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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In this mini-episode, Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre delve into their unique "colossal obsessions." The discussion kicks off with Gilbert receiving a DVD for the obscure TV movie "Murder Can Hurt You," followed by a humorous deep dive into a man's costly creation of a mechanical Scarlett Johansson. They then pivot to the episode's main theme, celebrating a wide array of iconic and lesser-known robots from television and cinema, including "Holmes and Yo-Yo," Robbie the Robot, and characters from "Twilight Zone" and "Get Smart," while sharing their signature witty banter.
In one of our wildest episodes to date, musician, songwriter, producer and comedian Mark Hudson joins Gilbert and Frank to talk about some of the showbiz legends he's worked with, from Steven Tyler to Margaret Hamilton to Ringo Starr to Captain Kangaroo. Also, the Hudson Brothers meet the Osmond Brothers, Ed Wynn steps out of character, Elton John takes a dip and Mark remembers his old friend Harry Nilsson. PLUS: Tito Jackson! Rod Hull and his Emu! The REAL Fifth Beatle! The Hudsons "pay homage"...
Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre delve into the concept of "comfort movies," films audiences love to rewatch despite their flaws, using the quirky 1969 underwater comedy Hello Down There as a prime example. They discuss its bizarre plot, eclectic cast including Richard Dreyfuss and Roddy McDowell, and a hilariously embellished legend about Cesar Romero. The episode wraps up by inviting listeners to share their own comfort film selections.
Gilbert and Frank dial up actress, producer and film buff/historian Illeana Douglas, who talks about her new memoir, I Blame Dennis Hopper, and shares some highly entertaining anecdotes about everyone from Marlon Brando to Peter Sellers to former beau Martin Scorsese. Also, Rudy Vallee soaks up applause, Melvyn Douglas lends sage advice, Robert De Niro watches the Three Stooges and Illeana mourns the loss of drive-in theaters and "ethnicity" in films. PLUS: Shelley Winters drops names! Buddy Hac...
In this mini-episode, Gilbert and Frank, with guest Steven Weber, delve into a wide array of lesser-known 70s cop shows and "bad" buddy movies like 'Red Heat' and 'Turner & Hooch'. They also pay tribute to forgotten figures like Paul Winchell, recount amusing encounters with comedians like Buddy Hackett and Red Buttons, and recommend several unsung 70s films including 'Emperor of the North' and 'The Last Detail', while discussing the evolution of actors like Jack Nicholson.
Celebrated actor, writer and musician Michael McKean stops by the studio for a wildly entertaining, hour-plus conversation about his days in the sketch troupe The Credibility Gap (with Harry Shearer), his brief stint at "Saturday Night Live," the origin of Lenny and Squiggy and the oddball cinema of Christopher Guest. Also, Norm Macdonald loses his cool, Spinal Tap meets Joe Franklin, Rod Steiger brings back "Il Duce" and Michael and Gilbert compare life masks. PLUS: Zacherle! The genius of Rich...
Gilbert Gottfried and Mark Hutchins pay tribute to Jerry Lewis on his 90th birthday, sharing how personal meetings changed their initial views of the legendary comedian. They recount humorous anecdotes from telethon appearances and Friars Club events, highlighting Lewis's unique genius and generosity. The discussion also covers his impactful partnership with Dean Martin, his pioneering work as a director, his influence on major filmmakers like Spielberg, and his diverse filmography.
Gilbert and Frank welcome one of their favorite performers, legendary comedian Pat Cooper, who sounds off on a variety of topics, including the mob's influence on showbiz, the difference between Jewish and Italian comics, the genius of Jimmy Durante and the self-importance of Ed Sullivan. Also, Pat slams Paul Anka, praises Alan King, turns down Martin Scorsese and clashes with the Chairman of the Board. PLUS: Joe DiMaggio! Lola Falana! Al Martino hides out! Shirley MacLaine bombs at Caesar's! An...
This mini-episode of Gilbert Gottfried's Amazing Colossal Podcast features guests Cliff Nesterov and Drew Friedman as they collectively obsess over Otto Preminger's disastrous 1968 film, 'Skidoo.' The discussion covers the movie's bizarre casting (Groucho Marx, Jackie Gleason, Carol Channing), alleged LSD influences on its production, and countless anecdotes about its making and the stars involved. The hosts and guests explore why this 'horrible' film remains so fascinating.
Best-selling author and pop culture historian Kliph Nesteroff joins Gilbert and Frank (along with former guest Drew Friedman) for an informative (and frequently hilarious) analysis of topics covering ten decades of popular entertainment, including: the dark secrets of vaudeville, the tragic childhood of Eddie Cantor, the phenomenon of Martin & Lewis and the strange death of "Parkyakarkus." Also, Bob Hope dons blackface, Jack Benny swipes his stage name, Don Knotts sends up Hugh Hefner and th...
Gilbert and Frank delve into a fascinating film sub-genre, coined "asshole transformation" movies, where characters become better people after experiencing a personal tragedy. They highlight examples like "Regarding Henry" and "The Rape of Richard Beck," then pivot to a comical review of poorly conceived buddy cop films, including those featuring zombies, aliens, and dinosaurs. The hosts also invite listeners to contribute their own picks for both categories.
Comedian, actor, author and conspiracy buff Richard Belzer joins Gilbert and Frank for an entertaining hour-plus conversation about the glory days of Catch a Rising Star, the "National Lampoon Radio Hour" and Richard's friendships with Gilda Radner, John Belushi and Bill Murray. Also, Gilbert and Richard remember "Thicke of the Night," extol the virtues of Jerry Lewis and look back at the Leno-Letterman late night wars. PLUS: Dick & Stinky! "The Groove Tube"! Andy Kaufman takes a nap! The re...
Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre follow up on previous discussions, tackling forgotten TV shows like "Viva Laughlin" and "Collector's Item," thanks listeners for their contributions, and shares anecdotes about meeting fans on the road. The main segment explores the 70s and 80s buddy cop movie genre, examining its evolution and notable examples from listener suggestions, culminating in Gilbert pitching his own "groundbreaking" screenplay ideas.
Comedian, radio personality and former "Howard Stern Show" writer Jackie "The Joke Man" Martling joins Gilbert and Frank for a sprawling, no-holds-barred conversation about Hollywood urban myths, Joe E. Ross' hooker habit, the eccentricities of Tiny Tim and the vindictiveness of Ed Sullivan and Arthur Godfrey. Also, Jackie tells a joke to Sir Paul, Gilbert riffs on Jackie Mason, George Jessel turns down "The Jazz Singer" and Johnny Roselli scams the Friars Club. PLUS: Otto & George! Gilbert ...
Hosts Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre embark on a deep dive into the classic and often forgotten TV cop shows of the 1970s and 80s. They discuss shows like "Tenafly," the NBC Mystery Movie lineup, and unique series like "Cop Rock," sharing anecdotes, parodies, and the memorable formats of these beloved series. The episode is filled with humorous detours and recollections of television history.
Gilbert and Frank put in a call to one of their favorite showbiz raconteurs, legendary producer and "Laugh-In" creator George Schlatter, who shares his memories of working with everyone from Dino to Groucho as well as creating the short-lived fiasco "Turn-On." Also, George praises Jack Benny, parties with Ol' Blue Eyes, remembers Redd Foxx and (inadvertently) helps get Richard Nixon elected. PLUS: Herkie Styles! Digby Wolfe! The brilliance of Arte Johnson! The madness of Shecky Greene! And the F...
Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre dedicate a mini-episode to Jackie Gleason's centennial, exploring his legendary role as Ralph Kramden in "The Honeymooners," including insights into the original 39 episodes versus later musical and "lost" versions. They also discuss Gleason's accomplished dramatic acting, less successful comedic films, and his memorable variety show characters. The hosts share personal anecdotes and show updates, teasing future guests and topics.
Actor, comic, writer, historian and movie buff Robert Wuhl joins Gilbert and Frank at the famed New York Friars Club for a funny and freewheeling discussion of random topics, including the sins of Ty Cobb, the genius of John Ford, the excellence of Ealing comedies, the (alleged) affairs of Clark Gable and the versatility of Michael Keaton. Also, Robert turns down "Problem Child," praises "Cat Ballou," remembers Bruno Kirby and reveals the secret history of the Academy Awards. PLUS: Rod Steiger h...
Gilbert and Frank explore their "colossal obsessions" with hilariously bad vintage television events. They meticulously dissect Bob Hope's 1976 "Joys" special, a star-studded "Jaws" parody where celebrities are inexplicably murdered. The discussion then broadens to "Murder Can Hurt You," a similar detective spoof, and the competitive chaos of "Battle of the Network Stars," culminating in the surreal spectacle of "Celebrity Bowling." The hosts share outrageous cast lists and unbelievable plot points, highlighting the unique absurdity of these forgotten gems.
In one of their favorite episodes to date, Gilbert and Frank are joined by legendary actor, comedian and dancer Dick Van Dyke, who looks back on his illustrious 70-year career, recalls his friendships with Stan Laurel and Buster Keaton and shares his memories (both good and bad) of making the classic family films "Mary Poppins" and "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang." Also, Dick idolizes Ray Bolger, costars with Mickey Rooney, gets a surprise visit from Cary Grant and earns a compliment from Fred Astaire....
Gilbert and Frank delve into an "amazing colossal obsession" with Bob Hope's notoriously bad 1975 TV special, "Joys," a star-studded parody of Jaws, and share anecdotes about its production. The episode then pivots to director Irwin Allen, discussing his career from early films and TV shows like 'Lost in Space' to his blockbuster disaster movies, including his unique and sometimes questionable production techniques.
"Gremlins" and "The Howling" director Joe Dante grew up as a horror movie-obsessed kid in Morristown, New Jersey and went on to work with many of his childhood heroes, including John Carradine, Christopher Lee and Kevin McCarthy. Gilbert and Frank dialed up Joe in his Hollywood home to inquire about everything from his love of Disney films to apprenticing for Roger Corman to developing the ill-fated "Jaws 3, People 0." Also, Joe auditions Rod Steiger, ad-libs with Tony Randall, passes on "Orca, ...
Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre delve into the surreal world of the Dean Martin Celebrity Roasts, discussing their unique production, surprisingly politically incorrect humor, and awkward moments. They compare the roasts to the chaotic film "It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World," sharing favorite jokes and lamenting the loss of untelevised Friars Club roasts.
Gilbert and Frank welcome comedian, writer, actress and self-described "TV addict" Judy Gold, who reveals her childhood obsession with Barbra Streisand and Rhoda Morgenstern, laments the demise of classic sitcom theme songs and reconsiders her appearance in "The Aristocrats." Also, Judy idolizes Joan Rivers, eulogizes Sherwood Schwartz, spurns Buddy Hackett and plays Herman Munster's sister. (!) PLUS: Mason Williams! Totie Fields! Judy visits the Brady Bunch house! Gilbert apologizes to Gavin Mc...
Hosts Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre discuss the diverse career of acclaimed actor Richard Dreyfuss, from his early successes to his lesser-known roles and personal struggles. They also shine a light on obscure character actors like the uniquely memorable Skelton Knaggs, delving into their unusual appearances and memorable roles in classic horror films. The episode blends personal anecdotes with deep dives into Hollywood history, offering a nostalgic look at beloved and overlooked performers.
Gilbert and Frank return to the famed New York Friars Club for an intimate conversation with one of the world's most well-loved pop culture figures, actor and activist George Takei, who shares his feelings about Caucasian actors in Asian roles, speaks frankly about Japanese-American internment, expresses his gratitude to Trekkies and fondly remembers old friend Leonard Nimoy. Also, George feuds with William Shatner, chats up Jerry Lewis, runs into Cary Grant and rebukes Arnold Schwarzenegger. PL...
Gilbert and Frank explore the later career of comedy legend Bob Hope, sharing amusing and sometimes unsettling stories about his final performances and off-stage antics, including his immense property ownership. They also pay tribute to the influential director Richard Lester, known for his work with The Beatles and Buster Keaton, discussing his unique cinematic style, career trajectory, and eventual reclusiveness. The hosts highlight Lester's significant but often understated impact on modern filmmakers.
He was the scheming Uncle Junior in "The Sopranos" and Hyman Roth's coldblooded henchman Johnny Ola in "The Godfather Part II," but in real life, actor Dominic Chianese is a real mensch (or at least the Italian equivalent). Dominic joins Gilbert and Frank to talk about his early career struggles, his love of music, his days as a folk club emcee and working with legends Lee Strasberg, Sophia Loren, Sidney Lumet, and lifelong friend Al Pacino. Also, Dominic gets a break from George C. Scott, a car...
In this episode, Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre shift their focus from movies to beloved classic television series. They explore the comedic genius behind 'Car 54, Where Are You?' by Nat Hiken, discussing its distinct humor and character actors. The duo then dives into the iconic 1966 'Batman' series, highlighting its campy charm, star-studded guest appearances, and enduring legacy as a cultural artifact, while sharing hilarious anecdotes.