Ep 4: Emmy-Winning SFX Legend Jennifer Aspinall (MADtv Head of Makeup)

Ep 8: Orlando Jones on Creating MAD TV Legends, Cut Sketches, and Going Hollywood

Jul 1, 20261h 1mSummary

In this episode of MAD REWIND, host Brandee Stilwell sits down with actor and writer Orlando Jones to reflect on his foundational experience as an original cast member and writer on MADtv. Jones shares his unique journey into comedy, tracing his roots from a public speaking champion in his youth to landing his first professional writing gig on A Different World while still in his teens. The conversation dives deep into the high-energy, unpredictable environment of the show’s first two seasons. Jones discusses his creative process for developing memorable characters like Dexter St. Croix and Ivan Hicks, emphasizing how his background as a sitcom writer helped him understand the specific cadences of his castmates. He recounts the chaotic joy of being part of the original ensemble, the challenge of navigating corporate networks, and the occasional friction that arose when his satirical sketches pushed too many boundaries. Ultimately, Jones provides a candid perspective on the complexities of being both a writer and a performer, explaining why he eventually moved on to pursue other artistic evolutions, proving that for him, the best is always yet to come.

Ep 6: Ron Pederson on Rogue Scooters, Sketch Comedy, and Second City

Jun 17, 202657 minSummary

In this episode of MAD REWIND, host Brandee Stilwell sits down with actor and comedian Ron Pederson for a deep dive into his eclectic career, ranging from his roots in the Edmonton theater scene to his three-season run on MAD TV. Pederson shares the unique journey of how he transitioned from serious stage acting to the world of sketch comedy, largely thanks to the mentorship of the legendary Joe Flaherty. The conversation highlights Pederson's extensive background in long-form improvisation, specifically his time with the improvised soap opera Dynasty, which provided him with the skills to develop complex, absurd characters. He discusses the surreal experience of his MAD TV audition process, the collaborative nature of the show’s writers' room, and his pride in surviving the high-pressure environment of network television. Throughout the interview, Pederson reflects on the camaraderie he shared with his fellow cast members and legendary guest stars. He also offers valuable insights into his creative process, emphasizing the importance of committing to one's imagination and embracing the "pretend" mindset of childhood to find comedic truth.