks' portrayal, added to his appeal and enduring popularity.
- "Not All Sheep are Boring" is a children's book written by Bobby Moynihan, known for his work on Saturday Night Live. The book is a creative and humorous take on the idea that not all sheep are dull or uninteresting. It showcases Moynihan's talent for storytelling and humor in a format accessible to young readers. The book is a part of Moynihan's diversified career beyond his work on SNL, demonstrating his versatility as a performer and writer.
- The "Secret Life of Pets" is a popular animated comedy film released in 2016, featuring a storyline centered around the adventures of pets when their owners are away. The movie showcases the interactions and escapades of various pets, including dogs, cats, and birds, as they navigate life in a bustling city. Bobby Moynihan, a comedian, was involved in the film, contributing his voice to one of the characters.
- "Slappy Pappy" and "Shucky Ducky, quack, quack" are examples of catchphrases used in comedy. Catchphrases are recurring phrases or expressions that become associated with a particular character or comedian. They are often used to create humor and are memorable to audiences. In the context of comedy, catchphrases can enhance a character's comedic impact and contribute to their popularity.
Counterarguments
- While nostalgia for pre-pandemic times is common, it's also worth considering that some changes brought by the era, such as increased flexibility in remote work and advancements in telehealth, have been beneficial for many people.
- The extended audition process for SNL may be seen as rigorous and exclusive, potentially discouraging diverse talent who may not have the resources to persist through such a lengthy process.
- The difficulties working with established performers on SNL could be indicative of a competitive or possibly unwelcoming environment, which might stifle creativity and collaboration among cast members.
- While Moynihan's career advancements are impressive, it's important to acknowledge that success in the entertainment industry often involves a significant amount of luck and timing, in addition to talent and hard work.
- The creative process at SNL, as described, may not fully represent the experiences of all writers and performers, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds who may face additional challenges.
- The popularity of characters like "David S. Pumpkins" and 'kitty cat guy' might overshadow other talented cast members' work, contributing to an imbalance in recognition and opportunities within the show.
- The inspiration from real-life individuals in developing comical characters can sometimes lead to stereotypes or misrepresentations that could be offensive or harmful to certain groups.
- The influence of digital media on SNL's content could be seen as a double-edged sword, where the pressure to create viral content may detract from the show's originality and depth.
- The significance of catchphrases in comedy might be overstated, as relying too heavily on them can lead to formulaic humor that lacks substance.
- Acknowledging the role of SNL and Lorne Michaels in shaping careers is important, but it's also crucial to recognize the individual efforts and talents of the comedians outside of their association with the show.
- Crediting the technical and production crew is essential, but the podcast could also discuss the often overlooked challenges and working conditions faced by these behind-the-scenes professionals.
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Reflecting on Personal Experiences
Health and Technology: A Personal Discussion
The podcast begins with Dana Carvey and David Spade discussing recent health issues and the impact of technology on their lives.
They express nostalgia for pre-pandemic times, missing old traditions, and expressing dissent towards some changes that the era brought.
Bobby Moynihan: The Journey to SNL
The journey of Bobby Moynihan, a renowned comedian from The Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) to Saturday Night Live (SNL), was fueled by an extended and challenging audition process that lasted an unusually long 14 months. This became complicated due to the writer's strike at the time.
Despite initial setbacks, including the hiring of Casey Wilson over him, Moynihan demonstrated resilience and eventually got the call for SNL. He reflects on his initial passion for comedy during college and his transformative experience with improv at UCB.
During the podcast, a specific instance was recalled where Bobby performed an amusing sketch with The Rock, who was the brains behind the sketch. The sketch was appreciated for its simplicity and required little adjustment in the preparation process.
Shared Experiences on Saturday Night Live
The hosts and guests extensively detail their experiences on SNL, highlighting their interactions with its creator and executive producer Lorne Michaels.
Notably, the podcast highlighted SNL’s previous tradition of providing transport services for performers on show days, from luxurious limousines to regular cars over time.
An amusing anecdote shared by Moynihan involves the late Senator John McCain mistaking him for Horatio Sanz during a 'Goodnight' moment.
Another memorable incident involved a ca ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
Reflecting on Personal Experiences
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- The Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) is an improvisational and sketch comedy group that originated in Chicago in 1990. It was founded by Amy Poehler, Matt Walsh, Matt Besser, and Ian Roberts, among others. UCB later expanded to New York City, where they established their own theater and became known for their innovative comedy performances and improv training.
- Saturday Night Live (SNL) is an American late-night live television sketch comedy and variety show. It features a different celebrity host and musical guest each week, along with a regular cast who perform various sketches and parodies. The show has a long history of launching the careers of many famous comedians and actors. SNL has been on the air since 1975 and is known for its satirical take on current events and popular culture.
- Lorne Michaels is a Canadian-American television writer and producer known for creating and producing Saturday Night Live. He has been involved in various television projects and has received numerous awards for his work in the industry. Michaels has played a significant role in ...
Counterarguments
- Nostalgia for pre-pandemic times may overlook the benefits and advancements that have come as a result of the era, such as improved remote work capabilities and a greater focus on public health.
- The extended audition process for SNL, while challenging, could be seen as a necessary period of growth and development for a comedian, ensuring only the most adaptable and persistent talents make it onto the show.
- Resilience in the face of setbacks is commendable, but it's also important to acknowledge the role of luck and timing in the success of entertainment careers.
- While simplicity in comedy sketches is often praised, there is also value in more complex and thought-provoking humor that challenges the audience.
- Discussing experiences on SNL can be insightful, but it's also important to recognize that these experiences are unique to those within the entertainment industry and may not be relatable to the general public.
- The tradition of providing transport services for performers could be seen as an unnecessary luxury, and the shift to regular cars may reflect a more responsible use of the show's budget.
- Sharing amusing anecdotes is entertaining, but it's also important to consider the privacy and dignity of the individuals involved, such as the late Senator John McCain.
- Career advancements post-SNL are worth ...
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The Creative Process and Performance
Behind-the-Scenes: Insights into SNL's Creative Process
The conversation unveils multiple facets of the creative process at SNL, from sketch read-throughs to the seating arrangements, extending to the psychological impact of live performance.
Moynihan recounts distinct instances such as occupying Chris Farley's previous spot during read-throughs and navigating the frenetic environment backstage during costume changes.
Staying faithful to his eccentric humor, Moynihan, in conjunction with Cecily Strong, once crafted a sketch. It revolves around McDonald's employees bracing for termination. They designed the skit to incorporate as many members of the cast as possible, comically chastising the remaining employees.
Standing Out: Notable SNL Performances and Personas
Bobby Moynihan discusses iconic SNL characters he brought to life, like the 'David S. Pumpkins' and 'kitty cat guy', both of which gained popularity for their uniqueness and comedy.
A special mention is given to his successful performances as the 'Snooki' character and the character 'Anthony Crispino' during the SNL 'Update' segment.
A highlight from the podcast was a unique sketch revolving around Moynihan's character and the wrestling persona of The Rock, demonstrating the eccentric performances that stood out on SNL.
Humor Personified: Developing Comical Characters
They discuss creating humor by developing comical personas, often taking inspiration from real-life ind ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
The Creative Process and Performance
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- "SNL" stands for "Saturday Night Live," a long-running American television show known for its live sketch comedy and variety entertainment. It has been a platform for launching the careers of many famous comedians and actors. The show typically features a mix of live sketches, musical performances, and celebrity guest appearances. "SNL" has a rich history of iconic characters, catchphrases, and memorable moments that have become ingrained in popular culture.
- Sketch read-throughs are sessions where the cast and crew of a show gather to read and discuss the written sketches before they are performed. This process helps everyone involved understand the content, timing, and comedic elements of each sketch. It allows for feedback, adjustments, and improvements to be made before the sketches are finalized for the live performance. Sketch read-throughs are a crucial part of the creative process in comedy shows like Saturday Night Live.
- During live shows like Saturday Night Live (SNL), the backstage area can be very hectic and fast-paced, especially during costume changes. Actors and crew members need to quickly change outfits between sketches, often within a matter of seconds, to ensure the show runs smoothly and on time. This frenetic environment requires precise coordination and efficiency to avoid any delays in the live broadcast.
- David S. Pumpkins is a fictional character portrayed by Tom Hanks on Saturday Night Live. Created by Bobby Moynihan, Mikey Day, and Streeter Seidell, the character debuted in a Halloween-themed sketch in 2016. David S. Pumpkins gained popularity for his quirky and enigmatic persona, leading to recurring appearances on the show and even inspiring an animated Halloween special.
- The "SNL 'Update' segment" is a recurring segment on the television show "Saturday Night Live" (SNL) where the anchors provide satirical c ...
Counterarguments
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Comedy in the Digital Age
Transforming Comedy: SNL and the Influence of Digital Media
The hosts ponder over the intersection of comedy and digital media, discussing how online platforms like YouTube have affected recurring SNL characters’ longevity.
Insight from Moynihan supports this, highlighting how digital platforms have reduced the longevity of characters since viewers can now watch them outside of the SNL episodic context.
They also discuss the increasing prominence of political figures in SNL sketches.
The Power of Words: Highlighting Catchphrases in Comedy
The concept and significance of catchphrases within comedy are subtly unraveled amidst the discussion. They examine how humor is often absorbed in the repetitive use of catchphrases. The dialogue includes comparison and analysis ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
Comedy in the Digital Age
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- SNL (Saturday Night Live) is an American sketch comedy and variety show that has been on the air since 1975. It features a mix of live sketches, musical performances, and celebrity guest appearances. The show is known for its satirical take on current events, pop culture, and politics, with a rotating cast of comedians and actors. SNL has been a launching pad for many famous comedians and has a significant influence on American comedy.
- Moynihan, Carvey, and Spade are comedians known for their work on Sat ...
Counterarguments
- While digital platforms may affect the longevity of SNL characters, they also provide a new avenue for these characters to gain a following and become iconic in their own right, independent of the SNL broadcast schedule.
- The assertion that digital media has reduced the longevity of SNL characters could be countered by the idea that it has simply changed the way these characters are consumed, potentially leading to a different kind of longevity that isn't tied to traditional TV viewership.
- The prominence of political figures in SNL sketches could be seen not as a new trend but as a continuation of the show's long-standing tradition of political satire, which has been a staple since its inception.
- The role of catchphrases in comedy might be overstated, as humor can be multifaceted and rely on ...
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Acknowledgements and Conclusion
Honoring Influences and Significant Contributions
The hosts collectively acknowledge the influential role of SNL and express gratitude towards the show and guiding figures like Lorne Michaels for shaping their journey as comedians. They share their experiences on SNL before the pandemic, reminiscing about old traditions such as sketch selection in Lorne Michaels’s office.
Notably, a major shift in SNL's focus is outlined, from recurring characters to political figures. The reason is playfully suggested to have been due to the scarcity of widely recognized personalities.
This change is believed to have led to the rise of political sketches on SNL, with the ubiquitous internet thought to have phased out routine characters and dominated the landscape of comedy with political satire.
Regrettably, they voice reservations about the pandemic-induced changes on SNL, particularly the relocation of the sketch selection process.
Beyond the Laughter: Recognizing SNL's Production Team
As they conclude the show, ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
Acknowledgements and Conclusion
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Saturday Night Live (SNL) is an American late-night live television sketch comedy and variety show. It features a mix of comedic sketches performed by a regular cast, celebrity hosts, and musical guests. SNL has been known for its satirical take on current events, pop culture, and politics, often featuring recurring characters and impressions of famous figures. The show has been a launching pad for many famous comedians and actors over the years.
- Lorne Michaels is a prominent Canadian-American television writer and producer known for creating and producing iconic shows like Saturday Night Live. He has been instrumental in shaping the landscape of comedy television with his innovative and influential work. Michaels has received numerous accolades, including multiple Primetime Emmy Awards, for his contributions to the entertainment industry.
- Cadence13 is a prominent media company specializing in creating, distributing, and monetizing podcasts. It has produced podcasts for various well-known personalities and has partnerships with several companies in the industry. The company was founded in 2015 and is now a division of Audacy, Inc., with notable figures like Spencer Brown leading its operations. Cadence13 is recognized for its innovative podcasting initiatives and collaborations withi ...
Counterarguments
- The shift to political figures on SNL could be seen as a natural evolution of comedy reflecting the times, rather than just a scarcity of widely recognized personalities.
- The internet might have diversified comedy rather than just favoring political satire, by providing a platform for a variety of comedic voices and styles.
- Pandemic-induced changes, such as the relocation of the sketch selection process, could have offered opportunities for innovation and creativity in how SNL operates.
- While the hosts credit specific individuals for the podcast's p ...
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