Key Takeaways

  • The podcast episode features a conversation between Conan O’Brien and comedian David Spade, discussing their careers, SNL experiences, and personal anecdotes.
  • A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the symbolism and survival of a pomegranate tree gifted to Conan by Sona’s parents, which miraculously survived wildfires that destroyed other trees in Conan’s yard.
  • David Spade shares his early career struggles, including losing an acting job due to being ’too green’ and the challenges of navigating the entertainment industry.
  • Both Conan and David reflect on their time at SNL, the lack of supervision, and the unique dynamics of working with other comedians like Chris Farley and Adam Sandler.
  • The episode touches on the emotional impact of losing friends and colleagues, particularly Norm Macdonald, and the unique experience of attending memorials for comedians.

Segments

David Spade’s Early Career Struggles (~00:10:00)
  • Key Takeaway: David Spade details his early career setbacks, including losing a potential lead role in a Fox sitcom and the advice he received from his manager about navigating the industry.
  • Summary: Spade recounts being told he was ’too green’ for a sitcom role and how his agent advised him to turn down a guaranteed offer for a potential NBC show that never materialized. He discusses the importance of having a good manager and the harsh realities of the business.
Reflections on Saturday Night Live (~00:25:00)
  • Key Takeaway: Both Conan and David reflect on their experiences at SNL, highlighting the lack of direct supervision and the competitive yet supportive environment among the cast and writers.
  • Summary: They discuss the ‘sink or swim’ nature of SNL, the pressure to perform, and how they learned from talented peers like Chris Farley, Adam Sandler, and Robert Smigel. Spade also shares his initial struggles to find his footing on the show.
Remembering Chris Farley and Norm Macdonald (~00:45:00)
  • Key Takeaway: The conversation turns to the impact of Chris Farley’s physical comedy and the profound sadness and shock surrounding the death of Norm Macdonald.
  • Summary: Conan and David share memories of Chris Farley’s incredible energy and athleticism, contrasting it with his public persona. They also discuss their personal connections to Norm Macdonald, the shock of his passing, and the difficulty of navigating memorials for comedians.
The SNL 50th Anniversary and Comedic Timing (~01:15:00)
  • Key Takeaway: David Spade’s ad-libbed moments and Conan’s observations on comedic timing during the SNL 50th anniversary special are discussed, along with anecdotes about John Lovitz.
  • Summary: They recall Spade’s humorous interjections during a sketch and Conan’s own comedic bits. The conversation also includes stories about John Lovitz’s flamboyant personality and his interactions with his cars, showcasing the enduring humor of their SNL colleagues.
The Phenomenon of Comedians at Memorials (~01:30:00)
  • Key Takeaway: The hosts discuss the unique challenge and awkwardness of comedians gathering for memorials, where the instinct to be funny can conflict with the solemnity of the occasion.
  • Summary: They share experiences from Gary Shandling’s and Norm Macdonald’s memorials, noting the competitive nature that can arise even in grief. The conversation touches on the pressure to deliver a funny eulogy and the unexpected humor that can emerge in such situations.