Podcasts > Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade > Sean Hayes | Full Episode | Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade

Sean Hayes | Full Episode | Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade

By Dana Carvey, David Spade

In this episode of Fly on the Wall, Dana Carvey and David Spade chat with Sean Hayes about his career milestones and latest endeavors. Hayes delves into his experience playing Larry Fine in "The Three Stooges" and reflects on the early success of "Will & Grace." He also discusses launching the popular "Smartless" podcast with friends Jason Bateman and Will Arnett during the lockdown, shedding light on the trio's chemistry and interview approach.

The conversation touches on memorable behind-the-scenes moments from Saturday Night Live, including Chris Farley's genuine curiosity about Beatles lyrics. Hayes also shares insights into developing comedy impressions, drawing from his background as a classically trained pianist.

Listen to the original

Sean Hayes | Full Episode | Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade

This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Apr 10, 2024 episode of the Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade

Sign up for Shortform to access the whole episode summary along with additional materials like counterarguments and context.

Sean Hayes | Full Episode | Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade

1-Page Summary

Sean Hayes's Career and Roles

The Three Stooges Movie

Hayes shares details about playing Larry Fine in "The Three Stooges," working alongside celebrities like Sofia Vergara. He recalls the challenges of shaving his head twice daily and enduring the uncomfortable combination of Atlanta heat and adhesive for a wig.

Will & Grace Success

Hayes compares "Will & Grace" gaining popularity after its first season to "Friends." He recounts receiving a gifted Porsche after season one but initially considered selling it due to financial concerns over upkeep costs.

The Smartless Podcast

Idea During Lockdown

Hayes describes starting "Smartless" with longtime friends Jason Bateman and Will Arnett during the lockdown as a way to see each other. David Spade and Dana Carvey note the hosts' strong bond and the podcast's success.

Hosting Dynamic

The three hosts have developed a natural conversational rhythm after over 20 years of friendship. One host leads each episode after researching the guest, with Bateman often asking insightful questions, per Hayes.

Chris Farley's SNL Interview

Hayes reflects on Chris Farley earnestly asking Paul McCartney about the meaning behind the Beatles lyric "the love you take is equal to the love you make" during a famous SNL sketch. Farley's innocent follow-up, "Is that true?" elicited audience laughter.

Impressionists and Impersonators

Hayes admires Dana Carvey's meticulous development of impressions. Carvey praises Frank Caliendo's "freakishly accurate" Morgan Freeman impersonation.

Musical Background

Hayes studied classical piano from a young age, working to pay for lessons. He engaged McCartney in a discussion about time signatures, marveling at McCartney's intuitive use of complex structures despite no formal training.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • In portraying Larry Fine in "The Three Stooges," Sean Hayes had to shave his head twice daily to maintain the character's signature look. This frequent shaving was necessary to achieve the specific hairstyle associated with Larry Fine, one of the iconic Stooges. The meticulous grooming routine was a crucial part of transforming into the character and required dedication to maintain throughout filming. The process of shaving his head multiple times a day was a unique challenge that Hayes faced to accurately portray the role.
  • Hayes received a Porsche as a gift after the first season of "Will & Grace." This gesture was a token of appreciation for his work on the show. Initially, he considered selling it due to concerns about the costs associated with owning and maintaining a luxury car.
  • Sean Hayes, along with his longtime friends Jason Bateman and Will Arnett, started the "Smartless" podcast during the lockdown as a way to stay connected and entertain themselves. The podcast features the three hosts engaging in natural conversations with various guests, with each host taking the lead in different episodes. The hosts' strong bond and dynamic chemistry, developed over 20 years of friendship, contribute to the podcast's success and engaging content. The idea of creating "Smartless" emerged as a creative project during a challenging time, allowing the hosts to share their humor and camaraderie with a wider audience.
  • Chris Farley's SNL sketch with Paul McCartney was a memorable moment on Saturday Night Live where Farley earnestly asked McCartney about the meaning of a Beatles lyric. Farley's innocent follow-up question, "Is that true?" added humor to the sketch and resonated with the audience. The interaction showcased Farley's comedic talent and ability to bring humor to unexpected situations.
  • Dana Carvey is known for his meticulous approach to developing impressions, focusing on capturing the nuances and mannerisms of the individuals he impersonates. Frank Caliendo is recognized for his exceptionally accurate impersonation of Morgan Freeman, where he skillfully mimics Freeman's voice, cadence, and unique speech patterns to create a convincing portrayal.
  • Sean Hayes engaging Paul McCartney in a discussion about time signatures highlights their conversation about the rhythmic structure of music. Time signatures indicate the number of beats in each measure and the type of note that receives one beat. McCartney's intuitive use of complex time signatures despite lacking formal training showcases his musical talent and understanding of music theory. This exchange demonstrates Hayes' appreciation for McCartney's skill in incorporating intricate rhythmic patterns into his compositions.

Counterarguments

  • While Sean Hayes played Larry Fine in "The Three Stooges," some critics might argue that the film did not live up to the comedic legacy of the original Three Stooges.
  • The comparison of "Will & Grace" to "Friends" in terms of popularity might be contested, as "Friends" has achieved a global cultural status that some could argue "Will & Grace" has not matched.
  • The success of "Smartless" could be seen as not solely due to the lockdown or the hosts' friendship, but also because of the existing fame of the hosts and their ability to attract high-profile guests.
  • The natural conversational rhythm on "Smartless" might be perceived by some listeners as less spontaneous and more structured, considering one host leads with prepared research.
  • Chris Farley's interview with Paul McCartney on SNL, while endearing to many, might be critiqued by some as playing too heavily on Farley's persona of innocence or naivety.
  • While Dana Carvey and Frank Caliendo are praised for their impressions, some might argue that impressionism, in general, can sometimes border on caricature and fail to capture the true essence of the person being impersonated.
  • Sean Hayes' musical background and discussion with Paul McCartney could be seen as impressive, but others might point out that many musicians have succeeded without formal training, making McCartney's intuitive grasp of music not entirely unique.

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free
Sean Hayes | Full Episode | Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade

Sean Hayes's Career and Roles on Will & Grace and The Three Stooges

Sean Hayes reflects on his diverse acting experiences, from comedic television to film roles, sharing behind-the-scenes insights into the challenges and successes he has faced.

Playing Larry Fine in The Three Stooges Movie; Working with Sofia Vergara and Others

Hayes describes his role as Larry Fine in "The Three Stooges" movie, where he starred alongside celebrities like Sofia Vergara, Chris Diamantopoulos, and Will Sasso. The filming took place in Atlanta, where Hayes contends with the extreme heat, a challenge compounded by having to shave his head twice a day for the role. In addition to the bald head, Hayes had to endure gluing a wig to his scalp, which, in the Atlanta heat combined with the adhesive, resulted in a notably uncomfortable experience.

Success of Will & Grace; Gifted Porsches After the First Season Took Off

Discussing the success of "Will & Grace," Hayes compares the show’s trajectory to that of "Friends," which wasn’t an overnight sensation but rather gained popularity after its first season. Hayes shares an in ...

Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary

Registered users get access to the Full Podcast Summary and Additional Materials. It’s easy and free!
Start your free trial today

Sean Hayes's Career and Roles on Will & Grace and The Three Stooges

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Sean Hayes faced challenges such as enduring extreme heat while filming "The Three Stooges" movie in Atlanta and the discomfort of shaving his head daily for his role. In his career, he also navigated financial concerns, as seen when he contemplated selling the Porsche he received as a gift due to the associated costs. Despite these challenges, Hayes experienced successes, notably with the popular show "Will & Grace" and the recognition that followed.
  • Sean Hayes played the role of Larry Fine in "The Three Stooges" movie. Larry Fine was one of the original members of the comedy trio "The Three Stooges," known for their slapstick humor and physical comedy. In the movie, Hayes portrayed Larry Fine alongside actors Chris Diamantopoulos and Will Sasso, who played the roles of Moe Howard and Curly Howard, respectively. The film is a modern adaptation of the classic comedy trio's antics and adventures, bringing their humor to a new audience.
  • Sean Hayes had to wear a wig for his role in "The Three Stooges" movie. To keep the wig in place, it was glued to his scalp. The combination of the hot Atlanta weather and the adhesive used for the wig made the experience uncomfortable for Hayes.
  • "Will & Grace" and "Friends" both experienced a similar trajectory in terms of gaining popularity. While "Friends" wasn't an instant hit, it grew in viewership and acclaim over its f ...

Counterarguments

...

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free
Sean Hayes | Full Episode | Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade

The success of Hayes's podcast Smartless and how it started during lockdown

Sean Hayes talks about the surprising success of "Smartless," the podcast he shares with Jason Bateman and Will Arnett, and shares details about its inception during the lockdown and the unique dynamic among the hosts.

How the idea came about to do a podcast with longtime friends

Sean Hayes describes the start of the podcast as an opportunity for him and his friends to see each other during the lockdown. With the world in an unprecedented situation, Hayes and his co-hosts Bateman and Arnett seized the chance to use the podcast as a reason to come together. David Spade and Dana Carvey note the strong bond among the "Smartless" hosts and the podcast's notable success. This camaraderie, rooted in a long friendship, is an essential element that defines both the podcast’s inception and appeal.

Keeping a rhythm between the three hosts

Hayes, Bateman, and Arnett bring over 20 years of friendship to "Smartless," establishing a conversational rhythm that resonates with their audience. Spade touches upon Hayes being "great on Smartless" while hinting at a comedic dynamic that contributes to the show's rhythm. The friendship is not just a backdrop but the core of the podcast; it's this relationship that makes scheduling and collaborating feel natural and effortless to Hayes.

Each episode features one host who introduces a guest and, having done the research and prepared more thoroughly, feels a sense of responsibility to drive the conversation. Bateman often asks sophisticated ques ...

Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary

Registered users get access to the Full Podcast Summary and Additional Materials. It’s easy and free!
Start your free trial today

The success of Hayes's podcast Smartless and how it started during lockdown

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • "Smartless" is a popular podcast hosted by Sean Hayes, Jason Bateman, and Will Arnett. The podcast started during the lockdown as a way for the longtime friends to connect and share conversations with guests. The hosts' strong bond and comedic dynamic contribute to the show's appeal and success. Each episode features one host introducing a guest, with a conversational rhythm established by the hosts' 20-year friendship.
  • The dynamic and conversational rhythm among the hosts of the "Smartless" podcast is rooted in the long-standing friendship between Sean Hayes, Jason Bateman, and Will Arnett. Their 20-year bond translates into a natural flow of conversation, with each host bringing their unique style and humor to the show. This familiarity allows for seamless interactions, where one host can lead a discussion while others contribute organically, creating an engaging and entertaining dynamic for the audience. The hosts' shared love for comedy and mutual respect for each other's talents further enhance the podcast's rhythm and overall appeal.
  • In the "Smartless" podcast, each episode features one host who introduces a guest and takes the lead in driving the conversation. Jason Bateman is known for asking sophisticated questions, contributing insightful dialogue that sometimes leads the conversation. Sean Hayes brings his love for comedy and quick wit to the podcast, adding humor and a lively dynamic to the discussions. Will Arnett's role in steering the conversation wasn't explicitly mentioned in the provided text.
  • The podcast "Smartless" started with just a few episodes during the lockdown but grew organically over time. The hosts' long-standing friendship and shared love for comedy contributed to the seamless collaboration and the show's appeal. A ...

Counterarguments

  • While the podcast's success is attributed to the hosts' camaraderie, it's possible that the celebrity status of the hosts also played a significant role in attracting listeners.
  • The idea that the podcast started as a way to connect during lockdown might overlook other motivations, such as exploring new creative outlets or capitalizing on the growing podcast market.
  • The assertion that the strong bond among the hosts is the defining appeal could be challenged by suggesting that the quality of the guests and the content of the conversations are equally important.
  • The 20-year friendship might establish a conversational rhythm, but it could also lead to a level of comfort that might sometimes exclude or alienate new listeners who aren't as familiar with the hosts' dynamics.
  • The notion that the friendship is the core of the podcast might not account for the professional skills and media experience each host brings to the table, which are also critical to the podcast's success.
  • The format of each host taking turns to introduce a guest could be seen as formulaic or predictable, which might not appeal to all listeners.
  • Bateman's sophisticated questions being highlighted might inadvertently suggest that the other hosts' contributions are less valuable or insightful.
  • Hayes's quick wit and l ...

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free
Sean Hayes | Full Episode | Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade

Reflections on SNL and the Chris Farley interview of Paul McCartney

Sean Hayes looks back at a standout moment from "The Chris Farley Show" segment on "Saturday Night Live," where the late comedian Chris Farley had an unforgettable interview with the legendary musician Paul McCartney.

During the sketch, Farley nervously asked McCartney about the meaning behind The Beatles' lyric "the love you take is equal to the love you make." McCartney responded earnestly to Farley's question, but the interview took a comedic turn when Farley earnestly followed up with, ...

Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary

Registered users get access to the Full Podcast Summary and Additional Materials. It’s easy and free!
Start your free trial today

Reflections on SNL and the Chris Farley interview of Paul McCartney

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • "The Chris Farley Show" was a recurring sketch on "Saturday Night Live" where Chris Farley played an awkward and bumbling talk show host who interviewed celebrities. The humor came from Farley's character's nervousness and tendency to ask simple or offbeat questions, often leading to funny and unexpected interactions with the guests. The segment was known for its comedic take on celebrity interviews and became a fan favorite during Farley's time on the show.
  • Chris Farley's interview with Paul McCartney on "The Chris Farley Show" was a comedic sketch on "Saturday Night Live" where Farley, playing a nervous and naive character, asked McCartney about the meaning of a Beatles lyric. McCartney responded sincerely, leading to humorous moments when Farley followed up with simple questions, creating a contrast between Farley's innocence and McCartney's seasoned demeanor. The interaction showcased Farley's comedic talent in playing a clueless yet endearing character, while McCartney's genuine responses added to the humor of the sketch. The audience's laughter highlighted the charm of the exchange, making it a memorable moment in SNL history.
  • The lyric "the love you take is equal to the love you make" is from The Beatles' song "The End" on their album "Abbey Road." It is seen as a profound message about reciprocity and the balance of love in relationships. The line suggests that the love one receives is directly related to the love one gives, emphasizing the importance of giving and receiving love in equal measure. This lyric is often interpreted as a reflection of The Beatles' philoso ...

Counterarguments

...

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free
Sean Hayes | Full Episode | Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade

Discussing Impressions and Impersonators Dana Carvey and Frank Caliendo

Conversations about comedic impressionists often bring up legends such as Dana Carvey and marvels like Frank Caliendo, both admired for their unique skills in the art of mimicry.

Admiring Dana's process for developing impressions

Dana Carvey is recognized for his meticulous process when developing impressions. The care and thought behind each of his characterizations have consistently left an impression on audiences, showcasing a deep understanding of his subjects.

Praise for Caliendo's freakish mimicry

Hayes expresses implicit admiration for Frank Caliendo's impressive mimicry skills. Carvey himse ...

Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary

Registered users get access to the Full Podcast Summary and Additional Materials. It’s easy and free!
Start your free trial today

Discussing Impressions and Impersonators Dana Carvey and Frank Caliendo

Additional Materials

Clarifications

...

Counterarguments

  • While Dana Carvey is praised for his meticulous process, some might argue that the true test of an impressionist is the ability to improvise on the spot, which may not always align with a meticulous approach.
  • Frank Caliendo's mimicry, though described as freakishly accurate, could be critiqued for relying too heavily on vocal imitation rather than capturing the full essence of the person, including mannerisms and subtler aspects of personality.
  • The admiration for Dana Carvey and Frank Caliendo's unique skills might overshadow other talented impressionists who also d ...

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free
Sean Hayes | Full Episode | Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade

Hayes's background as a classical pianist

Sean Hayes offers insights into his beginnings as a classical pianist and a noteworthy interaction with music legend Paul McCartney regarding song structures.

Studying piano from a young age and working for lessons

Hayes started learning classical piano at a young age, sparked by the convenient proximity of a piano teacher who lived just across the street. His mother's casual suggestion to take lessons led him to agree, primarily because he wasn't preoccupied with other activities. However, because his family couldn’t afford the lessons, he worked by doing yard and landscaping tasks for his teacher as a form of payment.

His musical discussion with Paul McCartney on song signatures

Sean Hayes, passionate about music, engaged in an in-depth discussion with Paul McCartney about music theory. Hayes, a self-proclaimed music nerd, was intrigued by McCartney's use of varying time signatures within a single song, which he enthusiastically explained to the legendary musician. He noted the unusual structure of one McCartney's songs, which alternated ...

Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary

Registered users get access to the Full Podcast Summary and Additional Materials. It’s easy and free!
Start your free trial today

Hayes's background as a classical pianist

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • In music, a time signature indicates the number of beats in each measure and the type of note that receives one beat. For example, 4/4 time signature means there are four beats in a measure, with a quarter note receiving one beat. Varying time signatures within a song can create rhythmic interest and complexity, influencing how the music feels and flows. Understanding time signatures is essential for musicians to interpret and perform music accurately.
  • Formal music education typically involves structured learning of music theory, notation, and performance techniques. It can enhance a musician's ability to recognize and understand complex musical elements like time signatures, key changes, and chord progressions. Through formal education, musicians develop a deeper appreciation for the nuances and intricacies of music composition and performance. This education can provide a solid foundation for musicians to analyze, interpret, and create music with greater depth and sophistication.
  • Alternating time signatures in music compositions involve changing the rhythmic structure within ...

Counterarguments

...

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free

Create Summaries for anything on the web

Download the Shortform Chrome extension for your browser

Shortform Extension CTA