Will Arnett | Full Episode | Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade
Step into the humorous dynamics of "Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade," as comedy legends Dana Carvey and David Spade, along with special guest Will Arnett, delve into the laughter-laden trenches of show business and the evolving nature of fame. This revealing episode peels back the curtain on Spade's comedic roots, from his early days facing adversity in the restaurant industry to his storied tenure on "Saturday Night Live" where live television blended humor with real-time cultural commentary.
Listen as Spade and Arnett reminisce about their collaborative shenanigans on shows like "Snake Oil," giving listeners a glimpse into the off-screen chemistry that fuels their onscreen performances. Meanwhile, they tackle the profound impact of social media on modern celebrity and the consumption of entertainment, contrasting the bygone allure of classic stardom with today's viral content culture. Join this trio of comic minds as they weigh in on the wit and whimsy of the entertainment world, both past and present, in an insightful and amusing conversation that's sure to tickle your funny bone.
This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Jan 24, 2024 episode of the Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade
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1-Page Summary
Starting out in comedy
David Spade shares his initial foray into comedy, marked by a series of unsuccessful jobs in the restaurant industry where he struggled as a busboy and was fired from every restaurant job he had. Spade recalls how his humorous interactions with customers led to criticism from his managers and ultimately his termination. Despite believing that his comedic talent brought something extra to the customer experience, his attempts to entertain guests with jokes, like commenting on shark being on the menu, were not appreciated by his employers.
Memories from Saturday Night Live
Spade reflects on his time at "Saturday Night Live" (SNL), recognizing its special role in reacting to current events live on television. The show's cast members, including Spade, experienced live television moments during major news events, providing unforgettable experiences. SNL has handled these situations with a mix of solemnity and satire, offering entertainment while also commenting on the news, illustrating the show's deep connection with the cultural and political atmosphere.
The impact of social media
In examining social media's effect, Spade and Arnett discuss its significant transformation of celebrity and fame. Spade observes how social media showcases previously unnoticed talents, altering the nature of what actions are valued. Social media's immediate sharing has changed the landscape of public appearances, from movie premieres to the mystique of classic movie stars. The constant visibility of modern celebrities contrasts with the exclusive aura of stars like Paul Newman. Spade and Arnett also voice their concerns about the substance of content promoted on social media. Spade critiques the virality of low-quality content, while Arnett comments on its lack of wit, contrasting it with genuine humor.
Will and David's experiences working together
Spade and Arnett have a history of working together, sharing a good rapport and enjoyable memories from shows like "Snake Oil" on Fox. They laugh over incidents such as Spade consistently guessing wrong on the authenticity of bizarre products and a contestant overlooking Arnett's advice. Their shared anecdotes from working on the game show highlight the comedic and collaborative aspects of their relationship, underscoring the fun they have had together on set.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- David Spade's early comedy career involved working in the restaurant industry where he faced challenges as a busboy and was repeatedly fired due to his comedic interactions with customers. Despite believing his humor added value, his jokes, like commenting on the menu, were not appreciated by his employers, leading to his termination.
- "Saturday Night Live" (SNL) is a long-running sketch comedy show known for its satirical take on current events. The show often features political sketches and parodies that comment on real-world happenings. SNL's ability to react quickly to unfolding news events has made it a significant platform for social and political commentary in a comedic format. The show's blend of humor and timely commentary has helped it maintain relevance and influence in popular culture for decades.
- Social media has revolutionized how individuals attain fame by providing a platform for showcasing talents that may have gone unnoticed previously. It has transformed the criteria for what is considered valuable content and has made celebrities more accessible to their fans. The constant visibility on social media contrasts with the more mysterious aura that traditional movie stars used to have. However, concerns exist about the quality and substance of the content that gains popularity on these platforms.
- David Spade and Will Arnett worked together on the game show "Snake Oil" on Fox. The show featured contestants pitching unusual products to the hosts, who had to determine if the products were real or fake. Spade and Arnett's dynamic on the show involved humor, banter, and playful interactions with the contestants. Their collaboration showcased their comedic chemistry and shared sense of humor.
Counterarguments
- While Spade's comedic interactions in the restaurant industry were not appreciated by his employers, it could be argued that a professional environment requires adherence to certain standards, and his behavior may have been seen as unprofessional or distracting from the service.
- The idea that "Saturday Night Live" always strikes the right balance between solemnity and satire could be challenged by some who feel that the show sometimes misses the mark or is insensitive in its portrayal of certain events.
- The assertion that social media has transformed celebrity and fame might be countered by the argument that talent and celebrity have always found ways to emerge, and social media is just the latest platform, not a transformative force.
- The claim that social media has changed the landscape of public appearances could be met with the counterargument that the desire for public visibility and the nature of fame have remained constant, with social media simply being a new medium for expression.
- The contrast between modern celebrities' constant visibility and the exclusive aura of stars like Paul Newman could be seen as a reflection of changing cultural norms rather than a negative aspect of social media.
- Concerns about the substance of content promoted on social media might be countered by the argument that social media is a democratic platform where all types of content can find an audience, and what is considered "low-quality" or lacking wit is subjective.
- The critique of Spade and Arnett's shared experiences on "Snake Oil" might be met with the perspective that their on-screen chemistry and entertainment value are more important than the accuracy of Spade's guesses or the contestants' decisions.
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Starting out in comedy
David Spade recounts his early attempts at breaking into the world of comedy, which included a series of unsuccessful stints in the restaurant industry.
Struggling to make it as a waiter
While working at a restaurant, Spade faced criticism from his manager for talking to customers instead of just performing his duties as a busboy. Spade recalls doing all the hard work, such as cleaning up, while the waiters simply took orders and moved on. Yet, he was unable to advance to the position of waiter.
Getting fired from multiple restaurant jobs
Spade shares an anecdote in which he tried to entertain a customer with a joke about shark being on the menu. This act of comedic performance backfired, leading to his m ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
Starting out in comedy
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- David Spade is a well-known American comedian, actor, and writer. He rose to fame as a cast member on "Saturday Night Live" in the 1990s. Spade is known for his sarcastic humor and deadpan delivery, which have been key elements of his comedic style throughout his career. His work in both television and film has solidified his reputation as a successful and enduring figure in the world of comedy.
- David Spade faced criticism as a busboy for engaging with customers instead of focusing solely on his busboy duties. His manager reprimanded him for not adhering strictly to his assigned tasks, which led to tension in the workplace. This criticism stemmed from the expectation that busboys should primarily handle cleaning and support tasks rather than engaging in customer interactions. Spade's inclination towards humor and conversation with customers clashed with the traditional busboy role, leading to the criticism he received.
- In the restaurant industry, there is a clear hierarchy between different r ...
Counterarguments
- While Spade felt that his humor added value, it's possible that his comedic interactions with customers were not appropriate for the setting or expectations of the restaurant's management.
- The role of a busboy typically involves cleaning and setting tables, not engaging with customers, so Spade's focus on talking to customers might have been seen as neglecting his primary duties.
- Being a good waiter involves more than just taking orders; it requires managing multiple tables, ensuring customer satisfaction, and handling special requests, which might not have been Spade's strengths.
- Spade's perception of being the "closer" and "headliner" suggests a focus on his own performance rather than the team effort required in a restaurant environment, which could have contributed to his difficulties in advancing.
- The anecdote about the shark joke indicates that Spade's sense of humor may not have been well-received ...
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Memories from Saturday Night Live
"Saturday Night Live" (SNL) has a unique place in television history, often serving as a live reflection of current events as they unfold in real time.
Being on the show when major news events happened
Cast members, hosts, and musical guests often recount being part of the show during major news events as unforgettable experiences. The immediacy of the live broadcast means that SNL sometimes becomes a venue for real-time reactions to unfolding stories.
The show has tackled this task in various ways, sometimes opting for a ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
Memories from Saturday Night Live
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- "Saturday Night Live" holds a unique place in television history due to its live format, which allows it to react to current events in real time. The show's ability to blend entertainment with social and political commentary has made it a cultural touchstone since its inception in 1975. SNL's impact on popular culture and its influence on comedy and satire have solidified its status as a groundbreaking and iconic television program.
- The immediacy of the live broadcast of SNL means that the show is aired in real-time without any significant delay between the filming and the audience watching it. This live format allows SNL to react quickly to current events and incorporate them into the show's sketches and performances. The cast and crew must perform without the safety net of retakes or edits, adding an element of unpredictability and excitement to the show. The live nature of SNL contributes to its reputation for being able to address and comment on current events with speed and relevance.
- SNL acknowledges major news events in different ways by incorporating them into their sketches and performances, providing a mix of humor and commentary. They may address the news directly with serious acknowledgment or use satire to highlight the events in a more light-hearted manner. This approach allows SNL to engage with current events in ...
Counterarguments
- While SNL aims to reflect current events, it may not always succeed in capturing the nuances or diversity of perspectives on those events.
- The experience of being on SNL during major news events might be unforgettable for some, but others may find it stressful or challenging to balance comedy with sensitivity.
- SNL's real-time reactions can sometimes be seen as too quick or superficial, potentially lacking depth or thorough understanding of the events.
- The show's approach to acknowledging major news events can be criticized for being inconsistent or for prioritizing comedy over respect when it might not be appropriate.
- The way SNL weaves news into its satire can sometimes oversimplify complex issues or inadvertently trivialize serious matters.
- While SNL aims to ent ...
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The impact of social media
David Spade and Will Arnett examine the profound ways social media has transformed the landscape of celebrity and fame, as well as raise concerns about the quality of content it often promotes.
How it's changed celebrity and fame
Spade recalls a time when his jump roping skills went largely unnoticed, suggesting that today, such talents could garner significant attention on platforms like Instagram. He comments on the evolution of action value, noting that previously unshareable achievements are now performed mainly for social media publication. Spade muses over the absurdity of past activities that couldn't be posted, emphasizing the current trend of performing actions expressly to share them online.
He reminisces about attending movie premieres after his time on "Saturday Night Live" (SNL), an experience now altered by the immediate sharing capabilities of Instagram. Arnett touches on the omnipresence of celebrities on social media, suggesting that constant online visibility has diluted the specialness of public appearances.
Spade contrasts yesteryear's movie stars like Paul Newman and Frank Sinatra, who maintained a certain mystique through their infrequent public sightings, with modern celebrities who frequent platforms like TikTok and Instagram. He and Arnett banter about how legendary figures like Clark Gable and Marilyn Monroe would engage with today's social media trends, potentially altering public perception of them.
Their discussion underscores how the exclusive nature of celebrity has shifted to an omnipresent dynamic, altering both fame's operation and the ways celebrities interact with their audience.
Concerns about the content it promotes
Spade critiques the content that social media tend ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
The impact of social media
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- In the comparison between past celebrities like Paul Newman and Frank Sinatra with modern celebrities in terms of social media presence, the focus is on how the mystique and exclusivity surrounding traditional stars have shifted to a more constant and accessible dynamic with the rise of platforms like TikTok and Instagram. This shift has led to a change in how fame operates, with modern celebrities engaging more directly and frequently with their audience through social media, contrasting the more enigmatic aura that surrounded stars of the past.
- The shift from an exclusive celebrity culture to an omnipresent dynamic highlights how traditional notions of fame, characterized by limited public appearances and mystique, have evolved. Modern celebrities engage with audiences constantly through social media, making their lives and activities more accessible and visible than ever before. This constant visibility blurs the line between public and private personas, altering the dynamics of fame and audience interaction. The transformation underscores how social media has democratized celebrity culture, making fame more pervasive and interconnected with everyday life.
- The concerns over the prevailing lack of wit in social media content highlight the observation that humor and cleverness in online posts are often overshadowed by simplistic or repetitive content. This critique suggests that the depth and intelligence found in traditional forms of humor are sometimes missing in the quick, attention-grabbing nature of social media. The comparison made by Arnett between the humor on social media and that of his children imp ...
Counterarguments
- Social media has democratized fame, allowing people from all walks of life to gain recognition for a wide variety of talents, not just traditional celebrity achievements.
- The ability to share achievements online can be motivating and inspiring to others, creating communities around shared interests and skills.
- Social media can enhance the experience of events like movie premieres by allowing fans to participate virtually and celebrities to engage with their audience in real-time.
- Constant online visibility can also be a tool for celebrities to control their narrative and connect with their fans on a more personal level.
- The omnipresence of celebrities on social media can make them more relatable and accessible to the public, which can be a positive shift in the dynamic between celebrities and their audience.
- Content that may seem to lack substantive value to some can be entertaining, comforting, or meaningful to others, and the diversity of content reflects the varied tastes and interests of a global audience.
- Wit and humor are subjective, and what may not seem witty to some may be cl ...
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Will and David's experiences working together
Will Arnett and David Spade share a friendly camaraderie and have fond memories from their time working together on various projects.
Fun memories from projects like Snake Oil
David Spade and Will Arnett reminisce about their fun experience while working on the game show "Snake Oil" for Fox. Spade, acknowledging their strong friendship, shares a laugh with Arnett as they recall the challenge of figuring out which bizarre products were real or fake on the show, with Spade humorously admitting that he guessed wrong every single time, even during reruns.
Arnett adds to the amuseme ...
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Will and David's experiences working together
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- "Snake Oil" is a game show where contestants pitch unusual product ideas to a panel of judges. The contestants must convince the judges that their product is real and has a practical use, even if it is fictional. The judges then decide which products are genuine and which are fake based on ...
Counterarguments
...
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