Fresh Air Best Of: Ben Stiller / Cynthia Erivo
7 snips
Nov 22, 2025 
Ben Stiller, acclaimed actor and director, shares insights about his Apple TV+ documentary on his legendary parents, Jerry Stiller and Anne Meara. He reflects on growing up in a comedic household and the blurred lines between personal and professional life, including memorable childhood moments. Meanwhile, Cynthia Erivo, award-winning actress and singer, discusses her role as Elphaba in Wicked and its personal significance. She shares her audition vulnerabilities and innovative training methods, unveiling the artistic challenges and triumphs of embodying such an iconic character.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Childhood Confusion Between Rehearsal And Reality
- Amy overheard her parents rehearsing a sketch about hating each other and couldn't tell rehearsal from real fighting.
- That childhood confusion motivated Ben to explore how performance blurred family life.
Creative Drives Shaped Their Marriage
- Ben observed his parents had different creative drives: Jerry loved comedy while Anne came from dramatic training.
- That core difference shaped their working methods and added tension to both marriage and act.
Nanny Care And Studio 54 Sneak-Ins
- Ben and Amy were often cared for by their nanny Hazel while their parents toured and performed.
- When older, Amy dressed Ben up and got him into Studio 54 several times when he was about 13.