Bonnie and Terry Turner | Full Episode | Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade
In this episode of Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade, the hosts welcome Bonnie and Terry Turner, the writing duo behind several iconic comedy hits. The Turners share their experiences joining the writer's room of Saturday Night Live in the late '80s, where they developed characters like the Church Lady. They also discuss the transitions they made to feature films like Wayne's World and Tommy Boy, capturing the comedic talents of performers such as Chris Farley and Carvey himself.
Additionally, the Turners delve into their successful TV ventures, including the long-running series Third Rock from the Sun and That '70s Show. They explore the creative process behind crafting stories for different mediums and reflect on the long-lasting creative partnership they have shared over the decades, which continues to evolve with projects like That '90s Show.
This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Jul 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.
1-Page Summary
Experiences working as writers on SNL in the late 80s/early 90s
The Turners recall joining the SNL writing staff and developing memorable sketches and characters
Bonnie and Terry Turner were hired as SNL writers after their recommendation and submitted sample sketches
The Turners joined SNL's writing team after Jan Hooks recommended them. Once on board, they developed beloved characters like the Church Lady with Dana Carvey and Phil Hartman.
The intense pressure and fast-paced nature of writing for live TV at SNL honed the Turners' skills
The Turners reminisce about sketches full of impressions and musical moments. They credit SNL's high-pressure live environment for honing their skills to be tough, sharp, and clear writers. Dana Carvey and David Spade praise learning from the Turners and the show's collaborative process.
Successful film and TV collaborations, including Wayne's World, Tommy Boy, Third Rock from the Sun, and That '70s Show
The Turners' film work expanded on the comedic styles they developed at SNL
The Wayne's World films allowed the Turners to further explore their knack for crafting over-the-top yet grounded humor
The Turners crafted Wayne's World's iconic humor by balancing over-the-top moments with grounded relatability, Dana Carvey says.
Tommy Boy demonstrated the Turners' ability to build a classic buddy comedy around the talents of Chris Farley and David Spade
Tommy Boy's buddy comedy drew from Chris Farley and Terry Turner's fathers' working-class backgrounds, capturing Farley and Spade's chemistry.
The Turners transitioned to creating their own TV series, drawing on their SNL experiences
Third Rock from the Sun blended quirky sci-fi elements with family sitcom dynamics, becoming a long-running hit
NBC picked up Third Rock from the Sun, which thrived with John Lithgow's acclaimed performance as an alien posing as a human father.
That '70s Show tapped into the Turners' fondness for nostalgic period settings and relatable characters
The Turners' knack for casting relatable characters contributed to That '70s Show's success, as evidenced by the cast's reaction to Kurtwood Smith's role.
The creative process and differences between writing for TV vs. film
Writing for film presents unique challenges, requiring the Turners to sustain a narrative over a much longer runtime
The Turners describe the immense difficulty of developing a cohesive 120-page film narrative compared to shorter TV episodes or sketches.
The Turners adjusted to the increased creative control and autonomy of developing their own TV series
The Turners relished the autonomy of crafting their own TV shows, allowing deeper character exploration than typical in films. Dana Carvey likens this to SNL's collaborative process.
The long-lasting personal and professional partnership between Bonnie and Terry Turner
Bonnie and Terry's marriage parallels the longevity of their creative association
After nearly 50 years of marriage, the Turners' rapport and depth of shared experiences inform their creative synergy.
The Turners' decision to take a break ultimately reinvigorated their creative energies
After a restorative break focused on personal projects like home renovations, the Turners eagerly returned with fresh perspectives, collaborating with new generations of talent on revivals like That '90s Show.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Saturday Night Live (SNL) is an American late-night live television sketch comedy and variety show. It features a mix of sketches, musical performances, and celebrity guest appearances. The show has a long history of launching the careers of comedians and actors and is known for its satirical take on current events and pop culture. SNL has a rotating cast of performers and writers who create new content each week for the live broadcast.
- Jan Hooks was an American actress and comedian known for her work on Saturday Night Live from 1986 to 1991. She continued to make appearances on the show until 1994 and went on to have roles in various TV shows and films, including Designing Women and 3rd Rock from the Sun. She began her career with The Groundlings and gained attention in the early 1980s on the HBO comedy series Not Necessarily the News.
- Dana Carvey is an American comedian, actor, and producer best known for his work on Saturday Night Live in the late 1980s and early 1990s. He gained fame for creating memorable characters like Garth Algar from Wayne's World. Carvey's comedic style blends over-the-top humor with relatable elements, contributing to his success in both TV and film. His collaborations with Bonnie and Terry Turner on projects like Wayne's World and Third Rock from the Sun showcase his versatility and comedic talent.
- Phil Hartman was a talented comedian, actor, and writer known for his work on Saturday Night Live (SNL) in the late 80s and early 90s. He was recognized for his versatility and ability to support and enhance the performances of his fellow cast members. Hartman's contributions to SNL and his memorable characters like the Unfrozen Caveman Lawyer and Frankenstein left a lasting impact on the show's history. Tragically, his life was cut short in 1998 in a heartbreaking incident.
- Wayne's World originated as a popular sketch on Saturday Night Live featuring Wayne Campbell and Garth Algar hosting a public-access television show. The sketch evolved into a successful film franchise in the early 1990s, starring Mike Myers and Dana Carvey. The comedic duo's antics, catchphrases, and love for rock music became iconic elements of the sketch and films. The sketches often included humorous segments like the "Extreme Close-Up" and dream sequences.
- Tommy Boy is a 1995 buddy comedy film starring Chris Farley and David Spade. The movie follows the story of a man who learns about friendship and self-worth after a family tragedy. It was directed by Peter Segal and written by Bonnie and Terry Turner. Despite initial mixed reviews, it has since gained a cult following.
- That '70s Show is an American television sitcom that aired from 1998 to 2006, focusing on the lives of six teenage friends in Wisconsin during the 1970s. The show featured a diverse ensemble cast and explored the dynamics of friendship, love, and growing up during that era. It became a popular series known for its humor and nostalgic portrayal of the '70s. Additionally, a sequel series called That '90s Show was released in 2023, focusing on the children of the original characters.
- Kurtwood Smith is an American actor known for his roles in various films and TV shows, including "That '70s Show" where he played the character Red Forman. He has also appeared in science fiction films and television programs. Smith has a background in theater arts and has won awards for his stage performances.
- That '90s Show is a teen sitcom sequel to That '70s Show, set in the summer of 1995 and 1996, focusing on Leia Forman, the daughter of Eric and Donna, as she spends time with her grandparents in Point Place, Wisconsin. The show features new characters alongside familiar faces from the original series, exploring the dynamics of a new generation in the '90s. It premiered on Netflix in 2023 and has been well-received for its nostalgic yet fresh take on the iconic '90s era.
Get access to the context and additional materials
Experiences working as writers on SNL in the late 80s/early 90s
The Turners and their colleagues provide a nostalgic and insightful look into their time as writers on Saturday Night Live (SNL), including the challenges and triumphs that came with writing for a live TV show.
The Turners recall joining the SNL writing staff and developing memorable sketches and characters
Bonnie and Terry Turner were hired as SNL writers after their recommendation and submitted sample sketches
Bonnie and Terry Turner joined the SNL writing team after Jan Hooks, who had already been hired for the show, recommended them. They submitted a couple of sketches to Lorne Michaels' assistant, Evie Murray, in October but didn't hear back until January. Once on board, they became instrumental in developing some of the show's most memorable content.
The Turners collaborated closely with Dana Carvey and Phil Hartman on beloved recurring characters
The Turners collaborated closely with cast members such as Dana Carvey and Phil Hartman, contributing significantly to beloved recurring characters, such as the Church Lady. Dana Carvey recalls Rosie Schuster initially helping him develop the character, which he brought from his stand-up routine, but it was the Turners who later effectively wrote for the Church Lady. They discussed the character's enduring relevance, with Bonnie Turner noting the Church Lady's judgmental nature reflects a timeless aspect of society, even jokingly suggesting she could host her own podcast.
The intense pressure and fast-paced nature of writing for live TV at SNL honed the Turners' skills
The Turners and other cast members reminisce about sketches full of impressions and musical moments. A memorable sketch recalled involved performers doing impressions, chickens running over a hill, and Michael Bolton being convinced to participate in a comedy bit. Collaborations with music director Carol Hardwick and sketches like "Dysfunctional Family Christmas" highlighted the show’s ensemble strength.
The Turn ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
Experiences working as writers on SNL in the late 80s/early 90s
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- While the Turners' collaboration with Dana Carvey and Phil Hartman was significant, it's important to acknowledge that the creation of recurring characters is often a group effort, involving contributions from multiple writers and performers.
- The notion that the pressure of SNL hones skills might not be universally true; some writers or performers may find that such an environment is detrimental to their creativity or well-being.
- The idea that SNL experience sharpens one's skills to be tough, sharp, fast, and clear could imply that other writing environments do not foster these skills, which may not be the case.
- The responsibility of seeing an idea through to completion after a pitch meeting being unique to SNL might not be entirely accurate, as this is a common practice in many creative industries.
- The reminiscence of sketches full of impressions and musical moments may overlook the contributions of unsung staff members, such as the costume and set designers, who also play a crucial role in the s ...
Actionables
- You can sharpen your creative skills by setting a timer for brainstorming sessions, forcing you to generate ideas quickly and efficiently. This mimics the pressure of a live TV writing room, encouraging you to think on your feet and discard less promising ideas. For example, give yourself five minutes to come up with as many ideas for a story, a product, or a project as possible, then spend another ten minutes fleshing out the best one.
- Collaborate with a friend to create a short, comedic skit or scene, focusing on clear and concise storytelling. This exercise will help you understand the value of tight writing and the growth that comes from working with others. You could take turns writing lines for characters or brainstorming the plot, then perform or record the skit to see how it translates from page to performance.
- Reflect on ...
Get access to the context and additional materials
Successful film and TV collaborations, including Wayne's World, Tommy Boy, Third Rock from the Sun, and That '70s Show
The Turner duo, drawing on their experience at "Saturday Night Live" (SNL), has left a significant mark on film and television through a series of successful collaborations known for their humor and relatability.
The Turners' film work expanded on the comedic styles they developed at SNL
The Turners’ tenure at SNL saw them involved in projects like the "Coneheads" movie, which David Spade says is finding renewed popularity on streaming services.
The Wayne's World films allowed the Turners to further explore their knack for crafting over-the-top yet grounded humor
Bonnie Turner described their work on the first "Wayne's World" film as a deeply positive experience, recalling how they crafted over-the-top yet grounded humor that hit the mark with audiences. Terry Turner likened the first movie to Wayne and Garth being given 10 million dollars to make a film, resulting in iconic scenes filled with humor that resonated, such as their absurd delight in a Grey Poupon reference.
Dana Carvey credits the Turners for creating endearing moments, maintaining that Wayne and Garth are portrayed as the happiest people in town. In another instance where Paramount wanted to underline an important scene, Mike Myers addressed it humorously by breaking the fourth wall and speaking directly to the camera, a decision that illustrates the Turners' ability to balance storytelling needs with comedic influences.
Tommy Boy demonstrated the Turners' ability to build a classic buddy comedy around the talents of Chris Farley and David Spade
"Tommie Boy" was another comedic gem influenced by the Turners' work. The film's roots trace back to the personal connections and shared laughter from stories about Chris Farley and Terry Turner's fathers, both of whom had working-class backgrounds. The resultant buddy comedy drew heavily on the real-life dynamic between Farley and Spade, with the film capturing humor that resonated well with audiences through routines like "fat man in a little coat." The Turners' natural talent for crafting relatable comedy is further evidenced by the film's continued popularity on television.
The Turners transitioned to creating their own TV series, drawing on their SNL experiences
Building on their film successes, the Turners carved out a distinct space in television.
Third Rock from the Sun blended quirky sci-fi elements with family sitcom dynamics, becoming a long-running hit
Inspiration for "Third Rock from the Sun" partiall ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
Successful film and TV collaborations, including Wayne's World, Tommy Boy, Third Rock from the Sun, and That '70s Show
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- The Turners, Bonnie and Terry, are a creative duo known for their work on "Saturday Night Live" and their successful collaborations in film and television. They are recognized for their ability to craft humor that resonates with audiences, blending over-the-top elements with grounded storytelling. Their projects like "Wayne's World," "Tommy Boy," "Third Rock from the Sun," and "That '70s Show" showcase their talent for creating relatable characters and nostalgic settings. Their transition from SNL to creating their own TV series demonstrates their versatility and success in the entertainment industry.
- The "Coneheads" movie was based on a popular sketch from "Saturday Night Live" featuring alien characters with cone-shaped heads. It was released in 1993 and starred Dan Aykroyd and Jane Curtin as the main Conehead couple. The film explores the Coneheads' experiences on Earth and their attempts to fit in with human society, blending science fiction elements with comedy. While not a huge box office success, the movie has gained a cult following over the years.
- The Grey Poupon reference in "Wayne's World" is a nod to a famous commercial from the 1980s that humorously portrayed an upscale image. In the film, Wayne and Garth comically use the reference to showcase their absurd delight in a seemingly sophisticated product, adding a layer of humor for the audience familiar with the commercial. This reference became iconic due to its unexpected and exaggerated use in the context of the movie's humor.
- Chris Farley and David Spade had a close friendship both on and off-screen. Their dynamic was characterized by Farley's larger-than-life personality and physical comedy, complemented by Spade's quick wit and sarcasm. This contrast in personalities translated well into their on-screen collaborations, such as in the film "Tommy Boy," where their chemistry shone through in their performances. Farley's energy and spontaneity paired with Spade's dry humor created a memorable duo that resonated with audiences.
- The inspiration behind "Third Rock from the Sun" came from a moving van labeled "the Solomon Brothers," which sparked the idea of aliens living as a human family named the Solomons. John Lithgow was chosen for his comedic ran ...
Counterarguments
- While the Turner duo's work is celebrated for its humor and relatability, some critics might argue that their comedic style has not evolved significantly since their time at SNL, potentially limiting their appeal to newer audiences who prefer different forms of comedy.
- The success of the "Coneheads" movie and its reported renewed popularity on streaming services could be debated, as some might contend that the film has a niche appeal and is not universally regarded as a classic.
- The humor in the Wayne's World films, described as over-the-top yet grounded, may not resonate with all viewers, particularly those who do not appreciate the specific cultural references or comedic style of the early 1990s.
- The claim that Dana Carvey credits the Turners for creating endearing moments in Wayne's World could be seen as subjective, as not all audiences may find the characters equally endearing.
- The balance of storytelling and comedy in Wayne's World, particularly the breaking of the fourth wall, might be criticized by some as gimmicky or as undermining the narrative cohesion of the film.
- "Tommy Boy" is often celebrated for its humor, but some might argue that the film relies too heavily on slapstick and the dynamic between Farley and Spade, which could be seen as a narrow comedic approach.
- The success of "Third Rock from the Sun" is attributed to its originality, but some might argue that the show's humor is overly reliant on the novelty of its premise and that the series did not always deliver consistent co ...
Get access to the context and additional materials
The creative process and differences between writing for TV vs. film
The Turner duo delves into their experiences and the contrasts they encountered in writing for film compared to television, highlighting the varied challenges and levels of control they faced in each medium.
Writing for film presents unique challenges, requiring the Turners to sustain a narrative over a much longer runtime
Terry Turner describes the difficulty of writing for films as a daunting task due to the length and breadth of the narrative required. The duo notes the complexity in developing a feature-length story, particularly in comparison to discrete TV sketches or episodes.
They relate that a film script typically extends to about 120 pages and maintaining momentum throughout the acts to reach a satisfying conclusion is a formidable challenge. Transitioning smoothly from the first act to the second and ultimately concluding the story adds to the intricacy.
The Turners reflect on the experiences during the production of successful projects like "Wayne's World" and "Tommy Boy." They recall the rigorous demands of filming, including going into overtime to perfect scenes such as "Foxy Lady" in "Wayne’s World." These challenges are part of the painstaking process of filmmaking that they had to navigate.
The Turners adjusted to the increased creative control and autonomy of developing their own TV series
The Turners emphasize the autonomy they enjoyed when shaping their TV shows from inception, which allowed them to fully realize their comedic visions. The serialized nature of television granted them the opportunity to delve into character arcs and r ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
The creative process and differences between writing for TV vs. film
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- While the Turners describe the challenge of maintaining momentum in a film's narrative, some might argue that the limited time frame of a film can also intensify the storytelling, forcing writers to be more concise and impactful with their narrative choices.
- The complexity of developing a feature-length story is noted, but others may argue that the episodic nature of TV writing presents its own complexities, such as maintaining consistency and freshness over multiple episodes or seasons.
- The assertion that a film script typically extends to about 120 pages could be countered by pointing out that there is a wide range of script lengths, and some successful films have significantly shorter or longer scripts.
- The Turners' experience of enjoying increased creative control in TV might not be universal, as some TV writers report experiencing significant network or studio interference.
- The idea that serialized television allows for deeper character arcs and relationships could be challenged by those who believe that a well-crafted film can achieve profound depth and character development within its shorter ...
Actionables
- You can explore the differences between film and TV writing by drafting a short script for each format. Start with a five-page script for a short film and a five-page script for a television episode. Focus on creating a complete narrative for the short film and an open-ended storyline for the TV episode that could be expanded in future episodes. This will give you a hands-on understanding of narrative structure and pacing in both mediums.
- Try developing a character bible to deepen your understanding of character arcs in serialized storytelling. Create a detailed profile for a character, including their background, motivations, and potential evolution over several episodes or seasons. This exercise will help you grasp the complexity of character development in a serialized format like television, where characters grow and chan ...
Get access to the context and additional materials
The long-lasting personal and professional partnership between Bonnie and Terry Turner
Bonnie and Terry Turner exemplify a unique blend of personal romance and professional alliance that has endured the passage of time. Their nearly five decades of marriage have been paralleled by a prolific creative collaboration in the entertainment industry.
Bonnie and Terry's marriage parallels the longevity of their creative association
The Turners have been married for nearly 50 years, with their shared experiences informing their work
Terry's jest about "early onset jeopardy for couples like Bonnie and I" and their evident rapport during the podcast demonstrate the depth of the Turner's long-standing relationship. The interactions between Terry and Bonnie reflect an understanding and fluency that can only come with time, hinting at a rich reservoir of shared experiences that have informed their professional ventures.
Their complementary skills and perspectives have enabled them to maintain a productive and fulfilling partnership over decades in the industry
Bonnie and Terry Turner's enduring union and creative synergies enable them to navigate the complexities of the entertainment business.
The Turners' decision to take a break from their hectic careers to focus on personal projects and family life ultimately reinvigorated their creative energies
After a period of renovation and self-reflection, the Turners were eager to return to developing new content, including the recent That '90s Show revival
The Turners discuss becoming "serial renovators" during their break from television, immersing themselves in personal projects like the renovation of an apartment and a house. This period of self-reflection and time away from their hectic career allowed them to rejuvenate and return to the industry with fresh perspectives.
Collaborating with a new generation of actors and writers has allowed the Turners to bring their signature comedic sensibilities to a modern audience
Their return marked by the development of "That '90s Show," the Turners seamlessly t ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
The long-lasting personal and professional partnership between Bonnie and Terry Turner
Additional Materials
Actionables
- Reflect on your own long-term relationships to identify shared goals and interests that could lead to a collaborative project. Whether it's with a spouse, friend, or colleague, discuss how your combined experiences could contribute to a creative or business endeavor. For example, if you and your partner both enjoy cooking, consider starting a recipe blog together that combines your unique culinary traditions.
- Take a planned hiatus from your current routine to explore personal interests or spend time with family, which can lead to a refreshed perspective upon your return. During this break, engage in activities unrelated to your usual work, like taking a class in a subject you've always been curious about or volunteering in your community. This can help you return to your regular activities with renewed energy and possibly new ideas.
- Actively seek out and collaborate with individuals ...
Get access to the context and additional materials
1-Page Summary- Experiences working as writers on SNL in the late 80s/early 90s
- Successful film and TV collaborations, including Wayne's World, Tommy Boy, Third Rock from the Sun, and That '70s Show
- The creative process and differences between writing for TV vs. film
- The long-lasting personal and professional partnership between Bonnie and Terry Turner
Create Summaries for anything on the web
Download the Shortform Chrome extension for your browser
