Kate McKinnon | Good Hang with Amy Poehler

Hi everyone, welcome to another episode. of Good Hang. We have a great, hilarious. guest today, the amazing Kate McKinnon. Kate, who you know from SNL and films. and the world. And Kate and I go on an. adventure and we're going to talk about. woodworking. We're going to talk about. sketch. We're going to talk about what. do you do next when you have fulfilled. your dream. And in Kate's case, it's. homesteading and being in the movie The. Roses and writing the second book in her. Millisent Quib series. So, um, I'm so.

excited to talk to Kate today. And. before we do, always we check in with. someone who knows our guest, who has a. question for our guest. And we have a. great one today. Kate's fellow cast. member, her chosen sister, uh, you know. her from SNL, from Shrill. She's an. incredible comedian and actress and. writer and person. Adie Bryant. 80. Hi.

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Shop now. [music]. >> We're talking to you from Los Angeles. >> Yeah, that's where I am. That's where. you live now. >> I know. I know. It's weird. >> 80. I had a moment today where I was like I. was just excited about talking to you. and just thinking about.

I know this is sound very basic, but. just like the women of SNL like just. like you know there's there's not there. hasn't been as many as you think. >> No, totally. It's It's like a major crew of cool. stars and girls. >> It's true. Like I think you and I were. at a photo shoot and somebody I feel. like we were at the same photo shoot. when someone said the number of cast. members of SNL and it wasn't a lot. [laughter].

>> Totally. Also, I I don't I felt this at. the 50s where like then when you have. kind of everyone in the room not. counting the hosts you're kind of like. this is little like this is a little. group you know. >> Yeah. Like I I got a I got a laptop here. so I'm going to see how many cast. members. have been on SNL but yeah. >> Do you have a guess first? I jelly bean. jar guess. >> Okay. Yeah. Let's guess before Okay. I. won't look. Three. >> say like.

>> 140. Is that wrong? >> Yes. 167. >> Come on. >> That's the blackbox theater, honey. That's just a full blackbox theater. [laughter]. >> You always see everything in theater. sizes. That's the stadium. [laughter]. >> But yeah, but I was thinking about like. it's it is it's a it's a it's a great. group. It's like like of which I'm very. proud to be a part of and I know you are.

too. >> Same. Oh my god. Yeah. It's like very. overwhelming to me if I think about it. at all. >> I know. Me too. And uh and you and Kate. McKinnon, our guest today, >> were there at the same time and the the. people especially the women that you are. there with at the same time means means. a lot. So tell everybody when did you. guys start? When did you start? And were. you starting at the same year or when. did what year? >> Yeah. Well, she had kind of a weird.

thing where she started like five shows. at the end of the previous season. >> Maya Rudolph did that too. Maya started. at like the end of a season, >> which that seems like so stressful to. me. I don't I kind of don't know how she. did it cuz she also like came in alone. in that moment. But I think Kate and I, we shared an office and also just we. both are like scared and I think we both. were also like um we like are both.

extroverts for our jobs, but I think. we're both kind of secretly like. introverts who like to be quiet and. hidden. And so we were we bonded over. that. I think you know. >> it's funny you say that. That was one of. the questions I had for her today is how. she managed. being in such an extroverted job as an. obvious introvert cuz I really find her. to be a genuine introvert. >> Yeah. I mean, I think in some ways like.

it's part of her genius is like she's. almost like a recluse who has to go. [laughter] and have like time, but then. it's so fruitful. Like I I mean once. like one of the first times I went to. her apartment I was like oh my god what. are all these cool paintings and she was. like a I did this you know and I was. like what you know and same like or we. would be writing a sketch and then she. would be like well get a keyboard and. then like be playing a full and you're. like wait you play the piano and then.

[laughter] like she was like well I do. play the cello too like it just she is. like a she is like a sneaky freak. who has a million skills and talents. Kind of like a savant kind of thing. And. >> that's why she she's like mysterious in. that way. I think. >> she is she definitely is like an onion. Like she and and. it also not to make it about me, but I'm. feeling such shame about the fact that. if I knew how to play the cello, you.

would know it, babe. [laughter]. You'd know it. You'd know it. Day one. [laughter]. No, I same. Everywhere I go, I'd be. like, well, I do cello, but I do piano, too, you know, [laughter]. and I paint a little on the side. But. anyway, let's get back to you. Like I. would it would be on my. >> Well, I guess I'm sorry. I'm one of the. greatest sketch comedians of all time, too, on that's just like the other thing. I do. And I can build tables and garden. and like, you know, [snorts]. >> and I'll take a I'll take a grande.

latte, please. [laughter]. I know there's she is and I have to say. 80y I find this with you too both of you. guys have a very calm. um energy that's like draws you in you. neither one of you you're very like come. hither [laughter]. come hither. that is what everyone always says about. me that I'm sexy kind of come hither. vibe. >> you are babe because you both are like.

there's not a lot of push. >> There's not a lot of push. >> You know, I think we really helped each. other in that way because like. >> I you know, especially when you get to. SNL, it's so overwhelming. It's like so. cool. >> And I think sometimes we both would have. the instinct of like, is it okay for me. to leave this party and go home? And we. often for each other were like, I would. like to. >> Let's go. [laughter] you know, we gave.

each other permission to like be the. ones to go first basically. >> That's actually good. >> That was really helpful at times, you. know. Yeah. >> Yeah. >> But I'm so honored to be thought of as. come hither. That is like that might be. my new like cello like come. [laughter and clears throat] hither. >> Miss Paula thinks I'm come hither. [laughter]. Cut to your cosmetic brand. Come hither. Come hither baby. And you're like, and. then you're like, where is where is it. being sold? I'll never tell. [laughter].

Before I get to your question for Kate, what's the first stuff you did together. and wrote together? You know, one of the. first things I think we really started. like putting our heads together on stuff. were those like girl music videos that. we would do kind of like. >> uh Twin Bed, I think, was one of the. first ones. And then we did like Backcom. Ballers and a couple after that. But. that was like one of our first like we.

both were like we like music and let's. try this, you know. >> Did you shoot them in the at the Douglas. house? >> Yes. So some I felt like I like our. generation was some of the last to still. go to the Douglas House cuz they don't. go there anymore. For people listening, the Douglas House was just like a big. house about 45 minutes outside of the. city where if you watch in the '9s and. 2000s, every commercial was shot at, every fake commercial was shot at. Mitz. gay like all the uh oops I crapped my.

pants all those were there. >> and like for our generation it was like. lower lower back tattoo remover and like. the Roomba that went up your pants and. and it was and and just so many mornings. like super tired at the Douglas house. >> completely also like I've I would lay in. their rooms as if they were my own. [laughter] just so rudely like I would. never do that if I was shooting in. someone's house now, but at that time I. was like, I got to lay on the floor in.

here on someone's couch or bed. I. [laughter] don't know. You got to know. how anything works. So, I was like, our space. >> And also, I just like what I love about. watching you on the show and all the. women of SNL and Kate too is. just like never worried when you. perform. like never always feeling super. relaxed that you're in control of what. you're doing that you have like a deep.

sense of play and like. something natural does happen I think is. the long the longer you're there which. is just like you get a good case of like. the [ __ ] it's like who cares like let's. just try [ __ ]. >> 100%. >> and you and Kate as seniors were really. fun together. >> well we were like doing bad behavior. [clears throat]. basically. um. >> like what what was your bad Well, just I. feel like she I mean she's the number. one culprit of this in my time at SNL, which was she would basically perform so.

funny during the week, so funny during. rehearsal. And then at dress or I mean. at air, it was just something you had. never seen before. And I would be, you. know, like eye to eye with her or. whatever. And I'd be like, "This [ __ ]. is letting it rip." [laughter]. And I'm just like at her mercy, >> you know? So fun. >> It's a thrill, you know. >> Well, I'm excited to talk to her today. and also like a little um I'm I'm I'm. intrigued by Kate always because Kate is.

like has a million hobbies and interests. and she is, you know, she's not on as a. person. She's not like a she's not like. you can actually go pretty deep and go. into these crevices of her mind. So, I'm. excited to get there. But what do you. think? Do you have any question for her. today that you think she might want to. be asked or, you know, um, a story she might want to. tell or anything you think you'd want to. know?

>> Well, it's funny cuz I feel like knowing. her, I'm like, there's no question she. wants to be asked. >> I I I've already heard that she's like. she told someone I know she was like, "Amy's going to look into my soul, [laughter] and I don't want that.". She doesn't want to do this interview. She's [laughter]. She's going to be. >> He wants to do no interviews, by the. way. I know. Okay, I'm I'm stalling. I. guess my question is like what's her. perfect. >> day of solitude, which might include.

like an indoor activity, probably an. outdoor activity, knowing her, and also. like a meal she would make just for. herself. I feel like that's like where. she's in her flow state. And I'm like, what's she doing? What's. her dream version of that? Or even, you. know, how she spends her time like that. >> That is such a good question because. asking somebody about what their, you.

know, quote unquote kind of perfect day. tells you so much about them. And. and I definitely feel like Kate's. perfect day is a solo day. >> I which I like respect massively. You. know, that's a fantastic question. Wait, I feel like there's one last question. you should ask Kate. This is just a. loose one, but ask her what she used to. carry her hair extensions in. [clears throat]. [laughter]. >> Don't know what the answer might be, but. I think she might remember [laughter].

what she used to cart those around in. >> Perfect. Can't wait. All right, Adid, thank you so much for getting on. It's. so great to see you. Yeah, [clears throat]. >> your come hither attitude is it just. drew me in from minute one, babe. Hello. Come hither anytime you wish. [laughter]. Say hi to Connor. Lots of love. Okay. Bye. >> bye.

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>> Oh my god. Wait, McKinnon. >> Wait, what's going on with this water? [laughter]. What is this water? >> Um, this is. >> Talk to me about this jug. >> Do you try to get through this a day. once a day? >> I try. I put it away for months at a. time and then I say, "Where's where's my. jug?". >> Oh my god. How many gallons is in here? >> This is one gallon. Actually, this is.

not full, but you can see how that. feels. >> This is nice. >> Yeah. >> And um Do you try to get a gallon a day? No, >> I do. I mean, when I'm doing when I'm. when I'm being. >> good and cool. Yeah. >> That's why your skin is so good. It's. this gallon jug. >> Uh [laughter] it's Thank you. >> Um Yeah. No, it's good. Uh because it. weighs 25 lbs one full. So, you're. getting bit whatever this is. And um.

it's really good in a zoom because if. your zoom is flagging [laughter]. >> and then you bring this into frame. >> without introing it. Um you're that's. another five minutes. >> material for your zoom. >> I love this jug. >> Thank you so much. Here you can. >> may I put it I'm just going to put it. over here for continuity. >> Yeah. So we can make sure that it. doesn't as Lauren say co-star.

>> Okay. I know. Thank you. Yes. Let the. audience come to you. When in doubt, seduce and keep your jug on the floor. [laughter]. >> Try to get your jugs all the way to the. floor if you get. [gasps]. >> Hi, friend. >> Hey. >> Hi. >> You're beautiful. Congratulations on on. this. >> Thank you. I'm so happy that you're. here. >> I'm very happy to be here. >> I know that you do not like to do. interviews. Well, and my first question. is just something very very simple, which is.

>> what is God's plan for us? >> Um, God has gone [laughter]. jumped ship. >> God is taking. >> and gone to a different universe. [laughter] God was like. God was like, "Yikes, this that was a. miss. And I [laughter] shall I'll let. them do it.". Um, yeah, we are doomed. [laughter]. Capital Doomed. Um, no, I know that you don't like love.

interviews, but I think what is so. special about you, Kate, is I feel like. you just deepend it pretty fast. Like. you like. deep end complex conversations. >> Bless you for saying so. I I would I'd. like to What is your sign? Virgo. >> Got it. Capricorn. >> Oh, of course. Good. Finally. Finally. A. reasonable person. >> And your MyersBriggs. >> Um, ENTJ.

>> Got it. Good. >> What's yours? >> Good. INFP. >> Yes. You're a definite I. >> Good. >> And also, uh, your enog. >> four wing five. >> Of course, you're a four. >> What are you? >> I'm an eight. >> And that's the. >> eight wing nine. I'm the challenger. >> The challenger. >> And you are the um romantic, >> the [ __ ] sensitivo. I was going to. say I'm the [ __ ]. >> No, no, I'm the [ __ ]. >> Oh my god, that's so funny. I thought I. [laughter] was the [ __ ]. >> Wait, but what is eight again? Which. >> eight is the challenger? So eight is the. um.

>> likes to lead. >> Uh has has problem with vulnerabil. problems with vulnerability. So like. doesn't go with feelings first, action. first. >> Four is lots of feelings. >> Yeah. >> Right. So, if you're at Thanksgiving, the eight is maybe at the table arguing. about vaccines or something. The four is. in the basement looking through photo. albums of old Thanksgivings. >> Yes. >> Would that would that make sense? >> Yes. And saying stuff like.

it's all over. >> Yes. [laughter]. >> Okay. >> Awesome. Like we are doomed. Like God is. gone. And I need you also to know that I. my face is covered in poison ivy. >> Can't see. Okay. Can't see one one piece. of evidence for it. >> See little the little dots on my neck. >> Can't see at all. Your incredible makeup. artist who we love. >> Yes. Who we love. Cassie Garcia. >> who also I work with. >> Yes. >> Incredible. >> She's always she she relays messages.

between the two of us. Same. >> Yeah. >> She's like, I saw Kate. Kate said hi. It's really nice. And you could not tell. for one minute that you have poison ivy. on your face, but I know that you are. like an outdoor cat. >> Outdoor cat, indoor cat. But you are you. live you're basically you've gone you've. gone to the farm. >> I've gone rogue. >> You've gone rogue. >> Yes. They it. >> I remember so clearly. I believe we were. in maybe we were at the Kennedy Center.

Honors in DC or something and I was. telling you about my desire to go to the. woods and you were like in New York the. nature that we have is our pets. >> and we need more nature than that. >> Yes. >> And so that I that I always had that in. my head. >> Mhm. >> And I um I did it. >> You did it. How does it feel? [gasps]. >> [sighs]. >> It's the best.

>> I'm I belong on the homestead. >> Yeah, I believe it. >> I belong. on the homestead. >> I believe it. >> Did you feel that way when you were. younger? Did you feel an affinity to. nature? Were you that kind of person, like young kid who liked to be in the. woods? >> I loved bugs and science and making. nature crafts. Mhm. >> I remember making little um bits of mud. and putting them places. And I remember. every time we went to a seafood.

restaurant, I would say, "Mom, can I. take the empty clam muscle and lobster. shells home with me and [laughter] put. them in the bathtub? [gasps] And after. rinsing them of marinara sauce, she. would let me um put them in the bathtub. and and I would get in with them and. [clears throat]. just [laughter]. >> um enjoy that. And so, yes, I I did. always like Did you. >> Well, I kind of liked adventure. I liked. the idea of being alone in like I liked.

getting on my bike and riding through. the neighborhood like feeling alone. But. talk to me about without, you know, obviously revealing anything too. personal, what is your homestead? What. do you do on your homestead? Talk to me. about what happens there. Are you. farming? >> I think the reason I've I've done it is. that I believe very [laughter] much that. we are doomed and I want my goal is is. surviving the apocalypse 4 days. Okay,

that's it. If I can make it to four, mama, I will have uh achieved something. A long weekend, like a holiday weekend. [laughter]. That's such a good That's such a funny. thing to think about is what it would. take for four days. It's It's more It's. more food than you think, obviously. >> It is. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. And I would I know I wouldn't make. it past 2 hours, but I'd like to think. that I could go 48.

>> Mhm. >> And I would be crying the whole time as. a four-wing five. [laughter]. Um, but I would like uh the the the lack. of invitations to social gatherings. [laughter] in the apocalypse. That would. be fun. Okay. You are a true introvert. >> Which I I am ashamed of because. >> why. >> I love people. I am fascinated by and. love to talk to and listen to people. >> But the word fascinated is the part you. are fascinated by people. People are.

that's what I think I feel from you is a. fascination and a curiosity about the. world and people. >> That is what is so compelling about. being around you is you are very curious. about many things. >> But I sense that people in general like. a lot of people it's just it's not. really your gig. It's just like. one-on-one people feels like. >> or two on oneonone however you like it. one-on-one, two on one. But you know,

>> but when we were talking about you going. like getting back into nature and kind. of checking out, I think it was in in. the context of New York City being. >> overwhelming. And you being there for a. long time because you lived in the city. for how many years? >> 20. >> And you were on a on SNL for how many. years? >> 10. >> And every day you saw hundreds of. people. This is the voice that I was. just acting up a hair. Excuse [laughter]. me. Uhhuh. >> If at any point you need a cold compress. or.

>> um and so you were like [laughter]. fascinating that you were in a bustling. city on a bustling show. >> and it makes total sense that you want. to go somewhere and just get a little. bit quieter and more peaceful after that. experience, right? >> How does an introverted person like you, how did you manage the huggeeness that. was that show? It's such chaos. Do you want me to do an impression of. myself at the afterparty? >> Yeah. >> Okay. So, you are, let's say, you're an.

agent that I know. >> Great. >> Okay. >> Okay. And I'll and I'll just be talking. to you. Okay. >> Really close, really quiet. >> Tell me about your parents that, you. know, that kind of thing. >> Yeah. You wanted But that's what I'm. talking about. You like a one-on-one. connection. You like people. You want connection. >> I really do. >> Yeah. When I watch you on SNL, you're so. connected to what you're doing. You're. very.

relaxing to watch because you don't seem. nervous. >> But was that all am I getting it totally. wrong? Like was inside uh whirly whirly. swirly or was the inside kind of. peaceful when you were you in the zone. when you would perform? >> Oh gosh. Um, always terribly nervous, >> horrifically nervous, >> less so at dress, I always felt I did I.

did my best at dress and then air was. just less good. >> cuz I was thinking about. >> um the cameras. But when it was just. dress and just. I could really sometimes if I was really. in it feel like. I was in dialogue with the people in the. audience and like we were sharing. something, you know? I I feel like. sketch is like you see something that. you love that delights you and you're. like just showing it to people and then.

you're like, "Do you guys like it too? Cuz I think this is funny." And if they. do, then then you're like you have a. connection. And I I felt sometimes like. I was just with friends. I mean, Lauren. said that I'm sure. >> it should feel like you're in your. living room playing. >> Ooh, that's good. >> And I I did got get to that point. >> You definitely did. I mean, first of. all, we got to see I mean, this might.

make you uncomfortable this kind of. praise, but I feel like there's Here she. goes. [laughter]. Okay, hold on. Hang on. Praise is. coming. Okay, praise is coming. There are people on that show that I. felt were naturals on that show. Now. whether or not they felt natural is is. their own personal story. But you, Maya. Rudolph, this is my opinion. you, Maya, Rudolph, Dana Carvey, Will Ferrell, people who.

just kind of came onto the show, fit. right in and just became. just like instant captains, just instant. um. crushers, just so good at that show. because that show needs a specific kind. of something. I don't know. I don't even. know, you know. And. I always felt that from you, just this. calm confidence when you were. performing. And it's interesting to know.

that inside you were not feeling that. way. What what did you do when you were. not feeling like you did well? What like. like how do you how did you manage that. feeling? I mean, I can't think of any. time you didn't do [laughter] well, but. it's so funny. I'm sure you felt that. There were plenty of um. desperate failures [laughter]. that haunt me even now. I um no I uh no.

a lot of failures and they they still. sometimes I'll think of something that. didn't work or that I didn't I just. couldn't get there in time with the. writing or the performing and it it. still stings. >> and I still feel shame and that you know. and that's on me. Um, but I um I also. have made the terrible mistake of. reading. >> oh. >> stuff on the internet which. >> I truly wish I could go back and have. never looked at the internet because it. has. >> y. >> um that haunts me as well.

>> and also you just cannot remember the. good things. >> You can't remember no. >> for the hundred good things. It's just. like can't can't conjure them up but the. one bad one you'll never forget. Yeah, there are phrases that I have read that. [laughter]. >> not even that mean not unfounded like. things [laughter] with a kernel of truth. like thoughtful critiques [laughter]. that I agreed with. >> Mhm.

>> That uh have ruined my life. [laughter]. That will be that will be on your head. [laughter]. >> Okay. But but so but when you were per. like did you have any okay talk like. were you did you like to rehearse all. the time? Were you in your room rehears. were you the kind of performer go you're. in your room before you're doing your. sketch quiet and in intensely working on. it? Did you like to play around and stay. loose before a scene? Cuz I didn't.

really ever get a chance to work with. you very much. We only did a few small. things together. Did you like to be. alone and get ready for stuff or did you. like to stay loose and you know what I. mean? >> Yeah. No, I I I I think I I mostly like. to wing it. >> Um I there were like a I don't know if. you uh can relate if it was like a just. a twoperson scene that was like really a. scene that required like your eyes are. so beautiful. I'm.

>> mine. >> Yes. Oh my god, Kate. >> You know what? [laughter]. You shine like a sun and I'm having. trouble concentrating on what I was. saying. [laughter]. >> I um. love you. >> You [laughter] too, my queen. My queen. Um I if it was like a two person scene. with a lot of lines, I would try to not. memorize but become very intimately. familiar with the lines. I could feel. that that you liked to know your lines,

which some people don't really try to do. cuz people don't know, but it changes a. lot at SNL, so sometimes you're a little. screwed if you know your lines too well. >> Right. Right. Um, so if it was like not. changing that much and it was like a. like more acting. >> Yeah. >> scene, I would sort of like to like run. through it a few times, but otherwise I. I liked to uh wing it. Um, that's what I mean is you have you had a. very. groovy flow in a lot of the stuff that.

you did. And so who knew babe that. inside was you know a bunch of mice. carrying ladders and stuff like like who. knew? [laughter]. And so when we talked about you like. hitting the road and getting. homesteading basically what I feel like. was underneath that was like here's the. new next chapter of chapter of the. version of my life like you know if if. my life is a book I'm interested in what.

the next chapter is. >> Yes. >> What is the what would you like what. would you title this chapter of your. life postsl. >> growing growing your own food prepping. for the apocalypse? My goodness. Um, >> what would it what would you say? What. era are you in? >> Getting real. >> Getting real or um 41 [laughter]. or um. >> getting getting with an apostrophe. getting real. [laughter].

[snorts]. >> Um, well, let's be honest. I feel like [laughter]. I had one dream. One dream. It was SNL. Did it [laughter] done loved it. Awesome. Um, not quite sure. >> Not quite sure what to really be like. single-minded. about. I I love filming movies and uh.

the the small amount of episodic. television. >> What do you love about making movies? I love. being able to. I love going somewhere. >> for a month or two. >> and walking around. >> Yeah. >> And falling in love with 80 new people. and um. >> the the the circus the camp of it. >> Yeah. >> The summer camp. You went to you went to.

camp? >> I never did. >> Oh my gosh. >> I know. I went to a day camp, but I. never went away. I would have loved to. have gone like away from home, but yeah, just this idea that you had this stolen. time almost in another place. >> You can be anything. >> And um I love that. And I also love um I. love I just love movies. I think they're. wonderful as a as a medium. >> And I love um doing a scene uh as.

scripted and then trying it 80 different. ways. and they pick the best one and as. opposed to like you've got one shot, one. opportunity to seize everything you ever. wanted. Are you will you capture it or. will you let it slip? [snorts]. >> Um do not miss your chance cuz. opportunity comes. >> once in a lifetime. >> Um. but that was what SNL was. >> Yes. >> So you did it so well. So you feel like. you.

Yeah, I hear what you're saying. It's. like, okay, I did that. I did that as to. the best of my ability and now I want. to, you know, practice my backhand. basically or or or or not even my. backhand, just try try a new shot. >> Yeah. Yeah. Totally. Like I loved doing. pre-taped pieces because for that very. reason. And I I have loved truly loved. every experience I've had working on a. film. >> So I'd love to do more of that. And I. >> um but I I but there's only so many um.

hours in a year that. >> Yeah. >> Uh you know, SNL took up so much. >> Yeah. >> of all of our. lives and and when it's over, it just. leaves a a time hole. >> And so I had to fill my time hole. >> And. >> that's the name of your workshop. [laughter]. fill your time home with Kate McKinnon. >> Um, and so I've done that. I've I've.

tried to be uh useful in growing food. and I've also taken up carpentry as. well. >> Okay. I've heard about this. Talk can. you talk to me about the materials. you're using because I know a little bit. about woodworking from Nick. >> Offer from Nick. >> Have you spoken to Nick? >> I've never No, I like I mean I've meant. to. He has an amazing work workshop and. he's he's such a good teacher and and um. share of knowledge. >> and tell me what you like about.

woodworking and carpentry. What do you. what's your favorite part? It is well I think it's in my jeans. because my grandfather was a woodworker. >> my father was an architect and um I just. I love the practicality of being you can. you know manipulate this material and. then you can spend time in it. >> Yeah. >> How crazy is that?

>> You can sit on it. >> I love to sit [laughter] on things I do. Um it's just so much it's you know a. sketch a a a book of something it's so. ephemerrable [snorts] ephemerrable and. and to say I will sleep on what I did. today. >> Yes. >> Is like. that's like life you know. >> that's cool. >> What materials do you like to work with? What kind of wood? I've been doing.

mostly uh trim carpentry which which is. uh moldings and paneling and I've been. uh using reclaimed hemlock for that. mostly. >> You've been making your own moldings. >> Yes. And I thought I thought I was the. only one. Then I'm backstage at uh that SNL50. concert. I'm talking to Brandy Carile. She's doing trim carpet. [laughter]. I'm like, Bran, of course you are. She's. like, John Stewart's doing his tr I'm.

like, [laughter]. >> turned out it's trit what I'm doing. Everyone's doing trim carpet. You're. doing trim carpentry. I know. >> I mean, people think I'm doing trim. carpentry, but I'm not. >> So, when you when you're making stuff. like something like when you're when. you're wood when you're working with. wood. >> Mhm. >> what happens when you make a mistake? I. feel because I I'm asking I'm very. intimidated by working with wood. I feel. like I if you make a if you measure. wrong you're [ __ ] like you can't.

>> what do you just kind of. >> I put it up inside the home anyway and I. have absolutely decreased the property. value [laughter] of the house with my. shoddy work. Yes, I know that I have. >> It is not Brandy Carlile level. >> No, [laughter] nothing is true. That's. true. What do you want to make? What's. the dream thing you want to eventually. make? Do you want to move on from. molding and moldings and and do you want. to make furniture?

>> I do. You make furniture? >> I I have I made a table. >> Dang, >> that was cool. >> But honestly, I would like to move into. plumbing and electrical. I would like to. be. >> um have all the skills of a general. contractor. >> I love that. I love that. I don't know. >> Well, because the end is near and you. know, we have to Well, someone's got to. wire the shelter. >> Yeah, exactly. If we're going to get one. more day in that shelter, we're going to. need how the We're going to need to fix.

the toilet. >> Yeah. [laughter]. >> Yeah. I I so relate though, Kate. I I mean, I. have no doubt you will. I have no doubt. you'll learn about plumbing. And And. >> I mean, that's a ways away. >> You think so? >> Well, it's someone's job for a reason. [laughter]. Yeah, >> that's a two-year certificate at at. minimum. >> Yeah. >> Um, so but yes, I would like to acquire. all of those the skills that can make a.

home function. >> Mhm. >> For 4 days. What I like about this conversation is. that I feel like we're going out in the. woods and then we're coming back into. the city. >> Yeah. >> Back and forth. So coming back into the. city if I can. >> Yes. Can you speak about the last show of of. you of yours at SNL.

>> because I remember that being feeling. very powerful and very moving and I. think we spoke about it and it was for. you. It was a very beautiful sendoff. where you walk up into the stairs as. Miss Rafferty. >> meeting the aliens finally maybe we. don't know [laughter]. >> or finally meeting you know or them. taking you away or you. >> willingly going. We don't know. Yeah. >> What do you think [laughter] happens to. her and you? But that walk up the stairs. and like the wave goodbye was really.

beautiful and really cool. What was the. last what was your last show like? >> I thought it was really beautiful too. It was not my pitch. That was streeter. and Mikey Day. >> um came up with that. My pitch was that. I did this character Sheila Sovage. Yes. >> Uh the barfly. Um, and my pitch was that. I would tongue every single person in. the [laughter] cast. um, in a line and you know, I thought.

ultimately that the alien thing was a. little more meaningful [laughter] and. had a better tone. So, we went with. that. Um, >> so everyone narrowly missed uh, sucking. my face. >> That goodbye that goodbyes that goodbye. tonging. But that was very emotional. because. uh it was every I mean. >> you did over 200 shows or something. >> Everything to me and those people are. everything to me.

>> Jenna. >> Yeah. >> You know, um Chris Kelly, everybody. And. and and Lauren, who has been, you know, a a surrogate father uh to me. And I I. could cry now thinking about what he has. been to me in my life as I'm sure we all. could. And. >> what what can you speak a little bit. more? What has he been what has he done. to like what was your relationship with. him like? >> My well very my my father passed when I.

was 18. I loved my father. beyond and he um Lauren just was nothing. but paternal. And when you uh have. somehow by by the grace of whatever. earned the esteem of a man like that, a. man who's that like. larger than life, it just it means. everything. And so um I was like. just sad.

>> Yeah. >> To go. I had I had to I I I had reached. a point where I was like yawning during. the show and that just did not that was. not working for me physically anymore. >> Yeah. >> And. there there you have it. >> So, >> but it didn't mean I wanted to get away. from those folks. >> You love those folks. You love those. folks. Boy, Kate, they love you. >> You know who loves you so much? And. there's a million people who do. Seth. Meyers. >> He loves you.

He you are he just is like and again. praise coming in prepare. But you were. just such a natural captain when you. were in there on that show. You just you. led that show through a lot of years and. you were in a lot of sketches and you. were doing a lot. You were you were. carrying a lot on your shoulders in that. show whether or not you felt it or not. And you were you were being asked to do.

really big. playing like really for quoteunquote. like important people at important times. whether it's Hillary Clinton or Rudy. Giuliani or like you were playing all. the it was the the world you the world. is nuts and it's weird and I know from. experience because we both played. political figures to play people in real. time that are also existing in real time. in the world and there's real world. consequence And it's very strange. [laughter]. >> Yes. Yes, it is.

Yeah, it certainly did. >> What was it? What would how did it feel? Was there Did you feel any. responsibility when you were playing. anybody? Uh or did you have to kind of. let that go and not worry about it? [sighs]. >> No, mama. I felt a lot of I felt a lot. >> Yeah. >> I'm sorry. Just to talk about Seth for. one second. Let's go back to Seth. When. Seth left, >> it was in a February. That was another. that I felt like I only overlapped with.

him for. two or 3 years or so, but he and he is. not very much older than me, but I felt. like he was like had a paternal, you. know, thing. And like when he left, oh. my god, I was so crushed. And I forget that life goes on and you. like you form, you know, other. connections and stuff, but that was. like, oh, I love that guy. >> Yeah,

>> I love that guy. [laughter]. >> Yo, any horse. Um, what were we saying. about. >> politics? Who cares? You know what? >> Politics. Well, it's a double-edged. sword, I felt, and you let me know how. this lands for you. >> Yeah. But I felt it was a double-edged. sword in that. I felt like I was really doing something. with my life, something meaningful, >> being engaged in the most peripheral. possible way in.

in culture in. in history. >> Yeah. >> In the mo like Yeah. just on the. sidelines putting on a wig, you know, doing little songs about whatever was. actually going on, but like. >> um being in the smallest way a part of. that felt like I was. doing something meaningful. And with. that came, [sighs and gasps].

you know, like I remember there was one. article. >> that was like, "Will she hurt Hillary. Clinton?". >> Oh god. >> And I was like, [laughter] "God, y'all, y'all shouldn't read, should not have. read, should never have looked, but that. like that notion. uh just broke my brain." And like I. obviously no one I think doing an a. satire has the power to actually. influence but um I did not want to hurt.

anybody even people I uh vehemently. disagreed with politically like I still. didn't want to ever hurt anyone's. feelings. >> Um and so yeah there was some balancing. to do there. >> Did you ever meet anybody while you were. dressed as them? Yes. I met um. >> Secretary Clinton, >> uh Senator Warren. That was.

>> Oh, awesome. [laughter]. >> Oh my gosh. >> Oh, you guys did a really fun You guys. did like a switch a Tik Tok switcheroo. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. She was like the after there was. some vote on the floor of Congress. I believe it was on January 6th about I. forget what it was and all the Democrats. were saying no and all the Republicans. were saying yes. I forget what about but. they were going down the list calling.

the names of all the Democratic senators. and everyone was saying no, no, no. And. then it got to her and she was like no. [laughter]. And then I know it's a question you get. asked all the time, but I do love this. question which is well two. Did you watch did you ever go on the. server and watch sketches that bombed? We used to we used to watch our sketch. Do you like do you kind of like it when. sketches bomb a little bit? Like did you. ever enjoy that? >> And did you ever rewatch a sketch that.

like didn't make it? We used to go and. watch our sketches from dress that. bombed and just like. >> it was and just watch it together like. you know kind of like process it. together [laughter]. and it was just like such a nice feeling. basically just a reminder that everybody. bombs basically. >> Um did you ever do that? >> Um yes there were a few. a few hits that we would watch over and. over again. [laughter]. Um there was one there was one rehearsal.

where um a person I won't say who. [laughter] simply stopped doing the. sketch and sat down on the stage. >> Sure. Um that was a fun watch and yeah. just stuff like that. >> We we had a we had a host again I won't. say who who like halfway through just um. >> kind of fell asleep a little bit. [laughter]. >> Yeah. And it was like this was dressed. I was like, "Okay, well, I guess we're I. guess this character is asleep now.".

[laughter]. >> Don't blame him. >> Agree. >> Time to sit down. >> And it's it's a tough gig. [laughter]. >> Did you find that hosting was so much. harder than you could have ever. imagined? >> I wanted to be back with the like I. didn't want to be in I Yeah, I know. I. wanted to be like. >> I kept being like, "What are you guys. doing over there?" Like I kept wanting. to be over there. >> Yeah. Um, [snorts]. >> yeah. Yeah. And and. who did you love? Host who what host did.

you love? Like. >> that you just think about you're just. like, "Oh my god, that's so like. >> I remember really loving uh Amy Adams.". >> Yes. >> Emily Blunt. >> Yes. >> Um. I a lot those are the two that pop into. my mind. But just I loved I loved. actresses. who were. wonderful comedic actresses and also. actresses. >> Oh, that's so interesting. What type was.

your. >> I enjoyed weirdly often athletes. [laughter]. >> because they wanted to be coached and. they would be like, "How do you want me. to say it? How do you want me to do it?". And I'd be like, "Oh, thank God. [laughter]. >> This is exactly how I want you to do. it." you know, and they felt really good. about that. Like there was no and they. would if they scored, they were like, "Yay!" And if they did, they were like, "This isn't my gig." Like they just they. didn't they didn't [laughter] feel and. it relaxed me. It relaxed me when. athletes would host. >> Um. >> or or people like that. People who were.

just like, "This is a this is so weird. that I'm here.". >> Did Charles Barkley ever host when you. >> No. Did you love him? >> Oh my god. >> You loved him. >> Now there's a funny athlete. Jesus. Christ. He may be the funniest man. alive. >> [laughter]. >> And I did do one of my bar fly sketches. with him. So I have his tongue has been. in my mouth and I [laughter]. >> It was nice. >> Fantastic. Um, okay. So we do this thing.

on the show where we talk to people. before our interview. I don't know if. you know this. >> We talk well behind their back. We talk. to somebody who knows them and they give. me they give me a question to ask them. So, we talked to Adie Bryant today, the. great 80. Oh. Oh, here we go. Tears. Waterworks. 80 and you like tell me a. little bit about what 80. what it meant to have 80 there when you. were there and like working with her. What was what was your relationship. like? >> I mean, she taught me about like so much.

about comedy, but she also taught me. about just like being a person. comedy. aside. I mean, she's a genius, but like. just one of the most solid people I've. ever. known. And I. she just she like when I moved into my. apartment, she was like, "Invest in your. base.". which she was basically telling me to. like get kind of okay furniture which. like I wasn't planning [laughter] on. doing.

but she just she um. >> I think in many ways she taught me how. to live. >> and uh how to be okay even in silence I. was like okay this is my sister everyone. here is my friend this is my sister. >> I uh we were re-watching the sketch. today [laughter]. um of you and AD as the as uh I think it. was Henrietta and Nan the PowerPoint.

ladies who couldn't get the PowerPoint. to work. >> It was I was reminded 15 more of those. right now. >> I was reminded of that the other day. [laughter] and. I was asking the gal who wrote it, did. you come up with the phrase digifiles. [laughter] and she said no that was 80. dig files? I like when 80 says when 80. says I don't think I can learn anything. anymore. [laughter]. >> I don't think I can learn anything new.

anymore. >> Oh my god, >> that and there's and okay, so 80 had a. question for you which is. she had two great questions for you. One. is ask Kate what she used to carry her. hair extensions around in. [laughter]. >> Do you remember? Uh, it was a it was a. tiny linen drawstring polka dot bag. [laughter]. that I think she gave me. >> Okay,

>> great. It seemed like an item that 80. would have cuz it was polka-dotted and. it was like sweet and drawstring. >> Okay, so um I'm going to take your word. for it. Well, there's no way we can. check. >> And then the but the second question was. what would be your ideal day? because we. were kind of talking about what we were. talking about earlier that there's this. part of you that like loves that feeling. of performing and being, you know, meeting 80 new people and being on the. road and being part of the circus. And.

then there's a part of you that wants to. kind of be in the woods and in nature. and be in kind of a peaceful version of. your life. What is Kate McKinnon's. perfect day? How would it go? >> I would wake with the sun. I would. garden [snorts] for a couple hours, do. carpentry for a couple hours, and then. gather. my mother and sister, the loves of my life.

or some other folks that I love, and. make pasta together. >> and eat it. >> Yum. >> From scratch. >> Damn. >> That was my 40th birthday party. It was. a pasta making party with my family and. my best friend and her family. >> That sounds. >> my 40th. Yeah, my 40th I was still. filming Parks and Reg. So, it was like a.

bar somewhere in the middle of filming. My 50th I had a dance party. >> and that was so fun because I love. dancing. >> and I prefer dancing over talking. >> Yes. >> Do you like to dance? I love to dance. and I I also prefer dancing over like I. will I will leave a party after 10. minutes if it's just talking because I. can't. >> Ad said the same thing that you two gave. each other a lot of permission to leave. parties which is what friendship is all. about. [laughter].

>> Okay, we're going to talk about your. incredible book because and I want to. talk to you about books. Um but I want. to just do a very quick rapid fire. Okay, number one gardening tip. Um. or any gardening tip. >> Compost. >> It's all about compost. >> Oh god. >> It's No, it's a pain in the ass. >> Yeah, I got to do it. >> Yeah. Okay. >> No, it's terrible. >> Favorite ice cream flavor? >> Chocolate fudge brownie. >> You said that really casually. Do you. not like ice cream?

>> No, I love it. >> Okay. Favorite childhood movie? >> The Producers. >> We watch The Producers every week in our. house. [laughter]. Favorite books growing up? [sighs and gasps]. >> Rald Doll. >> Um, and I loved a good atlas. I loved a. book about geography. >> Do you are you good at ge. >> cultures of the world? >> I do love geography. >> Do you have a good geographical sense? You. >> I would say yes.

>> When you know like when you're standing. somewhere, you want to know where north. is and you talk that way like it's west. of the highway. >> Yes. And you know where countries are? >> I do. That I do. >> That's great. >> I love the countries and I love to know. their capitals and I love knowing. [snorts] countries and capitals. It's a. hobby. >> I'm going to give you one. Uh Argentina, >> buenosis, >> Canada, >> Ottawa, [snorts]. >> China, >> Beijing,

>> Costa Rica. >> Um well, no. Is it Sanan? >> Close. >> No, it's San Jose. [laughter] Okay. >> Is it? >> Yep. Please God. Okay. Thank you. >> Um. uh let's see. Ethiopia. >> Uh Adis Sababa. >> Dang. [snorts]. >> Hungary. >> Budapest. Uh Iran. >> Thrron. Libya. >> Tripoli. >> And the last one is the capital of. Sagal.

>> Um. is it? No. Acra is the capital of Ghana. and the capital of Sagal is [ __ ] me. I knew this. I really It's with an R. >> Yeah, there's an R at the end. >> It's Dar. >> Yes. >> [ __ ] [applause]. [ __ ]. >> Kate, that's impressive. >> Hobby. In fact, during a read through at. SNL when I wasn't in any sketches, I.

just was practicing my capitals. [laughter] for fun. So, let's talk about. the Millisent Quib School of Etiquette. for Young Ladies of Mad Science. >> Your second book. >> Incredible. Congratulations. >> Thank you. >> You have written a you you have a series. now, the Millison Quibb series, and you. have one and two. >> and two is out. >> Yes. >> And is a New York Times bestseller. >> Tell us about this book, why you wrote.

it, what's it about? >> Yeah. Um, well, I got I got I started. writing it 12 years ago before SNL. >> Amazing. >> And then I just kind of kept at it uh. intermittently throughout that time. And. I love middle-grade literature. >> um because I think it has uh things in. common with sketch comedy, i.e. funny hair and funny names and.

[laughter] um and a sense of hope. >> Yeah. >> And and questions of identity and. questions of belonging. You know, a a. sketch is often about uh a fly in the. ointment, an odd man out. I wanted to. write about uh being a 12-year-old. girl in a in a repressive turn of the. century town. I didn't grow up in a. repressive turn of the century town, but. I grew up in a town um with, you know,

normal folks and I I felt like a freak. I think every 12-year-old feels like a. freak. Um. >> and I loved science and I loved bugs and. I loved like icky stuff and um I uh I. had I was fortunate enough to have. adults in my orbit who were um funny and. weird. my parents among them and a lot. of my teachers and I I think having that. kind of a mentor who.

>> uh celebrates what is unique about you. instead of stepping on it is absolutely. instrumental and so I wanted to write. about uh a mad scientist who's a pariah. in this town who um takes these little. weirdos under her wing and um. >> teaches them mad science and they fight. the bad guys and uh have adventures. And. I I wanted to write something that. hopefully would inspire young people to.

go outside. >> uh for the first time in days [laughter]. >> and touch a grass touch grass. And I. mean the the times of my childhood that. which was before cell phones which are. just the best time. I mean one day me. and Alexis North found like a fox skull. in like someone's hedges and like there. was an earwig in it and it was the great. talk about the best day of my life. Oh. my god the earwigs in that fox skull. We.

were just like. the world is magic. It's made of magic. And um I wish children had some more. access to that kind of stuff today. >> Yes. And uh I wanted to inspire them to. go outside and touch a bug. >> Um Okay. Well, I feel like. you know this interview started with you. worrying that you weren't going to be. funny or something like remember that.

>> I feel I wasn't. [laughter]. >> I'd like to start again, please. You're nuts. [laughter]. >> You're so nuts. You. But I want to finish the this thing last. thing which is I think people in comedy. are all as we know they're all different. kinds of people. Do people come up and. expect you to be a certain way and are. they surprised when you are quieter and. more reserved or more introverted than. you than they expect you to be?

>> I think they are. And sometimes they're. disappointed and vocal about that. >> [laughter]. >> Um, I've gotten a lot of Wow, you're not. funny in real life or speak up. What? Um, I've gotten I've gotten you're so. serious for a comedian. Yeah, >> you're being very serious. >> Oh, >> you're being very serious. >> Well, or a that's not funny. I've had. that. [laughter]. >> Like, well, I'm sorry. It isn't.

It wasn't very funny. Anyway, nice to. meet you. Oh, [ __ ] I gotta ask you one. question. Oh, [ __ ] I forgot one. question. >> And it's the best question and it's the. best one to ask you. >> Go for it. >> What is making you laugh these days? What are you What are you What What are. you watching, reading, listening to, watching a video of when you need to. lighten up, I'll tell you. Oo, there's a. man on YouTube, can't wait, from. Australia. He cleans drains. He clears.

hopeful hopelessly disgusting clogged. restaurant drains filled with grease. >> I love uh unclogging videos. [laughter]. >> This man, >> this is the earth in us. >> You never see his face. He is enthusiasm. on two feet. He says, he'll say, "Oh, you guys, this is what dreams are made. of. Can you believe we get to be here. clearing this drain? This one's choa. block. Let's fire up the jet. Oh, you.

little ripper. Come on, you good thing. Like he has like free and and it's about. and then he'll [laughter] be like, "Oh, there's a cockroach. Oh, there's some. corn there. Toilet paper. Oh, this is. what dreams are made of, you guys." And. I just I love enthusiasm. >> and I would recommend it's called Drain. Cleaning Australia. Okay, I'm just gonna. watch one little thing before. He. [laughter] sounds amazing. Drain cleaning Australia. Also, I love.

his um his commentary about what he. finds. >> Yeah. >> Okay, stand by. This one says sewage. spraying into the sky. Is that good? [laughter]. >> Okay, here we go. >> We're back for another block drain, mate. And I'm just going to let the. lovely customer know that we're here. >> Good day, mate. Bruce from Drain. Cleaning Australia. You're home. So he. he goes to he goes to meet the people. first. Let's see. Let's. >> And he's sorry. We got we got a. commercial.

>> You pay for you. You don't pay for. YouTube. You come here. We don't pay. [laughter] for YouTube. >> Are you kidding me? The price. >> They want me to pay to cut out the. commercials. No, I'll wait until the. skip button. Okay, here we go. >> You little ripper. AND WOW, YOU CAN SEE ALL THE TREE ROOTS. still down there. So, we punched a hole. through the blockage. >> I get it. >> Tree roots are the least of his. problems. Usually, it's like um a a a.

dachshund sized piece [laughter] of hair. or or grease or human [ __ ] It is. And. he's like, "Woohoo! Woohoo! [laughter]. You little rier.". Kate, thank you for being here. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> I can't tell if your eyes are green or. blue. I think they're both and it. doesn't matter. They're just. >> All that matters is today. [laughter]. >> All that matters is your name.

>> Thank you, Kate McKinnon. You are so. interesting to talk to and I love being. around you and your beautiful skin. Um, check out Kate's book. And, you know, in. this Polar Plunge, I I just wanted to. talk about the books that I loved when I. was in middle school. There were many, many series of books that I loved, but. we talked a lot about homesteading today. and growing your own vegetables and. pulling potatoes out of the earth. And. it made me think about Little House on.

the Prairie and Laura Ingles Wilder. And. um, God, I just I loved those books. And. and here's a tip in my Polar Plunge. If. you need to take a wonderful nap, put on. an old episode of Little House on the. Prairie and the sound of the clipclop of. the horses and the music and like. and then Paw just coming in from the. cold and somebody putting like a a hot. cake on the fire. It's going to knock.

you out. You're going to go right to. sleep. So read the books. incredible. books from Laura Engles Wilder. Watch. the TV show and try to stay up as long. as you can while you do. Okay, thanks so. much for listening. Thanks Kate for. being here. I love talking to you and. see you soon. Bye. You've been listening to [music] Good. Hang. The executive producers for this. show are Bill Simmons, Jenna Weiss. Berman, and me, Amy Polar. [music] The. show is produced by The Ringer and. Paperkite. For The Ringer, production by. Jack Wilson, Cat Spalain, Kaia McMullen,

and Aia Xenerys. for [music] Paperkite. production by Sam Green, Joel Levelvel, and Jenna Weiss Berman. Original music. by Amy Miles. >> Was a really good Hey.