Comedian Kevin Dorff discusses his role in the 'Bowling for Votes' episode of Parks and Recreation. They also talk about Leslie's campaign strategy, Jerry's social security mishap, Leslie and Ben's kiss, funny moments in the episode, the unconventional casting process, challenges of acting, comedy collaborations, portrayal of a working society, and expressing love for a performance.
The episode highlights the importance of community and overcoming pettiness in creating support systems.
The characters' dedication to their jobs and willingness to show up every day, despite their differences, is showcased.
The power of improvisation and writing in creating amazing comedic content is discussed, emphasizing joy and camaraderie.
Deep dives
Leslie's Determination to Win Derek's Vote
Leslie becomes determined to win the vote of a participant named Derek, who suggests he wouldn't go bowling with her. She organizes a bowling night and goes to great lengths to make Derek like her, but it doesn't go according to plan.
April's Guilt and Chris' Heartbreak
April feels guilty when her wish to see Chris sad comes true, as Millie breaks up with him at the fundraiser. To make amends, she buys an extra movie ticket and invites Chris to join her and Andy at the movies, offering him a quick hug of comfort.
Leslie's Apology, Ben Punches Derek, and Ron's Perfect Game
Leslie holds a press conference to apologize to Derek, but ends up admitting that she isn't sorry and won't disavow Ben. Ben throws a punch at Derek when he insults Leslie, and a photo is taken of Leslie kissing Ben with a bloody Derek in the background. Ron returns to the bowling alley in disguise and bowls a perfect game using Tom's technique.
Importance of Community and Overcoming Pettiness
The podcast episode discusses the importance of community and overcoming pettiness. It highlights how a working society can create support systems to help those in need. The episode showcases the characters' dedication to their jobs and their willingness to show up every day, despite their differences and occasional conflicts. The focus is on how individuals can come together and do good, even if they may not be natural do-gooders.
The Power of Improvisation and Writing
The podcast episode also features a conversation about the power of improvisation and writing. It mentions a specific moment from an improv show where the guest, Kevin Dorff, delivered a hilarious line that showcased his unique comedic perspective. The discussion explores how different comedic brains can come together to create amazing content, such as the writing on shows like Parks and Recreation. It emphasizes the joy and camaraderie that comes from performing and writing comedy.
Comedian, actor, and writer Kevin Dorff (known for his work with Conan O'Brien and his appearances on shows like The Office, 30 Rock, and White House Plumbers) joins Jim O'Heir and Greg Levine to discuss his role as Derek in “Bowling for Votes.”
Yes, this is the episode where Ben Wyatt punches a guy. It’s also the episode where: Jerry Gergich gives a stranger his social security number, Tom Haverford stumbles upon the most effective (and most embarrassing) bowling technique in history, and Chris Traeger gets his heart broken. Jim and Greg discuss all this and more on this week’s episode, give it a listen and stick around to hear Kevin Dorff (beginning around 37:35)!