Podcasts > Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade > Joe Piscopo | Full Episode | Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade

Joe Piscopo | Full Episode | Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade

By Dana Carvey, David Spade

Join comedy icons Dana Carvey and David Spade as they delve into the compelling story of Joe Piscopo on "Fly on the Wall." In this captivating installment, Joe Piscopo offers an inside look into his early days on 'Saturday Night Live,' sharing how his initial reluctance turned into iconic performances that would define a comedy era. As Piscopo recounts the nerve-wracking SNL audition with Eddie Murphy, listeners get a rare glimpse of the makings of a legendary comedic duo that captivated audiences with their dynamic chemistry and inventive humor.

From hesitantly accepting his role as the "utility guy" on SNL to creating one of the show's most memorable character impressions of Frank Sinatra, Piscopo guides us through his growth and laughs, to his interactions with the venerated icons Danny Ackroyd and John Belushi. The episode provides a heartfelt reflection on Piscopo’s journey, revealing the nuanced challenges of fame and the transformative power of mentorship and friendship in the unpredictable world of comedy. Don't miss these personal anecdotes and untold stories that chart the rise of a comedy stalwart on "Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade."

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Joe Piscopo | Full Episode | Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade

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Joe Piscopo | Full Episode | Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade

1-Page Summary

Joe and Eddie auditioning for SNL with word association sketch, bonding

Joe Piscopo and Eddie Murphy performed a word association sketch during their SNL audition, reminiscent of the original by Chevy Chase and Richard Pryor. Piscopo was awed by Murphy's talent, likening him to Richard Pryor, and despite NBC's hesitations about Eddie's edginess, the performance was a hit. This audition set the foundation for their partnership, as they started writing for themselves on the show, building a strong professional bond and contributing notably to SNL's comedic offerings.

Piscopo initially not wanting to join SNL cast

Initially resistant to join Saturday Night Live, Joe Piscopo had reservations about filling the shoes of the show’s original cast. He was enjoying success with his commercials and stand-up comedy but was convinced by his agent to take on the role of a "utility guy" on SNL, stepping in to fill various roles as needed.

Sinatra character making Piscopo initially uncomfortable

Joe Piscopo was hesitant to impersonate Frank Sinatra, feeling a deep-rooted responsibility to respectfully represent the New Jersey icon due to their shared cultural background. He sought assurance by reaching out to Sinatra's lawyer and writing to Sinatra. Only after a positive response from both Michael and Sinatra himself, with the latter offering a humorous approval and an invite to a Dean Martin roast, did Piscopo feel at ease to continue his portrayal on SNL, which eventually became a memorable act.

Working with Belushi and Ackroyd

Working with Danny Ackroyd and John Belushi was a fond experience for Piscopo, who viewed them as mentors and leaders. He reminisces about singing "New York, New York" in a duet with Belushi, an experience symbolizing their friendship and mutual respect. Piscopo admired Belushi's ability to live in the moment, reflecting on the complexities of fame and the unique bond they shared.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The SNL audition process involves performers showcasing their comedic skills to secure a spot on the show. Successful auditions can lead to cast membership and opportunities to contribute to the show's content. The audition is a crucial step for comedians looking to join the iconic Saturday Night Live cast. It serves as a platform to demonstrate talent, creativity, and potential for making significant contributions to the show.
  • Joe Piscopo initially hesitated to join Saturday Night Live due to concerns about living up to the original cast's legacy. He was enjoying success in other areas of entertainment and was unsure about taking on a new challenge. However, he eventually agreed to join the show after being convinced by his agent to play a versatile role as a "utility guy" on SNL.
  • Joe Piscopo's portrayal of Frank Sinatra on SNL was initially met with hesitation due to his personal connection to Sinatra's cultural background. Piscopo sought approval from Sinatra's lawyer and received a positive response from both the lawyer and Sinatra himself, which gave him the confidence to continue the portrayal. This portrayal eventually became a memorable act on the show, showcasing Piscopo's talent for impersonation and comedy.
  • Joe Piscopo and Eddie Murphy formed a strong bond during their time on SNL, with Piscopo admiring Murphy's talent and likening him to Richard Pryor. Piscopo also had a positive experience working with Danny Ackroyd and John Belushi, viewing them as mentors and leaders. He shared a special moment with Belushi, singing a duet that symbolized their friendship and mutual respect. Piscopo admired Belushi's ability to live in the moment and valued the unique bond they shared.

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Joe Piscopo | Full Episode | Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade

Joe and Eddie auditioning for SNL with word association sketch, bonding

Joe Piscopo recalls a significant moment shared with Eddie Murphy during their early days on "Saturday Night Live" (SNL), which not only showcased their comedic talents but also fostered their collaborative relationship on the show.

Their audition sketch recreates famous Pryor-Chase sketch

During the audition for SNL, Joe Piscopo and Eddie Murphy decided to pay homage to a classic moment in the show's history. They recreated the infamous word association sketch, originally performed by Chevy Chase and Richard Pryor, demonstrating their respect for their comedic predecessors and their ability to hold their own in the high stakes world of live television comedy.

Eddie crushes audition, Piscopo thinks he's next Richard Pryor

Eddie Murphy's performance during this audition left a lasting impression on Piscopo. He was so taken by Eddie's talent and comedic timing that he mentioned to Gene, likely referring to Gene Domian, a notable name involved with SNL, that Eddie was the next Richard Pryor. Eddie managed to stand out despite concerns from NBC that his style might be too edgy for the s ...

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Joe and Eddie auditioning for SNL with word association sketch, bonding

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The Pryor-Chase sketch referenced in the text is a famous moment from "Saturday Night Live" where Chevy Chase and Richard Pryor engaged in a word association game. This sketch is known for its sharp wit and comedic timing, showcasing the talents of both comedians. It is considered a classic moment in SNL history, highlighting the dynamic and humorous interactions between Chase and Pryor.
  • Chevy Chase and Richard Pryor were both prominent comedians known for their work on "Saturday Night Live" (SNL) in the show's early years. They famously performed a word association sketch together on SNL, showcasing their comedic chemistry and improvisational skills. Their collaboration in this sketch is considered a classic moment in SNL history, highlighting their unique comedic styles and contributions to the show's legacy.
  • A "featured player" on "Saturday Night Live" (SNL) is a cast member who is not ye ...

Counterarguments

  • Recreating a famous sketch might be seen as lacking originality, suggesting that Joe and Eddie were relying on the success of a previous act rather than showcasing their own unique talents.
  • The comparison of Eddie Murphy to Richard Pryor could be viewed as premature during an audition phase, as it sets high expectations that may not account for Eddie's individual style and career trajectory.
  • Concerns from NBC about Eddie's edgy style could be interpreted as a cautious approach to programming, aiming to maintain a broad audience appeal and avoid potential backlash.
  • The statement that Eddie becomes a featured player on SNL might overlook the hard work and progression that typically ...

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Joe Piscopo | Full Episode | Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade

Piscopo initially not wanting to join SNL cast

Joe Piscopo, content with his career trajectory at the time, initially did not want to join the cast of Saturday Night Live (SNL).

Resistance and eventual entry into SNL

Despite achieving what he considered a career high with commercials and stand-up gigs, Piscopo had reservations about joining SNL, particularly after the departure of the original cast, which he felt could ...

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Piscopo initially not wanting to join SNL cast

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • "Utility guy" in the context of Saturday Night Live (SNL) typically refers to a versatile cast member who can play a variety of roles and characters as needed. These performers are known for their adaptability and ability to fill in gaps in sketches or portray different characters throughout a single episode. Being a " ...

Counterarguments

  • While Piscopo may have been content with his career, joining SNL could be seen as a strategic move to diversify his portfolio and reach a wider audience.
  • The notion that the original cast could not be replaced is subjective; new talent can bring fresh perspectives and innovation to a show like SNL.
  • Piscopo's reluctance might have stemmed from fear of failure or the challenge of living up to the legacy of the original cast, which could be countered by the argument that every performer brings unique value to the ensemble.
  • The role of a "utility guy" on SNL, though seemingly less glamorous, is crucial to the sh ...

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Joe Piscopo | Full Episode | Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade

Sinatra character making Piscopo initially uncomfortable

Joe Piscopo faced a dilemma when he was asked to portray Frank Sinatra on "Saturday Night Live" during Gene's tenure as producer. This request made him uncomfortable initially due to the profound respect he had for Sinatra.

Important to respectfully represent NJ/Italian American icon

Piscopo, being from New Jersey and of Italian American descent, felt an immense need to portray Sinatra respectfully and did not wish to mock him in any way. Out of respect for Sinatra and his legacy, Piscopo even went as far as writing a letter to the musical icon. He also reached out to get feedback from Sinatra’s lawyer before going ahead with the impersonation but did not get an immediate response.

Feeling like an outsider on the show, Piscopo shared his hesitation with Michael, who reassured him by saying his impersonation was "pretty good," suggesting it was respectful enough.

Got Sinatra's approval after he saw sketch

It was the impact of Sinatra's legacy, notably his push for social justice, that further weighed on Piscopo ...

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Sinatra character making Piscopo initially uncomfortable

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • A Dean Martin roast was a popular television show where celebrities, comedians, and politicians would humorously mock and tease a guest of honor in a light-hearted and comedic way. Dean Martin served as the roastmaster, overseeing the event and often participating in the comedic banter. The roasts were known for their sharp wit, playful insults, and comedic performances, creating an entertaining and jovial atmosphere for both th ...

Counterarguments

  • While Piscopo's intentions were to portray Sinatra respectfully, some might argue that any impersonation runs the risk of simplifying or caricaturing the subject, which could be seen as inherently disrespectful by some.
  • The fact that Piscopo sought approval from Sinatra and his lawyer could be seen as an excessive need for validation, suggesting that the creative process and comedic performance should stand on their own merits.
  • The reassurance from Michael that Piscopo's impersonation was "pretty good" is subjective and may not reflect the broader audience's opinion or the sentiments of those closest to Sinatra.
  • Sinatra's approval, while significant, does not necessarily mean the impersonation was universally accepted as respectful or ...

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Joe Piscopo | Full Episode | Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade

Working with Belushi and Ackroyd

Joe Piscopo reflects on his time with Danny Ackroyd and John Belushi, expressing immense love and respect for both his colleagues.

They treated Piscopo well and mentored him

While there is no specific information provided about how Belushi and Ackroyd mentored Piscopo, it's evident from Piscopo's sentiments that both men had a positive impact on him during their time together. Piscopo holds Danny Ackroyd, whom he saw as the "captain" of their group, in high regard, showing that Ackroyd’s leadership was influential to him. John Belushi was also highly regarded by Piscopo, indicating a relationship of respect and camaraderie.

Singing New York, New York duet with Belushi at afterparty

Piscopo recounts a memorable incident where, after a show, Ackroyd and Belushi invited him to an afterparty. At this gathering, Piscopo and Belushi san ...

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Working with Belushi and Ackroyd

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • John Belushi, a renowned actor and comedian, was known for his talent and charisma in the entertainment industry. Despite his fame, Belushi was noted for his preference to live in the moment and enjoy experiences without constantly seeking the spotlight. This approach reflected his desire for genuine connections and authentic experiences over the superficial aspects of fame. Bel ...

Counterarguments

...

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