Hannah Gadsby, an acclaimed Australian comedian known for her groundbreaking Netflix specials, joins Mike for a lively chat. They dive into her new solo show 'Woof!' and share an uncomfortable encounter with Anna Kendrick. Gadsby discusses the struggle of balancing contradictory ideas in creativity and the importance of sensory experiences. They also humorously ponder the infamous question if that dingo really ate a baby, reflecting on the intersection of comedy and personal identity throughout their journey.
Hannah Gadsby discusses the transformative impact of her show 'Nanette' on her career and the comedy landscape, highlighting her struggle with newfound fame.
Gadsby emphasizes the importance of understanding neurodiversity in her comedic work, advocating for greater acknowledgment of individual neurological differences and their artistic contributions.
The conversation explores Gadsby's new show 'Woof,' which reflects her evolving creative process and challenges traditional comedic formats through personal storytelling.
Deep dives
Hannah Gadsby's Cultural Impact
The lasting effects of Hannah Gadsby's show, 'Nanette,' are examined, particularly how it transformed the comedy landscape. Gadsby reflects on the intense cultural phenomenon surrounding the show, noting the transition from performing for familiar audiences to larger, more diverse crowds. This shift brought about feelings of disorientation as she struggled to comprehend her newfound fame and the expectations that came with it. In her new work, she continues to navigate the complexities of this experience, illustrating how it influences both her performance and personal identity.
Neurodiversity and Personal Reflection
Gadsby discusses her experiences as an autistic individual, particularly how neurodiversity informs her comedic perspective and storytelling. She articulates the unique challenges of processing thoughts and emotions in social contexts, emphasizing the importance of understanding and acceptance for each person's neurological differences. The conversation touches on misconceptions surrounding autism and the societal pressure to conform to certain communicative and emotional norms. Gadsby advocates for a broader acknowledgment of neurodiversity, highlighting the richness it brings to both art and human interaction.
The Journey of Creating 'Woof'
The development of Gadsby's latest show, 'Woof,' is characterized by a departure from her previous works, indicating her evolution as a performer. She reveals the creative process involved in shaping the show, particularly how it began with the unconventional idea of writing letters to Barbara Streisand. This personal touch reflects Gadsby's introspective nature, as she grapples with public expectations while striving for authenticity. The narrative structure of the show challenges traditional comedic formats, aiming to provide audiences with an experience that mirrors her own complexities and thought processes.
Experiences with Fame and Networking
Gadsby shares amusing anecdotes about her encounters with other celebrities and the awkwardness often associated with networking in the entertainment industry. She recounts a humorous interaction with Jennifer Aniston and a brief encounter with Serena Williams' coach, highlighting her discomfort with formal introductions and expectations. These moments reveal the often surreal and disorienting nature of fame, where connections feel forced and superficial. Gadsby's candid retelling serves as a reminder that behind the celebrity facade, many share similar feelings of vulnerability and confusion.
Processing Grief and Public Perception
The topic of grief is thoughtfully explored, addressing the complexities of expressing personal loss in the public eye, especially as an autistic person. Gadsby acknowledges the potential for misunderstanding when navigating emotional expressions, particularly concerning societal expectations about grief. She reflects on the challenges of grieving publicly, noting how narratives surrounding grief can be simplistic and harmful. By sharing her honest struggles, Gadsby advocates for a more nuanced discussion about grief and the validation of diverse emotional experiences.
Hannah Gadsby joins Mike in the studio for the first time. The two talk Hannah’s new solo show “Woof!”, a painful celebrity encounter with Anna Kendrick, and how to keep track of multiple contradictory ideas in the creative process. Plus, a robust Working it Out session solves the mystery of if that dingo ate a baby.
