Gilbert Gottfried's Amazing Colossal Podcast

GGACP celebrates the birthday of Emmy-winning director and producer Allan Arkush by revisiting this in-depth interview from 2018. In this episode, Allan entertains Gilbert and Frank with tales of working at the late, great Fillmore East, crossing paths with Ol’ Blue Eyes (and Groucho!) apprenticing for the legendary Roger Corman and helming the cult classic “Rock ‘n’ Roll High School.” Also, Jackie Mason fails to connect, Malcolm McDowell talks to his crotch, Bruce Willis locks horns with Cybill Shepherd and “A Hard Day’s Night” changes Allan’s life forever. PLUS: P.J. Soles! “The Girl Can’t Help It”! In praise of Alexander & Karaszewski! Zacherle introduces the Grateful Dead! And Allan (reluctantly) remembers “Caddyshack 2”! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 1 May 2025

GGACP celebrates the birthday of Emmy-winning actor Jack Klugman (b. April 27) by presenting this ENCORE of a 2020 tribute to ABC's "The Odd Couple." In this episode, comedian-superfan Dave Juskow, author Bob Leszczak (“The Odd Couple on Stage & Screen”) and the sons of Oscar Madison himself, Adam Klugman and David Klugman join Gilbert and Frank for a loving look back on the hit series (and GGACP favorite). Also, Tony Randall stands out, Mickey Rooney loses out, John Byner breaks up the room and Garry Marshall makes TV history. PLUS: The queen of game shows! “The New Odd Couple”! Howard Cosell fakes it! Adam plays young Oscar! And David hits the road with Randall and Klugman! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 28 April 2025

GGACP's celebration of National Couples Appreciation Month continues with a revisit of this conclusion of a 2-part interview with veteran screen performers Richard Benjamin and Paula Prentiss. In this episode, Richard and Paula talk about sharing the stage with their children, celebrating 60 years of marriage, casting the comedy classic “My Favorite Year” and filming “The Stepford Wives,” “Westworld,” Diary of a Mad Housewife” and “The Parallax View.” Also, Mel Brooks produces “The Elephant Man,” Orson Welles intimidates the cast of “Catch-22,” Paula’s mom chats up William S. Burroughs and Richard lists his favorite Paula Prentiss performances. PLUS: “Captain Nice”! Elsa Lanchester! The genius of Michael Crichton! The irrepressible Bill Macy! And Richard and Paula remember Yul Brynner, Buck Henry, Jack Klugman and George Segal! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 24 April 2025

GGACP celebrates National Couples Appreciation Month with this ENCORE of the first of a 2-part interview featuring celebrated actors and longtime Hollywood couple Richard Benjamin and Paula Prentiss. In this episode, Richard and Paula talk about their seven-decade careers in front of (and behind) the camera, co-starring in a groundbreaking sitcom, co-hosting “Saturday Night Live,” meeting Stan Laurel and Buster Keaton and working with legendary directors Howard Hawks, Mike Nichols and Billy Wilder. Also, Jack Cassidy plays a superhero, Jack Benny exits “The Sunshine Boys,” Paula shares the stage with Hope and Crosby and Richard teams Burt Reynolds and Clint Eastwood. PLUS: Uncle Goopy! “Goodbye, Columbus”! Remembering Jim Hutton! Walter Matthau plays the ponies! And Richard and Paula gush over Gilbert’s James Mason impression! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 21 April 2025

GGACP salutes National Humor Month AND celebrates the birthday of voice actor Billy West (b. April 16) by revisiting this fan favorite interview with Billy and comedian -- and former "Howard Stern Show" colleague -- Jackie Martling. In this episode, the boys discuss the cinema of George Pal, the versatility of Paul Frees, the uniqueness of Peter Sellers and the enduring legend of Joe Franklin. Also, Jonathan Winters disses Don Adams, Jack Carter guests on “Ren & Stimpy,” Billy meets The Man from Uncle and Jackie weighs in on the Gilbert-Shecky Greene clash. PLUS: “Shock Theater”! “7 Faces of Dr. Lao”! The return of the Jackie puppet! Curly Howard takes a bullet! And George Jessel duets with…George Jessel? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 17 April 2025

GGACP celebrates April's National Humor Month AND the birthday of comedian and Emmy-winning actor Brad Garrett (b. April 14) by presenting this ENCORE of one of the funniest interviews in the podcast's archive. In this episode, Brad talks about the camaraderie of Golden Age comedians, the strange appeal of the “Dean Martin Celebrity Roasts,” the comedic genius of Martin Mull and Fred Willard and the challenges of portraying his longtime hero, Jackie Gleason. Also, Sammy buys a soda, Liza sheds a tear, Gilbert plays the sitcom neighbor-from-Hell and Brad opens for the Chairman of the Board. PLUS: “Fargo”! Art Fern! In praise of Mr. Warmth! The generosity of…Jack Carter? The comedy stylings of “Greg Barrett”! And Brad remembers the late, great Peter Boyle! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 14 April 2025

GGACP marks the recent L.A. screening of Drew Friedman and Kevin Dougherty's documentary "Drew Friedman: Vermeer of the Borscht Belt" with this ENCORE of an entertaining 2017 mini-episode as Kevin attempts to stump Gilbert, Frank AND Drew with podcast guest-related trivia. Also in this episode: Gilbert bombs in New Delhi, Jerry Lewis remakes "The Jazz Singer," Anthony Newley headlines an excruciating comedy and “Harvey Korman” appears on GGACP. PLUS: Rummy Bishop! The REAL Fred Flintstone! Drew critiques “How to Murder Your Wife"! And Kevin recalls the invention of the glass top coffee table! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 7 April 2025

To celebrate National Film Score Day, Gilbert and Frank are joined by Oscar-winning composer and guest co-host Michael Giacchino for a chat with one of Michael's childhood heroes, Academy Award-winning special effects artist (and GGACP fan!) Dennis Muren. In this episode, Dennis praises the artistry of stop-motion animation, looks back on the early days of Industrial Light & Magic and shares behind-the-scenes stories from the making of modern classics “E.T.,” “Jurassic Park” and “The Empire Strikes Back.” Also, Marlon Brando ages gracefully, Irwin Allen breaks up the Marx Brothers, Michael gets nostalgic for the “Temple of Doom” mine car sequence and Dennis remembers longtime friends Forrest Ackerman and Ray Harryhausen. PLUS: “Flesh Gordon”! The magic of Willis O’Brien! “Casablanca” in 3-D! And Bob Burns recreates “The Exorcist”!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 3 April 2025

GGACP celebrates the birthday of Brooklyn-born songwriter-recording artist Henry Gross (“Shannon”) with this ENCORE of a 2021 interview with Henry and British-born singer-songwriter Roger Cook (“Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress”). In this episode, Henry and Roger share tales from their seven decades in the music business and talk about playing mob-owned joints, forming doo-wop groups, opening for the Beatles (and Benny Hill!), being inspired by Jimi Hendrix and hearing their songs on the radio for the first time. Also, Casey Kasem blows his cool, George Martin teams with Peter Sellers, Henry becomes the youngest artist to perform at Woodstock and Roger writes a jingle that becomes a worldwide sensation. PLUS: Sha Na Na! “I Was Kaiser Bill’s Batman”! The comedy of Jackie Vernon! Steve Coogan sends up Blue Mink! And Henry and Roger remember the late, great John Prine! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 31 March 2025

GGACP closes out its celebration of March's Women's History Month by revisiting this hilarious mini-episode from 2019 as Dara tries to stump the boys by dusting off records from her mom's record collection: This week: J. Fred Muggs! “Blackboard Jungle”! The brilliance of Charles Fox! Krusty the Clown sings! Al Jolson gets serviced! And the gang bids a fond farewell to Doris Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 27 March 2025

GGACP's Women's History Month celebration continues with this encore of a thoroughly enjoyable mini-episode from 2019 as Dara challenges Gilbert, Frank and Paul to "name that tune" from her personal CD collection. This week: The Jewish Elvis! The Divine Miss M! Cole Porter goes west! The cinema of Art Garfunkel! And Pat Benatar plays “Catch a Rising Star”! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 24 March 2025

ABC's "Mr. Belvedere" premiered 40 years ago this month and in this memorable conversation, comedian, movie obsessive and podcaster Doug Benson (“Doug Loves Movies”) finally reveals the sordid "truth" about the infamous on-set mishap. Also in this episode, Doug and the boys talk about bad sequels, booking dream guests, breaking into the business and the perils of meeting Hollywood heroes. Also, Harry Dean Stanton shuts it down, Doug messes with Harrison Ford, Peter Falk reunites with Alan Arkin and Gilbert (once again) rags on Ferris Bueller. PLUS: Foster Brooks! “Captain EO”! In praise of Alexander Payne! The Three Stooges in 3-D! And “The Curse of the Pink Panther!”  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 20 March 2025

GGACP celebrates the birthday of Emmy and Tony-winning actor-singer Hal Linden (b. March 20) by revisiting this interview from 2016. In this episode, Hal joins Gilbert and Frank for a look back at his long and varied career (including work in sitcoms, on Broadway and in nightclubs) and reveals why “Barney Miller” was considered the most authentic of all cop shows. Also, Hal covers Benny Goodman, backs up Perry Como, shares the screen with Harry Morgan and cuts the rug with Donald O’Connor. PLUS: Cab Calloway! Eddie “The Old Philosopher” Lawrence! “Godzilla vs. the Sea Monster”! The Chinese Bing Crosby! And Hal salutes the late, great Abe Vigoda! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 17 March 2025

The celebration of March's Women's History Month continues as GGACP revisits Part 2 of a memorable two-part episode featuring veteran screen and stage actress Sally Struthers. In this episode, Sally regales Gilbert and Frank with entertaining backstage tales from “All in the Family,” “The Gilmore Girls” and the all-female production of Neil Simon’s “The Odd Couple,” while sharing personal recollections of Joan Crawford, David Frost, Betty Garrett and idol and personal hero Ruth Gordon. Also, Burgess Meredith philosophizes, Katharine Hepburn paints a birthday card, Sally “gooses” Dennis the Menace and Mel Blanc shows off his vanity license plate. PLUS: Burt Mustin! “Harold and Maude”! “The Great Houdini”! The genius of Rupert Holmes! Colonel Potter goes to Russia! And Sally dates the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll and…wait for it…Pat McCormick! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 13 March 2025

GGACP continues the celebration of Women's History Month with this ENCORE of the first part of a two-part interview with Emmy-winning actress Sally Struthers. In this episode, Sally joins Gilbert and Frank for a laugh-filled conversation about the aloofness of Rudy Vallee, the eccentricities of Sam Peckinpah, the versatility of Bill Dana, the unexplainable existence of “The Phynx” and the recent 50th anniversary of “All in the Family.” Also, Jack Nicholson shops at Tiffany’s, Steve McQueen romances Ali MacGraw, Rod Steiger gives Sally the heebie-jeebies and Bob Hope visits the “Planet of the Shapes.” PLUS: Jack Benny! Ned Glass! “Five Easy Pieces”! “The Tim Conway Comedy Hour”! The many faces of Sammy Davis Jr! And Sally remembers friends and co-stars Carroll O’Connor and Jean Stapleton! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 10 March 2025

GGACP's celebration of Women's History Month continues with this repost of a 2018 interview with Mrs. C herself, Emmy-nominated actress Marion Ross. In this episode, Marion recalls her early days as a studio contract player, her struggles to find her footing in Hollywood, her curious methods of getting into character and her working relationships with Claudette Colbert, Noel Coward, Kirk Douglas and Charlton Heston. Also, Marion crushes on Clark Gable, confides in Cary Grant, sets sail with Tony Curtis and pays a call on Bogie and Bacall. PLUS: Marlene Dietrich eats lunch! Jose Ferrer makes his move! Ginger Rogers robs the cradle! And Marion remembers colleagues Tom Bosley, Pat Morita and Garry Marshall!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 6 March 2025

GGACP celebrates Women's History Month with this ENCORE of a 2017 interview with veteran stage, film and television actress Joyce Van Patten. In this episode, Joyce laughs it up with the boys and shares fond memories of working with Hollywood icons Lucille Ball, Jack Benny, Danny Kaye, Dean Martin and Peter Sellers (to name just a few). Also, Joyce dines with Vincent Price, tours with Tony Randall, treads the boards with Al Shean (!) and remembers the late, great Herb Edelman. PLUS: Mr. Big converts! Rod Serling stops by the set! Joyce praises Martin Balsam! Andy Griffith hates on Jack Lord! And Bob Denver adopts a monkey!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 3 March 2025

GGACP celebrates the birthday of singer and actor Josh Groban (b. February 27) by revisiting an animated conversation conducted in Josh's Manhattan home way back in 2015. In this episode, Josh shares his passion for comedy, his affection for the “Problem Child” movies and his memories of guest-starring on “The Office” and “Ally McBeal.” Also, Josh coins a catch phrase, tackles the role of Tevye (at age 17!), mimics Jay Leno and performs with Sting and Barbra Streisand. PLUS: “The 5,000 Fingers of Dr. T.”! Gladys Knight & The Pips! “The Beastmaster”! Old Groucho returns! And Josh sings “the hits” of Gilbert Gottfried! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 27 February 2025

GGACP celebrates the birthday of musician, author, playwright and pop culture expert Rupert Holmes (born February 24) with this ENCORE of the first-ever “Amazing Colossal Trivia Call-in Show," as Rupert and the boys attempt to answer tough trivia questions offered up by GGACP listeners. Also in this episode: Cesar Romero meets Sid Melton, Kirk Douglas inspires “Barney Miller,” Jay Leno teams up with Pat Morita and Frank Gorshin passes the torch to Jamie Farr. PLUS: “The Phantom of the Paradise”! “The Return of Doctor X”! James Bond’s greatest nemesis! Rupert hangs with Charles Bronson! The curse of the Spinal Tap drummers! And the secret origin of “Escape (The Pina Colada Song”)! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 24 February 2025

GGACP joins "Saturday Night Live"s 50th anniversary celebration with this ENCORE of a 2021 interview with comedian, Emmy-nominated writer, "Amazing Colossal Podcast" fan and original "SNL" cast member Laraine Newman. In this episode, Laraine talks about descending from Jewish cowboys, co-founding The Groundlings, auditioning for Bob Hope (and Robert De Niro) and penning her engrossing memoir, “May You Live in Interesting Times.” Also, Don Ameche mounts a comeback, Chevy Chase tells the “Aristocrats” joke, Laraine crushes on Illya Kuryakin and Walter Matthau turns down the Julia Child sketch. PLUS: Autumn Fizz! “American Hot Wax”! Buck Henry gets kinky! “That’s Not Funny, That’s Sick!” And Laraine recalls working with Bob & Ray, Dudley Moore and Rodney Dangerfield! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 17 February 2025

GGACP celebrates Valentine's Day 2025 by revisiting this classic installment inspired by the ALLEGED dalliance between acting legend Marlon Brando and comedy icon Richard Pryor. Also in this episode: The Nairobi Trio! “Last Tango in Paris”! “The Bingo Long Traveling All-Stars & Motor Kings”! Gilbert impersonates Colonel Kurtz! And Jack Klugman makes a shocking discovery! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 13 February 2025

GGACP recognizes February's International Friendship Month with a Gilbert and Frank solo outing as the boys celebrate their 100th podcast episode with a LIVE recording at SiriusXM. In this episode, G & F field questions (from callers and an in-studio audience) on an assortment of vital topics, including Frank Gorshin, Pigmeat Markham, Shecky Greene’s tantrums, the search for Papillon Soo Soo, “Celebrity Wife Swap” and the Church of Satan. Also, Grandpa Munster brunches, Paul Lynde hops a flight, Herve Villechaize covers Paul Williams and Gilbert makes his peace with Japan! PLUS: Electronic Vincent Price! Steve Lawrence passes (again)! Kwai Chang Caine hosts “SNL”! Groucho meets Alan Thicke! And the return of (old) Jack Frost! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 6 February 2025

GGACP celebrates American Heart Month by presenting this ENCORE of a 2020 interview with actress, activist and founder of The John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health, Amy Yasbeck. In this episode, Amy talks about golden age comedians, the directing style of Mel Brooks, working with Gilbert on “Wings” and the “Problem Child” franchise, and the playfulness and generosity of John Ritter. Also, Morey Amsterdam sings “Yuk-a-Puk,” Gilbert gets nominated for a Razzie, Amy cuts the rug with Leslie Nielsen and Jack Warden changes accents in mid-movie. PLUS: Emil Sitka! “The New Love American Style”! Anne Bancroft plays Maria Ouspenskaya! John borrows shtick from Jerry Lewis! And 6-year-old Amy pitches the Easy-Bake Oven! https://johnritterfoundation.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 3 February 2025

GGACP celebrates the birthday (January 31) of actor, comedian and co-host of the "How Did This Get Made?" podcast Paul Scheer by revisiting this “very special episode,” recorded back in 2015. In this interview, Paul shares his love of movie misfires, including “Road House,” “Deep Blue Sea,” “A View to a Kill” and the infamous Brando remake of “The Island of Dr. Moreau.” Also, Paul talks to an invisible spaceship, carries (physically) Ving Rhames, and looks back on his days as a VH1 “talking head.” PLUS: “Battlefield Earth”! Tom Hanks raps! The Maytag Repairman gets blackballed! James Karen hangs with Weezie! And Gilbert trashes “The Notebook”! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 30 January 2025

GGACP celebrates the birthday (January 27) of comedian, actor, writer and GGACP fan Patton Oswalt by presenting this ENCORE of a wide-ranging interview from 2018. In this episode, Patton drops by the studio to discuss the films of Sidney Lumet and Billy Wilder, the “unnatural” art of sitcom acting, the disappearance of grindhouse theaters and the influence of “Richard Pryor: Live in Concert.” Also, Larry Cohen deconstructs Superman, Gilbert imagines “Titanic, Part II,” the Karate Kid opens a car dealership and Patton stages “The Day the Clown Cried.” PLUS: Praising “Ratatouille”! Remembering John Cazale! The artistry of Rick Baker! And “Francis Ford Coppola’s Dr. Strange”!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 27 January 2025

GGACP celebrates the birthday (January 23rd) of Emmy-winning comedy writer Arnie Kogen ("The Carol Burnett Show," "Newhart," "The Mary Tyler Moore Show”) by revisiting this 2018 father-son interview with Emmy-winning writer Jay Kogen (“Frasier,” “The Simpsons”). In this episode, the boys talk about failed pilots, cheesy variety shows, the outrageousness of Pat McCormick and the "unwritten rules" of writing for television. Also, Soupy Sales takes flight, Jackie Mason takes offense, Garry Shandling gripes about the sunset and the Kogens party with the Jackson 5. PLUS: "Monkey World"! The genius of James L. Brooks! “The World's Oldest Fireman"! Jay reinterprets "The Aristocrats"! And Gilbert and Arnie remember "Thicke of the Night”! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 23 January 2025

GGACP celebrates January's National Book Blitz Month and the recent release of the book "Zeppo: the Reluctant Marx Brother" by presenting this ENCORE of a 2017 interview with author,  archivist and Marx Brothers fanatic Robert S. Bader. Also in this episode: Gummo goes to war, Harpo “courts” Amelia Earhart, Groucho cashes in on “Skidoo” and Gilbert pals around with Chico’s daughter. PLUS: Swain’s Rats & Cats! The real-life Sunshine Boys! Bugsy Siegel buys the farm! Dennis Hopper plays Napoleon! And the mystery of the disappearing Marx Brother!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 20 January 2025

GGACP celebrates January's National Brain Teaser Month by revisiting this 2019 interview with comedian, TV personality and former host of HQ Trivia, Scott Rogowsky. In this episode: “The Sanford Arms”! “Chico and the Man: The Motion Picture"! Gilbert plays a bar mitzvah! The generosity of Richard Kind! And Scott quizzes the boys on super-tough movie trivia! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 16 January 2025

GGACP marks National Book Blitz Month and celebrates the recent release of Bruce Vilanch’s memoir, “It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time” by presenting this ENCORE of a 2018 interview with the legendary writer-performer. In this episode, Bruce looks back at the “golden age” of TV variety shows and specials, including “Donny & Marie,” “The Brady Bunch Hour,” “The Star Wars Holiday Special” and “The Paul Lynde Halloween Special.” (all written or co-written by Bruce himself). Also, Margaret Hamilton makes her move, Robert Reed channels Carmen Miranda and Gilbert takes over the new “Hollywood Squares.” PLUS: Jack Palance! Bob Hope’s filing cabinet! “Wayne Newton at SeaWorld”! And Bruce hangs with Tallulah Bankhead!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 13 January 2025

GGACP celebrates the 35th anniversary of one of Frank's favorite New York movies, the Bill Murray-directed bank heist flick "Quick Change," (released in January, 1990) by revisiting this conversation about the under-appreciated comedy. Also in this episode: Bob & Ray! The cinema of Rodney Dangerfield! Gilbert co-stars with Randy Quaid — and a Rottweiler! And the boys look back at the 1932 horror classic, "Freaks"! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 9 January 2025

GGACP celebrates 2025's Year of the Snake by revisiting a memorable Milton Berle anecdote, as told by Emmy-winning comedy writer and Thurber Prize-winning author 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 longtime friends and collaborators Gilda Radner and Garry Shandling. Also, Desi Arnaz invents the sitcom, Jay Leno offers sage advice, Buck Henry makes a bad investment and Gilbert makes like Willy Loman. PLUS: Praising Kate McKinnon! Remembering Bruno Kirby (and Herb Sargent)! Mel Brooks comes to dinner! And Alan writes the Paul “Bridge Over Troubled Water” Simon Special! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 2 January 2025

GGACP celebrates "Boxing" Day by revisiting this 2020 conversation about legendary heavyweight Muhammad Ali with TV icon Dick Cavett and author Robert Bader (writer-director of the HBO documentary "Ali & Cavett: The Tale of the Tapes.") In this episode, Dick reflects on his friendship with "The Greatest" while the boys look back at Groucho's memorable appearances on “The Dick Cavett Show” and look ahead to the upcoming PBS doc, “Groucho & Cavett.” Also, Johnny Carson disses Jerry Lewis, Zeppo misses Chico’s wedding, Cary Grant romances Amelia Earhart and Danny Kaye zings the Duchess of Windsor. PLUS: Orson Welles meets the Fuhrer! The lost novel of Truman Capote! The triumphant return of Richard Loo! And James Mason stars in “The Honeymooners”!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 26 December 2024

GGACP celebrates Christmas 2024 with this ENCORE of a holiday installment (from 2019) featuring the podcast's own winter warlock, Mario Cantone. In this episode, Mario and the boys discuss misleading movie titles, politically correct Christmas carols, the genius of Paul Frees (and Frank Loesser) and the 80th anniversary of “The Wizard of Oz.” Also: Jack Cassidy teams with Jim Backus, Judy Garland locks horns with Busby Berkeley, Ricardo Montalban serenades Esther Williams and Gilbert gets accosted by Snow White. PLUS: Jan-Michael Vincent! Lucille Ball sings! “Christmas on the Ponderosa”! Tony Curtis tells off Danny Kaye! And “Frosty the Snowman” turns 50! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 23 December 2024

The celebration of the season continues as GGACP revisits this 2020 holiday presentation with friend and fan favorite Mario Cantone. In this episode, Mario and the boys discuss awkward child actors, depressing Christmas carols, holiday-themed horror films, the musical talents of Leslie Bricusse and Jerry Herman and the 50th anniversary of Rankin/Bass’ “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town.” Also, Mickey Mouse meets Scrooge, Katharine Hepburn tugs on St. Nick’s beard, Cyrano de Bergerac warbles a seasonal ditty and Mario (finally) discovers the legend of Cesar Romero. PLUS: Tattoo sings! Ed Norton swings! “Christmas at SeaWorld”! Saluting Paul Coker! And Bob Hope and Marie Osmond holiday in Saudi Arabia!  (Produced & edited by John Murray. Special thanks to Jerry Dixon. In loving memory of Mike McPadden) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 19 December 2024

GGACP gets into the holiday spirit with this ENCORE of a special episode from 2020, as Gilbert and Frank are joined by writer-producer Craig Schulz (“The Peanuts Movie”) and author-archivist Chip Kidd (“Peanuts: The Art of Charles M. Schulz”) for an in-depth look at the origin and legacy of “A Charlie Brown Christmas” and the genius of the man behind it. Also, Snoopy crushes on Peggy Fleming, Linus makes prime time history, Barney Google inspires a lifelong nickname and Craig introduces his father’s work to a new generation. PLUS: Joe Shlabotnik! “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown”! The artistry of Bill Melendez and Lee Mendelson! And the experts reveal their favorite “Peanuts” strips of all time! (Special thanks to Charles Kochman, Melissa Menta, Lindsey Schulz and John Murray!) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 16 December 2024

GGACP celebrates the 99th (!) birthday of living legend Dick Van Dyke (b. Dec 13) by revisiting this unforgettable conversation, originally recorded in 2016. In this episode, Dick looks back on his illustrious 70-year career, recalls his friendships with Stan Laurel and Buster Keaton and shares his memories (both good and bad) of making the classic family films “Mary Poppins” and “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.” Also, Dick idolizes Ray Bolger, co-stars with Mickey Rooney, gets a surprise visit from Cary Grant and earns a compliment from Fred Astaire. PLUS: Ed Wynn! “My Mother the Car”! The genius of Carl Reiner! Gilbert and Dick duet! And Dick reveals his secrets to longevity! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 12 December 2024

GGACP celebrates the birthday of actor, comedian and beloved guest Mario Cantone (b. Dec 9) while also ushering in the Christmas season with this ENCORE of a classic holiday episode from 2018. In this episode, Mario and the boys weighs in on a stocking full of essential topics, including the fearlessness of Mae West, the tortured genius of Judy Garland, the most unappreciated Rankin-Bass special and the recent “Rudolph” and “Baby, it’s Cold Outside” controversies. Also, Leslie Nielsen tackles Mr. Magoo, Shelley Winters scales a Christmas tree, Marlon Brando hops a ride with Michael Jackson and Frosty pals around with John McGiver. PLUS: The Walt Disney of Christmas! Munchkins gone wild! Deconstructing “Moonstruck”! Gilbert remembers his favorite holiday toy! And Mario picks the worst Christmas song of all time! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 9 December 2024

GGACP looks back on its 6th anniversary -- and the release of Episode #300 -- by revisiting PART TWO of a live evening of story and song from New York City’s Cutting Room, featuring Mario Cantone, Marilu Henner, Richard Kind, Paul Shaffer and surprise guest performer David Yazbek (as well as special guests Susie Essman, Barbara Feldon, Tom Leopold, Jackie Martling, Jeff Ross and Alan Zweibel). Also in this episode: Gilbert and Jeff star in “CSI,” David and Paul pay tribute to Ed McMahon, Tony Curtis puts the moves on Bette Davis and Richard and Mario (finally!) debate the merits of “Mr. Magoo’s Christmas Carol.” PLUS: Mason Reese! “Wait Until Dark”! The Island of Misfit Toys! The musical stylings of the Gilbert Gottfried Orchestra! And a Broadway icon drops by to join the fun! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 5 December 2024

GGACP turns back the clock to 2020 with this ENCORE presentation of the podcast's 6th anniversary celebration, recorded LIVE at NYC's Cutting Room and featuring special guests Mario Cantone, Marilu Henner, Richard Kind and Paul Shaffer. Also in this episode: Forrest Tucker sinks a putt, Irwin Corey eulogizes Soupy Sales, Burt Reynolds throws Johnny Carson off his game and Gilbert “makes love” to Dolores del Rio. PLUS: “Lonesome” George Gobel! Remembering Tony Randall! Richard praises David Letterman! Marilu fills in for Bob Hope! And a screen legend pays the boys a surprise tribute! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 2 December 2024

GGACP celebrates the birthday of Emmy-winning actor Ed Asner (b. November 15, 1929) with this ENCORE presentation of an in-depth interview from 2015. In this episode, Ed talks about his early days in the business, his seven memorable seasons as the irascible Lou Grant on “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” and his roles in hugely popular films like “Elf” and Pixar’s “Up.” Also, Ed meets Elvis, co-stars with Edward G. Robinson, beats up Jack Lemmon and lusts after Cloris Leachman. PLUS: Sam Jaffe! Michael Cole! “The Duke” names names! The comic genius of Ted Knight! And Ed dishes dirt on Santa Claus! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 25 November 2024

GGACP celebrates the birthday (b. November 22) of our friend, fan and frequent guest, the irrepressible RIchard Kind, by revisiting this enjoyable mini-show from 2017. In this episode: Whit Bissell! The beauty of Yvette Mimieux! The genius of Nicholas Meyer! Richard praises “It’s a Wonderful Life”! And “the Professor” meets John Wilkes Booth! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 21 November 2024

GGACP celebrates the birthday of comedian, writer and actress Judy Gold (b. November 15) with this ENCORE presentation of an episode originally posted back in 2016. In this episode, Judy reveals her childhood obsession with Barbra Streisand and Rhoda Morgenstern, laments the demise of classic sitcom theme songs and reconsiders her appearance in “The Aristocrats.” Also, Judy idolizes Joan Rivers, eulogizes Sherwood Schwartz, spurns Buddy Hackett and plays Herman Munster’s sister. (!) PLUS: Mason Williams! Totie Fields! Judy visits the Brady Bunch house! Gilbert apologizes to Gavin McLeod! And Leni Riefenstahl directs “The Lawrence Welk Show”! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 11 November 2024

GGACP continues its weeklong celebration of Gino Salomone's birthday by revisiting this memorable -- and hilarious -- interview from 2019. In this episode: Henry Winkler proceeds with caution, Major Burns bombs at a breakfast, Gino looks back on his friendships with Morey Amsterdam, Bob Denver and Alan Hale Jr. and the boys try to get to the bottom of the Jill St. John story. PLUS: Chico Marx in “Psycho”! Senor Wences delivers a eulogy! Gilbert is mistaken for Pat Morita! And Gino shares a hot tub with  Mr. T! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 7 November 2024

GGACP celebrates the birthday (November 3rd) of friend, entertainment reporter -- and GGACP talent producer! -- Gino Salomone by presenting this ENCORE of his uproarious first appearance from 2018. In this episode, Gino looks back on his days as a booker of autograph shows, shares classic stories about Sid Melton, Paul Lynde, Dyan Cannon and "Grandpa" Al Lewis and reveals how a years-long friendship was born over the subject of Uncle Miltie's schwantz. PLUS: Eddie Munster gets mugged! The Munchkins go to Pittsburgh! Florence Henderson plays Gino's mom! And Sandra Bullock declares her lust for Gilbert! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 4 November 2024

GGACP celebrates one of Gilbert's favorite seasons by revisiting this Halloween episode from 2020, featuring film directors (and monster kids) Joe Dante and Mick Garris. In this episode, Joe and Mick join the boys for a frighteningly good conversation about giant insects, evil hunchbacks, cheesy haunted house flicks, the glory days of horror anthologies and the 60th anniversary of “Psycho.” Also, Basil Rathbone goes slumming, Bogie plays a mad scientist, Anthony Perkins puts Mick to the test and Joe sings the praises of Dick Miller and John Carradine. PLUS: “She-Wolf of London”! “The Man with Kaleidoscope Eyes”! The genius of William Castle! The “Colossal” cinema of Bert I. Gordon! And Joe and Mick salute the late, great Larry Cohen! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 31 October 2024

GGACP celebrates the 50th anniversary of "The Dean Martin Celebrity Roasts" (first aired October 31, 1974) with this ENCORE of a fun and informative 2016 mini-show as the boys look back at the best -- and WORST -- of the "classic" NBC specials that ran from 1974 to 1984. In this episode: Ruth Buzzi! The comedy of Foster Brooks! Orson Welles recites "That's Amore"! Ed Norton roasts...Jackie Gleason!? Gilbert meets Uncle Miltie! And the comedy stylings of Stanley Kramer! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 28 October 2024

GGACP celebrates the birthday of veteran character actor Hank Garrett (b. October 26th) by revisiting this 2016 interview with the man who played Officer Ed Nicholson on Gilbert's beloved “Car 54, Where Are You?". In this episode, Hank reminisces about working with Robert Redford, Sophia Loren, Al Pacino and Kirk Douglas (to name a few) and tells the boys about his unlikely journey from street tough to award-winning actor. Also, Hank remembers Al Lewis, emulates Sid Caesar, wrestles with Luca Brasi and shares a bill with Tony Bennett. PLUS: Gorgeous George! The Great Ballantine! The legend of Joe E. Ross! Gilbert meets Nipsey Russell! The genius of Nat Hiken! And Hank reveals how Sammy Davis Jr. changed his life! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 24 October 2024

GGACP celebrates the birthday of veteran character actor Hank Garrett (b. October 26th) by revisiting this 2016 interview with the man who played Officer Ed Nicholson on Gilbert's beloved “Car 54, Where Are You?". In this episode, Hank reminisces about working with Robert Redford, Sophia Loren, Al Pacino and Kirk Douglas (to name a few) and tells the boys about his unlikely journey from street tough to award-winning actor. Also, Hank remembers Al Lewis, emulates Sid Caesar, wrestles with Luca Brasi and shares a bill with Tony Bennett. PLUS: Gorgeous George! The Great Ballantine! The legend of Joe E. Ross! Gilbert meets Nipsey Russell! The genius of Nat Hiken! And Hank reveals how Sammy Davis Jr. changed his life! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 24 October 2024

To celebrate National Book Month and the recent publication of his new book, "Disco: Music, Movies and Mania Under the Mirror Ball," GGACP presents this ENCORE of a 2019 interview with comedian and author Frank DeCaro. In this episode, Frank takes Gil and Frank through the history of drag performers and performances and discusses his book, "Drag: Combing Through the Big Wigs of Show Business." Also in this episode: Tommy Velour! "Jethrine" Bodine! The artistry of Charles Pierce! The other side of Flip Wilson! Uncle Miltie's "meaty tuck"! And Herman Munster becomes a cocktail waitress! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 21 October 2024

GGACP celebrates October's National Book Month by revisiting this 2022 interview with award-winning journalist Mark Seal, author of the sensational book about the making of "The Godfather": “Leave the Gun, Take the Cannoli.” In this episode, Mark joins Gilbert and Frank to talk about the 50th anniversary of Francis Ford Coppola and Mario Puzo’s 1972 mob masterpiece, “The Godfather.” Also in this episode: Burt Lancaster closes in, Vic Damone bows out, Marlon Brando pulls off a shocking transformation and the mafia takes offense at the word “mafia.” PLUS: The music of Nino Rota! The genius of Dick Smith! Gilbert roasts Abe Vigoda! Mark climbs into bed with Robert Evans! James Caan’s performance is inspired by…Don Rickles!? And Richard Castellano ad-libs one of the great lines in movie history! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 17 October 2024