DeepSummary
Michelle Buteau discusses her journey from working as a TV news editor during 9/11 to becoming a stand-up comedian. She talks about how the tragic events of 9/11 made her realize life is short and prompted her to pursue comedy, something her coworkers had encouraged her to do. She shares stories from her early days of stand-up, performing in small towns and facing challenges as a woman in a male-dominated field.
Buteau opens up about her struggles with fertility and using a surrogate to have twins. She credits comedy as her lifeline during difficult times and discusses the importance of surrounding herself with supportive people who lift her up. She also touches on her marriage to her Dutch husband and the cultural differences between them.
The interview covers Buteau's new Netflix series 'Survival of the Thickest' and her role in the film 'Babes' alongside Ilana Glazer. She reflects on her journey to embracing her body and finding confidence, as well as the importance of representation and creating spaces for diverse voices in entertainment.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- Michelle Buteau's decision to pursue stand-up comedy was prompted by the events of 9/11, which made her realize the importance of following her passion.
- Buteau faced challenges as a woman in the male-dominated world of comedy, but her determination and authenticity helped her succeed.
- Comedy served as Buteau's lifeline and source of normalcy during difficult times, such as her struggles with fertility and miscarriages.
- Buteau's journey to body positivity and self-confidence is empowering, and she aims to create diverse representation in entertainment.
- Cultural differences and communication styles can be a source of humor and strength in Buteau's marriage to her Dutch husband.
- Buteau's new projects, like 'Survival of the Thickest' and 'Babes,' showcase her comedic talents and commitment to telling honest, relatable stories.
- Perseverance, resilience, and surrounding oneself with supportive people are key to overcoming challenges and achieving success, according to Buteau's experiences.
- Buteau's unconventional path and authenticity make her a unique and inspiring figure in the world of comedy.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “My dad has always said, don't work for a thank you, leave with it. You're welcome.“ by Michelle Buteau
- “I wanted to be an entertainment reporter. I wanted to give a little Johntesh Mary Hart to the scene with, like, a little shoulder pad and a.“ by Michelle Buteau
- “Comedy, like, kept me alive. You know, I had something to live for. I had something to do. I had, like, a sense of normalcy.“ by Michelle Buteau
- “It's always saved me. You know, I think it was four miscarriages in five years, traveling back and forth to California from New York for auditions and things and chemistry tests and traveling with needles and medicine and forgetting the thing.“ by Michelle Buteau
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Episode Information
Fresh Air
NPR
6/26/24
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