Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend Paul W. Downs
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May 26, 2025 
Paul W. Downs, an actor, writer, and director known for co-creating the hit series Hacks, shares his journey with Conan O’Brien. They dive into the amusing dynamics of writing for a fake late-night show and the unique challenges of blending personal and professional lives with his creative partner, Lucia Aniello. Paul recounts a missed encounter with Bon Jovi at a lavish hotel and reflects on his childhood as a Girl Scout, sparking humorous banter about cookie sales and scouting antics.
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Balancing Joy and Pressure
- Transitioning from small projects to a big show requires balancing joy with adult responsibilities.
- Maintaining creative freedom during large productions is challenging but vital.
Follow the Fun in Comedy
- Follow the fun when making comedy to keep the process enjoyable.
- Collaborators should remind each other to maintain joy amidst production pressures.
Jean Smart’s Comedic Mastery
- Jean Smart masters comedic rhythm and emotional depth simultaneously.
- Her performances elevate the show by hitting unique tonal notes effortlessly.