JRE #1493 – Steve Schirripa & Michael Imperioli

This podcast offers a captivating blend of reminiscence, candid reflections, and insights into the world of acting, comedy, and the captivating legacy of The Sopranos. The podcast dives deep into the show’s impact on television and culture, offering behind-the-scenes anecdotes and discussing the profound evolution of Tony Soprano’s character. We delve into the challenges and nuances of acting, from audition anxieties to directorial styles. The conversation seamlessly transitions to the world of stand-up comedy, exploring the art form’s unique demands, the camaraderie of the comedy community, and the enduring influence of legendary figures like Richard Pryor. Controversial topics like the problematic behavior of Harvey Weinstein and the complexities of the “woke” movement are also discussed, offering the hosts’ perspectives on these societal issues.

Podcast Topics:

1. The Sopranos: A Legacy Defined:

• The show’s impact on television, particularly the introduction of the anti-hero archetype and the cinematic quality it brought to the medium.
• The behind-the-scenes stories and anecdotes shared by the hosts, offering a glimpse into the creation of the show.
• The enduring relevance of the show, even 13 years after its finale, as evidenced by its popularity during the pandemic and the emergence of a new generation of fans.
• The show’s ability to capture complex emotions and portray characters with depth, as exemplified by the nuanced portrayal of Tony Soprano.

2. The Art and Craft of Acting:

• Audition anxieties and the importance of knowing when to “go all in” versus holding back during a read-through.
• The importance of creating a collaborative environment where actors feel comfortable and empowered to create.
• The challenges of working with directors who lack clarity or try to dictate performances, and the importance of knowing how to push back when necessary.
• The unique demands of working on sitcoms versus hour-long dramas, and the importance of finding the right rhythm and beat.

3. The Stand-up Comedy World:

• The camaraderie of the comedy community, highlighting the differences between actors and comedians and how that translates to social interaction.
• The importance of developing a unique voice and rhythm, and the challenges of finding success in a competitive field.
• The enduring influence of legendary figures like Richard Pryor and Lenny Bruce, who revolutionized comedy by making it personal and honest.
• The evolution of stand-up comedy, from the traditional joke-telling format to the more confessional and vulnerable styles of modern comics.

4. The Troubling Legacy of Harvey Weinstein:

• The staggering extent of Weinstein’s abuse and the complicity of those who enabled him.
• The power dynamics that allowed Weinstein to get away with his actions for so long, and the fear that kept many people silent.
• The devastating impact of Weinstein’s actions on those he abused, both sexually and professionally.
• The potential for a movie about Weinstein’s life and crimes, exploring the ethical complexities of portraying such a controversial figure.

5. Navigating the “Woke” Landscape:

• The hosts’ perspectives on the “woke” ideology that has permeated society, discussing its origins, its influence on politics and media, and its potential impact on the future.
• The importance of finding a balance between social awareness and individual expression, and the challenges of navigating these sensitive topics.
• The role of celebrities in social movements, and the potential for their actions to have a positive or negative impact.
• The need for critical thinking and open dialogue in a society that is increasingly polarized by ideological divides.

6. The Pandemic’s Impact:

• The profound impact of the pandemic on both personal and professional lives, from the challenges of social distancing to the economic hardship many people faced.
• The hosts’ reflections on their own experiences with the pandemic, highlighting the importance of staying connected, finding creative outlets, and maintaining mental well-being.
• The ongoing challenges of the pandemic, including the resurgence of cases and the uncertainty of the future.
• The role of vitamin D in immune health, and the importance of getting enough sunlight or supplementing.

7. The World of Boxing and MMA:

• The hosts’ reminiscences about attending boxing matches in Vegas, sharing stories about legendary fighters like Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson.
• The enduring appeal of boxing and MMA, even in the absence of large crowds.
• The potential for a rematch between Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield, exploring the motivations and implications of such a fight.
• The dangers of boxing and the long-term consequences of head trauma, as exemplified by the decline of Muhammad Ali.

8. The Personal Journey of Steve Schirripa:

• Schirripa’s experiences growing up in a mob-infested neighborhood in Brooklyn, offering insights into the world he knew and the people he encountered.
• His path from bouncing at the Riviera in Vegas to becoming a successful actor, showcasing his resilience and determination.
• His passion for cooking, sharing his experiences on the show “Chopped” and his appreciation for home-cooked meals.
• His love for hunting and the unique challenges of preparing and cooking wild game, especially elk.

9. The Diverse Career of Michael Imperioli:

• Imperioli’s early aspirations to become a doctor, revealing his academic background and intellectual curiosity.
• His journey into acting, starting with community theater and later attending acting school in New York.
• His love for live performance, highlighting the unique challenges and rewards of theater.
• His experience as a producer and director, showcasing his multifaceted approach to the arts.

10. The Power of Storytelling:

• The importance of storytelling in connecting with audiences, whether through acting, stand-up comedy, or podcasting.
• The hosts’ passion for sharing stories, both personal and professional, and their ability to captivate listeners.
• The role of storytelling in shaping our understanding of the world and ourselves.
• The enduring appeal of classic stories, as evidenced by the continued popularity of The Sopranos.

5 Memorable Quotes:

• “The show’s been off the air for 13 years. Well, listen. This is one of the best fucking shows of all time. time. It really is.”
• “He was fucking perfect for that role. And, you know, you see him, like, their scenes. And now I look at it. kinda differently, obviously. Then back then, you know, back then, I was just trying not to get fucking killed. You know?”
• “It takes guys years and years and years and years to find their voice, their rhythm. Even if a comic, if you don’t like their material, not every comics or every guy, you know the guy’s a pro. He’s really good. It’s subjective. Yes.”
• “I think there’s almost sniveling, like, begging. Yeah. It was weird. Like, he’d go from being really intimidating to almost begging, like, pity me. I hate you. Please don’t don’t embarrass me. You know?”
• “This is just fucking I don’t think he did know. think he thought he was gonna get off, and he was planning a comeback. And, you know, he was gonna I know I I know one of his attorneys that was there early on, and he fired him. I ran into him right before he got sentenced a few weeks before, and I said, this fucking Harvey’s gonna get off. And he said, no. No. No. You see, he won’t get off. He if he woulda kept me, he said he said, really? If he woulda kept me, I woulda got him off. He said What do you have gotten him off? I didn’t go, you know. I mean, I know the guy, Clayton, is from the Nick Games. And sure enough, he got why 23 years.”