SmartLess
Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, Will Arnett
"SmartLess" with Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, & Will Arnett is a podcast that connects and unites people from all walks of life to learn about shared experiences through thoughtful dialogue and organic hilarity. A nice surprise: in each episode of SmartLess, one of the hosts reveals his mystery guest to the other two. What ensues is a genuinely improvised and authentic conversation filled with laughter and newfound knowledge to feed the SmartLess mind.
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Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of SmartLess ad-free and a whole week early.
Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 1, 2025 • 1h 4min
"Noah Hawley"
Noah Hawley is a writer, producer, and director renowned for his work on Fargo and Legion. In this engaging conversation, he delves into the creative process behind his upcoming series Alien Earth, discussing how he balances horror with character depth. Noah shares anecdotes about his kids on set and reflects on his career shift from political science to storytelling. He also explores the nuances of pitching shows and the elements that capture the unique tone of the Coen brothers, all while managing multiple projects.
45 snips
Nov 24, 2025 • 1h 12min
"Benedict Cumberbatch"
Join the charismatic Benedict Cumberbatch, an award-winning British actor, as he shares personal stories and insights. He discusses the joys and challenges of parenting multiple children and reflects on his unique boarding school experience. Benedict reveals his transition from aspiring lawyer to acclaimed actor and remembers his first roles on set. He dives into his creative process while tackling complex characters, like Stephen Hawking, and talks about his recent project exploring grief through an artistic lens. A delightful blend of humor and heart!
27 snips
Nov 17, 2025 • 1h 4min
"Claire Danes"
In this delightful conversation, award-winning actress Claire Danes shares insights into her life as a mother of three, balancing family with her acting career. She recounts her spontaneous move to a new brownstone in NYC after welcoming a surprise baby. Claire discusses early fame from 'My So-Called Life,' memorable moments filming 'Romeo + Juliet,' and the lessons learned from legendary directors. She also touches on her love for comedy, her research for complex roles, and hints at her new series, 'The Beast and Me.'
4 snips
Nov 13, 2025 • 44min
"RE-RELEASE: Jenny Slate"
Joining from a supply closet, comedian and actor Jenny Slate shares her unique insights on family life and her love for voice acting. She recounts the hilarious mishap of misreading THC dropper instructions that led to a wild experience. Jenny also talks about the creative journey behind Marcel the Shell, revealing how the character originated in a cramped hotel room. Her passion for voice work shines as she discusses balancing gigs with family life in Massachusetts. Tune in for laughter and unexpected stories!
13 snips
Nov 10, 2025 • 1h 4min
"Tom Freston"
Tom Freston, a veteran media executive known for co-founding MTV and leading Viacom, shares wild stories from his eclectic career. He recounts how he left advertising for adventurous travels, including life in Afghanistan and a clothing business. Tom reveals the origins of MTV and its cultural impact, along with insights about founding Comedy Central. He also discusses the rise and fall of new media brands, his philanthropic work with the ONE Campaign, and the challenges of today’s AI landscape. Buckle up for a journey filled with curiosity and risk!
8 snips
Nov 6, 2025 • 35min
INTRODUCING: I Need You Guys with Gabe Liedman, Jenny Slate and Max Silvestri (w/ Sean Hayes)
In this lively conversation, Sean Hayes, beloved actor from Will & Grace, shares hilarious anecdotes and insights. The hosts dive into a meme controversy featuring Jenny and seek Sean's advice on how to respond. They also engage in funny discussions about quirky childhood phone experiences and even attempt various accents. Sean emphasizes the importance of honesty for long-lasting friendships in the industry. Listeners are treated to a playful exploration of etiquette and nostalgia, making for an entertaining and heartwarming discussion.
61 snips
Nov 3, 2025 • 1h 8min
"David Duchovny"
Join David Duchovny, the versatile actor, writer, and musician known for The X-Files and Californication, as he shares insights into his creative journey. He reflects on his academic path and passion for writing, revealing how he turned a year of travel into inspiration. David talks about his music career, the balancing act of multiple artistic pursuits, and his rollercoaster ride through Hollywood. He humorously discusses the legacy of his iconic roles and even touches on his beliefs about extraterrestrial life. A delightful mix of stories awaits!
57 snips
Oct 27, 2025 • 59min
"Oscar Isaac"
Oscar Isaac, an accomplished actor and musician known for roles in Ex Machina and Dune, joins the discussion. He dives into his Juilliard journey, revealing a humorous audition story. Oscar shares insights on balancing film, theater, and music, plus his skate punk band roots. The conversation also touches on the emotional depth of his roles, especially in Frankenstein, and his fascinating immigrant background. With anecdotes about his Star Wars experience and a playful moment involving his modesty sock, Oscar brings laughter and depth to the chat.
57 snips
Oct 20, 2025 • 1h 2min
"Edgar Wright"
Edgar Wright, a dynamic film director known for his innovative genre-blending and high-energy storytelling, shares his cinematic journey. He recounts sneaking into movies as a kid, his creative process behind the Cornetto trilogy, and his passion for music's role in storytelling. Wright discusses making his first feature on a shoestring budget and reveals insights into directing his adaptation of The Running Man. With personal anecdotes and reflections on his collaborations, he brings a delightful mix of nostalgia and inspiration.
94 snips
Oct 13, 2025 • 60min
"Julia Roberts"
In this engaging conversation, Academy Award-winning actress Julia Roberts shares insights from her illustrious career, including her journey from selling shoes to iconic roles in Mystic Pizza and Pretty Woman. She reflects on the challenges of sudden fame and her thoughtful approach to selecting projects. Julia reveals fun anecdotes from her theater days and discusses her new film After the Hunt. The conversation also touches on family life, parenting, and her life as America's sweetheart, highlighting her charming personality and enduring legacy in Hollywood.
