Comedian and actor Gilbert Gottfried, a man Stephen King once called “a national treasure,” talks with the show business legends, icons and behind-the-scenes talents who shaped his childhood and influenced his comedy. Along with co-host and fellow pop culture fanatic Frank Santopadre, Gilbert is joined by comics, actors, musicians, talk show hosts, writers and other eyewitnesses to Hollywood history, including Bruce Dern, Chevy Chase, “Weird Al” Yankovic, Adam West, Steve Buscemi, Micky Dolenz, Jim Gaffigan, Judd Apatow and DOZENS more, for a funny, frenetic, fly-on-the-wall look at showbiz then and now (but mostly then.) Gilbert Gottfried’s Amazing Colossal Podcast was named "Best Podcast of 2015" by the Village Voice and one of iTunes' "Best of 2014." It has been featured in Rolling Stone, Wired and the Los Angeles Times.
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Gilbert and Frank welcome author Jim Colucci to discuss his book 'Golden Girls Forever,' offering an unauthorized look into the iconic sitcom. The conversation unearths fascinating details, including Bea Arthur's strong personality and her infamous comment about Betty White, Bea's sensitivity to appearance jokes, and Gilbert's own awkward encounter with the star. They also delve into the show's surprising genesis, initial casting challenges with Bea Arthur and the notorious Elaine Stritch audition, and the broader topic of clumsy TV show spinoffs.
Gilbert and Frank take a trip down memory lane with a fixture of their childhoods, beloved "Wonderama" host Sonny Fox, who shares his memories of the quiz show scandals of the 1950's, recalls his life-changing experience as a prisoner of war and reminisces about his years-long friendship with Robert F. Kennedy. Also, Sonny hosts "The $64,000 Challenge," gets cut from "The Nutty Professor," takes a stand for Jack Gilford and revives the Golden Age of Television. PLUS: Army Archerd! Allen Funt! Mi...
Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre explore the intriguing phenomenon of one-hit wonders from 1966-1967. They delve into surprising chart-toppers like Zager and Evans' "In the Year 2525," Mike Douglas's "The Men in My Little Girl's Life," and the controversial "They're Coming to Take Me Away, Ha-Haaa!" The hosts also share amusing trivia, including the Standells' appearance on The Munsters and the chart success of actors like Lorne Green and Jerry Lewis.
Gilbert and Frank connect with one of their favorite character actors, the funny and versatile Stuart Margolin, who looks back on his 55-year career in films and television and shares stories about everything from "Love American Style" to "Death Wish" to his pop songwriting career to his decades-long friendship with "Rockford Files" co-star James Garner. Also, Stuart directs Uncle Miltie, casts Marvin Gaye, imitates Maxwell Smart and pens a tune for Johnny Fontane. PLUS: Richard Mulligan! "Evil ...
In this listener mailbag episode, Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre delve into tweets about "man on the run" style TV shows, from The Pretender to Branded, featuring Chuck Connors. They also tackle hot topics like the Universal Monsters reboot and share overwhelming fan praise for a previous episode featuring comedian John Beiner. The hosts conclude with bizarre anecdotes and a humorous discussion about mail-order monkeys.
Gilbert and Frank take a fond look back at seven-plus decades of Mad magazine with longtime contributors Dick DeBartolo and Al Jaffee, who discuss their friendships with legendary co-founder William M. Gaines, their shared admiration of Jack Davis and Mort Drucker and the secret origin of the term "potrzebie." Also, Al remembers Harvey Kurtzman and Al Feldstein, Dick falls for Lauren Bacall, Stephen Colbert pays tribute to a comedy hero and Gilbert bashes "Up the Academy." PLUS: Gloria Swanson! ...
Comedians Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre dive into their shared obsession with classic "man on the run" and "traveling angel" TV series. They discuss iconic shows like "The Incredible Hulk" and "The Fugitive," revealing the real-life murder case that inspired the latter. The duo also uncovers more obscure examples and challenges listeners to recall similar shows, celebrating the unique genre and the actors who defined it, including a Bill Bixby career retrospective.
Gilbert and Frank reach out to one of their favorite performers, comedian and impressionist John Byner, who recalls his early days in the business, his friendship with Ed Sullivan, his memorable encounters with Groucho and James Cagney and his role in Bob Hope's infamous "Joys." Also, John runs into the Duke, roughs up Woody Allen, collaborates with Friz Freleng and consoles Rodney Dangerfield. PLUS: Roger Miller! "Merv Griffin's Talent Scouts"! "Murder Can Hurt You!" Paul Williams in stereo! An...
Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre kick off by comically lamenting a podcast award loss before diving into the core topic: a curated list of the most bizarre and memorable movie titles in cinema history. They explore everything from obscure horror flicks and B-movies to films with uniquely spelled or unusually long titles, sharing humorous insights and surprising facts about their casts and crews.
Writer-director Amy Heckerling ("Clueless," "Fast Times at Ridgemont High") drops by the studio to chat about a wide range of compelling topics, including: the double standard of onscreen nudity, the educational benefits of the "Million Dollar Movie," the blandness of romantic comedies and the genius of Slavko Vorkapich. Also, Amy sparks to James Cagney, salutes Mort Drucker, "studies" with Terry Southern and finds inspiration in "Ed Wood." PLUS: Ray Walston! "Jaws 2!" Praising Cameron Crowe! Th...
This episode of Gilbert Gottfried's Amazing Colossal Podcast offers a deep dive into Mad Magazine, featuring longtime contributors Joe Raiola and Desmond Devlin. They discuss the infamous "Up the Academy" movie debacle and recount fascinating stories about Mad's founder, Bill Gaines, from his strange pranks to his unique business philosophy. The conversation highlights the brilliance of Al Jaffe's iconic fold-ins, explores the contributions of Mad's legendary artists and writers like Frank Jacobs, and touches on the magazine's adaptations and its enduring relevance in satire, including its take on contemporary figures.
Gilbert and Frank catch up with one of their favorite comedic actors and one of the last surviving cast members of "It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World," Marvin Kaplan, who's worked with pretty much everyone in his 70-year career, including Charlie Chaplin, Katharine Hepburn, Clark Gable, Jack Lemmon, Paul Newman and Lon Chaney Jr. (to name a few). Also, Marvin praises Sam Jaffe, props up Broderick Crawford, remembers Zero Mostel and risks his life for Blake Edwards. PLUS: Fritz Feld! Strother Marti...
Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre dive into listener tweets, discussing feedback on their Peter Bogdanovich episode and exploring Henry Mancini's surprising horror film scores. They address Hollywood urban legends, review classic cult films like "The Black Sleep" and "Yellowbeard," and lament notorious all-star flops such as "The Story of Mankind," "Caligula," and "Holy Moses," all while sharing humorous anecdotes and behind-the-scenes insights.
Impressionist, singer and comedienne Marilyn Michaels has spent her entire life in show business, performing in the Yiddish Theater at the tender age of 7, signing with a major record label as a teenager, working the Copa, the Catskills and Vegas showrooms and appearing on virtually every TV variety show of the 1960s and '70s. Also, Marilyn idolizes Judy Garland, duets with Frank Gorshin, smooches Phil Slivers and takes advice from Jack Benny. PLUS: Gottfried "meets" Streisand! Danny Kaye makes ...
Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre celebrate Paul Lynde's 90th birthday, offering a unique "tribute" that delves into the darker aspects of his personality, including his alleged anti-Semitism and private struggles. They discuss his iconic Hollywood Squares role, examine his numerous failed TV pilots, and share famous anecdotes, culminating in a reflection on his complicated legacy as a comedic talent.
Legendary director, critic and film historian Peter Bogdanovich joins Gilbert and Frank for a fascinating, in-depth conversation about "Citizen Kane," John Ford, the influence of Howard Hawks, the B-movies of Roger Corman and the decline of the Hollywood studio system. Also, Peter befriends Cary Grant, Gilbert meets Richard Pryor, Jimmy Stewart recites a poem and Alfred Hitchcock orders a steak. PLUS: Samuel Fuller! Kenneth Mars! Orson Welles' lost film! Peter remembers John Ritter! And the stra...
Hosts Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre, joined by author Mike McPadden, continue their exploration of colossal comedy flops featuring star-studded casts. They delve into the bizarre production of Mae West's final film "Sextet," the critical failure of "Yellowbeard," and unique concepts like "Million Dollar Mystery" and "The Big Bus." The discussion highlights how even major stars couldn't save these cinematic disasters from bombing.
Gilbert and Frank return to the NYC Podfest for a return engagement with their very first guest, legendary talk show host, comic and author Dick Cavett. In a lively (and LIVE) interview, Dick holds court on a host of topics, including World War II propaganda, John Cassavetes' boozing, the lost "Tonight Show" episodes and the rapier wit of Pat McCormick. Also, Dick chats up Zeppo (and Gummo!), Groucho proposes to Truman Capote, Jack Benny gets the last word and a young Dick meets his idol, Bob Ho...
Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre, joined by social media guru and author Mike McPadden, explore a curated list of forgotten 'all-star comedy flops.' They delve into the perplexing plots and star-studded casts of notorious bombs like 'The Phynx,' 'Won Ton Ton, the Dog Who Saved Hollywood,' 'Scavenger Hunt,' and 'Skatetown, U.S.A.' The discussion unearths surprising anecdotes about the twilight careers and final film appearances of many beloved, albeit aging, actors, revealing the often-bizarre realities of these cinematic curiosities.
Singer, actor and music producer Tony Orlando pays a visit to Gilbert and Frank and reminisces about singing doo-wop on New York City rooftops and working with music icons Carole King, Gerry Goffin and Clive Davis. Also, Tony remembers Freddie Prinze, gives props to Jerry Lewis, locks horns with "The Great One" and reveals the happy accident that created Tony Orlando and Dawn. PLUS: Tony roasts Muhammad Ali! Nancy Walker takes her revenge! Shecky Greene flips out! And the crew joins Tony in a "r...
Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre delve into a lively Q&A session with listener tweets. They share their thoughts on films like "1941" and "Larceny, Inc.," discuss past celebrity controversies and "hidden" moments in classic Hollywood. The episode also features Gilbert's account of attending the Gathering of the Juggalos and concludes with the highly anticipated, shocking revelation of the Charles Laughton "sandwich" story.
Ralph Malph himself, actor and singer Donny Most talks to Gilbert and Frank about his memories of working alongside TV icons Garry Marshall, Henry Winkler and Tom Bosley, his brush with John Lennon, his appreciation of Abbott & Costello (and Sid Fields) and his love of the Great American Songbook. Also, Donny meets Sammy Davis Jr., bends the elbow with Pat Morita, attempts to mount a Bobby Darin movie and sheds light on "jumping the shark." PLUS: Praising Jack Warden! Eli Wallach goes to sch...
Gilbert and Frank dedicate a mini-episode to answering listener questions from Facebook, reflecting on the accidental origins of their podcast, which evolved from their casual phone calls about obscure Hollywood. They pay tribute to character actor William Schallert, discuss the show's quirky theme song, share anecdotes about legendary figures, and reveal surprising details from the entertainment industry, including Gilbert's uncanny memory.
Actor, comedian and raconteur Orson Bean is perhaps best known as a longtime game show fixture and frequent guest on talk shows, but he also appeared on Broadway and in popular films such as "Anatomy of a Murder" and "Being John Malkovich," working alongside icons like Boris Karloff, Helen Hayes, Jimmy Stewart, Phil Silvers and Dustin Hoffman. Gilbert and Frank also talk to Orson about his years on the Hollywood blacklist, his friendship with Stan Laurel, his fondness for Ed Sullivan and his per...
Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre indulge their passion for 1970s cinema, introducing listeners to the extensive "Every 70s Movie" blog, a treasure trove for film enthusiasts. They discuss a range of films from the decade, from obscure cult classics like "Devil's Reign" to more acclaimed works such as Elaine May's "A New Leaf," sharing anecdotes and recommendations while highlighting the unique charm of 70s filmmaking.
Gilbert and Frank are joined by actor, singer and former "Hollywood Squares" host Peter Marshall, who shares irresistible stories about Redd Foxx, the mob, Glenn Ford, Uncle Miltie's "apparatus" and Charlie Weaver's (and Vincent Price's!) sexual proclivities. Also, Peter croons with Bing, tours with Bob Hope, gets roasted by Orson Welles and runs afoul of John Wayne. PLUS: Al Jolson schmoozes! Phil Silvers does "Who's on First"! Gilbert ticks off Marlon Brando! Peter and Nanette Fabray hit a nud...
Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre delve into a range of pop culture obsessions, starting with discussions on iconic and obscure robots from films and TV. They then hilariously dissect "Legends of the Superheroes," a notoriously bad 1979 special, highlighting its cringe-worthy jokes and bizarre plot points. The episode also explores other forgotten and cheesy superhero shows like "Manimal," "Nightman," "Captain Nice," "Mr. Terrific," and "Underdog," often recalling their ridiculous premises and catchy theme songs.
Versatile actor Steven Weber sits down with Gilbert and Frank for a spirited discussion of "sick" comedy, the best of "The Twilight Zone," the disappointment of "Sour Grapes," the death of the Borscht Belt and the genius of Harvey Korman. Also, Telly Savalas takes a load off, Charles Nelson Reilly does a spit take, Gig Young travels through time and Soupy Sales guests on "Wings." PLUS: Jackie Vernon! Richard Stahl! "X: The Man with the X-Ray Eyes"! Dom DeLuise "improvises"! And the "Eartha Kitt ...
Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre continue their exploration of "comfort movies," inviting listeners to share their favorite films that provide a sense of familiarity, regardless of their critical acclaim. The episode features a wide range of quirky and often obscure cinematic gems, from Jerry Lewis comedies to classic Disney flicks, punctuated by amusing anecdotes about Hollywood stars and behind-the-scenes trivia from listeners.
Gilbert and Frank celebrate their 100th episode with a live recording at SiriusXM radio, where they field questions (from callers and an in-studio audience) on a host of vital topics, including Frank Gorshin, Pigmeat Markham, Shecky Greene's tantrums, the search for Papillon Soo Soo, "Celebrity Wife Swap" and the Church of Satan. Also, Grandpa Munster brunches, Paul Lynde hops a flight, Herve Villechaize covers Paul Williams and Gilbert makes peace with Japan! PLUS: Electronic Vincent Price! Ste...
