Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend Ben Stiller Returns
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Jan 27, 2025 
Ben Stiller, the renowned actor and filmmaker behind hits like Tropic Thunder and the series Severance, returns for a candid chat with Conan. They delve into the hilarious process of convincing Tom Cruise to join Tropic Thunder and the journey of documenting his parents' comedic legacy. Stiller shares thoughts on the anticipated second season of Severance and reflects on the creative challenges faced during the pandemic. Amidst laughter, they connect over the absurdities of fandom and an amusing burglary involving Conan's merch. It's a delightful ride through comedy and creativity!
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Early SNL Appearance
- Conan O'Brien remembers Ben Stiller's early SNL appearance.
- Stiller played a grown-up Eddie Munster and did a Tom Cruise impression in a Color of Money parody.
Les Grossman's Origin
- Ben Stiller shares how Tom Cruise's Les Grossman character came to be in Tropic Thunder.
- Cruise suggested the studio executive role and had specific requests like hairy forearms and a dance scene.
Deleted Zoolander Scene
- Ben Stiller recalls a deleted scene from Zoolander involving an extended, painful gasoline fight scene.
- The original scene was deemed too awful and was cut from the final film.
