Da'Vine Joy Randolph | Good Hang with Amy Poehler

Hello everyone. Welcome to another. episode of Good Hang. We are going to. talk today to Davine Joy Randolph and I. am really, really excited. I'm such a. fan of her work and we are going to get. into it today. We're going to talk about. opera. We're going to talk about musical. theater. We're going to talk about how. to do a good Boston accent. And we're. going to hear how Aluccino made her cry. in a good way. So, uh, it's a great. convo. and I can't wait to get started.

But before we do, we always talk to. somebody who knows our guest and has a. question to ask our guest. And joining. me today is a director of the film. Eternity. Um, a film that Dave Mine is. in. And uh I I believe uh he is uh. calling from uh another country. He's. zooming from another country, another. time zone. So let's see. Uh it's David. Fra joining us. David, can you hear us?

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want your summer vacation to feel like a. vacation, it matters where you stay. Book now at hilton.com. Hilton for the. stay. [music and singing]. >> Hello. >> Hi. How are you? >> Hi. So nice to meet you. >> So good to meet you. >> We're talking to Davine today and um you. know it's it's it's it's.

fun because Davine I have to say is one. of I I really don't know very much about. her. We've never met and we have. >> friends in common and people in common. and but I've only kind of watched her as. a fan and watched her stuff. Um. >> so I'm interested to get to know her. today and to talk about her today. But. um before we do that, I just wanted to. say congratulations on your film and. >> um it's you know I'm always looking for. um comedy in theaters and in film. It's.

been not to be very honest like not. always the easiest genre the last decade. to get good things out in the world. And. comedy is like music. It's so. subjective. It's people have big strong. opinions about it. Um, how where did you. where were your comedic influences like. when you started writing and and. directing? Um, who were you looking to. at the time? >> I grew up loving uh like Billy Wilder. was my idol. So, >> um, and then like I mean 30 Rock and and.

Parks and Wreck and those great iconic. kind of TV comedies were were where. where you get such a high joke rate per. minute which I think we don't get very. often. So, I always looked to that. I. think with Eternity, we wanted to make. sure it was like laden down with jokes, just like joke after joke after joke. Um, because I kind of I miss really hard. comedy. And I think that like segueing. to Devine and my incredible cast, that. just goes, you can write as good a. script as you want, but that's the. delivery. That's the actors. And.

>> and you know, some [snorts] some of the. best dramatic actors in the world cannot. land a joke. And I think that holy. grail, >> they better not. I mean, God is fair. You can't [laughter] do. >> you can't do it all. Before we get to. Dave, one last question and feel we can. always if it's too personal of course we. can lose it but um you shared a really. um personal and intense story about your. health journey after writing this film. that feels like it is in completely. attached to and tied to the bigger idea. that you're writing about.

>> Yeah. So in the summer like about six. months ago I had really bad headaches. which I had during the production as. well like I would work really hard and. then collapse on the weekends. Um, but I. got they found a an apples-ized tumor in. my head uh that had kind of kind of. broken through my brain and and. surrounded my optic nerves and um. corroted arteries and like it was it was. a really surreal devastating thing to go. through. And um at the start they didn't.

know if it was going to be kind of. operable or or malignant or and my my. immediate thoughts were like I'm not. going to get to see eternity released. which is such a vain thing to say. [laughter] but you know after so many. years but um you know the the I I've had. incredible care and doctors and. incredible family and and my partner and. it's you know slowly it's gotten better. and I've had a great great outcome from. the surgery and I will Having gone. through that in the last few months.

after making a film set in the. afterlife, I felt quite contented like I. felt. I felt I was looking at debt with a lot. more curiosity than fear. I think had. you know I think I would have been much. more afraid had it happened before the. film. And I think just the experience of. making the film was so fun and joyous. And I think the the the things we spoke. about with with Devon and the cast and. and my Patton just like as well like.

even just not just the work you want to. do but the people you want to spend your. time with and the people you want to. work with and working with good people, kind people, >> uh people that share your kind of. passions. I think that. >> that becomes much more important because. you don't really have time for. Um, I also don't have time for. either. >> Yeah. Yeah. are. They're the worst. >> So, um, tell me about working with. Davine. >> What how does she like to work? Cuz I. we're talking to her today and she's.

quite studied. I mean, she has done a. ton of she's like a student in voice and. acting. She has really knows her stuff. >> Yeah, she's she's she's extraordinary. I. think um I think what really strike like. me firstly I was we were desperate to. work with her and I really wanted her. for the role and then she won her Oscar. and I was really bummed because I. thought now I won't get to work with her. but thankfully she still wanted to do. the film. Um but yeah she's she's had. the most incredibly varied career from.

opera to theater to to then finding. acting and and it it does feel like she. can do anything. I mean, I you know, I. we knew even though The Holdover is such. a dramatic role, we knew she'd be really. funny, but like she might be the most. naturally gifted comedian I've ever. worked with. She's extraordinary and it. does feel effortless to her. Like, it. doesn't feel like she has like. annoyingly she seems to not have any of. the um anguish and anxiety that most.

comedians I know have. Like, she just. she just is brilliant. And I think she. maybe kind of slightly knows she's. brilliant. Yes. >> Yeah, she's she's extraordinary. She has. she [snorts] comes to set and comes to. everything with such a weird level of. calm. She's completely unflapable, which. I like. She could come like the set. could be on fire and she'll just be. like, "Okay, hey Dave, what's going on? Are we going to evacuate or are we going. to shoot?" Like she's just.

extraordinary. Like. >> I want to talk to her about that. That's. really interesting. like nothing seems. to either either she hides it very well. or nothing phases her or um which I find. fascinating because I'm phased by most. things. Um yeah, she's she is um like. she can kind of she's one of those. people that I would put no limits on. I. think she can do I think she can do. anything as as a performer, as an actor, as as a comedian. Um, yeah, it's kind of.

almost infuriating how good she is. >> to be that good of an actor and to also. be funny is it's not nice. It's not nice. for the rest of everybody, you know, like. >> it's not fair. Um, >> so I I would love to ask you as I as I. have Davine here today, is there a. question you think I should ask her? um. big or small um specific or. you know um existential something that. you a story that you think she might. want to tell or um something that you.

have yet to know about her that you'd. like to have answered. >> I mean I really want to know two things. is one is where did the comp the calm. she has come from because it's so it's. it's so admirable to me and I I I I. don't I don't think you can be born with. that. It's something else. And the other. thing is because she's had such a varied. career is when did she know how funny. she was? Like when did she discover she. was a comedian because it's not like she. didn't do sketch comedy really or.

standup like when did she know she had. that gift? Was that later in life that. she was like, "Oh, I'm really funny. Maybe I'll try that." So they're the two. things I'd love to know because I. haven't got that out of her. >> Great questions both. I love to ask this. to people when I'm on Zoom with them and. they have books behind them. Will you. just randomly pick one book up out from. behind you. >> and tell us what the title is? >> What the title is? >> Yeah. >> Um Oh, I'm gonna pick this one because.

my uh my sister-in-law wrote it. The. Boldness of Betty. >> Oh, The Boldness of Betty. >> It's an amazing series of kind of YA. books. They're beautiful. >> Always looking for a new book. Thank you. for that, Wreck. >> Yeah. And also, I just got to check to. make sure those books are real. >> No, I actually can't read. Uh, [laughter]. >> yeah, >> I can tell. It's just the covers and the. inside. Yeah. [laughter] Yeah.

>> Yeah. Perfect. Perfect. Thank you so. much, David. Such a pleasure talking to. you. Thanks for your time. >> Thank you so much. Have a lovely day. >> You, too. Bye-bye. >> This episode is brought to you by. Subaru. For me, going the extra mile. means taking the long way home. If. you're going to grab snacks and the. 10-minute trip turns into a two-hour. journey, suddenly you're on a new. street, then your ice cream is melted in. the back and you know we've solved the. meaning of life. But luckily, in my. Subaru Hybrid, that's right, I have one.

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guest ordered food and is expecting a. delivery to arrive mid podcast record. Lesson learned. Yeah, checking first is. smart. So check All State first for a. quote that could save you hundreds. You're in good hands with All State. Potential savings vary subject to terms, conditions, and availability. All State. North American Insurance Company and. affiliates, Northbrook, Illinois. >> Davine, we're talking about sparkling. water. We're talking about water. And. you love sparkling water. >> I love sparkling water. >> Me, too. And why can't we drink it.

anymore? >> You said we can't drink it anymore. >> My doctor said I'm on the verge of. having a hernia. >> because of so much of the like. >> bubbles and the the alkaline salt and. stuff in it. But you said something that. you said that's my coffee. >> That is my coffee in the morning. >> It's my That's my cocktail. That's my. cocktail. Like a. >> when you open up the bottle and it's. like. >> I know. it does something lime in there. >> And you know it's fascinating how in. Europe they have percentages.

>> of fists. Don't even get me started. >> Well, so how do you feel about your. sparkling water? is I get the big. bottles, but then I don't you only drink. like half of it and then it's done. It's. dead. >> Mhm. >> A dead sparkling water. >> So, what I do is I pour it in a fancy. like wine glass. So, that's funny that. you say cocktails. I immediately twist. it up. >> Cover it up real. [laughter]. like almost about to cut my fingers.

Super tight. Put that bad boy back in. the fridge. >> I put my Selzer waters in a wine cooler. chest. I have a wine cooler chest. This. is how much I revere. >> Me too. I I completely completely to me. in the same way one would be like, "Oh. no, I got to make sure that there's wine. in my fridge." I panic if there's not a. a sparkling water situation in my. fridge. >> I know. And some brands are hard to get. the boxes of. >> Right. >> I have fought many clerks. in Bristol Farms cuz they're like, "No,

no, ma'am. You can't take that whole. box." And I'm like, "Then you shouldn't. have had it out here." Also, have you. ever been real bougie and ordered it. from uh oh, I don't know, like a. delivery service and then all a sudden. you get the heaviest box that you got to. carry in your house and you're it's. filled with sparkling water. >> What pisses me off? >> That's success is if you're on Postmates. and you tell them to get the water for. you and you want the 33.5 fluid ounces. >> and they'll show up with a 22 or a 16.

And I'm like, you should have called me. >> cuz then I would have said, >> yeah, >> don't get them. Mhm. >> Or how many of the 33 did you have? >> Four. Okay, just get those and then go. to the next Bristol Farms and get the. other ones. >> I found out recently you can't get light. bulbs delivered anymore. >> Why? >> They won't take the risk. Like they're. like [laughter]. >> they're like it's going to show. They're. like we it's going to break. And it's. like what. >> what. >> what do you mean? >> People are getting soft down here. I. don't like that light bulbs.

[laughter] It's not even on. I mean, I. have to say I do love ordering things. and then like putting it out of my mind. and then when a package comes I'm like, "What is this?" [laughter]. >> I And I think I'm like, "What is it? What is it? What could it be?" And then. I open and it's like the best Christmas. ever cuz it's the best. >> It's the spatula that I wanted that I. ordered [laughter]. >> two days ago. >> Yeah. And it shows up and you're like, >> "Oh my gosh." I was literally in Costco. yesterday. >> and I was going past the the mixers.

>> like right like the the mixers. What is. that? Like table wear. I don't know what. it's called. >> I love kitchen wear table wear. I love. that. I could I could. >> So I went past and I was like gosh it's. on sale. I want one. And I literally. remembered. because life is lifing. No, no, no, babes. You ordered one for Black Friday. already. [laughter] And I literally. almost cried with excitement. I couldn't. believe it. I was like, [laughter] I. have one already. It was crazy. That's. how weird life is right now.

>> I love kitchen gear so much. >> So much. >> It's like a treat. I sometimes I'll go. past the wall of gadgets. I'm like, "Okay, I have a garlic press. I have a. wooden mallet. Okay, I have a zestester. I have a" And I'm like, "What do I need. for my collection?". >> And then I'm big on aesthetics. >> So [clears throat] the mixer I got, have. you seen it? It's like the limited. collection from William and Sonoma. >> Not a sponsor. Okay, talk me through. this. What you got? >> Hunter Green [laughter]. >> with a dark mahogany wood mixing bowl.

>> Holy. >> Mhm. >> A wooden Oh, wow. So, we're talking. KitchenAid. >> Yeah. >> Oh, wow. >> Yeah. And I forgot. And I was going to. just a stainless steel one or like the. red one in Costco like, "Oh, jeez. I. wish I had one.". >> Oh, this is very a very And I remember. that I have that bad boy on this way. [laughter]. >> I can't believe you forgot that you. ordered this. >> And do you see why I almost cried in. Costco? Cuz I was like, you're going to. get better than that.

>> You're winning. >> Before we get into We haven't started. yet, but before. >> can I also So then I'm about to really. knock your socks off. I've been wanting. these pots and pans. >> Stand by. >> for generations. [laughter] And this is. about good. >> Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. William and Sonoma. now. You're crushing it at William and. Soma. >> Just put in. Heritage Copper. >> Oh, you got me right there. >> Hands. I don't know. >> You got me right there. >> It's this Italian company. I think it. begins with an R. >> Copper cookware.

I love cookware. I could talk. about cookware all day long. Um, let's. see. What do we got here? Rufoni. >> Yes, baby. >> Okay, for those who don't know, these. are We're looking at a copper pan with a. silver stainless steel inside. >> Yep. Historical. hammered copper 11 piece set. Guess. what? Originally $2,000. >> Babes, I got it. >> Our price $15.49. >> WHY WOULD YOU NOT BUY THAT? [laughter]. >> And and the price is in red. So I got to.

get it. >> I have to get it cuz it's about to be. sold out and no more. Trust and believe. I got the 11 piece. [laughter]. >> Absolutely. >> I'm I'm I'm going to get. >> I'M GOING TO PASS THAT DOWN TO MY. CHILDREN. LIKE it's so beautiful. It's. made in Italy. Like what? >> Anything that's Italian, forget if. someone's like, "This is an Italian. knife." It's like, I got to get it. >> Okay, no [laughter] problem. >> Dave Joy Randolph is here. >> Oh, we just got right into it. We. already have all our cookware for I'm. getting every and I trust your taste.

>> Please do. Text it to me. >> and I want to see like your first meal. >> I want to see your first meal made and. I'm literally tearing up. [laughter]. >> Do you love to cook? >> I love to cook. >> And I I talked about this on the podcast. a little bit. I came late to cooking. I. did not grow up cooking and my mom. always is like I cooked but my mom was a. working mom who um. >> Are your parents teachers? Yeah. So were. mine. >> Yeah. So like she cooked. >> but Yeah. But it was like Yeah. She. didn't cook. >> like holidays maybe. Then she showed. out. Yeah.

>> Yeah. And she was busy working. But so I. didn't really know how to cook. And I. thought in my 40s I was like I'm just. not going to be able to cook. >> Yeah. >> And I learned and now I love it. M. >> well I actually this is going to. dovetail into the theme that I wanted to. talk to you about today because I'm I'm. really impressed. I I I think you're so. talented. >> Thank you. >> And so naturally talented and so such a. good actress and so funny. >> and those and and such a good singer. like you do so many things so well. >> Thanks. >> And your career is a lot of like.

>> I'm going to try that. A lot of like. [laughter]. >> a lot of maybe I should try that. No, hold on. What's over here? Maybe I. should try that. >> Still. >> Still. >> Still cooking. >> Yeah. >> Why not? >> Right. >> Yeah. >> So, a lot of people know you as an. actress, but I don't think as many. people know that you first kind of. entered the world of arts as a singer. >> Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. >> And that was where that was kind of like. the door you walked through. >> Yep.

>> I like to I like to ask this to people. who are have beautiful voices. When did. you when did you know you had a good. voice? When did you hear it for the. first time or someone say you have a. good voice? When was the first time you. >> I didn't know. I thought that's what. people sounded like. Right. >> And it wasn't until like I started. getting training that I was like there's. people out here who can't sing. >> When you say started getting trained, what does that mean? Taking voice. lessons. >> Yeah. Taking voice lessons. So when I. was younger, it was like right like. family and friends and I thought they're. just being nice or whatever because I.

I'm a Gemini. Like I'm a Taurus Gemini. So like I'm a very focused. >> Gemini that wants all the options. So. like even as a kid. >> it wasn't like and you are a singer like. I was the poster child for after school. programs. I did it all and I like I I so. appreciate that that my parents. instilled that and was never like stage. parents or like they were like whatever. you want lock in have fun. But even now, I think that's why acting is fun to me.

of like trying on these different people. and not staying one with one for too too. long. But that's also my life. >> It's people telling me like, "No, no, for real though, you really could." Like. I thought I've always thought like I'm. decent. >> and it's taken people. >> who I've really admired to be like, "No, there's something there." um and keep. going or keep pushing. >> That's amazing. I I hear what you mean. Like it takes sometimes like a mentor or.

someone to say you what you have isn't. the same as what everyone else has. Keep. working on it. Keep doing it. Like that. encouragement can really. >> But can I ask you a question? To me, when I watch you work, to me it seems as. if there is a natural ease in what you. do. >> Would you say that that's true? >> Thank you for saying that. I think I. would hope that it it feels some version. of like.

that I'm not trying or striving too. hard. >> But it did take definitely like. directors and teachers and stuff to be. like, "No, you're funny. Keep going.". Like just the keep going part. >> The keep going part. Yeah. >> And and and as you know too, a lot of it. is like we know I know people way. funnier than me. way better than me and better singers. But half of the battle is just. >> not giving up. >> Yep. And being ready when it presents.

itself. >> Not getting a regular job, not having. health insurance, not like just for a. long time and being like, I'm just going. to try to make it. >> It's not easy. >> No, no, no, no, no. >> It's not easy at all. >> So, you start you you're in Philly. >> Mhm. >> Where are you from? >> I'm from Boston. >> I felt the Northeast 100%. And I got to. talk to you about your Boston accent. >> Okay, we'll get there. It was so good. >> Oh, that means so much. Thank you. >> It's a hard one. And we're we're tough. So is Philly. I. >> And that was what was hard for me cuz I.

was like, they're touching too close. >> But Philly has that like um they like. the O's are real. >> Yeah. Miles Teller does that. >> He has a Philly accent. >> Yeah. Hogy. And I'm like, what? >> Hogy. Yeah. >> Uhhuh. Yeah. >> And and. guys, I can't even do it. >> Yeah. So, Philly, you go to you start. studying music. Your parents are. teachers. >> and you decide to go to school for. opera. >> So, I'm very competitive. So, >> yeah. Are you. >> I love competitive people,

>> man. We are literally I love competitive. women. >> Yeah. Respect all the way. >> So, um my dad was like, it's. interesting. I I always think of this. and this is so random. My parents did. not for both of their children want to. know the gender in advance. I feel like. that was so cutting edge. >> Yeah. >> And my dad really was manifesting and. wishing for the first one to be a boy. So, didn't [laughter] happen. But he had. a heavy hand in like sports and.

competitive and like not backing down. And so, literally, I was just a competitive. And so there. was this girl in like a new girl at my. high school that was like I went to this. performing arts school called. Interlockin and my brain went. and I went home that day. >> I will dominate it. Interlocking I will. win it. I will win it. >> That's literally what I said to my mom. and she was like okay. I had no idea. what this thing was. >> and I applied. >> Explain what it was like that camp.

>> Oh my god. Interlocking is one of the. most magical places. I'm not even. kidding. I would recommend any parent. who has a child that has remote interest. in any form of the arts. They do. theater, music, they have a writing. department. >> It is just like a safe haven for young. grade school artists. >> like budding. It taught me to respect. and revere. >> it. You know what I mean? Like in. everyday life, it's not I don't know. Maybe now with these generations it's.

cool to be an artist, but like me. growing up it was kind of like oh yeah, you do that other stuff too. Do you know. what I mean? >> It was kind of like have fun and then. find your real job. >> Yes. And so that was a place that I. think is so intrical for high school age. kids particularly. I mean, you can. literally go at 4 years old, but for. high school kids to go to to like really. start to dip their toe into finding. themselves as an artist and it just so. such a beautiful place in my life. And.

so that was a moment, a very strong. moment um cuz it was classical and I was. like, "Oh no, where's the R&B? Uh that's. for me." Uh and so it was all classical. >> Wa. So you were singing classical and. did you do can you read music? >> Now I can at the time I just had like a. really good ear. >> You're a classically trained opera. singer. >> and it was because of that. It's that's. what started it and it was teachers. being like no you actually have.

>> a natural gift. Keep going. >> Had you seen any opera before that? No. >> I know. I feel like opera is this thing. that you only see like what as like a. >> it just field trip. >> It's a field trip. It's so funny. I I. like I I love how we when we grew up. like well you're younger than me but. when I was growing up like the genres. kind of crossed at times and it's where. you learned about people and I remember. I was thinking when I was doing. preparing for today I was like when did. I first know about opera and I think it. was from the Muppets.

>> because Beverly Sills who was an famous. opera singer was sang opera on the. Muppets and um. >> I'm also obsessed with the Muppets so. that's why my whole face just dropped. when you said that. >> you love the Muppets. >> babes I wanted to on that show. [laughter] so bad. >> and they were like we're not doing. humans this year. I said. >> no humans. >> WHAT DO YOU MEAN? THEY'RE LIKE going to. be like three humans but it's really. them. I was upset. I tried. >> Who was your favorite muppet? >> Piggy. Are you kidding? >> Yeah, I know. She's. >> She That lady LITERALLY [laughter] LADY.

>> That lady That lady owes me a lot of. money. [laughter]. >> I am who I am today because of her. >> Yes. as a ch to imagine as a young age. that being like instilled in you like. you don't take from men, you do. your thing, be fabulous, you don't. change who you I was like, yep, yep, yep, yep. I literally made my parents. buy me a tricycle. So, you know, she. does that skit where she's like with the. motorcycle pack and she's like, "Get. [laughter] around, get I used to do it. all the time." And I used to make my mom.

give me a leather jacket. Girl, it was a. [clears throat] thing. That's my girl. When they told me that thing was coming. back, I said, "Please." I saidm. >> the other place that I saw opera was um. Queen in um Bohemian Rap City. >> Sure. >> Like I was like. >> I actually think that's a that's a. bridge like a a gateway for a lot of. people. >> Yeah. I think a lot of people were like. what is he singing? How is he singing. that way? I was like oh no that's what. opera sounds like. So you when did you. see your first opera? immed like immed. once I went to the performing arts.

school it was like they completely like. slapped me with the culture and I was. like whoa. >> and what what was your first feeling. about it like what did you like about it. having like what made you want to keep. pursuing it. >> the power in my voice. >> that I was like oh there's and also I'm. going to be really honest they really. sold me on the idea that it was a really. good life like. >> you're going to live in Europe. >> and men are going to drool over you. [laughter] And you get to wear beautiful. gowns, >> roses at your feet, >> and eat pasta all day. [laughter] And.

you work hard, but not that hard. Like. cuz opera singers, they don't how many. like even if you're at the top of your. game, yeah, if you have concerts, but. they don't like we can do 17 million. shows in a year, >> they may do like two, three opera. So. >> I was like, this is a lifestyle. >> Not a Broadway schedule. >> No, ma'am. M. >> are you does opera is do you have to. kind of like pick like a like an. athlete? Do you have to pick your role. like uh.

>> the voice part kind of dictates it? >> So what is your voice? What are you? >> So I'm considered a baby dramatic. soprano which means like I don't know. that's what they say. >> a baby. >> and I'm always like well I always have. the baby part even as I get older. I. don't know maybe but it it's like. basically it's like so Leantine Price I. don't think they would consider her a. baby but uh dramatic soprano basically. means you have the low notes but you can. also get up to the high notes but. instead of like traditionally a soprano.

the high notes are very like soft and. airy like more like Ariana Grande like. right like really breathy and soft and. just like heavenly and like a dramatic. soprano is like you can get up there but. like with some heft. >> baby dramatic soprano. >> And did you ever do an opera on stage? >> I went to Temple University for the. teacher. Quinta went there. Uh we were. there at the same time, Quenta Bronson. And. >> did you guys were you friends? Did you. know each other then? >> We were in passing because she was like. so theater and I was still music. >> Ah. And they were still felt separate.

>> Yeah. They were very at that time now. it's like a conservatory and there's a. musical theater department. Um and so so. anyways, I went to temple and we were. doing Aayita. Wow. >> And uh you know my middle class parents, teachers, like they're not dumb, but. it's like if you were to watch. Shakespeare for the first time, like. they don't know what's going on. And so. I remember my brain was just like, I. want to be able, it wasn't even acted. I. want to be able to portray this.

character. >> and know this character very well so. that it can translate. >> for like my family and friends that come. see this. I remember that very clearly. I don't even know where that came from. >> Yeah. >> And so I remember we used to go across. the street to the theater department, what was like communications to copy. sheet music. And I literally was copying. sheet music and it sound like people. were dying in the room next door. And it. was a theater class. And so I went up to. this teacher afterwards and I was like,

"Hey, I'm working on an opera across the. street. Like could you help me? I want. to like bring this to life and it be. good." Wow. Very long story short, the. music department got ultra pissed and. they were like, "No, no, you can't do. that. >> You can't cross over there.". >> And I was like, "I don't want to cross. over. I don't want to be an actor." But. I guess because it had happened so many. times, they were very like territorial. over it and they flunked me out. >> Excuse me. >> Yep. And it was my mom that I'm like. balling on the phone. This is like my.

junior spring. I'm out of here. I'm. about to go be in Italy like living my. best life. And my mom was like, "Go. across the street." I'll never forget. She talked. So, you know how moms are. when their child is like devastated. >> Yeah. >> And she was like, "Step one, go across. the street. >> Go speak to the administration. >> You're going to apply to the theater. program because most of your credits can. transfer.". >> Mhm. >> And I actually think you might be good. at it. That's literally how she said. It. was like, but she knew I needed logic.

first, like. >> cuz I kept thinking, oh my god, like I'm. about to graduate. I have now completely. find a new. >> right, you're pot committed to this. thing. And then. >> and I was like, okay. [laughter]. I remember they tell me this to this day. that I went to the administration office. and I was like, I have to be an actor. [laughter]. And they were like, what? And I was. like, I'm crying. And they were like, you are. You are. >> Exactly.

And then you got really into. Shakespeare, right? You did a lot of. Shakespeare. >> later. Yeah. Later. So when I got into. Yale, I faked it. I did Shakespeare, but. I think I did like Tatana when she sees. bottom and she's like in love. Sun the. ruler like you know. >> I don't. >> I had to really meaning like. >> is that more comedic? Is it usually. >> It is kind of more comedic. So. interesting that what you're saying is. like there's like there's Shakespeare. and then. >> Yeah. Like it wasn't me reciting like.

Hamlet where it was like okay you're. just standing there and delivering this. speech. It was like this strong Tatana. is like kind of like a Michelle Obama, like a tough girl that's like got it all. together. >> who now you see gets to be like she's. drunk the Kool-Aid and she's like. whimsically like this anjenu in love and. just being silly and in love with this. like you know having like a kind of like. teenage middle school moment of like oh. my god this guy is so cute. So it was. that but like I'm saying in the sense of.

like I wasn't doing hair. you want to do. shake more shake. >> So I went to after my first year I was. like I don't know this because I was. doing another classical art. I don't. know this one. And so uh I went to the. British Academy of Dramatic Arts. >> Holy. >> at Oxford which I couldn't believe it. We literally ate lunch where Harry. Potter ate lunch. [laughter] Like I. remember walking in there being like oh. my god I made it. >> Yeah. And so I was it was just so cool. because I learned Shakespeare like.

>> by the people who do it. Wow. >> But I love that sense of command that. they have over language. >> I love how much you have trained. >> Thank you. >> Like you are you really know your stuff. >> Thank you. I really appreciate that. >> I I I was fun. >> I bet. And it gives to to your point. like it's supposed to be a journey like. fun. And when you get to try and fail. over and over again and then you get. stronger and better. >> It is the best feeling to me. It's kind. of like freedom within form. Like as.

long as I know the guard rails are up, I'm going to bang up against those. guardrails. But like right to in order. for me to really. >> be loose and give all of myself even. with comedy, like I just need to know. the parameters. >> Yeah. >> And then I'm just going to go off and it. allows me to um so I guess in a way the. training is like the guard rails that. then when I work I'm like whatever. Like. have you ever. >> watched something back of yours? I don't. like to. >> I don't love to. >> don't like ADR is one of the most.

traumatic. >> Oh yeah. Also also ADR is for people who. don't know it's like that moment in the. film when you have to kind of go back. sometimes and re-record stuff. >> which for me is my first time of seeing. it ever. >> Yes. It's often your first time seeing. it and it hasn't been like color. corrected or anything and so you're just. like. >> why do I look like that? >> I guess I'm 100 years old. Like it just. it's seeing your face for the first time. in a thing that isn't finished. >> and you have to record new stuff and. it's br and it's brutal. >> It's brutal. I always I used to call my. mom crying afterward. Mama looks so.

ugly. >> She was like go across the street to the. >> theater. [laughter] You are okay. You. are not the character. You serve the. character. >> Your mom is really good and calming. >> Yeah. She's the one. >> When you were at Yale, was there anyone. else there that we would know at the. time? But were you Who were you? Who. else was there? >> When I was there, when I was a second. year, Lupita was a first year. Then. after Lupita was Winston Duke, then. after that was I could be mixing this up.

cuz I was now gone, but was then Yaya. >> Then after that was Mama Duke. Like it. just was. >> Wow. >> Yeah. >> Wow. >> That's intense. >> That's intense. Mhm. >> And then you go and you go from that to. talk about training being put to the. test. You have to open Ghost on in the. West End with about a week of rehearsal. >> Yeah. Which made no sense. So, um I was. when I graduated I got an agent and like.

you know I got to have a survival job. Yeah. So, uh, I applied everywhere in. New York City and that little Yale. degree, even though it's in theater, people were like, "You're. overqualified." No. [laughter] And I was. like, but it was. >> you know more than the director and that. upsets him. >> Yeah. And so I couldn't get any job. And. so I was like, "Okay, I'm going to. nanny." So I nannied for this amazing. family and it was amazing because I. worked the system. >> cuz I was broke. And I said, "Listen, as.

a curator of arts, your children need to. go to fivestar hotels and experience. what that is like [laughter]. dessert and really nice places and we. need to teach them how to eat [laughter]. at a five literally." And they were. like, "Okay." And literally, can you. imagine two little white boys and me. like at a table and THEY'RE LIKE, "MR. CUZ JUST IN CASE THEIR FRIENDS ARE HERE. WATCHING, I got to make this look.

credible. >> That's so smart. >> Oh, it was so much fun. >> So smart. And then you go, >> I love that job. >> How do you get the job? >> So they were like, oh, this is an. audition for the like understudy, understudy, a swing. And so they were. like, you'll if you get this, you'll. rarely go on. No big deal. I go in there. because I'm young and I had never. auditioned for anything before. Those. people told me, "So, you're going to do. the entire thing?". >> They made me audition for 75%.

of that musical. >> Wow. >> In the room. Like, I had my sides and. then they were like, "Here, >> here's more.". >> Cold Reed. >> Wow. >> 75% of the musical. >> And you nailed it. >> It was just adrenaline. >> Yes. >> But one thing that was a blessing and a. curse, I was on a high. Like my body was. just. I Speaking of belting high, baby, I. belted high that day. Uh-oh. >> Then [laughter] they wrote it. because it was an original musical. SO. THEY WERE LIKE, "OH, she wants A BELT.

AND A HALF. >> Never be good at something you don't. want to do. [laughter]. >> Pace yourself." Cuz eight shows a night. and they basically up there. I was like, "No, we're going to have to bring it. down." So I did that audition in like. August. I didn't hear anything for two. days. I'm not thinking about it. It's. the understudies, understudy, understudy. My team then hits me up and. like, "You booked." And I'm like, "Oh, okay, cool." And I was bummed because I. was like, "I got to tell these kids. I. got to leave them." [clears throat]. >> And my team was like, "Are you crazy?".

It was the lifestyle. I was saying. goodbye to the lifestyle. And [laughter]. so they literally they were like days. later. They're like, "Why are you not. more excited, my team?" And I was like, "It cuz you it's just whatever. Like if. everyone gets sick, then maybe I'll go. on." They were like, "Yeah, we lied. Um, you are playing Whoopi Goldberg's part.". And I was like, "Come on, what? Why. would you do this?" So then I'm. terrified. And it was literally the like. the Tuesday before Thanksgiving. And so.

I had never done a job of that. magnitude, but I had never done a like. seasonal job. Yeah. >> And I really love the holidays. So I. started crying and I was like, "But do I. get to spend Thanksgiving with my. parents?" And you know, agents, are you. done? [laughter] You made it. YOU'RE. GOING TO. >> you've worked with so many great people. and you talk about them a lot and you. talk about Robin Williams. >> and I. >> I can't believe that was my first movie. >> That's amazing. And. >> I cannot believe that sadly that was my.

first movie and that was his last movie. I cannot believe it. >> What was it like to be with him? >> So grateful. >> There's something that I notice in. legendary comedians specifically. Robin had it. Eddie had it. I had that experience. It's different, but they have a similar. trait. Eddie shows up in Steve Martin. for sure. Martin Short. And there's this. thing when we talk about when people tap. me on my shoulder and be like, "Hey,

>> and I never would think it would be. those people." In my mind growing up, I. thought, you know, like they either. really stay to themselves or they're. distant or like. >> their egos won't ever give you the. satisfaction. And Robin was the complete. opposite. And he actually talked to me. more than anybody else. We just talked. for we I literally just sat there and. listened to everything that that man. said to me. And I will even in the.

moment while he was talking to me, I was. like, >> "This is crazy. No one's going to. believe you, so don't even tell anyone.". Like maybe later you can share a great. anecdote. But. >> it was unbelievable. And he just poured. into me. >> and it would just be like in between the. takes. >> He would just be like and then, you. know, immediately just. >> go into. >> this thing. But yeah, he would, if I. would say career-wise, he was the first.

person. >> that was like, >> you've got it. >> What an anointing from someone like. that. And then you worked with Eddie on. Dolomite and and and same thing. Eddie. really took you under his wing. >> He really did. He really did. And. something that was interesting so like. difference is Robin was so explosive. It. felt like I when people ask the only. thing I can think of is like you know. how in pinstation. the ticker thing. >> Yeah. It's like you can't his thoughts.

are so loud when he's not talking that. even when you stand next to him, it's. like and I'm just like I can feel like. almost like having coffee like you just. feel this buzz being next to him and. just was like. um. >> and with Eddie something that I learned. >> and it was interesting to work with him. at that stage of his life and that point. of his career, there is a stillness. >> and a quietness when he's not working or. in between scenes and then there's the.

action and this whole thing comes to. life. >> Yeah. >> And it was something that in the first. again supporting actor being like, "Oh, okay. This is your rhythm and this is. how you work that I then like adjusted. and then I was like, okay, so I'm not. >> Well, that feels like your musical. training comes in there cuz you're. picking exactly what you said, rhythm. and breath and energy, like the dynamics. >> 100% of the day. The the rhythm is the. biggest thing I think especially with. comedy and especially with legends at. that right you want to learn quickly not.

ask any questions and observe and like. feels like jump rope of like I'm jumping. in and I'm jumping out you know what I. mean learning that kind of pacing and. but it was after. um that he really kind of prepared me. for the industry in that when we did. prep like we had a full-blown own press. tour and he was like, "She's come. whatever I'm going to, she's coming to. all of it." And so like. >> 100% it prepared me for holdovers. I.

think if I didn't have that, I would be. like, "What is this crazy machine of of. things?" And so in a more chill way, I. got to experience it. I got to see what. insane fame. >> looks like. >> Yeah. >> Which is scary to me. >> Yeah. >> That's really intense. >> Get ready for it. Sorry. But no, I You. you mentioned the holdovers. It I just. have to to say to you that film. >> Thanks. >> It it is in it is now forever in.

rotation in as a Christmas film. >> because not only is it beautifully acted. and beautifully directed by Alexander. Payne and. >> Paul Giamotti and Dominic. They're. amazing. You're the three of you. together are just it's. >> but it also captures this melancholy. Like you say, you love the holidays and. >> it's this holiday salty, sweet, sour. sadness that happens to all of us where. >> all of us. Even if you have a house full. of people or whatever you consider like.

>> a traditional happy Christmas. >> cuz like the loneliness finds its way in. >> every time. I know. Even with a full. house, the way you depicted that mother. in that movie is one of my favorite. cinematic performances. I love you in. that movie. Congratulations on winning. the Academy Award. >> Thanks, babes. [laughter]. >> And um so deserved. >> Thank you. >> And just so first of all, Paul Giamotti,

>> love him. Always loved him. Always loved. him. And like similarly, he's so good at. so many things. >> Yeah, he is. >> He's really good at playing like that. underdog that can't quite figure it out. and just like keeps hitting their head. against the I He's so good. >> I had a fun moment when he hosted SNL. when I was there and you know, you're. like down under the um bleachers like. changing clothes really fast. And at one. point I turned to him and I was like, "Are you having fun?" And he was like, "THIS IS A NIGHTMARE.". >> YEAH. Inside [laughter]. everything is painful and he's dying.

inside. So funny. >> Yeah. even while we're filming and I'M. LIKE, "WOW, WE'RE REALLY DOING IT." He's. like, "I hate it." Not he hates like. acting, but do you know what I mean? Like. >> that's why he's so funny. >> That's why he's so good at it. >> because he doesn't. >> he'll put himself in like risky like. inside his anxiety is through the roof. >> YES. AND AND WE FEEL IT. We feel it with. him. And the the the trio of you three. like unexpected friends like you know. like a random family. >> Yeah. Yeah.

>> So good. What kind of prep did you do. for that role? >> So it was interesting when because I. love cooking. >> Um I was like uh so listen contractually. I have to cook for real. >> and for many reasons and due to that. time period I wanted it to be clear that. this was actually her job. >> and that she was good at it versus like. I I first asked Alexander I said. >> is she the help or is she a learned. chef? and he was like, "I actually want.

her to be a learned." He said, "Cook.". And I said, "We're not going to say that. word. We're going to say chef. >> If you're saying she has an education in. it, she's a chef.". >> Um, and so. >> once I knew that's where he was going. with it, I was like, "Okay, so then. you're going to have to establish scenes. and moments where I'm dealing with the. food and facilitating the kitchen to. show my um prow over this area.". >> Yeah. >> Right. And so and I remember there was. like there was and he was so down which.

was so cool for someone that acclaimed. and lauded to have that much flexibility. and collaboration which I think is. another huge reason why that movie just. did so well because he trusted us. >> and we really got to work together. And. so, like, there was a moment where I was. like, you know, to be honest, he had a. lineup of extras for people that were. going to be in my kitchen, and they were. all women of color. And I was like, you're going to have to put some white. ladies in there, too. And he was like,

"Really? Why?" And I said, "Because it. >> the other ones look like it's my friends. >> that I just brought in." And then this. other version makes it again look like, "Oh, no. I'm in charge and these are the. cooks." So I adlib this line in the. movie where I'm like to the white lady. too much paprika [laughter] cuz in my. mind I was like no no no she can taste. it and be like. >> too much paprika cuz I wanted to show a. lot of it had to do with the time period. that I was like I want if you're saying.

she's a chef I don't want those lines to. be blurred but in regards to prep the. the f the thing that Alexander was the. most. >> Thank you for sharing that with me. I. just have to say totally just to take a. minute. I love knowing that because. you're ex I couldn't capture. >> the what you're exactly what you're. saying which is a. >> there's a regalness to her. >> Yes. There's a pride. >> Yes. Even if that lady has two cents in. her pocket, which is another thing cuz. he understandably uh he wanted her to be.

in hot pink rollers and that cozy warm. purple moo. >> the entire most of the movie. >> cuz he was like it's the holidays and I. was like no she has so much she's. working. >> Yes, >> she may be you know they might be in. like living shared living quarters but. she's working. she wakes up, this is her. job. And so it was something that he we. had to like negotiate for him to realize. >> no this isn't just auntie with the you. know what I mean with uncle Buck and. whatever. >> It gives such incredible um tension.

>> because that is her space and in the. scene when she's serving and when when. she she when everyone is eating her food. that she's good at cooking and um Paul's. character standing up for her and like. >> it's beautiful. That's one of my. favorite moments. >> Same. >> Yeah. And it's just a look. She just. looks at the kid. >> Yes. >> But she But you know, the volume in. which Paul yelled, she heard it. >> Yes. >> And you know what I mean? Like she. wasn't there for it, but she heard that.

he had his back. And so the main prep. was uh Alexander was very keen on. smoking. It was almost like an audition. question. Do you smoke? And I was like, "No, I don't." And he was like, and I. was like, you can send a pack on over. and we can figure it out. [laughter]. Part of the prep was learning how to. smoke, making it look realistic. I It. was great that I was in Boston. There's. so many smokers in Boston, but I would. just [laughter]. watch like there is a science. You can. tell the level of addiction or how many.

years. I'm not going to say addiction. Level. >> addiction. Let's say it. >> How long you've been in the game. >> Ooh. Tell me what you noticed about how. people looser, the more that it feels. like it is literally another finger, they've been doing it for a while. >> Right. >> Right. Or like the person is usually. like older men. >> that like it's hanging. How? I don't. even know. It's like that one beat of. saliva. >> So, right. Because a person that has. their like one cigarette a week, it's.

tight and they're like enjoying every. minute. I'm I'm thinking about like the. girls outside the club like buming it. from someone else and and but someone. who's like, "Oh, there's a hundred more. where that came from. It'll fall out. They like it. I'm going to light another. one right away.". >> Yeah. And so part of my process was. like, >> so interesting. >> What's her level of addiction and in. certain. >> times and what she's going through, I. wanted the the smoking to signify what. like psychologically was going on for.

her. So, and then the big the biggest. most difficult the two difficult things. most difficult things about filming and. smoking timing of knowing when to like. how to pace of the between the talking. and when to pull, >> right? >> Um, >> yeah. >> And blowing that smoke so it's not in. your face for the camera unless there's. some moments where you want it to get in. or not like directing that smoke was. tricky. I cannot I'm I'm I'm gonna be.

re-watching this movie again. That was. the hardest part and I'm gonna watch all. of it literally we could have a. beautifully acted scene. >> and be like that smoke went in Paul's. pace Paul's face. Do it again. And then. the last thing was the dialect which he. was like. it was fine. He was like you're from. Philadelphia. It's cool. And I was like. >> Alexander. >> respectfully. >> respectfully how dare you. >> No sir. And he was adamant about it. And. you worked I can tell cuz it was so. good. >> Yeah. I went with Nicole Kimman's.

dialect coach. >> who's the best and so down to earth but. yeah I said no no no no no more so for. me. >> like we said I'm from Philadelphia. It. it's so close but yet it's not the same. thing. And also it was technically it's. a period piece. And so the biggest. reason why I wanted to do the dialect. not only because that is what is the. world. I needed something to. differentiate and to separate from me. >> Yeah. >> And so, um, Right. I needed that.

dialect. The smoking, yeah, clothes. helps, the hair helped a lot, but the. dialect was the thing that really. allowed me to lock in. >> Were there words that helped you lock. in? Like. >> Mr. H, what was his name? Ha. Hav. Mr. Hunnham. I heard you at that first. scene. >> Mr. Hum. >> when they meet and then she's like, "Mr. Hunham," I'm paraphrasing. She's like, "Mr. Hunum, I heard you had babysitting. duty. How'd you manage that?" And that.

was like my key phrase. >> Yes. >> That I would I could get right in. >> Babysitting. babysitting. How'd you manage that? What. was helpful was the crew was all Boston. >> Oh, yeah. >> So, I would literally. >> They're like, >> "Yeah, no shame." I was like, "Did I say. that right?". >> Like, you didn't get it. Cuz the Boston. in me, you know, is our ears are. attuned. It's to me it's like the. Australian accent is like you when it's. wrong it is rough. >> Yeah. And so what I basically said to. myself is I I worked on it and prepped.

it a lot and I told myself you're going. to have the first day of filming. If you. get a lot of feedback on this dialect. either being distracting or too much or. not right, we're going to leave it. alone. >> Yeah. Smart. >> And and and. >> smart. >> Yeah. It worked. And I was like, "Okay.". But in between still, I literally in. between takes the gaffer, I'm like, "Is. it smart? Sm" and they be like, "SM.". And I'm like, "Okay, smart, smart, smart.". >> Speaking of films, we're talking about.

Eternity, the romcom that you're in with. the hilarious John Early, who we love. >> I think he was one of the last people. that they cast. And I knew from the. script that I would have quite a bit of. stuff with this character. And I kept. saying who I kind of didn't want to sign. on the dotted line until I knew who that. person was. and it just didn't work out. that way. And I never forget, we were um. in like what do they call it? Camera. testing. We were camera testing and I. was ear hustling and I heard them say.

and I GO, "AH, >> YES." AND THEY were like, "What is. wrong?" And I'm like, "Oh, my job just. got way better.". >> So funny. >> Easy. Really easy. >> You guys are great together. He. has. the stuff that's up there in that brain. >> Mhm. [laughter]. >> And it's so much. Do you know? You. obviously know what I mean. And you know. what I was a little worried about? Cuz. he's so so good that I was like, "Oh, he's going to be doing the button.

thing." You know the button thing when. you're around funny hahas. >> and it's like the scene is done and now. every funny person in that room is like. and then that person goes back and I'm. like wow. >> oh my god I've never heard it said like. that that's I'm really I'm really. sweating because I I so it's infectious. so right though there's an instinct for. comedy people to be like and one more. thing. >> button button button [laughter] now. person A's got to second button seen. I.

feel seen. >> and then it goes and it just go and my. always I'm like. [laughter]. >> very present but and that's usually when. the camera cuts to me. >> Oh, that's so real. And you're right. And then once someone does a button, someone's like, I got to button that. button. >> and it never ends. >> I just sit there. [laughter]. >> But yeah, he didn't have any of that. >> Yeah. >> But so I don't think he ever repeated a. joke. And I'm just so so impressed by.

him. >> What is your relationship to romcoms? What romcoms? Are you a romcom person? Do you like romcoms? >> I was when I was in high school, what I. feel like was Let me tell you something. How was a guy in 10 days? >> Oh, yeah. >> It's perfect. >> And if you tell me different, I'll fight. you. That. >> I like how you whispered that. >> best cuz it's so funny. >> It's so emotional, baby. that scene when they're OUT IN. STATEN ISLAND IN LONG ISLAND PLAYING.

THAT CARD GAME. I'M balling [laughter]. >> cuz you're really making me want to. watch that again. So, >> and I like it too because it's like it's. a relatable New York couple. You know, some of those New York romcoms you're. LIKE, "WELL, I'M NEVER GOING TO BE IN. THAT PENTHOUSE." SO, >> or the boss and the I love how it was. like they were regular New Yorkers. Um, and that like Staten Island, I forget. which one it is. Stat line Long Island. uh family was a really good touch. Um my. best friend's wedding. >> Yes.

>> It's so good. I think it's the ones that. are really relatable. >> I know. And and and and they just dig in. in some like they're like rainy day. delicious treats. >> Yeah. >> And Okay. So, we have this thing where. we talk to people who know our guest. We. talk well behind their back. >> We get a question for them. So, we. talked to the director of fraternity, David Fra, and we got to talk about how. incredible it was working with you. And. he and he was explaining which I'm I'm. now getting to see in real time the. feeling of there was like a there's a.

calmness to you when you work. >> and a confidence. >> that is he says like it just as a. director just makes you feel like. everything is going to work out like. every you know. >> oh that's and he he had two questions. for you. One was. >> where do you think you find the calm or. as he said the cam? Yeah, the C. >> He had a great to find the C. >> But um the um so that was his first. question is like is that true? Are are. you feeling like when you step and work. that there's a calmness to you? Is do.

people project that on you? Is that. real? What. >> I think it's um uh how do I say it's a. little projected. It's all of it. Right. So number one, yes. It's part of that. like preparing to then like have so much. fun like right like within the. boundaries like I know I did the work. Yeah. >> But then I'm very open to what is the. direction? What are you giving me? What. you know I mean what is it going to be. in this? I know her. >> Um and you could tell me we're going to. go on Mars. Great. We're going on Mars.

What's that going to be? >> So there's that. There's also too I'm. very well aware of like it's interesting. how leads speak of like their role of. leadership and da da da. I am aware that. part of my role is to not say anything. out loud but to reassure and to like um. nurture a little but like create a. foundation. >> That's really interesting. >> as Yeah. >> Um not to name drop but I will I've been.

name dropping a lot today. Um, Gwyneith. Paltro was in the seat and she I she. said something that I thought was really. interesting which is. >> you know we were talking in terms of. like codependency and trying to figure. out and when you're in a supporting role. in any aspect of life you have to. balance what you talked about which is. >> knowing what is needed for the room and. she used the term thermometer like is. the room too hot do I need same with. every scene that's a giving supportive.

collaborative person and then also. taking care of yourself. >> That's right. >> It's a It's a hard balance. >> Mhm. And I think I've gotten really good. at that. And I think that's also why. I've been able to work with the type of. people I've gotten to work with because. I think it's that mixed in with they. then feel a reassurance to then be them. their bestelves. >> Yeah. >> Right. And so then I'll have like It's. so cute and I can't believe I'm even. saying this. Steve Martin will literally. be like because I normally when I film. for Only Murders, they're so kind and.

with my schedule, they allow me to like. shoot out. So, I'm doing like in two. weeks like five episodes. And so, we get. like this kind of like intense. >> two weeks with one another and and then. I'll be like gone for a year and then. we'll catch up for like press and then. do the next year. And he always is like, "God, I forgot about this. Feels good. I'm feeling good." And that [laughter]. to me is the greatest greatest. compliment that I can think of. And so. >> yeah, >> I think it is a bit of that. And then I.

think also. there is like. I do still suffer with imposttor. syndrome. >> in this format. >> like when we have to talk about it. >> but I don't when we're doing it if that. makes sense. But it's a but it's but. it's a quiet maybe that's what we mean. about that calmness reassuredness. It's. a quiet confidence. >> Yeah. >> But also at the same time there's a lot. of adrenaline and excitement buzzing.

through me. And do you ever find. sometimes when you perform this kind of. like sometimes I'll have this moment of. like zoom in zoom out where I'm like. kind of up overhead. >> Yeah. Dissociating. >> Yeah. [laughter]. >> It's great. I highly recommend it. >> I love it. >> You're like I'm on the ceiling babe. Nothing can touch me. >> Nope. I'm not here. >> and we're doing it. >> I wasn't even there. >> Yeah. Yeah. And I have that sometimes. >> Me, too. And when I'm performing and. it's and it's a um what you're saying is. like a technique to get past Exactly. what you said, the fear and adrenaline.

And I don't know if you're like this, but I can get nervous after I do. something like I get through it and then. like an hour later I'm like, >> "Yeah, did we do it? Did we?". >> And it all starts to shake out because. Yeah. I wasn't really there. >> Yeah. >> I want to finish with a very quick speed. round. if you can give me a sentence or. two about this about some of these. people or things. >> Sure. Sure. Sure. >> And number one is Zoe Kraitz. >> The best. And I knew she was extremely. talented when I first met her. She was. an executive producer. I think that was. her first executive producer role. And.

she went above and beyond. And so when. she began starting to direct, I was. like, "Duh, we saw that." I remember one. time she literally and it was so cool. cuz we were the same age. We're like the. youngest people on set and she was. literally like it was a coffee cup. We. were doing a scene in a bodega and it. was a coffee cup and she was like that's. not what real coffee cups look like. >> in New York like why is it I think it. was like red and you know supposed to.

like be blue with the blue and the white. and they were like no Zo cuz we're young. and she's a woman. So they're like no no. Zoe it's fine. And she's like, "No, no, get it right and we'll wait in a very. polite but professional and stern way.". And I was like, "She's got it.". >> Okay. Speed round. >> Yeah. I'm talking monologue. >> Aluccino. >> Yeah. So, Aluccino, I was You're getting. good ones and you're like, "Speed. round." [laughter] Aluccino. on Broadway, stressed out, voice tired,

eating soup in like this little French. beastro. He randomly is there. Uh he. goes to check out and he backs back and. like comes and sits down at my table and. we have this like beautiful heartfelt. thing and I share with a stranger like. it's really hard. I can't talk like you. know I mean I have no life the amount. that is required for this. Um, and he. gave me the most beautiful advice ever.

And he used this metaphor of a ladder. and said like, as you continue to go up. a ladder, you have to let go of more and. more weight and kind of was like, it's. na what you're feeling is natural. Another moment of someone being like, you've got it, keep going. And it was. like, I'll see you at the top of the. ladder. Cut two. We do Dolomite. Netflix. decides they're now gonna start doing. magazines, like their own magazines. We get to the shoot and there's a ladder. there and I'm like, "Oh my god, oh my.

god." Cuz I knew he was going to be in. this shoot cuz it was like the Irishman. all and I was like, "Yo, if they put me. on THIS LADDER, [laughter] I'M LOSING.". And they're like placing everyone. [gasps]. >> So they place Al. >> He's next to the ladder. And I said, "Please, please, please." cuz he's still. got to put like Laura Durn and Scarlett. Johansson. So I was like, "Yo, I want. the ladder." And [laughter] they put me. in the ladder. I'm balling the entire. photo shoot. And I'm like looking down. at him and I'm like, "How do you. remember the letter?". >> Did you ask him? And did he? >> No. Why would he [laughter] remember the.

But I'm like, "It's the. all right honey." Like whatever. But in. my mind, I was like full circle. I'm on. the ladder and I'm looking at you and. you said it was going to happen. >> Oh my god. The perfect story. And then. Steven Sonheim, >> I miss him. I know that sounds so crazy, >> doesn't it? >> But it's like he was like the modern. >> He Okay, sometimes that musical theater. stuff is a lot for me. Like I was never. kid. I was like [laughter].

but cuz I came into it late and I just. like well I'm a vocalist and this is. theater and I had to like find my way. into musicals which is funny that my. first gig was a musical but I just vibed. with him so much because it felt like. strong story. >> really good acting and we just so. happened to sing beautiful songs. To me, it's like the purest for me and my. taste, one of the purest ways of. expressing musical theater. And in. college, we did Into the Woods and I.

played the witch. >> Oh. >> And I was like, "Okay, I think I like. this stuff.". >> Can you sing a little bit of it, >> girl? I sound so crazy. >> You don't? You sound so crazy. This is. >> Wait, but what's the song when she's. like, >> "Sing a little Steven." Anything from. Steven. >> What is the one? The one that the witch. >> want me to get it on my laptop? >> But what? I'm going to look up the. lyrics. This is crazy. I sing for Nova. >> and I'm going to order that William. Soba. >> Please do it. Please do it. [laughter]. Please order immediately. >> I'm not kidding you. I thought about it. the entire time. You guys, you didn't.

see it, but it has a wooden bowl. >> with a hunter green. >> and the hopper. Okay. Um Um What are we. looking up? >> Where are the clones? Sending the clones. Tinks, babe. [screaming]. That is. >> only for you. Literally. >> Thank you. Thank you. >> For years. >> Oh. Oh, >> no. Years. >> Okay. I appreciate you. >> I appreciate you. >> And um the the world like needs to hear.

your voice. >> Oh, I know. I got to work through the. stuff. And so that's why I'm going to. figure out. I think honestly I talk about this a. little bit but I think honestly um. because the classical thing like I feel. like there's a lot of people that can. like sing like pop and R&B but I do feel. like that's like one of my special. little tricks like you said how singing. is a trick but like classical I think I. want to do a biopic on Le and Team Price. >> and just like okay we're doing it. >> Oh yeah. >> Break the band-aid off.

>> Back into singing listen everybody. listening. Let's make that happen. >> Yeah. God, that would be amazing. >> I think that'd be fun. >> And then our my last question is because. you're so funny. >> times and times are stressful. We ask a. lot of our guests. >> um what they listen to, read, go to to. laugh. What like is there anything right. now that you're watching, consuming. like a vid, like a dumb video, a TV. show? What's. >> really makes me I did a podcast with.

Royal Court. Oh, Britney, >> I to the point where [snorts] I had to. tell my publicist like. >> go back and take some things cuz I just. felt so comfortable and we were just. >> I saw you on that and you guys were. hilarious. >> We were cracking up and I was like, "Oh, she's God." So, I think what her podcast. is giving people right now is really, really nice. I watch a lot of old stuff. I don't Do you Are you like that? Do you. sometimes sometimes I'm like I don't.

want to be. >> tainted or like watchd jokes and. >> in fact I mean one of the reasons why. the the kind of intention behind this. podcast is to me the way for my own. mental health was like feeling like. chatting and laughing with people. >> connection was getting me up out of. things. >> but the actual like watching comedy at. home and like sometimes it feels like if. it's good I'm like damn. >> I can't because I'm judging it. >> I can't watch contemporary stuff cuz I'm.

like my friend's in that. Her hair looks. crazy. You know what I mean? Like why. did they do So I like to watch older. things and so I mean you can't beat a. '90s com which I feel like is a lot of. stuff that you've done, but like a '9s. comedy is just so good. >> Like what what would you put on like to. like run as you were like are you. talking friends? Are you talking. >> I love Rush Hour. Yes, it that's a one. of one of the best buddy duos that you. would never think of and it is oh so.

good. >> Let's watch a rush hour scene for you. >> What scene? >> Um, >> they don't give a damn about you. They. don't like you. I don't like [laughter]. you. >> I'm here for the girl. >> The girl don't like you. Nobody likes. you. You came all be for nothing. >> [laughter]. >> And isn't it funny how people get so. like you touch the radio? This is not. even your car. Don't touch the radio. >> I mean, also I love when people are give.

it to give it to somebody straight and. they're like, I don't like you. It. really makes me laugh. >> Nobody gets to say that in real life. You never get to say comedy lets you say. stuff you could never say. >> Yeah. Just dead pants. >> Like I don't like you. She doesn't like. you. >> [laughter]. >> just not into you. Sorry. >> Well, Davine, I love you and I think we. should be friends. >> Yes, please. >> And I think we should buy um various. things together. >> I'm going to give you my number. I want.

you to text me when you get the mixer. >> Great. >> I think you should get a Just get one of. the pots. >> I got to get all the box. >> Okay, good. That's what I was hoping. for. >> And then like when you cook something in. there, text it to me and I'm going to. text it to you, too. Yes. >> I mean, what are we Why are we working. so hard if we can't buy ourselves. discounted copper pots? >> Mhm. Black Friday sale. We deserve it in. this economy. >> We saw what the price used to be. >> Why would you? It's the But it's that.

red ink that you speak about. There's. that urgency of [laughter]. >> There's only five. >> Such a lie. It gets me five left. >> There's 50,000 [laughter] in inventory. in the back. Yeah. But I'mma get it and. I'mma go pick it up. Um, do you have. pasta thingies? >> Pasta what thingy? Which which thing? >> Like, so when you get that, you can then. also for I think it's like $99.99. get the attachment heads to then make. fresh pasta. >> What?

>> A pasta making machine or the thing? >> So, you get the Kitchen. >> Thank you for coming. We're going to get. [laughter]. end this podcast and we're going to go. shopping. >> Kitchen made. You just take the head off. and then attach the pasta different. things on. So you could do the one where. it's like so lasagna then taste that off. macaroni and then you got endless. possibilities. >> I've never made pasta and I've always. wanted to. I'm going to do it because. >> I will do it with you. >> Yeah, I would love to. Let's do it. >> Mhm. >> Let's hire a guy.

>> just to [laughter] super. >> Thank you so much, Davine Joy Randolph. you are so fun and uh I love talking to. you and and um it I'm so blown away by. your talent and your training and um so. thanks for joining me on the pod. And. speaking of talent and training, I just. want to use this polar plunge because we. were talking a little bit about. Shakespeare and there's a person that I. discovered in my phone where I discover. everything, read everything and learn. everything. um a a a performer named.

Michelle Terry and um she is I believe. she ran uh uh the Shakespeare uh Globe. Theater or member of the Royal. Shakespeare Company um and then Royal. National Theater. She performed at all. those places. She's really good. She's a. really good actress. She uh is a person. who continually amazes me and translates. Shakespeare to me in a way that feels. like no one has for me. So, I don't know.

if you're on your phone right now and. you want to type her name in. Uh and. you're going to see videos of her. playing Hamlet and Richard III. Incredible. Okay, so if you never liked. Shakespeare before, Michelle Terry is. going to get you there. Um so that's my. plunge. Thank you um uh for listening. and uh see you next time. Bye. [laughter]. You've been listening to Good Hang. The. executive producers for this show are. Bill Simmons, Jenna [music] Weiss. Berman, and me Amy Polar. The show is.

produced by The Ringer and Paperkite. For The Ringer, production by Jack. Wilson, Cat Spalain, Ka McMullen, and. Alia [music] Xanerys. For Paperkite, production by Sam Green, Joel Levelvel, and Jenna Weiss Berman. Original music. by Amy Miles. kind of wasn't really good. [music and singing] Hey.