Ep 169: Dan Soder & Shane Gillis
Dive into the camaraderie and quips of "We Might Be Drunk" with hosts Sam Morril and Mark Normand, joined by their guests, comedians Shane Gillis and Dan Soder. This episode peels back the curtain on the world of comedy, sharing laughs, inside stories, and the raw experiences comedians face, both on stage and off. From Shane Gillis's candid recount of his stint on "Saturday Night Live" to the bustling energy of wrestling rings and their larger-than-life characters, this session is stitched with insights and banter that paint a vivid picture of entertainment's various facets.
While touching on the lighter side through amusing personal anecdotes and videos that tickle the funny bone, the group doesn't shy away from the grittier aspects of their crafts. Listen as they trade stories about bombing in front of tough crowds, the unglamorous life of stand-up comedy, and the dark undercurrents of wrestling. "We Might Be Drunk" navigates a journey of humor and reality, inviting the audience to laugh along and perhaps gain a renewed appreciation for the resilience and adaptability of entertainers.
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1-Page Summary
Shane's Experience on SNL
Shane Gillis shares his reflections on his time as a guest on "Saturday Night Live," with insights into his performance, his interaction with cast members, and the atmosphere behind the scenes. Gillis describes the relief he felt after his monologue during the dress rehearsal, despite some of his sketches being cut for time. He enjoyed the process but acknowledges he could have improved in the Forrest Gump sketch. Shane praises the cast members, particularly Mikey Day, for being great to work with. Despite the cast being welcoming, he admits to feeling like the "new guy" and describes the environment as "clicky."
Wrestling
Wrestling's spectacle is a dynamic mix of storylines and physical feats, where the lines between on-stage personas and real-life identities are often blurred. The discussion highlights various wrestlers, such as Rowdy Roddy Piper and Dusty Rhodes, and notes the physical transformations wrestlers undergo, like Hulk Hogan's distinctive look. Wrestling legends, including Kane and the "Million Dollar Man," exemplify the lasting appeal of certain characters, while wrestling writers contribute to the development of compelling narratives. Miss Elizabeth's storied career and personal hardships, including a tragic drug overdose, illustrate the allure and risks of the industry. Wrestling's darker side is addressed, including real injuries and the problematic nature of violence, with nods to the legacies of Macho Man Randy Savage and Bruiser Brody, balanced with an acknowledgment of the industry's impact on its performers' lives.
Bombing Comedy Sets
The tales of comedians Shane Gillis and Mark Normand illustrate the challenges of stand-up comedy in less-than-ideal circumstances. Gillis discusses an uncomfortable performance for NFL legends at a steakhouse where he unsuccessfully tried to engage the audience with jokes and a Trump impression. Mark Normand shares his own difficult gig in Toronto, where a requested routine and a malfunctioning microphone only added to the awkwardness of performing for a small crowd in a restaurant.
Funny Videos
The conversation among hosts including The Producer, Mark Normand, and Shane Gillis centers on humorous videos featuring car mishaps and pranks. They discuss videos causing amusement, such as a roll-over accident during donuts in the desert and a kid inadvertently flipping his car while singing. Normand recounts an incident where his girlfriend caused a car accident by "gunning it" too fast. The group also talks about pranks, with a focus on scaring sleeping passengers into thinking a crash is imminent. Normand shares a personal joke involving startling his wife by hiding behind a door.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Shane Gillis, a comedian, shared his reflections on his guest appearance on "Saturday Night Live" (SNL). He discussed his relief after the dress rehearsal, despite some sketches being cut. Gillis praised the cast members, especially Mikey Day, for their collaboration. He mentioned feeling like the "new guy" and described the environment as "clicky."
- "Clicky" is a term used to describe an environment where certain groups or individuals form exclusive cliques, making it challenging for others to integrate or feel included. In the context of SNL, Shane Gillis felt like an outsider among the established cast members, possibly due to pre-existing relationships or dynamics within the group. This feeling of being on the outside looking in can create a sense of isolation or exclusion, impacting one's experience in a social or professional setting. It suggests a social dynamic where insiders have a strong bond or connection that may be difficult for newcomers to penetrate.
- Hulk Hogan, a legendary professional wrestler, is known for his physical transformation, including his muscular build, handlebar mustache, and signature bald head. His iconic look, characterized by vibrant colors and larger-than-life persona, contributed to his popularity and recognition in the wrestling world. Hogan's appearance was carefully crafted to enhance his on-stage character, emphasizing strength and charisma to captivate audiences. This transformation played a significant role in establishing Hulk Hogan as one of the most recognizable figures in wrestling history.
- Miss Elizabeth, whose real name was Elizabeth Ann Hulette, was a prominent figure in professional wrestling during the 1980s and early 1990s. She was known for her role as the manager of wrestler Randy Savage, adding a touch of elegance and grace to the often intense wrestling world. Miss Elizabeth's personal life was marked by struggles, including substance abuse issues, which tragically led to her untimely death in 2003. Her legacy in wrestling is remembered for her contributions to the storytelling and drama within the sport, as well as the challenges she faced behind the scenes.
- Wrestling's darker side involves real injuries sustained by performers during matches, which can range from minor bruises to serious concussions or broken bones. The scripted violence in wrestling can sometimes blur the lines between entertainment and actual harm, leading to concerns about the well-being of the wrestlers. This aspect of wrestling highlights the physical toll and risks involved in performing high-impact moves and stunts for the audience's entertainment. Wrestlers often push their bodies to the limit, facing long-term health consequences due to the demanding nature of the sport.
- Stand-up comedians like Shane Gillis and Mark Normand face difficulties when performing in challenging settings, such as unresponsive audiences or technical issues like malfunctioning microphones. These obstacles can make it hard for comedians to connect with the crowd and deliver their jokes effectively. The pressure to entertain and elicit laughter in such situations can be intense, leading to uncomfortable performances. Despite the challenges, comedians often use these experiences to learn and grow in their craft.
- The hosts engaged in a conversation about funny videos depicting car accidents and pranks, finding humor in situations like a rollover accident during donuts in the desert and a kid flipping his car while singing. They also discussed pranks involving scaring sleeping passengers with the illusion of an impending crash, along with personal anecdotes like Mark Normand's joke about startling his wife.
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Shane's Experience on SNL
Shane Gillis shares his candid reflections on his time as a guest on "Saturday Night Live," discussing his performance, interaction with cast members, and the overall atmosphere behind the scenes.
His monologue and sketches in dress rehearsal
During dress rehearsal, Shane Gillis felt a sense of relief immediately after completing his monologue. He acknowledged that while some of the sketches—like the one featuring an emu—were cut for time, he found the entire experience enjoyable. Although Shane reflects that his performance in the Forrest Gump sketch left room for improvement, he appreciates the opportunity to act on such a storied platform.
Interacting with the SNL cast members
When it comes to the SNL cast, Shane Gillis has nothing but praise, especially for Mikey Day, whom he highlights as being especially incredible to work with. The interaction with the cast members was an interesting encounter for Gillis; they defied his expectations, displayin ...
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Shane's Experience on SNL
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Shane Gillis was a comedian who was announced as one of the new cast members for the 45th season of "Saturday Night Live" in September 2019. However, he was fired from the show shortly after his casting was announced due to controversial remarks he had made in the past. Gillis' appearance on "Saturday Night Live" as a guest in this context was significant because it marked a return to the show after the initial controversy surrounding his hiring and subsequent firing.
- The SNL cast dynamics can be likened to a close-knit group with established relationships and hierarchies. Newcomers like Shane Gillis may feel like outsiders initially, navigating the existing social structure. De ...
Counterarguments
- While Shane Gillis felt relieved after his monologue, it's possible that the relief was more about getting through a nerve-wracking experience rather than satisfaction with his performance.
- The decision to cut sketches for time is a standard practice on SNL, and it could be argued that it's not necessarily a reflection of the quality of the sketches or performances.
- Although Shane found the experience enjoyable, others may have different experiences on SNL, finding it stressful or less welcoming.
- Acknowledging room for improvement in the Forrest Gump sketch could suggest that Shane may have been underprepared or that the sketch itself wasn't a good fit for his comedic style.
- While Shane appreciated the opportunity to perform on SNL, some might argue that the platform has varying significance for different performers, and not all may view it as favorably.
- Praise for the SNL cast, particularly Mikey Day, is subjective, and other guests might have different opinions about who they enjoyed working with the most.
- The cast's cool demeanor might be seen as unapproachable by some, contrasting with Shane's positive interpretati ...
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Wrestling
The world of wrestling is a blend of athletic spectacle and soap opera drama that combines captivating storylines, memorable characters, and sometimes, serious real-world implications. Renowned for both spectacle and scandal, wrestling creates a unique entertainment realm where performers push their bodies and personas to the limit.
Different wrestlers and storylines
The wrestling industry is rich in diverse characters, each portraying storylines that range from the dramatic to the comedic. The hosts bring up various wrestlers and their alter egos, discussing the often-blurred lines between their on-stage personas and real-life identities. They mention iconic figures like Rowdy Roddy Piper, known both for his wrestling tough guy persona and his comedy work, and Dusty Rhodes, revered not just for his wrestling prowess but basketball talents as well.
Moreover, the hosts reminisce about wrestling legends, noting the physical transformations required to maintain a wrestler’s image, such as Hulk Hogan’s distinctive yet unconventional look. They also reflect on wrestlers like Kane and the "Million Dollar Man," emphasizing the lasting appeal of classic characters like the "crazy cowboy, loner, Charles Bronson" archetype.
The conversation extends to wrestling writers, noting Patrice O'Neal, Dan St. Germain, and Mike Lawrence as contributors to the larger-than-life storylines. These narratives have evolved over the years, becoming glossier, but some fans long for the grittier vibes of earlier eras.
Miss Elizabeth
Miss Elizabeth, notably one of wrestling's most admired female figures, is remembered for her charm in the '80s and her troubled life after, including a relationship with Lex Luger that ended with her tragic drug overdose. The group discerns her attractiveness, reflecting on how time and lifestyle impacted her life and career.
Injuries and other issues for wrestlers
The physicality of wrestling inevitably leads to real injuries, some accidental, others due to the hazardous stunts wrestlers perform. Vince McMahon's infamous quad injury and Shane McMahon's WrestleMania mishap illustrate how even non-wrestlers can get hurt. Furthermore, the group recalls a botched spot with Kurt Angle and Shane McMahon, vividly demonstrating the risks involved in wrestling.
The hosts talk abou ...
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Wrestling
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- In wrestling, performers often develop characters, or personas, that they portray in the ring. These personas can be exaggerated versions of themselves or entirely fictional creations. The blurred lines between the on-stage persona and the real-life identity occur when fans have difficulty distinguishing between the character the wrestler plays on TV and who they are in real life. This blurring can lead to challenges for wrestlers in maintaining their public image and personal life separate.
- Maintaining a wrestler's image often involves physical transformations such as building muscle mass, adopting specific hairstyles, and creating distinctive personas through costumes and makeup. Wrestlers may undergo intense training regimens and dietary changes to achieve the desired look for their character. These transformations are crucial for establishing a wrestler's identity and appeal to the audience. The physical appearance of a wrestler is a significant aspect of their performance and storytelling in the world of professional wrestling.
- Wrestling writers play a crucial role in crafting the storylines and narratives that unfold in the wrestling world. They are responsible for developing the characters, conflicts, and plot twists that engage audiences and keep them invested in the performances. These writers often work closely with the wrestlers to align their on-screen personas with the overarching story arcs. Through their creative input, wrestling writers contribute to the larger-than-life and often dramatic narratives that define the wrestling entertainment industry.
- Fans of wrestling have varied opinions on the evolution of wrestling narratives. Some appreciate the modern glossier storylines, while others long for the grittier vibes of earlier eras. This divergence in preferences reflects the diverse tastes within the wrestling fanbase and the ongoing debate over the direction of storytelling in the industry.
- Miss Elizabeth, whose real name was Elizabeth Ann Hulette, was a prominent figure in professional wrestling during the 1980s. After her wrestling career, she faced personal struggles, including a tumultuous relationship with fellow wrestler Lex Luger. Unfortunately, her life took a tragic turn when she passed away in 2003 due to a drug overdose. This event shed light on the challenges and difficulties that some wrestlers face outside of the ring.
- Vince McMahon suffered a quad injury during a wrestling match, which significantly impacted his mobility and required medical attention. Shane McMahon experienced a mishap during WrestleMania, where he was involved in a stunt that led to an injury, showcasing the physical risks even non-wrestlers face in the industry.
- "Beyond the Mat" is a documentary film directed by Barry W. Blaustein that delves into the world of professional wrestling. It provides a behind-the-scenes look at the lives of wrestlers, showcasing the physical and emotional challenges they face. The documentary explores the personal struggles, sacrifices, and the blurred lines between reality and the characters portrayed in the wrestling industry. "Beyond the Mat" offers viewers a raw and unfiltered perspective on the highs and lows of the wrestling world.
- In the world ...
Counterarguments
- Wrestling's blend of athletic spectacle and soap opera drama can sometimes overshadow the sport's athletic integrity and lead to a perception that it is not a "real" sport.
- The dramatic and comedic storylines in wrestling may not appeal to everyone, with some viewers preferring traditional sports competitions or other forms of entertainment.
- The emphasis on larger-than-life characters and personas can create unrealistic expectations for athletes and entertainers in other fields.
- The physical transformations wrestlers undergo to maintain their image can set unhealthy body image standards and encourage the use of performance-enhancing drugs.
- The contributions of wrestling writers, while significant, may not be as widely recognized or respected outside the wrestling community.
- The evolution of wrestling narratives towards glossier productions may alienate some fans who prefer the authenticity of the sport's earlier days.
- The admiration for figures like Miss Elizabeth can sometimes gloss over the systemic issues within the wrestling industry that contribute to personal struggles.
- The real injuries sustained in wrestling raise questions about the safety protocols and long-term health implications for the performers.
- The portrayal of wrestling as a risky endeavor with botched stunts can deter potential athletes from pursuing a career in the sport.
- The focus on character evolution and memorable moments may detract from the technical skill and athleticism required in wrestling.
- ...
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Bombing Comedy Sets
Comedians Shane Gillis and Mark Normand share tales of their stand-up performances that didn't quite hit the mark, one at a Super Bowl dinner with NFL legends, and the other at a restaurant in Toronto.
Shane bombing a set for NFL players
Shane Gillis recounts a particularly daunting experience performing for a star-studded NFL audience at the Super Bowl. Invited by a Canadian banker who was a fan of both Gillis and Mark Normand, Gillis was introduced as the banker's favorite comedian and was asked to perform at the head of the table in the back room of a steakhouse, sans microphone. Amid the audience were NFL Hall of Famers like Michael Vick, Jerry Rice, Steve Young, Dan Marino, and others. Despite a significant financial incentive, Gillis hesitated to perform as it was not the ideal setup for stand-up.
Once Gillis started his set, he attempted to roast some of the players, including a jab at Jim Kelly that garnered laughter, but his usual routines and a Trump impression fell flat. He noticed that as he continued, audience members such as Jerry Rice lost interest and turned their attention back to their phones. Gillis's set concluded awkwardly, ending with a joke about his friend Nate Marshall that did little to recover the performance.
Mark bombing a set in Toronto
In a related anecdote, the Canad ...
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Bombing Comedy Sets
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Shane Gillis and Mark Normand are stand-up comedians known for their performances in the comedy scene. They have built their careers by performing live comedy shows, appearing on podcasts, and making appearances on television. Both comedians have unique comedic styles and often incorporate observational humor and personal anecdotes into their sets. Gillis and Normand have garnered a following for their comedic talents and have faced various experiences in the world of stand-up comedy.
- Performing at a Super Bowl dinner for NFL players is significant due to the high-profile nature of the event, with NFL legends in attendance. It presents a unique opportunity for comedians to showcase their talent to a prestigious and influential audience. The pressure is heightened as the expectations for entertainment are elevated in such exclusive settings. The experience can be both rewarding and challenging, depending on how well the comedian connects with the audience.
- In stand-up comedy, a microphone is crucial for amplifying the comedian's voice and ensuring the audience can hear the jokes clearly. It helps establish a direct connection between the performer and the audience, enhancing the comedic timing and delivery. Without a microphone, it can be challenging for comedians to project their voices effectively, especially in larger venues or noisy environments. The microphone also serves as a tool for controlling the pace and tone of the performance, allowing comedians to modulate their voices for comedic effect.
- The Canadian banker played a pivotal role in both comedians' performances by inviting them to entertain at different events. He was a fan of Shane Gillis and Mark Normand, arranging for them to perform in front of specific audiences. The banker's connections and preferences influenced the settings and expectations for the comedians' sets.
- The audience's reactions play a crucial role in a comedian's performance. Positive reactions like laughter and engagement can boost a comedian's confidence and energy on stage, enhancing the overall de ...
Counterarguments
...
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Funny Videos
A group of hosts, including The Producer, Mark Normand, and Shane Gillis, discuss a variety of funny videos revolving around car-related mishaps and pranks.
Car crashes and pranks
Car crashes as humor
The conversation starts with The Producer mentioning a video of someone named Shaob rolling his truck while doing donuts in the desert. Similarly, Shane Gillis talks about a video that he finds humorous, where a kid is singing in his car but is suddenly interrupted when he flips the vehicle. Parallel to these anecdotes, Mark Normand talks about his own experience in a car that flipped after his girlfriend was encouraged to "gun it" on a turn, leading to them flipping into a ditch.
Scaring someone as a prank
The group also delves into discussing practical jokes that play on the element of surprise. For instance, they talk about videos where people pretend they're about to ...
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Funny Videos
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- The funny videos being discussed in the text involve car-related mishaps and pranks that are meant to evoke humor through unexpected or surprising situations, such as car crashes during stunts or pranks involving scaring someone. The hosts share anecdotes about incidents where individuals encounter mishaps while driving or engage in practical jokes that involve startling others for comedic effect. These videos often highlight the element of surprise or the unexpected outcomes of certain actions, aiming to entertain viewers through the humor found in these unconventional situations. The hosts, including The Producer, Mark Normand, and Shane Gillis, recount personal experiences or share their perspectives on humorous videos that involve car-related incidents and pranks, emphasizing the comedic value derived from unexpected twists and turns in these scenarios.
- The Producer, Mark Normand, and Shane Gillis are individuals involved in the discussion of funny videos related to car mishaps and pranks. The Producer is one of the hosts leading the conversation. Mark Normand and Shane Gillis are also hosts contributing their own perspectives and experiences to the discussion.
- The h ...
Counterarguments
- The humor in car crash videos can be seen as insensitive, as real-life car accidents often result in serious injuries or fatalities.
- Finding humor in someone flipping their car while singing might be considered in poor taste, as it trivializes the potential dangers and consequences of distracted driving.
- Sharing personal experiences of car accidents as humorous anecdotes could be seen as downplaying the seriousness of road safety and the impact of such events on individuals involved.
- Practical jokes that involve scaring someone by pretending to cras ...
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