Comedian Jay Pharoah, known for his hilarious standup specials and sharp impressions, shares insights on his new special, societal trends, and a wild encounter with the LAPD. He reflects on his journey to SNL and the ongoing P. Diddy saga. Joining him is Damian Lewis, an accomplished actor famed for diverse roles, including playing twins. He discusses the challenges of comedic roles, his early odd jobs, and the importance of being interesting over strict training. Their lively banter is both entertaining and thought-provoking!
Jay Pharoah's new stand-up special 'Jared' highlights the importance of audience connection and the evolving boundaries in comedy today.
Pharoah discusses the impact of public perception and political simplification, emphasizing the need for nuanced discourse in today's polarized climate.
Damian Lewis shares insights on the value of foundational training in theater, illustrating how it enhances an actor's ability to embody diverse characters.
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Comedian Jay Pharoah's Stand-Up Special
Jay Pharoah's new stand-up special, titled 'Jared,' showcases his comedic talents with a runtime of over an hour. The special was filmed at the Den Theater in Chicago, a venue known for its vibrant energy, which contributes positively to the performance atmosphere. Pharoah wanted to create a comedy special that stands out, as he discussed the importance of connecting with his audience. He reflects on a fine balance between maintaining a club-like feel while also utilizing a theater's larger capacity.
The Evolution of Comedy and Boundaries
Pharoah discusses the changing dynamics of comedy and the shift in what comedians feel free to say on stage. He notes that the backlash some comedians faced in earlier years has led to a resurgence of performers who are willing to tackle taboo subjects. Using examples from the likes of Dave Chappelle, Pharoah believes that this courage encourages others in the field to speak freely, emphasizing that comedy should not hurt anyone but rather serve as an observational commentary. There is a newfound liberty in pushing boundaries once again, making audiences rethink their responses.
A Look at Fame and Perception
Pharoah and his co-host discuss how perceptions can shape public feelings and reactions towards individuals in the limelight. They reflect on how the current climate tends to react strongly to any perceived misstep, with a notable example being the varying perspectives on certain public figures like Donald Trump. They express concerns regarding the simplification of individuals into political packages, where expressing agreement on one point results in others assuming alignment with an entire ideology. This observation highlights the complexities in public discourse and the label-driven environment of today's society.
Reflections on Early Career and Support
Throughout his journey, Pharoah shares insights about his upbringing and the support he received from his family, specifically mentioning how encouraging his father was regarding his comedic talent. He recalls his initial hesitations to perform in front of family, contrasting it with the confidence he displayed in school settings. Pharoah cites a significant talent competition at age 16, where he showcased his ability to perform impressions, ultimately garnering his father's support. This moment marked a turning point, as it fueled his determination to pursue a career in entertainment.
Damian Lewis and the Art of Acting
Damian Lewis, well-known for his roles in 'Band of Brothers' and 'Billions,' discusses the evolution of his career and the significance of foundational training in theater. He emphasizes that a strong background enhances performance, as it equips actors with tools necessary for stagecraft. Brought onto the topic of his portrayal of Steve McQueen in 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood,' Lewis expresses gratitude for the opportunity and the validation it provided regarding his physical resemblance and acting ability. The conversation touches on the importance of embodying characters and projecting emotion on screen.
Comedian Jay Pharoah visits to talk about his new standup special, “Jared”, as well as the “coochification” of America, how he started doing impressions and getting detained by LAPD. He also discusses the ongoing P. Diddy situation, his dealings with the powerful people of Hollywood, and how his Obama impression led to him auditioning for SNL.
Then, actor Damian Lewis joins the show to talk about playing twins in his new movie, “The Radleys”, the various weird jobs he had before acting, singing with Huey Lewis and how being interesting is maybe even more important than training, when it comes to being a successful actor.
For more with Jay Pharoah:
● NEW SPECIAL: Jared - available now on YouTube
● INSTAGRAM: @jaypharoah
● WEBSITE: jaypharoahworld.com
● Mic Drop Comedy - San Diego, CA: October 4th and 5th
● Ontario Improv - Ontario, CA: October 18th - 20th
For more with Damian Lewis:
● NEW MOVIE: The Radleys - available in theaters & on-demand October 4th
● INSTAGRAM: @damianlewisreally
● TIK TOK: @damianlewisofficial
● WEBSITE: damian-lewis.com
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