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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Comedian and actor Richard Lewis joins Gilbert and Frank to promote the new season of "Curb Your Enthusiasm" and to reminisce about his 45 years in comedy, his history of "nightmare gigs" and his relationships with Don Rickles, Jerry Lewis, Rodney Dangerfield and Jonathan Winters. Also, Larry David goes to camp, David Brenner buys a stapler, the Juggalos heckle Lionel Atwill, and Richard joins the mile-high club (sort of). PLUS: John Cassavetes! Fred de Cordova! "The Island of Dr. Moreau"! Richa...
In this mini-episode, Gilbert Gottfried comically takes on fan song requests, delivering unique renditions of classics such as "You've Lost That Lovin' Feeling" and Allan Sherman's "Hello Muddah, Hello Fadduh." Between musical performances, the hosts and co-host Paul Rayburn dive into celebrity stories, including Phil Spector's "Wall of Sound," Gilbert's commercial with Snoop Dogg, Alan Thicke's songwriting, and the bizarre life of Gary Coleman, all while Paul diligently researches trivia on the fly.
Gilbert and Frank dial up legendary voice actor Rob Paulsen ("Animaniacs," "The Tick," "Pinky and the Brain") for a compelling discussion of essential topics, including the generosity of Mel Blanc, the meticulousness of Steven Spielberg, the versatility of Mark Hamill and the professionalism of June Foray. Also, Roddy McDowall holds court, Orson Welles hits the sauce, Sir John Gielgud cuts to the check and Rob stars in a $500,000 "in-joke." PLUS: Lorenzo Music! Robert Ridgely! The man behind The...
Gilbert and Frank welcome back actor Richard Kind to discuss the intricacies and paradoxes of time travel movies and TV episodes. They delve into classics like "The Time Machine," "Time After Time," and various "Twilight Zone" episodes, debating plot holes and character motivations. The conversation is peppered with hilarious Hollywood anecdotes, including the unique intellect of Mel Brooks and Tony Roberts' insightful acting advice.
In one of their funniest episodes to date, Gilbert and Frank are joined by veteran actor Bill Macy ("Maude," "The Jerk," "My Favorite Year") for a highly entertaining look back at his seven-decade career and his collaborations with everyone from Bea Arthur to Norman Lear to Steve Martin. Also, Bill praises Carl Reiner, understudies Walter Matthau, ticks off Tony Curtis and shares the screen with Art Carney (and Lily Tomlin). PLUS: "Oh! Calcutta!" Remembering Joe Bologna! Gilbert plays a Spaniard...
Patty Farmer, author of "Playboy Laughs," joins Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre to explore the fascinating history of the Playboy Clubs. The conversation delves into the peculiar lives of comedians who performed there, Hugh Hefner's unexpected role as a civil rights advocate, and his pioneering views on women's rights, including advocating for pro-choice and the pill. Patty also shares insights into the club's origins, its eventual decline, and behind-the-scenes stories involving everything from the mob to famous cartoonists and the "pubic wars" with Penthouse.
Rock 'n' roll legend Tommy James serenades Gilbert and Frank with some of his biggest hits ("I Think We're Alone Now," "Crystal Blue Persuasion") and discusses his troubled, decades-long relationship with notorious music mogul/mob associate Morris Levy. Also, "Sgt. Pepper" changes the game, Gene Krupa hits hard times, Hubert Humphrey calls in a favor and Tommy reveals the strange origin of "Mony Mony." PLUS: Alan Freed! Vincent "The Chin" Gigante! "Hanky Panky" tops the charts! Tommy pens "Tight...
Emmy-winning actor JAY THOMAS was best known to audiences as hockey star Eddie LeBec on “Cheers” and tabloid talker Jerry Gold on “Murphy Brown,” but he was also a show business renaissance man, working as a stand-up, disc jockey, sportscaster and reality show host. Jay dropped by Gilbert’s apartment back in 2014 to share some hilariously candid anecdotes about everything from stealing Bill Cosby’s jokes to getting kicked out of a “West Wing” audition. Also: Jay looks back on the infamous “Who W...
Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre welcome humorist Dylan Brody, who vividly recounts his early stand-up days and a memorable, Kafka-esque performance by Gilbert. The conversation spans the evolution of NYC comedy clubs, Dylan's encounter with Carl Reiner, and a deep dive into the charmingly bad superhero and sci-fi TV shows of the 1970s and 80s, such as "The Six Million Dollar Man," "Man from Atlantis," and "Manimal," highlighting their questionable special effects and non-violent clichés. They also touch on shows that haven't aged well and the joys of comedy history.
Gilbert and Frank welcome one of their favorite funnymen, legendary writer-actor-director Buck Henry, who looks back on his 50+ year career and shares hilarious anecdotes about Orson Welles, James Mason, John Belushi and Jonathan Winters (among others). Also: Buck adapts "Catch-22," praises Richard Benjamin, invents the Cone of Silence, co-directs "Heaven Can Wait" and confirms the Pat McCormick helicopter story. PLUS: "Captain Nice"! "Samurai Delicatessen"! Claude Rains speaks! The hoaxes of Al...
This episode continues the history of The Muppets, exploring the genesis of The Muppet Show in London after its rejection by US networks, thanks to Lord Lou Grade. It highlights the unique experiences of guest stars like Vincent Price and Edgar Bergen, along with the challenges of working with demanding personalities like Danny Kaye and Milton Berle, whose raw recording session is featured. The discussion also covers Jim Henson's reasons for ending the original show to pursue films like Dark Crystal and the various, often challenging, attempts to revive the franchise over the years, including 'The Jim Henson Hour' and 'Muppets Tonight', revealing the enduring legacy and struggles of these iconic characters.
Gilbert and Frank are joined by veteran stage and screen actor Tony Lo Bianco ("The French Connection," "The Seven-Ups," "The Honeymoon Killers") for an absorbing discussion of the art of acting, the importance of self-starting, the inventiveness of Larry Cohen and the eccentricities of Rod Steiger. Also: Tony channels Fiorello La Guardia, treads the boards with Uncle Miltie, teaches Mama Cass (and Frankie Lymon) and stares down the immortal Sandy Koufax. PLUS: Franco Zeffirelli! Remembering Roy...
Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre welcome Craig Shemin, a Muppet expert and president of the Jim Henson Legacy, to explore the rich history of the Muppets. Shemin delves into Jim Henson's groundbreaking puppetry techniques, the Muppets' early career on variety shows like Ed Sullivan and Jimmy Dean, and their journey from Sesame Street's success to the challenges of primetime, including their controversial stint on Saturday Night Live. The episode also highlights Gilbert's personal connections to the Muppets and concludes with a fascinating, unearthed audio clip of Milton Berle's demanding guest appearance on The Muppet Show, teasing a future Part 2.
One of the podcast's most popular guests, actor and comedian Ronnie Schell returns to entertain Gilbert and Frank with classic stories about co-stars and contemporaries Harvey Korman, Don Rickles, Mickey Rooney, Don Knotts, and of course, Pat McCormick. Also: Ol' Blue Eyes takes a punch, Lee Marvin comes up short, Bob Newhart plays the Sahara and Ronnie writes a check to the mob. PLUS: Jesse White! "The Devil and Max Devlin"! The brilliance of Jack Riley! The madness of Marty Ingels! And Gilbert...
Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre dedicate this episode to "Gilbert Sings Your Requests," a Patreon feature where Gilbert attempts to sing fan-requested songs. They tackle Gary Wright's "Dream Weaver," John Denver's "Sunshine on My Shoulders," Bob Dylan's "Quinn the Eskimo," and The Partridge Family's "I Think I Love You," all delivered in Gilbert's unique style. Throughout the episode, they share fascinating, often outrageous, showbiz rumors and trivia, including how "Dream Weaver" inspired Wes Craven and scandalous tales involving David Cassidy and Anthony Quinn.
Radio personality, actor and voice artist Larry Kenney (Lion-O, Sonny the Cuckoo Bird) stops by the studio to trot out his array of impressions (Richard Nixon, Paul Lynde, George S. Patton, et al.) and to talk about some of the industry's legendary voice talents, including Mel Blanc, Paul Frees, Bob McFadden, June Foray and Paul Winchell. Also, Larry hosts "Bowling for Dollars," Don Imus clashes with Howard Stern, Peter Lorre tries to sound like Peter Lorre and William Conrad cleans up the Old W...
In this episode, director Anthony C. Ferrante delves into the making of the Sharknado series, including the recently released Sharknado 5: Global Swarming. He recounts how the title itself was a magical, albeit initially challenging, concept for cast members. Ferrante shares fascinating anecdotes about the film's grassroots marketing success, its unexpected viral explosion on social media, and the "play it straight" acting approach that elevates its camp appeal. The conversation also explores the film's rich tapestry of pop culture Easter eggs, surreal guest star experiences with figures like Gary Busey and Olivia Newton-John, and the uncanny way Sharknado plots sometimes mirrored real-world events.
One of the most recognizable character actors of the last half-century, Clint Howard, joins Gilbert and Frank for a highly entertaining look back at his eclectic (and prolific) career, covering everything from his films with B-movie mogul Roger Corman ("Carnosaur," "Rock 'n' Roll High School") to early roles on classic TV programs like "The Fugitive," "Star Trek" and "The Andy Griffith Show." Also, Clint meets Richard Nixon, dines with Dennis Weaver, cuts the rug with Janet Leigh and turns down ...
Gilbert and Frank dedicate an episode to the iconic 1970s disaster movie genre, exploring films like Airport, The Poseidon Adventure, and The Towering Inferno. They discuss their star-studded casts, production quirks, and enduring legacy, including how Airplane! cleverly parodied Zero Hour and the Airport franchise. The hosts also pay heartfelt tributes to the recently departed George Romero, pioneer of the zombie genre, and the versatile actor Martin Landau, sharing personal anecdotes and career highlights.
TV personality, comedian and game show host Tom Bergeron drops by the studio to share his thoughts on a variety of topics, including the unpredictability of live television, the genius of Marcel Marceau, the benefits of transcendental meditation and the rise and fall of the Jerry Lewis Telethon. Also, Tom interviews Moe Howard (and Larry Fine), Sid Caesar speaks German, Bob Hope moves down the couch and Mel Brooks mimics Bill Cullen. PLUS: Bob the Puppet! The Lawrence Welk singers! Arnold Schwar...
Actor John Amos revisits the show, delving into his memorable departure from "Good Times" and reenacting Florida Evans' iconic "Damn, damn, damn" line. He shares fan reactions to his previous appearance, a surprising encounter with Tom Hanks, and his passionate working relationship with Norman Lear, including a hilarious story about a continuity crisis. Amos also reflects on his time on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," the comedic genius of Ted Knight, and unveils his new children's book, "A World Without Color," promoting unity and kindness.
Gilbert and Frank welcome comedian, actor, writer and director Bobcat Goldthwait, who discusses his transition from performing to directing, his love of Universal horror films, his delight in making audiences feel "awkward" and his decades-long friendship with the late, great Robin Williams. Also: Bob wrestles with Arsenio, runs afoul of Nickelback, writes a "Billy Jack" movie and raves about Gilbert's new documentary. PLUS: John Lennon doodles! Robert De Niro watches "Problem Child"! In praise ...
Marisa Scheinfeld joins Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre to discuss her book, "The Borscht Belt: Revisiting the Remains of America's Jewish Vacation Land." She explains how the region emerged due to anti-Semitism and became a significant cultural hub, influencing American entertainment. The conversation explores its heyday, the multifaceted reasons for its decline—from the Anti-Discrimination Act to changing social tastes—and the haunting beauty captured in her re-photography, which documents the decay while celebrating its rich past.
Disc jockey, recording artist, radio/TV personality and longtime game show host Wink Martindale shares six decades of show business memories, including performing for Ed Sullivan, interviewing Jan and Dean, cutting a Top Ten single ("Deck of Cards") and befriending the King of Rock 'n' Roll. Also, Dickie Dawson laughs it up, Bobby Darin orders off the menu, Sam Cooke experiences technical difficulties and Wink pitches a show to Merv Griffin. PLUS: Sam Phillips! Barry & Enright stage a comeba...
In this mini-episode, Gilbert Gottfried and Frank Santopadre dive into their listener mailbag, responding to tweets that spark discussions on topics ranging from celebrity deaths and controversial actors to fan art and bizarre urban legends like "Mr. Belvedere's nutsack." They also touch upon past podcast guests, Gilbert's personal confessions, and the ongoing struggle of their fact-checker, Paul. The episode is a humorous and free-wheeling journey through various pop culture tangents.
Gilbert and Frank welcome one of their most sought-after guests, iconic writer-producer-director Norman Lear, who holds court on a variety of subjects, including the inscrutability of Dean Martin, the politics (and Jewishness) of Edward G. Robinson, the "inventiveness" of Mickey Rooney and the heroism of the Tuskegee Airmen. Also, Norman woos Frank Sinatra, praises John Amos, presents Jerry Lewis with a one-of-a-kind gift and remembers his friend Carroll O'Connor. PLUS: James Franciscus! Roscoe ...
Gilbert and Frank remember the legendary comedy writer and actor Bill Dana, best known for his iconic character Jose Jimenez. They share personal anecdotes about their attempts to interview him, reflecting on his sharp wit even at 92. The discussion delves into Dana's prolific writing career, his famous "Would You Believe?" bits for Don Adams, the cultural impact and eventual retirement of Jose Jimenez, and his extensive acting credits, highlighting his lasting legacy in entertainment.
Grammy-winning producer, British Invasion rocker and former Apple Records exec Peter Asher joins Gilbert and Frank for a fascinating discussion about (among other topics) the genius of James Taylor, the profound influence of the Everly Brothers, the rivalry between the Beach Boys and the Fab Four and the 50th anniversary of "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band." Also, John Lennon meets Yoko Ono, Peter "inspires" Austin Powers, Linda Ronstadt teams with Nelson Riddle and Peter and Gordon play t...
Gilbert and Frank, joined by Paul Rayburn, dive into a humorous critique of notoriously bad movie musicals, beginning with a discussion about recently deceased actors and Gilbert's controversial baseball appearance. They tackle films like "At Long Last Love" starring Burt Reynolds, the roller-skating fantasy "Xanadu," the much-maligned sequel "Grease 2," the star-studded but disastrous "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band," the unexpected musical "Paint Your Wagon," and "The Wiz," often highlighting the surprising talent involved in these cinematic missteps.
Gilbert and Frank welcome actor-director Richard Benjamin for an enlightening and thoroughly entertaining discussion about his six-decade career in Hollywood as well as his memories of working with Woody Allen, Mel Brooks, Clint Eastwood, Mike Nichols and Orson Welles. Also, James Mason pulls a fast one, Walter Matthau plays the ponies, Johnny Guitar meets Lawrence of Arabia and Richard helms a comedy classic ("My Favorite Year"). PLUS: The genius of Michael Crichton! The brilliance of Buck Henr...
