Acting Podcasts

SmartLess

Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, Will Arnett

SmartLess is the ultimate playground for three of Hollywood’s most recognizable voices: Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett. In this hit series, the trio invites some of the most influential and interesting figures from the worlds of film, music, and comedy for conversations that feel less like traditional interviews and more like hanging out with friends. Each episode begins with the hosts’ signature brand of playful, improvised banter—covering everything from their personal living habits and fashion dilemmas to their latest cultural curiosities—before they dive into the deeper narratives that define their guests' lives. Whether they are sitting down with global icons like Tom Hanks and Jennifer Lopez or visionary artists like Sting and Emma Thompson, the hosts peel back the curtain on the creative process and the grit required to make it in the entertainment industry. You will hear poignant stories about the pivotal moments that shaped these stars, from early struggles in the improv circuit to the pressure of sudden fame and the importance of maintaining authenticity. The show excels at balancing humor with genuine introspection, exploring how high-profile performers navigate family life, professional reinvention, and the evolving nature of their craft. If you are looking for a show that is consistently candid, unpredictable, and deeply human, SmartLess offers a front-row seat to the authentic personalities behind the red-carpet personas.

Good Hang with Amy Poehler

The Ringer

Pull up a chair and settle in for a conversation that feels exactly like the title suggests. In Good Hang, host Amy Poehler invites some of the most compelling voices in entertainment—from cinematic legends like Matt Damon and Colman Domingo to comedic powerhouses like Mindy Kaling and Sarah Sherman—for intimate, unscripted dialogues that bypass the typical press-tour polish. The magic of this show lies in its depth. Rather than sticking to the standard career-recap format, Amy cultivates a space where guests share the formative moments that shaped them: the lessons learned in early service jobs, the evolution of creative partnerships, and the quiet struggles of navigating fame while staying grounded. You will hear about the surprising intersection of dance and social anxiety, the importance of long-term friendships in an unpredictable industry, and the radical act of choosing gratitude over ambition. Each episode is uniquely structured, often beginning with a guest’s friend or collaborator who offers a heartfelt window into the interviewee’s true character before the main conversation begins. Whether discussing the chaos of a writers’ room, the complexities of aging in the public eye, or the shared Midwestern roots that ground so many of these stars, the show is consistently warm, funny, and profoundly observant. It is a heartfelt look at the people behind the projects, celebrating the vulnerability, work ethic, and genuine human connections that make great art possible.

The Rewatchables

The Ringer

If you have ever found yourself stopping on a movie channel to watch the same film for the tenth time, you have found your new home. The Rewatchables is a weekly deep dive into the movies that we just cannot turn off. Hosted by Bill Simmons and an rotating crew of recurring guests including Chris Ryan, Sean Fennessey, and an array of talented filmmakers and writers, the show deconstructs the films that hold a permanent spot in our cultural lexicon. Whether they are revisiting high-octane 90s thrillers, iconic comedies that defined a generation, or sprawling historical epics, the hosts bring an infectious energy to every conversation. The format is part film criticism, part nostalgia trip, and part rigorous analysis. You will hear them break down legendary breakout performances, debate the absurdity of plot holes, identify the most memorable character entrances, and assign their own signature award categories to the scenes and tropes that stick with us long after the credits roll. The podcast excels at exploring the intersection of art and entertainment, examining why certain movies endure while others fade away. From the technical mastery of directors like Stanley Kubrick to the peculiar charms of good-bad cinema, the discussions are always thoughtful, hilarious, and deeply personal. It is the perfect listen for anyone who treats movies like old friends—films you can revisit indefinitely and somehow always find something new to love.

Desert Island Discs

BBC Radio 4

Desert Island Discs is a timeless exploration of the human experience, framed through the intimate lens of music and memory. In each episode, a guest is invited to imagine themselves cast away on a deserted island, tasking them with selecting eight recordings, a book, and a luxury item to take along. While the setup is simple, the resulting conversations are profound, revealing the definitive chapters of a life through the songs that marked them. From pioneering scientists and frontline journalists to legendary actors and daring explorers, the program attracts a remarkable array of guests who open up about the defining moments that shaped their paths. You will hear stories of resilience in the face of adversity, the quiet power of curiosity, and the complexities of finding one’s identity. The music chosen serves as a personal soundtrack, highlighting the emotional milestones, cultural influences, and cherished memories of the guests. Whether reflecting on the creative struggle of an artist, the high-stakes pressure of a global correspondent, or the mechanical obsession of a world-class racer, the podcast excels at finding the universal truths in unique life stories. It is a space where professional achievements take a backseat to the vulnerability, grit, and humor that make us who we are. Tune in for a thoughtful, candid, and deeply moving journey through the lives of the world’s most compelling voices.

Films To Be Buried With with Brett Goldstein

Brett Goldstein | Daylight Media

We are all defined by the stories we consume. In Films To Be Buried With, comedian, writer, and actor Brett Goldstein invites a rotating lineup of high-profile guests to map out their lives through the cinema that shaped them. While the premise is grounded in film, the conversations frequently drift into the profound, the hilarious, and the deeply personal. It is an exploration of identity where guests curate a collection of movies to be "buried with," using those picks as a gateway to discuss everything from childhood fears and career anxieties to the complexities of fame and the inevitable mystery of the afterlife. Whether he is diving into the nuance of a craft with a Hollywood legend, dissecting the impact of television with a longtime friend, or exploring the surreal realities of life on a film set, Brett facilitates a space where vulnerability is standard. Expect a blend of nostalgia and existential inquiry as the show peels back the layers of public personas. From childhood cinematic obsessions and guilty pleasures to reflections on mortality and artistic evolution, the podcast serves as a candid archive of the human experience. It is a heartfelt, often witty, and always insightful deep dive into why we love the stories we do and how those stories eventually become the architecture of our own lives.

The Daily Show: Ears Edition

Comedy Central

Tune into The Daily Show: Ears Edition for your essential dose of political satire, cultural commentary, and sharp-witted analysis. As an audio-first extension of the iconic late-night franchise, this program brings together a rotating roster of beloved correspondents and guest hosts to dissect the week’s most bewildering headlines. From the absurdity of high-stakes international diplomacy and the ever-shifting landscape of the Trump administration to the bizarre trends of modern American life, no topic is too strange or too serious for this team. The podcast features a unique blend of formats, ranging from the high-energy, mock-antagonistic debates of the Sports War segments to the deep-dive investigative interviews found in the Time Machine series. You will hear hosts like Jon Stewart, Josh Johnson, Jordan Klepper, and Desi Lydic break down everything from the decay of national monuments and global sporting controversies to the evolving definition of masculinity in the digital age. Beyond the biting humor, the show serves as a vital space for reflection. Through candid conversations with journalists, authors, and actors, the podcast works to navigate the complexities of our current reality. Whether they are mocking the latest policy blunders or analyzing the state of American democracy, the hosts remain committed to finding the truth amidst the noise, offering a refreshing, hilarious, and thought-provoking take on the world around us. Join the conversation and get caught up on the headlines that matter—and the ones that are just too ridiculous to ignore.

Raiders Of The Lost Podcast

Big IP | Realm

Welcome to Raiders of the Lost Podcast, your go-to destination for everything happening on the silver screen and beyond. Whether you are a casual moviegoer or a devoted cinephile, our show offers a deep dive into the latest blockbusters, indie gems, and the industry shifts currently shaping the cinematic landscape. We go well beyond the surface-level reviews to analyze the craft behind the curtain, tackling everything from the technical mastery of IMAX cinematography and the evolution of practical effects to the complex, ongoing debates surrounding AI and the future of storytelling. What sets us apart is our access to the artists behind the magic. We regularly sit down with industry icons like Doug Jones and Martin Freeman, as well as visionary directors and rising stars, to uncover the human side of moviemaking. From discussing the intensity of creature performance to the improvisational joy of comedy and the structural nuances of a screenplay, we explore the heartbeat of the films you love. Our episodes are a mix of high-energy news roundups, thoughtful critiques, and candid, long-form conversations that celebrate the artistry of film. If you are looking for a community that values both the technical innovation of a high-budget franchise and the creative soul of independent horror, you have found your home. Join us as we explore the past, present, and future of cinema, one frame at a time.

Bullseye with Jesse Thorn

NPR

Bullseye with Jesse Thorn is a masterclass in the art of the long-form conversation. Rather than focusing on the latest celebrity gossip or promotional cycles, host Jesse Thorn digs into the craft, history, and humanity behind the most compelling voices in arts and culture. Whether he is sitting down with rock icons like Ann Wilson, legendary comedic actors like Allison Janney, or groundbreaking musicians like the hip-hop trio Kneecap, the show peels back the layers of public personas to reveal the genuine people beneath. The podcast excels at bridging the gap between professional triumph and personal vulnerability. You might find yourself listening to a deep, moving reflection on the political legacy of Barney Frank one week, and a technical deep dive into the experimental guitar sounds of the Pixies’ Joey Santiago the next. Across every episode, Thorn maintains a signature blend of curiosity and warmth that encourages guests to open up about their inspirations, the challenges of their creative processes, and the life experiences that shaped their work. It is an essential listen for those who prefer their interviews to be substantive, thoughtful, and consistently surprising. If you are looking for a show that celebrates the brilliant minds shaping our world while exploring the grit and joy behind their success, Bullseye offers an intimate, insightful space where the conversation never feels thin.

Happy Place

Fearne Cotton

Welcome to Happy Place, a sanctuary for honest, soul-searching conversations hosted by Fearne Cotton. If you are looking for a space to peel back the layers of modern life and explore what it truly means to be human, you have found your home. This podcast goes beyond surface-level small talk, inviting a diverse range of guests—from medical professionals and authors to creative icons—to get vulnerable about the things we often keep hidden. Whether dissecting the psychological weight of societal expectations and the pressures of perfectionism, or finding magic in the mundane, Fearne leads with deep empathy and curiosity. The show regularly tackles heavy, essential topics like navigating trauma, dismantling the stigma around mental health, and the exhausting cycle of seeking external validation. Yet, it remains equally grounded in joy, offering practical wisdom on everything from the restorative power of travel and the benefits of intuitive living to the comfort of genuine, judgment-free friendships. What makes Happy Place special is its unique blend of deep-dive interviews and lighthearted, relatable check-ins. It is an invitation to slow down, question your assumptions, and reconnect with your authentic self. Through the lenses of literature, personal anecdotes, and collective wisdom, this podcast encourages you to trade the noise of the outside world for a more intentional, compassionate, and wonder-filled way of being. Come as you are, and leave feeling a little bit more understood.

How Very Hannah

Bear Lane Productions

Welcome to How Very Hannah, the ultimate destination for theatre lovers, aspiring performers, and anyone who has ever dreamed of the bright lights of the West End. Hosted by Hannah Lowther, a performer who has navigated everything from viral social media fame and high-street retail shifts to the professional stage, this podcast pulls back the velvet curtain to reveal what life in the performing arts is truly like. Each episode is a deep dive into the joy, chaos, and resilience required to sustain a career in entertainment. Whether Hannah is sitting down for intimate, candid interviews with industry icons like Marisha Wallace and Dani Harmer or sharing her own hard-won wisdom, the conversation always centers on the reality of the craft. You will hear honest discussions about the physical and mental demands of touring, the unique pressures of covering roles, and the invaluable camaraderie that forms between castmates backstage. Beyond the industry insights, the show is packed with practical advice for those carving their own paths. From navigating drama school auditions to managing the freelance hustle, Hannah and her guests offer grounded perspectives on staying sane in a competitive world. With a mix of solo episodes filled with listener questions and lively, spontaneous guest chats, How Very Hannah feels like an open invitation to join a community of people who are as obsessed with the magic of the stage as you are. Pull up a chair and join the conversation.

Fresh Air

NPR

Fresh Air is a masterclass in the art of the interview. Hosted primarily by the iconic Terry Gross, this long-running program serves as a cultural archive, pulling back the curtain on the lives of the people who shape our world. Whether sitting down with legendary filmmakers like Steven Spielberg, music industry titans like Peter Asher, or groundbreaking athletes like Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova, the show digs far deeper than the standard press tour conversation. The format is deceptively simple: two people, a microphone, and an environment that encourages total vulnerability. You will hear intimate reflections on trauma and resilience, deep dives into the history of American culture, and nuanced examinations of human identity. From the shifting bonds between mothers and daughters to the creative processes behind your favorite television sitcoms, the discussions are consistently thoughtful, research-heavy, and remarkably human. What makes Fresh Air a standout is its ability to find the profound in the everyday. It captures stories that are sometimes painful, often funny, and always enlightening, treating every guest—from bestselling romance authors to experts on environmental health threats—with the same level of intellectual rigor and genuine curiosity. If you are looking for a show that helps you understand the complex, messy, and fascinating world we live in, this is your destination for essential, soul-searching journalism.

A Night In With Sally Lindsay

Spirit Studios

Pull up a chair and get ready for a seat on the sofa with some of Britain’s most familiar faces. Hosted by actress Sally Lindsay, A Night In With Sally Lindsay is an intimate, long-form interview series that trades the polished veneer of a standard chat show for the warmth and spontaneity of a late-night kitchen table conversation. Every week, Sally welcomes a guest from the world of television for a deep dive into the moments that defined their lives. Whether it is Sue Johnston reflecting on the cultural impact of The Royle Family, Tony Robinson sharing the intense reality of the Blackadder writers' room, or Joanna Page opening up about the resilience required to survive drama school, the series prioritizes genuine vulnerability. The episodes navigate a beautiful spectrum of tone, oscillating between hilarious behind-the-scenes anecdotes and poignant, personal revelations. You will hear about childhood roots, the complexities of family life, and the evolving nature of the acting industry, all held together by the natural rapport Sally shares with her peers. With recurring segments like quick-fire questions and nostalgic TV trivia, the show avoids the stiff nature of traditional interviews. Instead, it offers a rare, unfiltered look at the people behind the characters we grew up with, capturing the stories they haven’t told anywhere else. It is the perfect listen for anyone who loves British television and the human stories that bring it to life.

Gilbert Gottfried's Amazing Colossal Podcast

Gilbert Gottfried's Amazing Colossal Podcast

Step into the archives of Hollywood history with Gilbert Gottfried’s Amazing Colossal Podcast, a vibrant journey through the golden age of show business and beyond. Hosted by the late, inimitable comic legend Gilbert Gottfried alongside pop-culture historian Frank Santopadre, the show serves as an intimate, fly-on-the-wall roundtable featuring the icons who defined 20th-century entertainment. Each episode is a masterclass in nostalgia, as the hosts pivot effortlessly between uproarious anecdotes and deep dives into the craft of acting, comedy, and filmmaking. Whether they are interviewing comedy titans like Alan Zweibel, screen legends like Chuck McCann, or eccentric personalities like Gary Busey, the conversation always finds the human pulse beneath the fame. You will hear firsthand accounts of the early days of Saturday Night Live, the intricacies of casting, the evolution of the Catskill comedy circuit, and the artistic struggles behind cinematic masterpieces from the 1960s and 70s. Beyond the star-studded interviews, the show shines through its recurring "Rewind" segments and mini-episodes, where Gilbert and Frank unpack their personal film recommendations—ranging from gritty Sidney Lumet dramas to classic slapstick comedies. It is a frenetic, hilarious, and often poignant exploration of the industry’s past. For anyone fascinated by the legends who shaped American humor and film, this podcast provides an essential, unvarnished look at the triumphs, myths, and behind-the-scenes reality of the stars we thought we knew.

Fresh Air Plus

NPR

Fresh Air offers a window into the lives and minds of the people shaping our world. Hosted by Terry Gross and Tonya Mosley, this program specializes in the kind of deep-dive conversations that go well beyond the standard interview. Whether the guest is a legendary filmmaker like Steven Spielberg, a music industry pioneer like Peter Asher, or a cultural critic examining the roots of our modern political divide, the show maintains an intimate, investigative focus that reveals the human story behind the headlines. The program thrives on range, bridging the gap between high-stakes cultural analysis and deeply personal reflection. You might find yourself learning about the biology of the Lone Star tick one day, and exploring the complex nuances of the mother-daughter bond the next. With its trademark curiosity, the show provides a space for icons like Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova to discuss their friendship, for authors like Kennedy Ryan to dismantle tropes in romance literature, and for artists like Rose Byrne to pull back the curtain on the craft of acting. Fresh Air is more than just a series of interviews; it is a thoughtful meditation on art, history, identity, and the forces that drive us. By balancing rigorous, research-based journalism with a warm, conversational atmosphere, the program consistently uncovers the hidden dimensions of its guests, offering listeners a rare and candid perspective on the complexities of the modern experience.

Dish

Cold Glass Productions

Welcome to Dish, the ultimate culinary hang-out where great conversation meets world-class cooking. Hosted by broadcaster Nick Grimshaw and acclaimed chef Angela Hartnett, this podcast invites an eclectic mix of actors, musicians, and performers to the table for an intimate catch-up over a delicious, freshly prepared meal. At the heart of the show is the magic that happens when food and storytelling collide. Each episode, Angela curates a bespoke menu—ranging from vibrant, seasonal pastas and fresh seafood to comforting, elevated roasts—that serves as the perfect backdrop for candid, heartfelt, and often hilarious discussions. While Angela shares her professional expertise and kitchen wisdom, Nick keeps the vibe lively, guiding guests through their personal food philosophies, travel memories, and the secret snacks they can’t live without. Whether they are dissecting the nuances of bold spices with an Olivier Award-winning actor, debating the merits of unusual food combinations with a BAFTA-winning comedian, or exploring the discipline of the kitchen with legendary filmmakers, the atmosphere is always warm and unpretentious. Dish isn't just about recipes; it’s a celebration of the universal joy found in sharing a meal. It is a space where the professional journeys of high-profile guests are explored with empathy and humor, all centered around the simple, grounding act of eating well with friends. Grab a seat and join us for a masterclass in good taste and even better company.

Shut Up Evan

Evan Ross Katz

Shut Up Evan is the ultimate deep dive into the intersection of queer identity, internet obsession, and the evolving landscape of modern pop culture. Hosted by cultural commentator Evan Ross Katz, this bi-weekly series bridges the gap between casual conversation and longform intellectual curiosity. Each episode, Evan sits down with a high-profile guest for a candid look at the people behind the headlines, moving past the standard press-tour soundbites to explore the nuances of their creative lives. Whether discussing the intricacies of acting craft with stars like Myha'la or reflecting on the enduring cultural impact of formative projects with icons like Amanda Seyfried, the podcast serves as a sanctuary for genuine dialogue. You will find conversations that seamlessly transition from the professional challenges of balancing fame and authenticity to personal musings on everything from musical theater obsessions to the grounding nature of life away from the spotlight. The show stands out for its intimacy and the way it elevates the voices of those shaping today’s media. By blending a witty, informed take on internet culture with an earnest appreciation for storytelling, Evan creates a space where guests feel comfortable opening up about their career trajectories, their personal growth, and the specific quirks of their creative identities. If you are looking for a show that treats celebrity profiles with both sharp wit and deep respect, this is your new essential listen.

Literally! With Rob Lowe

Stitcher & Team Coco, Rob Lowe

Join Hollywood icon Rob Lowe for a seat at the table as he hosts some of the most compelling voices in entertainment, sports, and culture. Literally! With Rob Lowe is a masterclass in the long-form interview, where the focus shifts seamlessly from lighthearted industry anecdotes to profound philosophical inquiries. Whether he is unpacking the intricacies of a legendary acting career or diving into the evolving landscape of television, Rob creates an environment where his guests feel comfortable letting their guard down. What sets this show apart is its remarkable range. One moment you might be laughing at the absurdities of the child-actor circuit or the quirks of Hollywood auditions, and the next you are exploring deep, contemplative subjects like spiritual identity, the pursuit of compassion in a divided world, and the deconstruction of complex character archetypes. Rob consistently brings out a side of his guests that rarely surfaces in standard press tours, finding the human narrative hidden beneath the fame. Through thoughtful, free-wheeling, and deeply personal conversations, he investigates what it truly means to pursue a life of meaning and art. If you are looking for a show that balances sharp, witty banter with genuine intellectual exploration and meaningful connection, this is your new go-to listen.