
Fresh Air Ben Stiller / Pedro Pascal
13 snips
Jan 3, 2026 In a captivating conversation, Ben Stiller discusses his heartfelt documentary about his comedy legend parents, Stiller and Meara. He reveals the vibrant dynamics of growing up in a showbiz family, the blurred lines between life and performance, and his reflections on parenting. Meanwhile, Pedro Pascal opens up about his family's exile from Chile, the impact of their history on his work, and how dance training informs his acting. Their stories intertwine family, creativity, and the struggle of personal identity in the spotlight.
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Childhood Confusion From Parents' Rehearsals
- Ben Stiller shares a rehearsal tape where his parents' sketch confused his six-year-old sister into thinking fights were real.
- He uses the clip to explore how performance blurred family life and childhood perception.
Different Performance Styles Shaped Their Marriage
- Ben observes his mother was naturally comfortable on stage while his father needed constant rehearsal and preparation.
- That contrast shaped both their creative collaboration and marital tensions over decades.
Nanny Care, Studio 54, And A Bad Trip
- Ben describes being raised largely by their nanny Hazel while his parents toured and performed extensively.
- He recounts sneaking into Studio 54 at 13 and calling his parents while on LSD during one of their tours.





