Bullseye with Jesse Thorn Cole Escola
Jul 1, 2025
Cole Escola, an actor, comedian, and playwright known for their roles in TV comedies like Difficult People and Hacks, dives into the comedic portrayal of Mary Todd Lincoln in their play Oh, Mary!. They discuss the absurdity of blending historical figures with contemporary humor and reflect on the complexities of approaching middle age. Escola also shares insights on femininity in media and the pressures of identity, illuminating the balance between comedy and deeper storytelling in their creative journey. Prepare for humor and heartfelt revelations!
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Episode notes
Origin of Oh, Mary Play
- Cole Escola created Oh, Mary from a spark of an idea without extensive initial research.
- The play is a humorous reinterpretation of Mary Todd Lincoln rather than a strict historical depiction.
Character Reflects Personal Fears
- Cole channels personal insecurities in portraying Mary Todd Lincoln.
- The character is more reflective of Cole's fears about being annoying and wanting cabaret stardom than historical accuracy.
Sadness in Femininity Marketing
- Femininity in commercials to women often carries sadness and loneliness.
- Marketing to women includes subtle messages of reward amid guilt and societal pressures.
