4/26/2016
This podcast features a conversation between Joe Rogan and actor Steve Schirripa, best known for his role as Bobby Bacala on *The Sopranos*. The discussion spans a wide range of topics, including Schirripa’s early days in Las Vegas, his experience on *The Sopranos*, his perspective on the entertainment industry, and his new venture with organic spaghetti sauce. Underlying themes emerge throughout the conversation, reflecting on the nature of fame, the complexities of the entertainment business, and the changing dynamics of American culture.
- Schirripa’s Early Days in Las Vegas:
- Schirripa started working at the Riviera Hotel & Casino in 1986, serving as a bouncer and experiencing the vibrant nightlife of Las Vegas during its heyday. He recounts the presence of legendary entertainers like Frank Sinatra, Liza Minnelli, and Sammy Davis Jr.
- He shares anecdotes about the casino’s unique atmosphere and the mob’s influence on the entertainment industry.
- Schirripa emphasizes the importance of tipping in Las Vegas and criticizes the lack of generosity of high-profile individuals like Tiger Woods.
- He explains how Steve Wynn’s decision to eliminate traditional tipping practices in casinos drastically altered the city’s social dynamics.
- The Sopranos Experience:
- Schirripa discusses his audition process for *The Sopranos*, his initial concerns about being typecast, and his dedication to perfecting his role.
- He details the intense workload and long filming hours, shedding light on the demanding nature of television production.
- He reflects on the lasting impact of the show, including the fame it brought him and the enduring love for the character of Bobby Bacala.
- Schirripa emphasizes the importance of embracing a character and the potential for becoming defined by it.
- Navigating the Entertainment Industry:
- Schirripa shares insights into the complexities of the entertainment industry, highlighting the presence of powerful egos and the constant need to navigate them.
- He stresses the importance of finding one’s own voice and the ability to stand up for oneself in a competitive environment.
- He criticizes the practice of managers and club owners dictating comic routines, advocating for the freedom of creative expression.
- He discusses the use of acting coaches, revealing how they offer a valuable perspective and help actors hone their craft.
- The Changing Landscape of Comedy and Entertainment:
- Schirripa reflects on the changing nature of comedy, acknowledging the evolution of societal norms and the impact of political correctness on stand-up routines.
- He discusses the growing influence of social media on comedy and the potential for online criticism and boycotts to affect careers.
- He expresses concern about the current political climate and the pervasive nature of negativity in online discourse.
- He shares his thoughts on the future of talk shows and the challenges they face in a changing entertainment landscape.
- Reflections on Fame and Success:
- Schirripa offers a perspective on the benefits and drawbacks of fame, acknowledging the perks of financial security but also the potential downsides of invasive attention.
- He expresses his admiration for actors who fully commit to their roles and discusses the trend of actors taking on repetitive roles.
- He shares his views on the legacy of actors like Robert De Niro and Al Pacino, analyzing their choices and the impact of age on their careers.
- He underscores the importance of maintaining a sense of authenticity in a world obsessed with image and appearance.
- Uncle Steve’s Organic Spaghetti Sauce:
- Schirripa shares his story behind creating his organic spaghetti sauce, inspired by his late mother and his wife’s health-conscious lifestyle.
- He describes the challenges of creating a high-quality organic product and the process of perfecting the recipe.
- He proudly promotes his sauce, highlighting its availability in major grocery stores nationwide.
- He expresses his satisfaction with the success of his new venture and the opportunity to create something lasting.
Memorable Quotes:
- “I don’t want the addresses to add them. Absolutely. That’s it. So that way, if you text me. I’ll give you an answer, but it’s gonna take a while. And and and just give you a quick answer. I can’t have a conversation like people do. Some people get ridiculous.”
- “You know what I like to do? I like to do and get the fuck out of there before they realize I call it, like, leave it a love bomb. I agree with the bomb. Get out of the room. I agree with you.”
- “It’s not saying that you should discriminate against transgender people or people who feel like they were born in the wrong sex? No. Not at all. maybe we need to have 3 fucking bathrooms. Yeah. Maybe we need to have 3 It’s probably the easy one. Maybe it should be male, female, and go for it.”
- “And that’s why I’m telling you, it’s so broky can’t be fixed. You gotta drop out of sight, Joe. What are we gonna do? I don’t know Alaska. I don’t I don’t think that’s in Alaska. Think of Anchorage. I don’t like it up there. Hawaii. Hawaii. Hawaii. The way to be dangerous is it. The sharks, the waves, the fucking I don’t know where you’d go anymore. don’t know whether it was down or somewhere. I’m gonna be in the middle of the ocean. It’s just too dangerous.”
- “It’s it’s insane that, you know, you’ve been spent time doing this crazy people. I’m Yeah. I looked at a place there for a while a while ago. Like, maybe 2, 3 years ago. I thought about it. I just had a wild hair across. I just said my my kids were born there. You know? Both of my daughters grew up there. I mean, my kids were born in Vegas, but they they grew up there in New York. And my wife was born in Vegas, and she loves it. It’s I mean, if you’ve got some money, it’s not the worst place in the world to live.”