E519 Pauly Shore
In this episode of This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von, comedian Pauly Shore shares insights rooted in his family's iconic comedy venue, The Comedy Store. He reflects on his own meteoric rise to fame in the 1990s and how the entertainment industry has evolved, with social media and new platforms reshaping what it means to be a "star."
The conversation delves into the emotional toll that comedy can take, touching on the loneliness and mental health struggles that many comedians face. Additionally, Shore and Von discuss how Hollywood has changed post-COVID, as well as emerging business models like streaming and virtual productions that are transforming the entertainment landscape.
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1-Page Summary
The Comedy Store and its Iconic History
Pauly Shore has a deep personal connection to The Comedy Store, the iconic comedy venue owned by his parents, Mitzi and Sammy Shore. He reminisces about growing up around the atmosphere of boundless talent and energy in its prime eras. Mitzi nurtured comedians, creating an environment where they could thrive, recalls Pauly. He recounts comedy legends like Jim Carrey and Eddie Murphy gracing the stage amid an vibrant, drug-fueled scene. Pauly emphasizes preserving The Comedy Store's legacy and spirit established by his mother.
The Evolution of Fame
Pauly Shore reflects on his meteoric rise to fame in the 1990s, being discovered by MTV and starring in hit films. He describes his high-energy concerts with opening bands and comedic antics. However, Shore notes how celebrity has transformed drastically with social media and new platforms democratizing fame, making it easier for a wider range of performers to find success today compared to the past era of a few "big stars."
The Emotional Toll of Comedy
Pauly and Theo Von delve into the personal challenges of fame, like difficulty forming authentic bonds due to public personas. They underscore the loneliness experienced by celebrities. Von posits that pursuing popularity ironically prevents truly understanding oneself. The comedians appreciate the emotional support and camaraderie within their community. They mourn tragic losses highlighting mental health struggles exacerbated by the high-pressure comedy world. Pauly emphasizes focusing on gratitude to counteract this tendency.
The Shifting Entertainment Landscape
Both comedians observe Hollywood becoming quieter and less vibrant post-COVID, with some exceptions. They discuss shifting business models like the growth of streaming, virtual productions, and platforms like OnlyFans offering new paths to success. Theo notes the rise of agencies representing social media talent, signaling broader industry transformations requiring adaptation from performers.
1-Page Summary
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Counterarguments
- While Mitzi Shore is celebrated for nurturing comedians, it could be argued that the environment at The Comedy Store was not solely her creation but a product of the collective efforts of many individuals, including the comedians themselves and other staff members.
- The idea that The Comedy Store's legacy and spirit need preserving might be challenged by the notion that all institutions must evolve with time, and clinging too tightly to the past could hinder progress.
- Pauly Shore's reflection on his rise to fame in the 1990s might overlook the experiences of other artists from that era who did not find success as easily or who faced different challenges in the industry.
- The democratization of fame through social media could be critiqued for potentially lowering the quality of celebrity by making it more about popularity than talent.
- The emotional toll of comedy and the loneliness it can bring might be countered by pointing out that such experiences are not unique to comedy but are common in many high-pressure careers.
- The argument that pursuing popularity prevents self-understanding could be met with the counterpoint that for some individuals, the pursuit of fame and self-reflection are not mutually exclusive.
- The notion that Hollywood is becoming quieter post-COVID could be seen as a temporary lull rather than a permanent change, as the industry has historically shown resilience and the ability to bounce back.
- The rise of streaming and virtual productions as a shift in the entertainment industry might be critiqued for potentially creating a divide between those who can afford high-quality production and those who cannot, possibly leading to a less diverse range of content.
- Platforms like OnlyFans offering new paths to success could be criticized for potentially commodifying personal and intimate aspects of individuals' lives in ways that could have long-term personal and societal consequences.
- The representation of social media talent by agencies could be seen as the commercialization of social media, which might detract from the authenticity that made these platforms appealing in the first place.
Actionables
- Create a gratitude journal to foster a positive mindset by writing down three things you're thankful for each day, which can help counteract feelings of loneliness or dissatisfaction that might arise from comparing yourself to others.
- Keeping a gratitude journal is a simple yet powerful tool. It shifts your focus from what you lack to what you have, which can improve mental health and overall happiness. For example, if you're feeling down about not having a large social media following, jotting down that you're grateful for a supportive friend or a skill you're developing can provide perspective and contentment.
- Explore local open mic nights to appreciate and support live comedy, which can help you understand the value of community and camaraderie among performers.
- Attending open mic nights gives you a taste of the raw, unfiltered environment where comedians hone their craft. You'll witness firsthand the support that performers give each other, which can inspire you to foster similar supportive relationships in your own life. Plus, you might find that laughing along with a live audience is a powerful way to feel connected and uplifted.
- Use social media mindfully by setting specific times for consumption and content creation, focusing on authentic self-expression rather than chasing popularity.
- Mindful use of social media involves being intentional with your time and the content you consume and create. For instance, allocate 30 minutes in the morning to catch up on posts and another 30 minutes in the evening to share something meaningful about your day. This approach can help you stay true to yourself and avoid the pitfalls of seeking validation through likes and follows.
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The Comedy Store and its history
Pauly Shore, born and brought up in the entertainment heartland of LA, has a deep personal connection to The Comedy Store, a mecca of comedy owned by his parents, Mitzi and Sammy Shore. He shares vivid memories and insights into this iconic venue's vibrant history and its future.
Pauly Shore grew up around the Comedy Store, which was owned by his parents, Sammy and Mitzi Shore
From a very young age, Pauly Shore was intimately familiar with the electrifying environment of The Comedy Store. He fondly likens the venue to a popcorn machine, overflowing with talent and energy in the peak eras of the '70s, '80s, and '90s. Shore reminisces about the hub of comedians that was The Comedy Store, a place his father Sammy needed to workshop his stand-up material.
Mitzi Shore was not just a club owner but a nurturer of comedic talent, creating an atmosphere that allowed artists to thrive. Despite her demanding role at the venue, Shore remembers her as a great mother. He describes a poignant scene where someone named Tommy, whom Mitzi trusted deeply, would help her ascend the stairs of The Comedy Store, illustrating the personal touches that made the place more than just a business.
The Comedy Store has become an iconic, historical landmark in Hollywood
Pauly Shore talks about the iconic stature of The Comedy Store today, affirming its status as an indelible piece of Hollywood's history and stating clear intentions that it should not be sold. He touches on discussions about integrating the venue into broader developments like the construction of a hotel while preser ...
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The Comedy Store and its history
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Actionables
- Explore your family's entrepreneurial history by creating a visual timeline that includes key milestones, similar to how The Comedy Store was significant in Pauly Shore's life. Use online tools or a simple poster board to map out when and how your relatives started businesses or pursued their passions, and reflect on how these ventures have influenced your own aspirations and values.
- Honor the legacy of a local landmark by researching its history and sharing stories on social media. Just as The Comedy Store is an iconic part of Hollywood's history, find a place in your community with a rich past and gather anecdotes, old photos, and interesting facts. Post your findings online to raise awareness and appreciation for the site's historical significance.
- Foster a creative ...
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The evolution of fame and the entertainment industry
As Pauly Shore reminisces about his ascent in the 1990s, he provides insight into how fame and the entertainment industry have transformed over the decades.
Pauly reflects on his own rise to fame in the 1990s, when he was one of the biggest stars in the world
Pauly attributes his big break to being discovered by MTV, which led to opportunities like working with Disney and starring in popular films like Encino Man and Son-in-Law
Pauly Shore credits his significant break in show business to being discovered by MTV, a platform that shot his show "Totally Pauly" six days a week, which seemed like a "natural, like this kind of like happy accident." This exposure led to starring roles in popular movies such as "Encino Man" and "Son-in-Law," and brought him fame around the world.
Pauly describes the high-energy, festival-style concerts he used to perform, complete with opening bands and his own comedic stage antics
During his high-energy, festival-style concerts, Pauly Shore details that there were no seats—just "festival seating"—and he had bands like the Spin Doctors open for him. His act involved performing comedy for 45 minutes, stage diving, and then continuing the performance, and even singing his hit song "Lisa Lisa, the one I adore" with bands rejoining him onstage at the end of his shows.
The entertainment landscape has shifted dramatically since Pauly's heyday, with the rise of social media, streaming, and a more fragmented celebrity culture
Pauly observes that it's now easier for a wider range of comedians and performers to build a following and find success, unlike the more limited number of "big stars" in the past
Pauly Shore discusses how the immediate nature of audience feedback has changed the entertainment environment. Today, feedback through social media is instantaneous, contrasting the past where feedback was less immediate. Reflecting on his own experiences, he implies that the 1990s were the tail end of an era of having more consolidated forms ...
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The evolution of fame and the entertainment industry
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Clarifications
- Pauly Shore rose to fame in the 1990s through his work on MTV, particularly with his show "Totally Pauly," which showcased his comedic talents. This exposure led to starring roles in popular films like "Encino Man" and "Son-in-Law," solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry during that era. Shore's energetic stage performances and unique comedic style further contributed to his popularity and recognition as one of the biggest stars of the time. His career trajectory in the 1990s reflected a blend of traditional media success and emerging opportunities in the evolving entertainment landscape of that decade.
- "Festival seating" at concerts typically means there are no assigned seats; instead, attendees can stand or sit wherever they like on a first-come, first-served basis. This setup is common in general admission areas where concertgoers can move around freely during the show. It often creates a more dynamic and energetic atmosphere compared to seated concerts. This style is popular at music festivals and rock concerts.
- In the 1990s, fame was more centralized around a select group of "big stars," with traditional media like TV and magazines playing a significant role in shaping celebrity culture. Today, social media and streaming platforms have democratized fame, allowing a wider range of individuals to gain recognition and build followings. The immediate feedback loop of social media has transformed how entertainers engage with their audiences, contrasting the slower and more controlled feedback mechanisms of the past. The nature of celeb ...
Counterarguments
- While Pauly Shore attributes his rise to fame to MTV and subsequent opportunities, one could argue that individual talent, adaptability, and networking play equally significant roles in a celebrity's success.
- The high-energy, festival-style concerts that Pauly describes were a hallmark of the era, but it could be argued that such events still exist today, albeit in different forms or with different cultural expressions.
- The idea that the entertainment landscape has become more fragmented with the rise of social media and streaming could be countered by pointing out that these platforms have also created new types of community and global stars, suggesting a different kind of consolidation rather than just fragmentation.
- The assertion that it's now easier for performers to build a following might be challenged by noting the oversaturation of the market, making it difficult for new talent to stand out without significant marketing or a unique hook.
- The democratization of fame through platforms like OnlyFans and social media could be critiqued by discussing th ...
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The personal and emotional experiences of being a comedian
Pauly Shore and Theo Von dive deep into the complexities of personal relationships and mental health, all within the often glamorous but isolating spotlight of comedy fame.
Pauly and Theo discuss the challenges of letting love and connection into their lives, given the inherent barriers that come with fame and public personas
Both comedians share their hardships when it comes to genuine romantic engagement due to their public status as entertainers. Pauly Shore confesses that he is single, in part, because women seem more infatuated with his characters from films like "Biodome," rather than who he is as a person. Similarly, Theo Von grapples with skepticism and distrust when he hears declarations of love, questioning whether these are directed towards him as a person or his celebrity persona.
As the initial allure of celebrity wanes, both seek a real connection that transcends their public image – simple companionship and experiences such as getting sushi. Theo posits that the pursuit of popularity might ironically be the very wall that prevents one from fully revealing or even understanding their true self, making it harder to forge real bonds.
Their discussions shed light on the loneliness experienced by public figures. Pauly recalls an incident where a woman wished to be intimate with him only if he donned his character garb from "Son-in-Law," underscoring the challenge of his identity being conflated with the characters he portrays. This in turn affects the authenticity of connections, possibly leading to a pervasive distrust in others’ motives, as echoed by Theo Von.
Emotional Support and Comradery Among Comedians
Their tour dynamics often involve bringing along fellow comedians, not solely for performance purposes, but also to act as a support network for each other. Pauly speaks highly of this camaraderie, giving weight to the emotional backing it provides over any performing role. He paints a picture of comedians as individuals with "broken wings," sharing a collective emotional struggle that unites them, enveloping them in a familial bond that offers solace and unde ...
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The personal and emotional experiences of being a comedian
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Counterarguments
- While Pauly Shore and Theo Von discuss the challenges of fame in forming genuine connections, it could be argued that public figures also have unique opportunities to meet a diverse range of people, which could potentially lead to meaningful relationships.
- The idea that the pursuit of popularity hinders real bonds might be countered by the notion that some individuals are able to maintain a clear distinction between their public persona and private life, allowing them to form authentic relationships.
- The loneliness experienced by public figures is not exclusive to them; many people from various walks of life struggle with loneliness and identity, regardless of their fame.
- The camaraderie among comedians is highlighted, but it's worth noting that such support networks are not exclusive to the comedy industry and can be found in many other professions.
- The high-stress nature of the comedy world is emphasized, but one co ...
Actionables
- You can deepen your personal relationships by initiating a "No Fame" night with friends, where discussions about work and public life are off-limits, focusing instead on personal growth, hobbies, or shared interests. This creates a space where you and your friends can connect on a more personal level, without the influence of external status or fame. For example, host a dinner party where the rule is to talk about anything but work, allowing everyone to share stories and aspects of their lives that usually don't come up in the limelight.
- Start a gratitude journal where you write down three unique things you're grateful for each day, focusing on personal achievements or moments rather than professional success. This practice can shift your perspective from what's lacking to what's abundant in your life, potentially reducing feelings of loneliness or dissatisfaction. For instance, you might note down a pleasant conversation with a neighbor, the joy of reading a good book, or the comfort of your fa ...
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The current state of the comedy and entertainment landscape
Pauly Shore and Theo Von remark on significant shifts in the once vibrant comedy and entertainment scene, presenting a nuanced perspective on current trends and their impact on Hollywood.
Pauly and Theo observe that the once-vibrant Hollywood and entertainment scene has become more subdued and less joyful in recent years
Shore and Von both observe a palpable quietness compared to past times. Shore remarks on the lack of joy in Hollywood, confirming that it has gotten quieter since COVID-19, suggesting that the entertainment scene has significantly shifted post-pandemic. Despite this overall downturn in mood, Shore notes areas like Silver Lake, Echo Park, and Los Feliz in East Hollywood are still fun, highlighting these neighborhoods as exceptions where vibrancy persists.
Pauly and Theo discuss the shifting business models and production trends in the industry, with the growth of streaming, virtual content, and new platforms like OnlyFans
They articulate the evolution in the paths to success and fame in the industry. Shore mentions the changing dynamics for women in entertainment, who no longer rely exclusively on traditional print media for recognition, instead turning to platforms like OnlyFans for success and monetary gain.
Additionally, Shore discusses major changes in the business, pointing out that high-profile figures like Mark Wahlberg are moving to places like Las Vegas for new studio ventures, and many industry professionals now prefer remote work and virtual meetings over traditional, in-person engagements. ...
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The current state of the comedy and entertainment landscape
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Pauly Shore and Theo Von discuss the subdued atmosphere in Hollywood post-pandemic, noting exceptions like Silver Lake and Echo Park. They highlight shifts in business models, mentioning the rise of platforms like OnlyFans and the move towards remote work. Von points out the emergence of new talent agencies focusing on social media discoveries, indicating a change in the industry's traditional structure. They emphasize the importance of adaptation for comedians and performers in the evolving entertainment landscape.
- Silver Lake, Echo Park, and Los Feliz are neighborhoods in East Hollywood known for their vibrant cultural scenes, diverse communities, and artistic influences. These areas have historically been hubs for creativity, attracting artists, musicians, and filmmakers. They are characterized by their trendy cafes, indie shops, and unique architecture, making them popular destinations for residents and visitors seeking a bohemian atmosphere. These neighborhoods have played a significant role in shaping the entertainment landscape of Los Angeles, often serving as settings for films, TV shows, and music videos.
- The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the entertainment industry by causing disruptions in film and television production, leading to delays in releases and cancellations of events. The closure of theaters and venues forced a shift towards digital platforms for content distribution, accelerating the growth of streaming services. Many industry professionals adapted to remote work and virtual meetings to continue operations amidst lockdowns and social distancing measures.
- OnlyFans is a platform where creators can share exclusive content with subscribers for a fee, often used for adult content but also expanding to other genres like comedy. It has provided an alternative revenue stream for entertainers, allowing them to directly monetize their content and engage with fans. The platform has enabled individuals, including women in entertainment, to gain recognition and financial success outside of traditional media channels. OnlyFans represents a shift in how entertainers can build their brand and generate income, offering more autonomy and control over their content and earnings.
- Mark Wahlberg's move to places like Las Vegas for new studio ventures could be influenced by factors such as tax incentives, lower production costs, or a desire to tap into emerging entertainment markets outside of traditional hubs like Hollywood. Las Vegas, known for its entertainment industry and business-friendly environment, may offer opportunities for Wahlberg to explore new ventures and expand his creative endeavors beyond the confines of traditional studio settings. Additionally, the shift to locations like Las Vegas could also be a strategic move to capitalize on the growing trend of remote work and virtual productions in the entertainment industry.
- The entertainment industry has seen a notable shift towards remote work and virtual meetings, with professionals opting for on ...
Counterarguments
- While Shore and Von note a subdued Hollywood post-pandemic, it could be argued that the industry is experiencing a resurgence as people seek out entertainment and escapism in the aftermath of global crises.
- The vibrancy in areas like Silver Lake, Echo Park, and Los Feliz might not be exceptions but rather indicators of a broader, albeit more localized, cultural renaissance in entertainment.
- The shift to streaming and virtual content could be seen as an expansion of opportunities rather than a shift away from traditional media, with many artists and creators finding new audiences and innovative ways to engage with fans.
- Platforms like OnlyFans may offer new avenues for success, but they also raise questions about the sustainability of such platforms and the long-term implications for artists' personal and professional lives.
- The movement of high-profile figures to places like Las Vegas could be interpreted not as a departure from Hollywood but as a diversification of entertainment hubs across the U.S.
- The preference for remote work and virtual meetings might not be universally preferred within the industry; some professionals may still value in-person collaboration and the creative synergy it can foster.
- While new agencies are representing talent from social media, traditional agencies stil ...
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