During a recent appearance on Conan O’Brien‘s talk show, Phil Rosenthal, the creator of the hit sitcom “Everybody Loves Raymond,” shared some fascinating stories and insights. The conversation between Rosenthal and O’Brien was lively and filled with humor, showcasing the warm bond between the two.
Rosenthal started off by mentioning how much he admires O’Brien, calling him “the sweetest sweetie pie in the world.” The two hit it off right away and quickly became good friends. Rosenthal even compared their friendship to the legendary duo of Mel Brooks and Cary Grant.
The conversation took an interesting turn when Rosenthal discussed his upcoming trip to Copenhagen to visit his grandchildren. He praised the city for its idealized society, where taxes are high but citizens receive top-notch services such as education and healthcare. Rosenthal also touched on the concept of socialism, highlighting how certain aspects of it can greatly benefit society.
As the conversation continued, Rosenthal shared an intriguing story about how his son invented a THC-infused cookie mix called “Zazaz.” He praised his son’s genius in creating a recipe that masks the taste of cannabis. Rosenthal even brought along a bag of the cookies to share with O’Brien and the crew, which added a hilarious and light-hearted moment to the discussion.
The talk show then took a sentimental turn as O’Brien asked Rosenthal about the origins of his passion for the arts. Rosenthal credited his parents, Holocaust survivors, for instilling in him a love for opera and art. He recalled how his mother’s fascination with opera shaped his upbringing, while his father had a more simplistic approach to life, focusing on things like fluffy eggs.
Rosenthal also discussed the importance of curiosity and how college played a significant role in honing his love for movies, plays, and music. He emphasized that college teaches individuals how to learn and nurtures their curiosity, ultimately shaping their lifelong passions.
The conversation became even more heartfelt when Rosenthal revealed that his parents’ tombstones had inscriptions reflecting their unique personalities. His father’s tombstone reads, “Are my eggs fluffy?” while his mother’s says, “I’m listening to the opera.” Rosenthal’s ability to find humor even in such sentimental moments showcased his endearing personality.
Towards the end of the interview, Rosenthal expressed his admiration for O’Brien’s show and the role it played in keeping his father’s spirit alive. He mentioned a segment during which guests are asked to share jokes, a tradition that his father would have loved.
Overall, the conversation between Phil Rosenthal and Conan O’Brien on the talk show was engaging, personal, and full of laughter. Rosenthal’s anecdotes and insights provided a refreshing look into his life and passions, while also highlighting the importance of friendship and finding joy in the simple pleasures of life.
