DeepSummary
The episode began with Sean Hayes describing his method for making a tuna fish sandwich, which led to some playful banter among the hosts. They then welcomed their surprise guest, acclaimed actor Mark Ruffalo, and discussed his early beginnings as a struggling actor, working odd jobs and studying at the Stella Adler Conservatory for 7 years before landing his breakout role in the play 'This Is Our Youth'.
Mark shared the story of how he got cast in the film 'You Can Count on Me' after persistently asking writer/director Kenneth Lonergan for an audition. He also recounted the harrowing experience of discovering he had a brain tumor at age 33 after having a vivid dream about it, and the subsequent surgery and recovery process.
The conversation delved into Mark's career in theater and films like 'The Normal Heart' and the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the Hulk. They also discussed his passion for environmental activism, including testifying before Congress about issues like PFAS chemicals and fracking. The hosts praised Mark's authenticity and ability to convey powerful performances without seeming like he's 'acting'.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- Mark Ruffalo had a long, difficult journey as a struggling actor before his breakout success, working odd jobs and studying for 7 years.
- He overcame a harrowing health crisis of a brain tumor at age 33 that required surgery and recovery.
- Ruffalo delivers powerful yet grounded performances by embodying authenticity rather than overtly 'acting'.
- He is a passionate environmental activist who has testified before Congress on issues like fracking and PFAS chemicals.
- Ruffalo believes in the power of storytelling through film and TV to subtly shift people's perspectives on important issues.
- He remains humble and self-aware despite his tremendous success and acclaim as an actor.
- Ruffalo values using his platform to advocate for positive change on the environmental issues he cares about.
- The hosts praise his authentic, easygoing personality that makes people want to work with him.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “And you do. I mean, we banned fracking here in New York state. PFAS is finally, we know, but there's such power in storytelling and you can really change things with storytelling, especially if you're not like nailing it, hitting it on the head. You're sort of just telling that story, that human story that we all relate to.“ by Mark Ruffalo
- “Like, yeah, man, I'm there. And the young guy comes in at the food room service, and he's kind of looking at me, and I got to give him his tip. And he's like, wow, that's a huge tip. He's like, hey, man, you made it.“ by Mark Ruffalo
- “So it's like looking out the window, holding on, as if my worry or looking out or any of it's going to have any effect on the outcome.“ by Mark Ruffalo
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Episode Information
SmartLess
Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, Will Arnett
1/22/24
Humble beginnings, motorcycle-hair, and a bean and cheese burrito cut in thirds. Welcome to Mark Ruffalo’s office… on an all-new SmartLess.
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