During a recent episode of Conan O’Brien‘s talk show, popular celebrities Bill Hader and Ted Danson swapped stories about their experiences in the entertainment industry. The conversation flowed freely as the two actors exchanged anecdotes and humorous moments from their careers.
Hader, in particular, discussed how he prepared for his appearance on the show by watching previous interviews and podcasts featuring Conan O’Brien and other funny guests. He described the experience as being like a “gunfight at the O.K. Corral with funny bullets” and expressed his admiration for the fast-paced banter and wit displayed on the show.
The conversation took an interesting turn when they discussed their shared experiences with anxiety attacks. Hader mentioned feeling a kindred spirit with O’Brien, knowing that he also dealt with similar struggles. They both acknowledged the challenges of anxiety and the difficulty of finding relatable experiences in a world that often exaggerates or oversimplifies these issues.
Despite their personal battles, both actors demonstrated their ability to laugh and be silly, using humor as a coping mechanism. Hader revealed that his laughter often masked his internal struggles, admitting that he sometimes laughed excessively on talk shows as a way to release nervous energy. He described it as the “death laugh,” where he would outwardly appear happy and engaged while internally wanting to be anywhere but on stage.
The conversation then transitioned to a discussion about their collaborations with fellow actor and comedian Will Forte. Hader and Danson reminisced about their experiences working with Forte and his unique comedic style. They recalled a sketch called “Fartface,” which initially bombed during a dress rehearsal on “Saturday Night Live.” However, to their surprise, “Fartface” was well-received by the audience during the live show, becoming one of the highest-rated episodes in the history of “SNL.”
Danson also praised Forte’s fearlessness and originality, noting that his commitment to his characters could sometimes make others uncomfortable. They shared stories of Forte’s audacious sketches, which pushed boundaries and left audiences either gasping in shock or in fits of laughter.
The conversation then shifted to Hader’s own talents as a performer and artist. Danson expressed his admiration for Hader’s ability to fully embody his characters, noting that there is never a glimpse of self-awareness or a sense of trying to be funny. He commended Hader for seamlessly transitioning between sketch comedy and more serious roles, such as his work in the television series “Barry.”
Throughout the interview, Hader’s journey to becoming a performer was discussed. Hader initially came to Los Angeles to pursue filmmaking but found his passion for sketch comedy and improv through his involvement with Second City LA. After auditioning and eventually joining the cast of “Saturday Night Live,” Hader found himself among a talented group of individuals who supported each other and set aside competitiveness for the sake of humor.
Hader reflected on the supportive environment at “SNL” and how everyone understood that not every sketch would make it to air. He acknowledged that even the most seasoned performers, like Amy Poehler, experienced disappointment when their sketches were cut. However, the overall atmosphere emphasized collaboration and the pursuit of genuine laughter, rather than personal achievements.
In conclusion, the conversation between Bill Hader and Ted Danson on Conan O’Brien‘s talk show proved to be an engaging and lively discussion about their experiences in the entertainment industry. Their candid conversations about anxiety, collaboration with fellow actors, and the challenges of comedy shed light on the behind-the-scenes aspects of their professions. The interview served as a reminder that even in a competitive industry, supportive relationships and a sincere dedication to humor can make all the difference.
