Fresh Air Will Arnett
Dec 23, 2025
Will Arnett, the talented actor and comedian known for his roles in 'Arrested Development' and 'BoJack Horseman,' discusses his new film 'Is This Thing On?' and the challenges faced in middle-aged relationships. He shares stories from his undercover stand-up gigs and how he confronted Bradley Cooper about humor. With insights on voice acting and how his father's values shaped him, Arnett's candid reflections on honesty in relationships and his comedic journey make for an engaging conversation. TV critic David Bianculli also shares his top TV picks for 2025.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Immersive Stand‑Up Research
- Will Arnett performed anonymously at the Comedy Cellar under the name Alex Novak to research stand-up for the film.
- He rewrote and tested sets nightly to mirror his character's onstage development.
Success Isn't The Main Reward
- The film focuses on rediscovering identity rather than overnight success in comedy.
- For John Bishop, reconnecting with his wife was the real payoff, not fame.
Use Brutal Honesty With Care
- Be willing to risk honesty with friends when you want to help them change.
- Offer blunt but loving feedback, then allow them to react and decide what to do.