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 Gottfried and Frank Santopadre, joined by comedy historian Kliph Nesteroff, delve into the archives of classic entertainment. They discuss the short-lived, controversial talk shows of the 1960s like Les Crane's and Joey Bishop's, including the famous Regis Philbin on-air "resignation." The conversation also covers obscure American International Pictures horror films and behind-the-scenes stories of comedians like Jerry Lewis and Steve Allen, offering a fascinating look at forgotten pop culture.
"Good Times" and "Roots" star John Amos stops by the studio to reminisce about everything from his days as a struggling comic to his breakthrough role on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" to working with Eddie Murphy and James Earl Jones in the film "Coming to America." Also, John remembers Ted Knight, cuts up with Tim Conway, shares the screen with Lena Horne and moves into Archie Bunker's old house. PLUS: Yaphet Kotto! Famous Amos! "The Treasure of the Sierra Madre"! Praising Ernest Borgnine! And th...
In this mini-episode, Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre engage in a spirited "Stump the Hosts" quiz with guest Kevin Dougherty, testing their knowledge of entertainment figures like Orson Bean, Jamie Farr, and Peter Marshall. The conversation also features a personal anecdote from Kevin about working on "Bonfire of the Vanities" with Brian De Palma, a humorous tangent on internet "Rule 34," and a look back at the historical significance of TV Guide magazine.
Emmy-winning producer-director Steve Binder joins Gilbert and Frank to talk about his long and successful career in variety television and shares recollections of working with legendary performers Steve Allen, Soupy Sales, Lucille Ball and most notably, Elvis Presley. Also, Steve clashes with Danny Kaye, discovers Shields and Yarnell, turns down Uncle Miltie and makes TV history with Petula Clark and Harry Belafonte. PLUS: Colonel Parker! "The T.A.M.I. Show"! "Aladdin on Ice"! Gabe Dell does Dra...
Gilbert and Frank celebrate Halloween with the "King of Splatter," makeup effects wizard Tom Savini, who reveals the secret of onscreen suspense, shares his admiration for legendary makeup artists Dick Smith and Jack Pierce and explains how "Midnight Cowboy" changed his life. Also, Tom praises George Clooney, defends Jerry Lewis, laughs it up with Tony Curtis and shakes hands with the Three Stooges. PLUS: Joe Spinell! "Dr. Terror's House of Horrors"! Christoper Lee makes an entrance! Tyrone Powe...
Hosts Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre dedicate their Halloween episode to a fascinating list of the "30 Weirdest Horror Movies of the 1970s." They discuss peculiar plots, notable actors, and behind-the-scenes trivia for films like "The Abominable Dr. Phibes," "Bad Ronald," "Empire of the Ants," and "The Wicker Man." The episode also includes a promotion for Frank's new podcast and Gilbert's humorous Patreon appeal.
Comedian, writer, actor and dedicated film buff Dana Gould drops by the studio to chat about everything from Hollywood "fixers" to werewolf transformations and to regale Gilbert and Frank with stories about everyone from Dwight Frye to Mark Hamill. Also, Dana meets Merv Griffin, mimics Adam West, befriends Vampira and remembers Roddy McDowall. PLUS: "Mars Attacks!" The genius of Dan Curtis! The sexism of James Bond! Gregory Peck meets Gopher! And the mysterious death of Albert Dekker! Learn more...
Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre welcome theme song composers John Murray and John Fotiades to discuss the origins and inspirations behind the mini-episode music. The composers share how they crafted unique themes like "Colossal Obsessions" and "Listener Mail," influenced by spy movies, Peter Sellers, and Burt Bacharach. The episode also features an amusing segment where Gilbert's off-key singing is transformed into a full song, and they all bond over their favorite classic TV theme songs, including "F Troop" and "All in the Family," capped by a rare Sammy Davis Jr. rendition.
One of Gilbert and Frank's favorite actors, Emmy-winner Joe Pantoliano drops by the studio for a revealing and entertaining conversation about Italian-American stereotypes, underappreciated film directors, dysfunctional families, onscreen immortality and the secret to playing convincing bad guys. Also, Joe meets Gregory Peck, remembers James Gandolfini, takes advice from Robert Stack and takes the fall for Harrison Ford. PLUS: Eli Wallach! "Midnight Run"! Joe befriends Natalie Wood! Gilbert Gott...
Gilbert and Frank continue their deep dive into the top 25 grossing films of 1966, covering cinematic gems like "Georgy Girl," "Alfie," "The Russians Are Coming," and the surprisingly highest-grossing film, "The Bible." The hosts blend film analysis with humorous tangents, including a segment on Burt Bacharach's scores and amusing anecdotes about Hollywood figures like Dino De Laurentiis and potential casting choices for classic movies.
Gilbert and Frank visit the home of Oscar-winning actress and director Lee Grant, who speaks openly and candidly about everything from her years on the Hollywood blacklist to her friendships with Hal Ashby, Grace Kelly and Walter Matthau, to her decision to turn down a classic sitcom role. Also, Lee remembers Sharon Tate, praises the talents of Rod Steiger, shares the stage with Peter Falk and flips the bird on "The Tonight Show." PLUS: "The Landlord"! "Divorce American Style"! Olivia de Havilla...
Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre explore the intriguing list of 1966's highest-grossing films, unearthing forgotten cinematic gems like "Penelope" and "The Trouble with Angels," alongside classics such as "Fantastic Voyage" and "Our Man Flint." The hosts share amusing stories, discuss notable actors, and indulge in their signature impressions, all while solving fan-submitted pop culture mysteries and sharing personal experiences.
Writer-performer Bob "Super Dave" Einstein is one of the funniest men on the planet, and in this unforgettable episode, he shares hilarious anecdotes about everyone from Redd Foxx to Billy Barty to Sid Caesar to Joey Heatherton. Also, Bob teams with Steve Martin, dials up Ray Charles, "arrests" Liberace and runs afoul of Kate Smith. PLUS: Pat Paulsen! "The Sonny Comedy Revue"! Mike Douglas interviews a monkey! Sly Stone stares down Peter Marshall! And Nixon and Agnew play Laurel and Hardy! Learn...
Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre continue their exploration of 1966 TV premieres in this mini-episode. They revisit a range of shows including the Western "The Munroes", the "New Adventures of Superman" cartoon, and the quirky sitcom "The Pruitts of Southampton". The duo shares humorous behind-the-scenes insights, celebrity impersonations, and personal recollections, offering a nostalgic look back at a pivotal year in television history.
Edna Garrett (and Sylvia Schnauser!) herself, actress Charlotte Rae joins Gilbert and Frank to talk about some of the highs (and lows) of her life and career, and to share her memories of working on the 1950s nightclub circuit as well as on the much-loved sitcoms "Car 54, Where Are You?", "Diff'rent Strokes" and "The Facts of Life." Also, Charlotte lauds Nat Hiken, rooms with Cloris Leachman, partners with Paul Lynde and impersonates Zsa Zsa Gabor. PLUS: Wally Cox! "Hot L Baltimore"! The many ta...
In this episode, Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre delve into the memorable TV shows that debuted in 1966, the 50th anniversary of many classics. They reminisce about a wide array of programs, from iconic sitcoms and dramatic series like Dark Shadows and Mission Impossible to lesser-known cartoons. The hosts also share personal stories about voice actors, celebrity connections, and listener-found vintage commercials, offering a nostalgic look back at a pivotal year in television history.
Emmy-winning actors (and husband and wife!) Ron Leibman and Jessica Walter join Gilbert and Frank for a loving and laughter-filled look at some of their most memorable film and TV projects, including "The Hot Rock," "Play Misty for Me," "Where's Poppa?" "Up the Academy" and "Archer." Also, Ron mimics Walter Brennan, Jessica remembers Raymond Burr, Gilbert covers Bobby Vinton, and Jerry Lewis "borrows" from Harry Ritz. PLUS: Godfrey Cambridge! Art Metrano! "Zorro the Gay Blade"! The return of Ric...
Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre dedicate this mini-episode to reading and responding to listener tweets and Facebook messages, covering a wide array of topics. They discuss one-hit wonder bands like Mouth and MacNeal, share behind-the-scenes insights from past guest interviews with comedians like Jonathan Katz and actors like Matthew Broderick, and recall favorite celebrity stories, including those from Hank Garrett. The hosts also touch on specific film trivia, actor legacies, and conclude with a special appreciation for their acclaimed interview with Sonny Fox, highlighting its impact and unique qualities.
In addition to co-starring in one of the most popular and durable sitcoms of all time, "Gilligan's Island," actress Dawn Wells appeared in dozens of memorable shows, including "Bonanza," "The Invaders," "The Wild Wild West," "77 Sunset Strip" and "The Joey Bishop Show." Gilbert and Frank talk to Dawn about her Old West roots, her friendships with her fellow castaways and her memories of Don Rickles, Hans Conried, Phil Silvers and Zsa Zsa Gabor. Also, Batman fends off a shark, Martin Landau build...
Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre, joined by researcher Paul Rayburn, explore a curated list of artists who only charted once in 1971. They discuss songs like Lynn Anderson's "Rose Garden," the religious pop phenomenon with "One Toke Over the Line," and the connection between Daddy Dewdrop's "Chickaboom" and "Sabrina and the Groovy Ghoulies." The hosts share memories, make corrections, and even offer spontaneous renditions, providing a nostalgic and humorous look back at forgotten musical gems.
Gilbert and Frank welcome two stars of the wildly popular comedy series, "Impractical Jokers," Brian "Q" Quinn and Sal Vulcano, for an insightful and informative discussion of "Diff'rent Strokes," disappointing Batman villains, ugly babies, the dangers of hidden camera pranks and the genius of Chuck Barris. Also, the boys bash "Legends of the Superheroes," Sal acts out scenes from "The Jeffersons," Gilbert dines with Al Lewis and Q's nana dates Cesar Romero (!) PLUS: Denny Dillon! Rondo Hatton r...
Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre dedicate this episode to the memory of two beloved actors, Marvin Kaplan and Gene Wilder. They recount Kaplan's versatile career, including his voice work on Top Cat, and explore Wilder's profound impact through his iconic roles in films like Blazing Saddles, Young Frankenstein, and Willy Wonka. The discussion delves into personal stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and the lasting legacies of these comedic and dramatic talents.
In addition to playing Officer Ed Nicholson on the beloved sitcom, "Car 54, Where Are You?", actor and comedian Hank Garrett has worked with Robert Redford, Sophia Loren, Al Pacino, James Earl Jones and Kirk Douglas (to name a few). Hank tells Gilbert and Frank about his unlikely journey from street tough to award-winning actor and reveals how Sammy Davis Jr. changed his life. Also: Hank remembers Al Lewis, emulates Sid Caesar, wrestles with Luca Brasi and shares a bill with Tony Bennett. PLUS: ...
Join Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre as they explore the fascinating world of 1970's one-hit wonders, discussing chart-topping tracks like "Spirit in the Sky," "In the Summertime," and "Rubber Duckie." The hosts share personal anecdotes, including Gilbert's unique interpretations of the songs, and reminisce about listening to music on vintage radios and the legendary New York DJs of the era. This episode offers a nostalgic and humorous journey through the forgotten gems of early 70s pop.
In one of our funniest (and strangest) episodes to date, comic, writer and voice actor Jonathan "Dr. Katz" Katz joins Gilbert and Frank for a chaotic, hour-plus conversation about classic TV westerns, David Mamet movies, "casual" nudity, Charles Atlas ads and "The Mike Douglas Show," among other vital topics. Also, Jon befriends Garry Shandling, pens a pilot for Peter Falk, prank calls a dating service and covers Melanie's "Brand New Key." PLUS: Thelma Todd! Esther Williams! Buster Crabbe peddle...
In this mini-episode, Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre continue their discussion of one-hit wonders, focusing on the years 1968 and 1969. They delve into the fascinating backstories of songs like John Fred & His Playboy Band's "Judy in Disguise," the "Here Come the Judge" craze, and Iron Butterfly's "In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida." The duo also shares humorous anecdotes about misheard lyrics, discusses the popularity of instrumental hits, and uncovers surprising facts about artists' backgrounds, all while celebrating the unique charm of these iconic tracks.
Two time Tony-winning actor Matthew Broderick drops by the studio between theater performances to talk about his days as a struggling young actor, his friendship with "Max Dugan Returns" co-star Jason Robards, his love of Turner Classic Movies and his memories of working alongside legends like Sean Connery, Sidney Lumet, Neil Simon and Mel Brooks. Also, Matthew mimics Marlon Brando, lauds Jack Lemmon, defends "Godzilla" and runs afoul of the Secret Service. PLUS: "The 2000 Year Old Man"! Praisin...
This episode delves into the iconic Golden Girls, revealing insights from writer Jim Colucci's book, "Golden Girls Forever." Discussions range from the surprising origins of the theme song "Thank You for Being a Friend" and its session singer, to memorable guest stars like Herb Edelman and George Clooney. A highlight is Colucci's lengthy and often humorous account of his persistent efforts to interview Bea Arthur, unveiling her private personality and unexpected love for "hag movies."
Revered character actor Dick Miller has appeared in nearly 200 movies and dozens of TV shows, working for directors Joe Dante, Steven Spielberg, Samuel Fuller, Robert Zemeckis and Martin Scorsese and sharing the screen with everyone from Boris Karloff to Arnold Schwarzenegger. Dick looks back on some unforgettable moments from his storied, six-decade career, reveals the odd turn of events that landed him in showbiz and reflects on his numerous collaborations with B-movie maestro Roger Corman. Al...
