Experienced actor Jon Cryer discusses his career in show business, including his breakthrough in film with Pretty in Pink and his success on network TV. They also talk about his former co-star, Charlie Sheen, and the challenges of staying relevant in an ever-changing industry. The conversation touches on seeking help, physical comedy, film directing, and experiences with different movies. They discuss dealing with a colleague's addiction and end with random thoughts and episode promotions.
Jon Cryer discusses his early experience in Broadway and the influence of his parents' career in the theater industry.
Cryer shares his insights on working with director Robert Altman and the unique atmosphere he created on set.
Cryer highlights the transition into sitcom acting and the importance of well-defined characters and comedic timing.
Cryer reflects on the shifting dynamics of the entertainment industry and the challenges and excitement of being involved in a new show as a producer.
Deep dives
Early Broadway experience and childhood in a theater family
John Cryer shares his early experience in Broadway, including his role as an understudy and his connection to the theater through his parents' career in the industry.
Working with Robert Altman and his anarchic style
Cryer shares his experience working with director Robert Altman on the film Ocean's Thieves, describing Altman's unique approach to filmmaking and his ability to create a familiar and collaborative atmosphere on set.
The challenges and joys of sitcom acting
Cryer discusses his transition into sitcom acting, highlighting the specific skills required for the genre and the importance of well-defined characters and comedic timing.
Reflections on the changing landscape of the entertainment industry
Cryer reflects on the shifting dynamics of the entertainment industry, from the stability of the three-network period to the fragmentation and niche-oriented nature of media consumption in the present day.
Working on Extended Family as a Lead Actor
John Crier discusses his role as the lead actor in the show Extended Family. He explains that this is the first project where he was involved from the beginning, as he is also a producer. Crier finds it both challenging and fun to navigate the dynamics of a new show, especially after being in the industry for over 54 years. He expresses his excitement about continuously learning new things and being part of a team with Abigail Spencer and Donald Faison.
Navigating the Charlie Sheen Situation in Two and a Half Men
Crier discusses his experience working with Charlie Sheen on Two and a Half Men. He reveals that while they initially had a good working dynamic and were promoted together, Sheen's personal struggles with addiction eventually had an impact on the show. Crier emphasizes that he has nothing but good wishes for Sheen and admires their ability to reconcile, as they later worked together in a new show. He also shares that he received some criticism from Sheen's fans for not standing up for him during that time.
Transitioning into a Production Role
Crier talks about his transition into a production role and his involvement with his production company. He mentions that Extended Family is the first project in which his production company has an ongoing credit. He describes the learning curve associated with being in the room from the beginning and navigating the dynamics of a whole new project. Crier expresses gratitude for the opportunity to continuously learn and grow in the industry even after being in it for a long time.
Jon Cryer has been in show business for most of his life and has seen the changes, both rapid and gradual, within the industry. Jon talks with Marc about his early stage work, his breakthrough in film with Pretty in Pink, and his great success on network TV, which he just returned to with the new sitcom Extended Family. They also talk about the wild ride shared by anyone who was in the orbit of his former co-star, Charlie Sheen.
