Chevy Chase, American comedy legend, talks with Marc about his career in American comedy, his time on SNL and his hit comedy films like Caddyshack and Vacation. They also discuss Chevy's short-lived talk show and his relationships with people he's worked with over the years.
Chevy Chase reflects on his career and discusses his experiences on Saturday Night Live and with the Academy Awards.
Chevy Chase opens up about the loss of his friend John Belushi and the struggles of their friendship, highlighting the impact of drugs.
Chevy Chase shares his comedic approach and love for music throughout his career, discussing his improvisational skills and the challenges he faced hosting the Academy Awards.
Deep dives
Chevy Chase's Career Highlights and Collaborations
Chevy Chase reflects on his career, including his time with National Lampoon, the Groove Tube, and working with Steve Martin and the Muppets. He discusses hosting the Academy Awards, his experiences on Saturday Night Live, and his collaborations with prior and Aykroyd.
The Struggles and Tragedy of John Belushi's Death
Chevy Chase opens up about the devastating loss of his friend and fellow comedian, John Belushi. He discusses Belushi's struggles with drugs and the impact it had on their friendship. Chase also talks about the poor experience he had during the roast of Chevy Chase, which led to a low point in his life.
Chevy Chase's Approach to Comedy and Transitioning to Talk Shows
Chevy Chase shares his comedic approach throughout his career, highlighting his improvisational skills and his love for music. He discusses his short-lived talk show experience and reflects on the challenges he faced while hosting the Academy Awards. Chase also mentions his work in movies like Fletch and his appreciation for unique and physical humor.
Chevy Chase's Career in SNL
Chevy Chase reflects on his time at Saturday Night Live (SNL), acknowledging the fun and memorable experiences he had on the show. He highlights his close relationship with fellow cast member Jane Curtin and dismisses claims that she had negative experiences on the show. Chevy admits that he thrived on SNL and felt that he was the star, attributing it to both his comedic talent and his tall and handsome appearance. He expresses some regret about leaving the show after just one year and believes that he would have been happier staying for the full five years like many of his colleagues.
Chevy Chase's Film Career and Personal Life
Chevy Chase discusses his film career, mentioning favorite movies like Caddyshack and Fletch, among others. He admits to not remembering many of the films he's done, but emphasizes the importance of enjoying his life and cherishing his long-term marriage. Chevy also talks about his live performances, where he engages with audiences, shows Christmas Vacation, and answers questions. He mentions his interest in writing but confesses to not finding any ideas currently satisfying. Chevy concludes by expressing contentment with his life, his health, and his family.
Chevy Chase plays a pivotal role in the history of American comedy, from his work on the National Lampoon Radio Hour to being the breakout star of Saturday Night Live’s first season to his hit comedy films like Caddyshack and Vacation. Chevy talks with Marc about some of the roads he didn’t take, like staying in a band with his friends Walter and Donald who founded Steely Dan, or staying on SNL past the first season instead of leaving for LA. They also talk about Chevy’s perspective on his short-lived talk show and his relationships with some of the people he’s worked with over the years.
