Gilbert Gottfried's Amazing Colossal Podcast - podcast cover

Gilbert Gottfried's Amazing Colossal Podcast

Gilbert Gottfried's Amazing Colossal Podcast
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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Episodes

Alan Alda Encore

GGACP celebrates National Italian-American Heritage Month by presenting this ENCORE of a memorable 2018 interview with Emmy-winning actor-writer-director Alan Alda (AKA Alphonso Joseph D'Abruzzo). In this episode, Alan discusses growing up in Burlesque theaters, working with his father Robert Alda, coping with the pressures of sudden fame and learning to live life “in the moment.” Also, Mickey Rooney “hails a cab,” Buster Keaton does a backflip, Sarah Silverman forms an unlikely friendship and A...

Oct 14, 20241 hr 43 min

GGACP Classic: The “Columbo” 50th Anniversary Show with David Koenig

GGACP celebrates October's National Book Month by revisiting this 2021 interview with David Koenig, author of “Shooting Columbo: The Lives and Deaths of TV’s Rumpled Detective.” In this episode, David and the boys look back at the iconic detective series, its mercurial star Peter Falk and its impressive lineup of guest killers and character actors. Also in this episode: Bing Crosby takes a pass, Eddie Albert speaks his mind, Steven Spielberg knocks it out of the park and Larry Cohen signs on as ...

Oct 10, 20241 hr 38 min

Remembering Abbott & Costello Encore

GGACP celebrates the birthday of legendary straight man Bud Abbott (b. October, 1895) by revisiting this informative panel discussion as archivist Bob Furmanek, film critic Leonard Maltin and author-historian Ron Palumbo join Gil and Frank for a look at the lives and careers of one of the most popular comedy teams of all time. Also in this episode: Groucho Marx gushes, Dean Martin gets a nose job, Boris Karloff turns down “Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein” and Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi c...

Oct 07, 20241 hr 47 min

GGACP Classic: John Amos

GGACP bids a fond farewell to our late friend and 2-time guest, “Good Times” and “Roots” star John Amos by revisiting this memorable interview from 2016. In this episode, John reminisces 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 “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 hou...

Oct 03, 20241 hr 19 min

Scott Alexander & Larry Karaszewski Encore

GGACP celebrates the 30th anniversary of the classic comedy-drama "Ed Wood" (released September 28, 1994) with this ENCORE of an interview with the film's screenwriters Scott Alexander and Larry Karaszewski. In this episode, Scott and Larry talk about the Ed Wood-Bela Lugosi relationship, the exuberance of Milos Forman, the bizarro cinema of Rudy Ray Moore and their Eddie Murphy vehicle, “Dolemite is My Name.” Also, Jim Carrey pranks Danny DeVito, Tim Burton befriends Vincent Price, Ray Walston ...

Sep 30, 20241 hr 43 min

GGACP Classic: Rupert Holmes Returns!

GGACP celebrates National Piano Month (yes, National Piano Month) by revisiting this 2017 interview with songwriter/composer-turned-dramatist (and lifelong pianist!) Rupert Holmes. In this episode, Rupert discusses (among other essential topics) the brilliance of Bernard Herrmann, the lesser-known films of Boris Karloff and the fine art of “cracking” celebrity impressions. Also, Frank Gorshin channels George Burns, Gilbert mimics Sydney Greenstreet, Bob Hope goes psychedelic and Rupert remembers...

Sep 26, 20241 hr 28 min

Tim Robbins Encore

GGACP marks the 30th anniversary of Frank Darabont's classic Stephen King adaptation, "The Shawshank Redemption" (released September 23, 1994) by presenting this ENCORE of a 2020 interview with Oscar-winning actor, musician and activist Tim Robbins. In this episode, Tim joins the boys for a lively discussion on a wide range of topics, including the “New Hollywood” of the ’70s, the genius and generosity of Robert Altman and the timeliness of Depression-era screwball comedies. Also, Gore Vidal ste...

Sep 23, 20241 hr 47 min

GGACP Classic: Remembering Adam West

GGACP celebrates the birthday of TV's original Caped Crusader, Adam West (b. September 19, 1928) by revisiting Gilbert and Frank's tribute to the beloved actor (and memorable podcast guest). Also in this episode: "Legends of the Superheroes"! Uma Thurman does the Batusi! Adam teams with the Three Stooges! The genius of Neal Hefti! And the unsung brilliance of “Lookwell.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices...

Sep 19, 202433 min

Paul Feig Encore

GGACP celebrates the birthday (September 17) of writer, director and actor Paul Feig ("Bridesmaids," "Ghostbusters," A Simple Favor") with this ENCORE of a memorable interview from 2018. In this episode, Paul shares his thoughts on an eclectic mix of topics, including the appeal of "cringe" comedy, the influence of Mad magazine, the legacy of Charles M. Schulz and the untimely demise of "Freaks and Geeks." Also, Thurston Howell sings the blues, Jim Nabors sings "Ave Maria," George Lazenby tangle...

Sep 16, 20241 hr 11 min

GGACP Classic: Jeff Ross and Dave Attell

GGACP celebrates the birthday of comedian, producer and Roastmaster General Jeff Ross (b. September 13th) by revisiting this frequently hilarious 2019 interview with Jeff and fellow comedian Dave Attell. In this episode, the boys talk about performing in the age of political correctness, using comedy as a teaching tool, their favorite lesser-known stand-ups of the ’50s and ’60s and their Netflix series “Bumping Mics” and “Historical Roasts.” Also, Aretha Franklin flips the bird, Jeff takes down ...

Sep 12, 20241 hr 27 min

Willie Tyler & Lester Encore

GGACP celebrates the birthday of legendary ventriloquist Willie Tyler (b. September 8th) by presenting this ENCORE of an entertaining conversation with Willie and his longtime partner, Lester, from 2018. In this episode, Willie (and Lester) discuss the history of the “Chitlin Circuit,” ventriloquism-themed horror movies, the mob’s influence in Vegas and the golden age of “the Motown Sound.” Also: Steve Rossi teams with Slappy White, George Kirby channels Pearl Bailey, Edgar Bergen offers sage ad...

Sep 09, 20241 hr 25 min

GGACP Classic: "Time After Time" and "Island of Lost Souls"

GGACP marks the 45th anniversary of the 1979 release of Nicholas Meyer's terrific sci-fi- adventure film, "Time After Time" by revisiting this mini-ep from 2015. In this episode: Charles Laughton chases skirts, Gilbert tears down "Regarding Henry," Malcolm McDowell meets his future wife and the boys pay tribute to a lesser-known Lugosi classic. PLUS: "Jack the Stripper"! "The Night of the Hunter"! The brilliance of David Warner! And Marlon Brando inspires Mike Myers! Learn more about your ad cho...

Sep 05, 202417 min

Jeff Abraham and Burt Kearns Encore

GGACP looks back at an entertaining (and educational!) episode from Sept 2, 2019 with this ENCORE presentation of an interview with author-historian Jeff Abraham and filmmaker Burt Kearns about their book, "The Show Won't Go On." In this episode, Jeff and Burt share fascinating backstories on the untimely (and unusual) passings of Dick Shawn, Joe E. Ross, Al Kelly, Parkyakarkus and Karl Wallenda (among others). Also, Moe Howard wears a dress, Burt Reynolds gets a paint job, Sid Caesar packs heat...

Sep 02, 20241 hr 31 min

GGACP Classic: Frank Conniff

“Push the button, Frank!” GGACP celebrates the birthday (August 30) of writer, comedian and actor Frank Conniff (“Mystery Science Theater 3000”) by revisiting this funny conversation from 2017. In this episode, Frank shares selections from his new book of MST3K-related essays and gives his take on topics ranging from Superman’s Jewish roots to the outsized cinema of Bert I. Gordon to the meta-comedy of Art Metrano. Also, Jack Webb directs, Pia Zadora meets Kris Kringle, Frank defends Ed Wood and...

Aug 29, 20241 hr 25 min

Drew Friedman Encore

GGACP celebrates the recent publication of our pal Drew Friedman's new book, "Schtick Figures" by presenting this ENCORE of a memorable 2020 interview with the award-winning illustrator and fan favorite. In this episode, Drew weighs in on well-endowed comedians, the last days of Mad magazine, the durability of “The Odd Couple” and Gilbert's hilarious turn as "The Great Emancipator." Also, Yoko Ono meets the Little Rascals, Uncle Floyd auditions for “Minnie’s Boys" and Frank attends a Stooge fune...

Aug 26, 20241 hr 32 min

GGACP Classic: Al Roker

GGACP celebrates the birthday (August 20th) of Emmy-winning TV host (and native New Yorker) Al Roker by revisiting this funny, freewheeling conversation about local kiddie show hosts, the lost art of ventriloquism, the complicated genius of Charles M. Schulz and Al’s book “You Look So Much Better in Person.” Also, Fred Flintstone enjoys a smoke, Red Buttons leads a double life, Willard Scott becomes the original Ronald McDonald and Gilbert and Al co-star in “Sharknado 5: Global Swarming.” PLUS: ...

Aug 22, 20241 hr 33 min

Peter Marshall Encore

GGACP bids a fond farewell to actor, singer and former “Hollywood Squares” host Peter Marshall by presenting this ENCORE presentation of a candid interview from 2016. In this episode, Peter regales Gilbert and Frank with 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 sc...

Aug 19, 20241 hr 29 min

GGACP Classic: James Bond Movies

GGACP salutes the absorbing and informative new book by our pal Thom Shubilla, "James Bond and the Sixties Spy Craze," by revisiting this memorable mini-ep from 2016, featuring James Bond fun facts and tantalizing 007 trivia. In this episode: Roger Moore shares the screen with Bernie Schwartz, Johnny Rivers scores a hit with "Secret Agent Man," Gilbert obsesses over Jewish Bond baddies (and Jewish Bond girls) and the boys bid a fond farewell to Napoleon Solo. PLUS: Hank Scorpio! Sammy Davis Jr’s...

Aug 15, 202434 min

Frankie Avalon Encore

GGACP keeps the summer vibe alive with this ENCORE of a 2014 interview with singer-actor and star of the "Beach Party" movie series, Frankie Avalon. In this episode, Frankie talks about breaking into show business as a child prodigy, receiving 12,000 pieces of fan mail per week and working alongside Hollywood greats Jack Benny, Jackie Gleason, Buster Keaton, Lucille Ball, and Groucho Marx. Also, Frankie looks back at his humble beginnings in South Philly, his years as a teen heartthrob and his d...

Aug 12, 20241 hr 17 min

GGACP Classic: "Treasure of the Sierra Madre" and "Double Indemnity"

GGACP celebrates the recent 80th anniversary of the granddaddy of film noirs, Billy Wilder's 1944 masterpiece "Double Indemnity" by revisiting this conversation from 2015. In this episode, Gilbert and Frank sing the praises of James M. Cain and Raymond Chandler, look back at various remakes ("Body Heat," "Big Trouble") and analyze the movie's seldom mentioned love story. Also: The boys pay tribute to the John Huston classic "Treasure of the Sierra Madre." PLUS: Bugs Bunny meets Bogart! Bela Lugo...

Aug 08, 202418 min

Larry Kenney Encore

GGACP celebrates the birthday of actor, radio personality and voice artist Larry Kenney (Lion-O, Count Chocula, Sonny the Cuckoo Bird) with this ENCORE of a memorable interview from 2017. In this episode, Larry trots out his array of impressions (Richard Nixon, Paul Lynde, George S. Patton) and remembers 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...

Aug 05, 20241 hr 24 min

GGACP Classic: Ron Friedman Returns!

GGACP celebrates the birthday (August 1) of longtime television writer and podcast pal Ron Friedman (“The Odd Couple,” “The Andy Griffith Show,” “All in the Family,” “Barney Miller”) by revisiting Ron's second sitdown with Gilbert and Frank. In this episode, Ron discusses the structure of storytelling, the importance of escapism and the inspirations for Captain Marvel and the Sub-Mariner and shares all-new stories about Lucille Ball, Tony Randall, Danny Thomas and (of course) Pat McCormick. Also...

Aug 01, 20241 hr 42 min

Bad Werewolf Movies Encore

GGACP celebrates the birthday of legendary actress and Gilbert favorite Maria ("The Wolf Man") Ouspenskaya (b. July 29, 1876) with this ENCORE of a funny and informative mini-ep from 2018. In this episode, the boys shoot a silver bullet through the heart of some lesser-known and less successful werewolf flicks, including "Wolf," "She-Wolf of London," "Face of the Screaming Werewolf" and the unforgettable “The Rats Are Coming! The Werewolves Are Here!" PLUS: Remembering Glenn Strange! In praise o...

Jul 29, 202437 min

GGACP Classic: Battle of the Network Stars!

GGACP celebrates the opening ceremony of the 2024 Summer Olympics by revisiting Gilbert and Frank's "tribute" to a slightly different (but no less entertaining) athletic competition, ABC's "Battle of the Network Stars." In this episode, Billy Crystal runs an obstacle course, Victor Buono sends up Raymond Burr, Telly Savalas locks horns with Robert Conrad and Gilbert tells one of the funniest jokes of all time. PLUS: "Murder by Death"! "Celebrity Bowling"! Wonder Woman takes a dip! Wayne Newton s...

Jul 25, 202424 min

Alan Zweibel Encore

GGACP marks the 30th anniversary of the 1994 feature film "North" (released July 22, 1994) with this ENCORE of an interview with the much-maligned movie's writer, Emmy-winner and Thurber Prize winner Alan Zweibel. In this episode, Alan discusses (among other topics) the evolution of “Saturday Night Live,” the genius of Larry Gelbart and Neil Simon and the 2018 documentaries about his longtime friends and collaborators, Gilda Radner and Garry Shandling. Also, Jay Leno offers advice, Buck Henry ma...

Jul 22, 20241 hr 59 min

GGACP Classic: Jim Norton LIVE @ NYCC Super Week

GGACP celebrates the birthday of comedian and radio host Jim Norton (b. July 19) by revisiting this LIVE interview (in connection with NY Comic Con) from way back in 2015. In this episode, Jim holds court on topics ranging from his friendship with Sherman (George Jefferson) Hemsley to his love of Jack Klugman to his admiration for “Midnight Cowboy” and “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest.” Also, the boys break down celebrity conspiracy theories, sing the praises of character actor Frank McRae and l...

Jul 18, 20241 hr 8 min

Larry Cohen Encore

GGACP celebrates the birthday (July 15) of one of Gilbert and Frank's favorite guests, legendary cult filmmaker Larry Cohen (“It’s Alive,” “The Stuff,” “Hell Up in Harlem”) with this ENCORE of a highly amusing interview from 2018. In this episode, Larry talks about his early days as a standup, his friendship with Alfred Hitchcock, the risks and rewards of “guerrilla moviemaking” and the documentary about his life and career, “King Cohen: The Wild World of Filmmaker Larry Cohen.” Also, Chuck Conn...

Jul 15, 20241 hr 22 min

GGACP Classic: Billy West Returns

GGACP celebrates the birthday of unpopular Stooge "Curly Joe" DeRita (b. July 12, 1909) by revisiting this hilarious interview with comedian, voice actor and Three Stooges expert Billy West. In this episode, Billy discusses bad sight gags, one-joke comedians, the legend of “Grandpa” Al Lewis, the genius of Frank Welker and the magnificence of the Buddy Rich and Paul Anka rants. Also, Larry Fine plays Stanley Kowalski, Lou Jacobi inspires Dr. Zoidberg, Jay Leno messes with James Mason’s head and ...

Jul 11, 20241 hr 45 min

Jim Gaffigan Encore

GGACP celebrates the birthday of actor and comedian Jim Gaffigan (b. July 7) with this ENCORE of an interview from 2015. In this episode, Jim joins Gilbert and Frank at the famed New York Friar’s Club to weigh in on subjects ranging from the lost art of “ethnic comedy” to the healing powers of stand-up to the caste system of the entertainment business. Also, Jim “opens” for the Pope, treads the boards with Jackie Gleason’s grandson, struggles to capture Manhattan on film and writes ad copy for D...

Jul 08, 20241 hr 21 min

GGACP Classic: Griffin Dunne

GGACP celebrates the recent release of actor-producer Griffin Dunne's book, "The Friday Afternoon Club: A Family Memoir" by revisiting this memorable interview from 2019. In this episode, Griffin talks about blending horror and comedy, teaming with Martin Scorsese and Sidney Lumet, the cynical cinema of Billy Wilder and the lives (and work) of Joan Didion and Dominick Dunne. Also, Jerry Lewis adapts Gore Vidal, Otto Preminger takes a bad trip, Griffin sneaks onto the set of “Gilligan’s Island” a...

Jul 04, 20241 hr 28 min
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