Mike Birbiglia's Working It Out 161. Nathan Lane Returns: The Safest Thing You Can Do Is Take a Risk
Feb 24, 2025
Nathan Lane, an acclaimed actor celebrated for his comedic brilliance, joins the conversation to share captivating stories from his illustrious career. He opens up about his collaborations with legends like Mike Nichols and Robin Williams, and reflects on the dynamics of friendship in comedy. Nathan discusses his emotional journey with his character in the upcoming Hulu series 'Mid-Century Modern', emphasizing the importance of taking risks in life and performance. The episode is a heartfelt blend of nostalgia, humor, and camaraderie.
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SNL 50
- Nathan Lane describes SNL's 50th anniversary as the most intimidating room he's ever been in.
- He felt starstruck, despite his own success, and enjoyed meeting people like Leslie Jones and Lady Gaga.
Intimidation
- Despite his success, Nathan Lane admits to feeling intimidated by others, attributing it to a feeling of not belonging.
- He acknowledges these feelings stem from his upbringing but tries to manage them.
Mother's Pride
- Nathan Lane's mother witnessed his success, which was meaningful to her.
- However, her bipolar disorder and desire for family togetherness overshadowed her happiness.