Published by Steve Kmetko, Still Here Network
20 years after walking off of the Red Carpets of the world, Steve Kmetko is back behind the microphone and talking to the biggest stars of Film and TV, along with some stars that we haven't seen in a minute. Steve is STILL HERE HOLLYWOOD, and this time he's sticking around.
Listen on Apple Podcasts54 min
Before Animal House became one of the greatest comedies ever made, Tim Matheson was already building one of the longest and most fascinating careers in Hollywood. In this episode of Still Here Hollywood with Steve Kmetko, Tim shares unforgettable stories about John Belushi, Lucille Ball, Steven Spielberg, Henry Fonda, Ryan Reynolds, Mel Brooks, Anne Bancroft, Meghan Markle, Aaron Sorkin, Clint Eastwood and many more. He reveals what Belushi was really like before fame changed everything, how Spielberg personally tracked him down in Las Vegas, the acting lessons he learned from Henry Fonda, directing Meghan Markle on Suits, working opposite Mel Brooks, starring in Animal House, The West Wing, Fletch, Van Wilder and Johnny Quest, and why he finally decided to write his memoir. If you love classic Hollywood, behind-the-scenes stories and the golden age of film and television, this episode is packed with incredible moments. Subscribe for new celebrity interviews every Monday. 00:00 Intro, Tim Matheson arrives 00:46 Knee replacement and getting older 01:46 Leave It to Beaver and becoming a child actor 04:02 Working with Steven Spielberg 07:18 The Hollywood legend who influenced him most, Lucille Ball 11:03 Henry Fonda's unforgettable acting lesson 13:48 John Belushi and making Animal House 16:50 Belushi's death and Hollywood's cocaine culture 20:30 Directing Meghan Markle on Suits 21:47 Why Tim finally wrote his memoir 24:11 Ivan Reitman, Animal House and comedy history 27:18 Growing up in broken home and finding Hollywood 36:33 Becoming Johnny Quest 41:22 The West Wing and Aaron Sorkin 44:29 Buying National Lampoon 46:52 Clint Eastwood's advice about aging 47:52 Ryan Reynolds before superstardom 50:32 Mel Brooks and Anne Bancroft stories 54:25 Final thoughts Show Credits Host/Producer: Steve Kmetko All things technical: Justin Zangerle Executive Producer: Jim Lichtenstein Music by: Brian Sanyshyn https://stillherehollywood.com http://patreon.com/stillherehollywood Suggest Guests at: stillherehollywood@gmail.com Advertise on Still Here Hollywood: jim@stillherenetwork.com Publicist: Maggie Perlich: maggie@numbertwelvemarketing.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
57 min
https://www.wingsofrescue.org/ David Chokachi returns to Still Here Hollywood with Steve Kmetko for an inspiring conversation about purpose, perseverance and second chances. The Baywatch star discusses returning to the franchise that made him famous, rescuing hundreds of dogs after the Los Angeles fires, working with Wings of Rescue, and why helping animals has become more rewarding than Hollywood itself. He also shares behind-the-scenes stories from the new Baywatch series, explains how social media has changed casting, and reflects on aging, fitness and finding meaning beyond fame. 00:00 Preview 00:48 Why David Stayed During the LA Fires 03:34 Saving Hundreds of Rescue Dogs 08:32 Life Before Hollywood 10:03 Flying Rescue Missions Across America 15:21 The Heartbreaking Truth About Animal Shelters 18:03 Why Spaying and Neutering Matters 20:05 Celebrity Volunteers Saving Animals 25:13 Patreon 25:56 The Baywatch Reboot 29:55 Fighting His Way Back Onto Baywatch 33:24 When Baywatch Premieres 36:48 Returning Cast Members 39:45 Staying in Incredible Shape 42:21 What Happened to Cody Madison 46:58 Meeting His Wife 49:18 Social Media and Hollywood 52:10 Life Today 53:08 Pamela Anderson 53:31 What Aging Has Taught Him 57:30 Until Next Time Show Credits Host/Producer: Steve Kmetko All things technical: Justin Zangerle Executive Producer: Jim Lichtenstein Music by: Brian Sanyshyn https://stillherehollywood.com http://patreon.com/stillherehollywood Suggest Guests at: stillherehollywood@gmail.com Advertise on Still Here Hollywood: jim@stillherenetwork.com Publicist: Maggie Perlich: maggie@numbertwelvemarketing.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
47 min
John O'Hurley became television history as the unforgettable J. Peterman on Seinfeld, but his remarkable career goes far beyond one iconic role. He joins Steve Kmetko to reveal how he nearly turned down Seinfeld, explains the secret that made the show's comedy so brilliant, shares stories about Jerry Seinfeld and Julia Louis-Dreyfus, recalls the terrifying night he sang Sinatra to Frank Sinatra, and talks about Broadway, Family Feud, the National Dog Show, voice acting, and even becoming part owner of the real J. Peterman Company. CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro 00:38 How John Almost Turned Down Seinfeld 04:24 The Voice That Built His Career 07:50 Animated Characters & Voice Acting 10:59 Working With Jerry Seinfeld 13:43 Julia Louis-Dreyfus Behind the Scenes 16:39 The National Dog Show 19:18 His Rescue Dogs 24:45 Becoming the Real J. Peterman 28:13 Broadway & One Man Show 30:08 Singing Sinatra...To Sinatra 35:38 Did Seinfeld Typecast Him? 38:02 Creating Jay Peterman 41:09 Family Feud Stories 43:38 Gray Hair & Chazz Palminteri 46:50 Closing Show Credits Host/Producer: Steve Kmetko All things technical: Justin Zangerle Executive Producer: Jim Lichtenstein Music by: Brian Sanyshyn https://stillherehollywood.com http://patreon.com/stillherehollywood Suggest Guests at: stillherehollywood@gmail.com Advertise on Still Here Hollywood: jim@stillherenetwork.com Publicist: Maggie Perlich: maggie@numbertwelvemarketing.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
47 min
Baywatch icon Erika Eleniak joins Steve Kmetko on Still Here, Hollywood for a raw, honest conversation about fame, body image, and reinvention. Before she became one of the most recognizable faces of 90s television as lifeguard Shauni McClain on Baywatch, Erika stole hearts as the babysitter in Steven Spielberg's E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. In this episode, she opens up about being personally cast by Spielberg at age 12, the real story behind that iconic E.T. kiss scene, and what it was actually like filming Baywatch's famous slow-motion beach runs in freezing January water. Erika also gets candid about her Playboy pictorial and the career obstacles it created, her decision to walk away from Baywatch after just two seasons, working alongside Tommy Lee Jones and Gary Busey on Under Siege, her ongoing struggle with body image, and how becoming a single mother reshaped everything she thought she knew about resilience, fame, and what she wants next. Whether you grew up watching Baywatch reruns or you're discovering Erika Eleniak's career for the first time, this episode is a candid, unfiltered look behind the red swimsuit and the Hollywood machine. 🔔 Subscribe to Still Here, Hollywood for more candid conversations with the stars who shaped pop culture. ❤️ Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/stillherehollywood #ErikaEleniak #Baywatch #StillHereHollywood Chapters 00:00 – Intro 00:47 – Saturday Plans With Her Daughter 01:13 – The Meaning Behind Her Tattoos 02:05 – Getting Cast in E.T. by Steven Spielberg 03:25 – Crying Over the Kiss Scene 04:22 – The Improvised E.T. Kiss 04:56 – Not Knowing What E.T. Was About 06:00 – Growing Up in the San Fernando Valley 06:41 – Landing Baywatch 07:49 – The Camaraderie on the Baywatch Set 08:13 – Freezing Cold Beach Shoots 09:41 – The Truth About the Slow-Mo Run 10:36 – Handling Sudden Fame 13:07 – Feeling Boxed In After Baywatch 13:56 – Filming Under Siege 15:38 – Why She Left Baywatch After Two Seasons 16:44 – Passing the Torch to Pamela Anderson 17:41 – Why Baywatch Became a Global Phenomenon 19:06 – Her Proudest Roles: Beverly Hillbillies & The Opponent 20:02 – The Toughest Stretch of Her Career 22:29 – How She Ended Up in Playboy 24:25 – Playboy's Professional Fallout 25:40 – Being Labeled a Sex Symbol 28:38 – Body Image and Eating Disorders 31:04 – Teaching Acting in Rehab 33:33 – What Life Looks Like Now 36:27 – The Spark That Started Her Acting Career 37:41 – Her Superpower: Resilience 39:30 – The One Thing She'd Change 41:47 – A Pep Talk for Hollywood 42:45 – The Day She'd Relive 43:24 – Her Wildest Fan Encounter 44:13 – Advice for Young Actresses 46:59 – Did She Keep the Red Swimsuit? 47:19 – Outro Show Credits Host/Producer: Steve Kmetko All things technical: Justin Zangerle Executive Producer: Jim Lichtenstein Music by: Brian Sanyshyn https://stillherehollywood.com http://patreon.com/stillherehollywood Suggest Guests at: stillherehollywood@gmail.com Advertise on Still Here Hollywood: jim@stillherenetwork.com Publicist: Maggie Perlich: maggie@numbertwelvemarketing.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
1 hr 4 min
From Forrest Gump to The Last Rodeo, actor, director, and musician Michael Tyrone "T" Williamson sits down with Steve Kmetko on Still Here Hollywood for a raw, soulful conversation about the role that changed his life. In this episode, T shares the real story behind landing the role of Bubba Blue opposite Tom Hanks, how he improvised some of the film's most iconic lines, the surprising reason he's never eaten at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., and what it's really like working alongside Denzel Washington, Angela Bassett, Al Pacino, and Gary Sinise. He also opens up about his new Angel Studios film The Last Rodeo, his upcoming role in Dark Matter, his philosophy on faith, family, and staying true to yourself in Hollywood, and heartfelt stories about his daughters, his mother, and the journey from South Los Angeles to the big screen. 👍 Like, subscribe, and comment your favorite moment below! 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts and everywhere you get your podcasts. 💛 Support the show: patreon.com/StillHereHollywood #MichaelTWilliamson #ForrestGump #BubbaGump #TomHanks #StillHereHollywood #HollywoodInterview #TheLastRodeo #DenzelWashington YouTube Chapters 00:00 Intro: Bubba From Forrest Gump Joins the Show 01:08 Why You Can Call Him "T" 01:42 The Real Reason He's Never Eaten at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. 04:05 Girlfriend the 1953 Chevy & Staying Grounded in Hollywood 06:00 The Forrest Gump Audition Story: No Callback to Landing the Role 10:18 Tom Hanks Kicking Him Under the Table 10:55 Meeting Tom & Rita Wilson at the Deauville Film Festival 13:25 What He Brought to Bubba That Wasn't on the Page 14:48 The Gary Sinise Line That Was Total Improv 15:33 Sally Field, Rehearsals & the Two Journeys of Every Character 16:44 Announcing New Film "The Last Rodeo" With Neil McDonough 18:27 Why Hollywood Should "Chase Hearts, Not Numbers" 19:30 Is He Happy? Life Philosophy & Southern Family Values 20:07 Getting Typecast After Forrest Gump 22:33 Actors He Admires & His Character Workshop for Students 27:08 How He Got Into Directing: Mentors Mike Jones & Miguel Velejas 30:08 Favorite Costars: Denzel Washington, Angela Bassett, Al Pacino 31:45 Denzel Washington's Kindness & Interviewing Him Over the Years 32:03 The John David & Olivia Washington Story 34:41 Malcolm Washington's Directorial Debut, "The Piano Lesson" 35:34 Oscar Voting Rule Changes & Academy Membership Shift 36:35 The Last Rodeo Plot Explained: Bull Riders, Family & Redemption 39:59 What He Does for Fun & His Three Daughters 41:14 Why He Calls His Daughter "Coconut" 42:00 An Underrated Role: Truth or Consequences, New Mexico 43:21 Most Creatively Fulfilling Part of the Job 44:16 Backstage Truth About Tom Hanks and Gary Sinise 45:47 Upcoming Role in "Dark Matter" on Streaming 47:46 The Meaning Behind His Beaded Necklace 48:56 Training for Forrest Gump: Military Boot Camp With Dale Dye 50:25 The Funny Stunt Double Story That Kept Him in Shape 51:36 His Daily Workout & Recovery Routine 53:36 The Real Story Behind the Iconic Shrimp Monologue 59:07 How He Reworked the Script to Add Humanity 1:00:14 Marlon Brando Comparison & Working With Michael Mann/Jerry Bruckheimer on Heat and Con Air 1:01:34 Growing Up in South Los Angeles as an Air Force Kid 1:02:16 Why His Family Fled the South & Changed Their Name 1:03:49 Closing Thoughts & Where to Find More Show Credits Host/Producer: Steve Kmetko All things technical: Justin Zangerle Executive Producer: Jim Lichtenstein Music by: Brian Sanyshyn https://stillherehollywood.com http://patreon.com/stillherehollywood Suggest Guests at: stillherehollywood@gmail.com Advertise on Still Here Hollywood: jim@stillherenetwork.com Publicist: Maggie Perlich: maggie@numbertwelvemarketing.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
34 min
Heather Thomas became one of television's biggest stars as Jody Banks on The Fall Guy alongside Lee Majors. During the height of her fame, her posters covered bedroom walls around the world and she became one of the defining television icons of the 1980s. But behind the scenes, fame came with a darker side. In this candid conversation with Steve Kmetko, Heather opens up about the terrifying stalking incidents that ultimately pushed her away from Hollywood, her battle with substance abuse, working with Lee Majors, life as an 80s sex symbol, raising a family, activism, writing, and finding happiness beyond fame. From The Fall Guy to the recent movie reboot, Heather shares stories and perspectives you've probably never heard before. #HeatherThomas #TheFallGuy #LeeMajors #StillHereHollywood #SteveKmetko #ClassicTV #EightiesTV #HollywoodStories #TVLegends #JodyBanks Chapter Markers 00:00 Intro 00:36 How Heather Thomas Got Started In Television 01:48 Landing The Fall Guy 03:37 UCLA And Breaking Into Hollywood 05:24 Why Heather Walked Away From Fame 06:18 The Terrifying Reality Of Stalkers 08:16 Raising Chickens And Family Life 10:06 Being Typecast As A Sex Symbol 11:48 Activism And Charity Work 12:29 Keeping In Touch With Lee Majors 12:50 Writing Novels And Screenplays 16:09 Doing Her Own Stunts 16:26 Substance Abuse And Rehab 17:32 Becoming An 80s Sex Symbol 19:03 Being Sexualized In Hollywood 20:00 How Hollywood Has Changed For Women 23:47 Why She Became An Activist 25:31 Working With Ted Lange 26:19 Advice For Today's Stars 27:20 The Fall Guy Movie Cameo 27:58 Her Romantic Paris Wedding 30:25 Did Her Looks Hurt Her Career? 31:20 Family, Grandchildren And Life Today 33:21 Finding Happiness Show Credits Host/Producer: Steve Kmetko All things technical: Justin Zangerle Executive Producer: Jim Lichtenstein Music by: Brian Sanyshyn https://stillherehollywood.com http://patreon.com/stillherehollywood Suggest Guests at: stillherehollywood@gmail.com Advertise on Still Here Hollywood: jim@stillherenetwork.com Publicist: Maggie Perlich: maggie@numbertwelvemarketing.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
1 hr 11 min
Before becoming Cliff Clavin on Cheers, John Ratzenberger spent years traveling the world, building houses, performing improvised comedy across Europe, and chasing adventure wherever it led. In this encore episode, John shares the remarkable story behind his famous Cheers audition, his friendships with Hollywood legends, his long-running relationship with Pixar, and why he believes young people should learn practical skills before pursuing fame. It's a funny, thoughtful conversation filled with stories only John Ratzenberger could tell. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:52 A Lifetime of Travel and Adventure 04:26 Landing the Role of Cliff Clavin 06:28 Leaving Carpentry for England 07:21 Building an Improv Career in Europe 10:02 Learning to Act Without Training 12:53 Star Wars and Early Film Roles 14:27 Why Building Things Matters 16:48 First Impressions of Los Angeles 19:19 Being Recognized in Public 20:24 The Early Struggles of Cheers 22:56 Working with Hollywood Legends 24:12 Remembering Frances Sternhagen 28:07 The Famous Cheers Audition Story 35:39 Memories of Kirstie Alley 37:43 Inventing and Building Products 41:58 The Importance of Trade Skills 45:05 Advice for Young Actors 47:11 His Son's First Fish, A Shark 48:39 Family, Career and Success 50:18 Dancing With The Stars Challenge 53:34 Toy Story 5 and What's Next 57:38 His Hollywood Heroes 01:03:12 Faking a Foreign Language at an Audition 01:04:51 Leaving Cheers for the Last Time 01:06:05 Advice for Surviving Hollywood 01:08:42 A Frightening Fan Encounter 01:11:08 Final Thoughts Show Credits Host/Producer: Steve Kmetko All things technical: Justin Zangerle Executive Producer: Jim Lichtenstein Music by: Brian Sanyshyn https://stillherehollywood.com http://patreon.com/stillherehollywood Suggest Guests at: stillherehollywood@gmail.com Advertise on Still Here Hollywood: jim@stillherenetwork.com Publicist: Maggie Perlich: maggie@numbertwelvemarketing.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
54 min
Kristanna Loken became a global star when she landed the role of the T-X in Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines, but her story began far from Hollywood on an apple farm in upstate New York. In this episode of Still Here Hollywood, Kristanna joins Steve Kmetko to discuss her unforgettable experience working alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger, the intense physical transformation required for Terminator 3, and how the blockbuster changed her life forever. She also opens up about growing up with actor and model parents, her journey from modeling to acting, coming out publicly as bisexual, raising her son away from screens, her concerns about AI in Hollywood, and why authenticity matters more now than ever. Plus, Kristanna shares behind-the-scenes stories from Terminator 3, her friendship with Robert Patrick, advice from Arnold Schwarzenegger, and the surprising reason she still feels her best work is ahead of her.Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:38 Cubs Fan Origins 01:52 Growing Up on an Apple Farm 03:30 Modeling Misconceptions 04:04 First Acting Jobs 05:21 Landing Terminator 3 07:30 Training for the T-X 08:46 Working with Arnold Schwarzenegger 09:09 Arnold's Prediction for Her Career 10:45 How Fame Changed Her Life 12:06 Coming Out as Bisexual 16:49 What Terminator Means Today 18:11 Creating the T-X Character 19:51 AI and Hollywood 22:07 Female Action Stars Then vs. Now 23:40 Hollywood's Authenticity Problem 25:51 Raising Her Son Thor 29:00 A Screen-Free Household 31:04 Sci-Fi Fans and Comic Cons 31:39 Life on Love Apple Farm 34:22 Aging, Authenticity and Growth 36:31 Lessons Learned From Failure 38:04 Advice From Ben Kingsley and Bruce Dern 41:03 Why She Never Walked Away From Acting 42:33 Why Her Best Work Is Still Ahead 46:10 Women She Admires 50:12 The Role She Wanted But Didn't Get 52:01 What Kristanna Does For Fun 54:02 Closing Thoughts Show Credits Host/Producer: Steve Kmetko All things technical: Justin Zangerle Executive Producer: Jim Lichtenstein Music by: Brian Sanyshyn https://stillherehollywood.com http://patreon.com/stillherehollywood Suggest Guests at: stillherehollywood@gmail.com Advertise on Still Here Hollywood: jim@stillherenetwork.com Publicist: Maggie Perlich: maggie@numbertwelvemarketing.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
1 hr 11 min
Kent McCord became a television icon as Officer Jim Reed on Adam-12, one of the most influential police dramas in television history. But long before Adam-12, Kent's life was already taking remarkable turns. In this episode of Still Here Hollywood, Kent shares never-before-heard stories about working with Jack Webb, the realism behind Adam-12, how the series became a training tool for police departments across America, and the surprising impact the show had on law enforcement. Kent also recalls his friendship with Rick Nelson, an unforgettable football game between teams organized by Rick Nelson and Elvis Presley, working on Elvis movies, being publicly recognized by Elvis in Las Vegas, and the heartbreaking days surrounding the deaths of both Elvis and Rick. It's a fascinating conversation about classic television, Hollywood history, friendship, luck, and a career that continues to resonate with audiences decades later. #Adam12, #KentMcCord, #JackWebb, #ElvisPresley, #RickNelson, #ClassicTV, #StillHereHollywood, #SteveKmetko, #HollywoodHistory, #Dragnet, #PoliceDrama, #TVLegends CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro 01:00 Why Everyone Called Him "Bucky" 01:39 Did Kent Know Adam-12 Would Become a Classic? 05:28 The Simple Formula That Made Adam-12 Work 07:04 Jack Webb and the Birth of Adam-12 08:15 Jack Webb's Famous Temper and Directing Style 15:52 Johnny Carson, Jack Webb and Comedy Gold 16:38 The Real Impact Adam-12 Had on Police Officers 18:14 Kent's Real-Life Encounters with Crime 20:13 Making Adam-12 Feel Authentic 23:28 Patreon Break 24:10 Becoming Friends with Rick Nelson 27:50 The Legendary Elvis Presley vs. Rick Nelson Football Game 33:43 What Elvis Presley Was Really Like 35:05 The Night Elvis Introduced Kent McCord in Las Vegas 37:16 Searching for Lost Elvis Footage 38:14 Life with Rick Nelson and Ozzie & Harriet 48:42 Luck, Persistence and Breaking Into Hollywood 50:04 The Day Elvis Presley Died 54:45 The Truth About Rick Nelson's Plane Crash 1:00:18 Did Adam-12 Show the Real Reality of Policing? 1:00:55 The Miranda Warning Story 1:02:20 Why Adam-12 Was Different From Every Other Cop Show 1:05:25 Looking Back on a Lifetime in Hollywood 1:06:30 The Day Ozzie Nelson Saved Kent's Life 1:08:55 Martin Milner and the Friendship Behind Adam-12 1:10:51 Why Adam-12 Still Airs Today 1:11:25 Closing Credits Show Credits Host/Producer: Steve Kmetko All things technical: Justin Zangerle Executive Producer: Jim Lichtenstein Music by: Brian Sanyshyn https://stillherehollywood.com http://patreon.com/stillherehollywood Suggest Guests at: stillherehollywood@gmail.com Advertise on Still Here Hollywood: jim@stillherenetwork.com Publicist: Maggie Perlich: maggie@numbertwelvemarketing.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
55 min
Before streaming, before social media, and before reality TV took over, millions of viewers stayed up late watching USA Up All Night. This week on Still Here Hollywood, Steve Kmetko sits down with television personality, comedian, actress, entrepreneur, and USA Up All Night host Rhonda Shear. Rhonda shares behind-the-scenes stories from one of cable television's most beloved late-night shows, the challenges of being a woman in Hollywood during the 1980s and 1990s, her experiences with Playboy, Joan Rivers, George Burns, and Johnny Carson, and how she reinvented herself after Hollywood to build the wildly successful Rhonda Shear Intimates brand and the famous Ahh Bra. She also discusses the reboot of Up All Night, the changing comedy landscape, her thoughts on political correctness, and finding love with her junior high school sweetheart after decades apart. Subscribe for more conversations with the stars you remember and the stories you've never heard. #StillHereHollywood #RhondaShear #USAUpAllNight CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction 01:36 The Legacy of USA Up All Night 03:58 Landing the Hosting Job 05:26 Was Rhonda Shear a Trailblazer? 08:21 Why Fans Still Love Her 09:55 Building Rhonda Shear Intimates 12:12 The Story Behind the Ahh Bra 13:52 Returning to Stand-Up Comedy 15:10 Wild HSN Stories 18:36 Creating the Up All Night Character 21:09 Comedy Training and Improv 22:04 Being Told She Could Never Make It 24:19 Becoming an Accidental Feminist 26:09 Creating Opportunities for New Talent 27:29 Female Comics Today 29:20 Finding Material in Real Life 33:06 How Rhonda Sees Herself 34:11 Beauty Queen Beginnings 35:53 Working with Johnny Carson 36:11 Political Correctness and Comedy 37:07 Rebooting Up All Night 39:28 Career Regrets and Reinvention 41:38 Dating Glenn Frey 42:43 What Wouldn't Fly Today 48:24 Advice from Joan Rivers and George Burns 50:07 The Most Important Part of Her Story 52:12 Jewelry, Creativity and Never Retiring 54:23 Up All Night Returns Show Credits Host/Producer: Steve Kmetko All things technical: Justin Zangerle Executive Producer: Jim Lichtenstein Music by: Brian Sanyshyn https://stillherehollywood.com http://patreon.com/stillherehollywood Suggest Guests at: stillherehollywood@gmail.com Advertise on Still Here Hollywood: jim@stillherenetwork.com Publicist: Maggie Perlich: maggie@numbertwelvemarketing.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
1 hr 1 min
Monica Potter joins Steve Kmetko for one of the most emotional and revealing conversations yet on STILL HERE HOLLYWOOD. From starring alongside Robin Williams in Patch Adams, to unforgettable roles in Parenthood, Along Came a Spider, Con Air, and The Last House on the Left, Monica opens up about her remarkable career, motherhood, growing up poor in Cleveland, and the deeply personal lessons she learned from some of Hollywood’s most iconic actors. She shares emotional memories of Robin Williams, hilarious stories about Nicolas Cage, heartfelt reflections on Philip Seymour Hoffman, working with Morgan Freeman, and how Hollywood once pressured her to choose career over family. Monica also discusses: Why she hated acting classes Her father’s incredible inventions Raising empathetic children Rebuying her childhood home in Cleveland Why she says she’s “already canceled” The emotional cost of fame Her connection to nature, healing, and intuition This is one of the rawest, funniest, and most unexpectedly touching episodes of STILL HERE HOLLYWOOD. #StillHereHollywood #MonicaPotter #Parenthood #PatchAdams #RobinWilliams #MorganFreeman #NicolasCage #PhilipSeymourHoffman #SteveKmetko #HollywoodStories #CelebrityInterviews #90sMovies #2000sTV #BehindTheScenes #Cleveland #Hollywood Transcript source: 00:00 Monica Potter remembers Robin Williams 02:04 Intro 03:39 Working with Robin Williams on Patch Adams 05:52 Nicolas Cage stories and on-set laughs 07:04 Philip Seymour Hoffman memories 09:21 Morgan Freeman and driving stunts 11:26 “I’m already canceled” 14:31 Growing up with an inventor father 17:33 Raising empathetic children 18:59 Her father’s inventions and the Whiptail lure 23:13 The hardest part of Hollywood 25:00 Why Monica shifted from movies to television 27:33 Reflecting on Robin Williams after his death 28:22 Parenthood and playing a character with cancer 29:33 Why she didn’t want her kids acting 32:50 Returning to her Cleveland childhood home 36:33 Buying back the family house 40:00 Renovating her childhood home 41:34 Advice for aspiring actors 45:00 Hollywood pressure and motherhood 47:58 Monica’s “secret talents” 50:11 Why acting classes felt wrong to her 53:42 Beauty, modeling, and self-image 55:40 Why soap operas weren’t for her 57:48 Her home decor and wellness line 1:00:09 Archaeology, crystals, and camping 1:00:40 Final thoughts and emotional goodbye Show Credits Host/Producer: Steve Kmetko All things technical: Justin Zangerle Executive Producer: Jim Lichtenstein Music by: Brian Sanyshyn https://stillherehollywood.com http://patreon.com/stillherehollywood Suggest Guests at: stillherehollywood@gmail.com Advertise on Still Here Hollywood: jim@stillherenetwork.com Publicist: Maggie Perlich: maggie@numbertwelvemarketing.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
54 min
Actress Marisol Nichols joins Steve Kmetko for one of the most intense and emotional episodes of Still Here Hollywood yet. Known for her roles on 24 and Riverdale, Marisol reveals the shocking double life she led off-camera, working undercover alongside law enforcement in operations targeting human traffickers around the world. She opens up about: Going undercover in dangerous trafficking operations The terrifying mission that made her write a goodbye letter to her daughter Working with ex-CIA and military operatives How acting helped save lives The heartbreaking loss of Luke Perry What it was really like working with Kiefer Sutherland on 24 Growing up in Chicago Hollywood struggles as a Latina actress The dark side of social media and online predators This is one of the most powerful conversations we’ve had on Still Here Hollywood. Subscribe for more legendary guests and untold Hollywood stories. #MarisolNichols #Riverdale #24 #LukePerry #KieferSutherland #StillHereHollywood #SteveKmetko #Hollywood #TrueCrime #HumanTrafficking #CW #FoxTV #TVLegends #Podcast CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro 00:45 Marisol’s Secret Undercover Operations 02:18 Going Undercover For The First Time 04:36 The Most Terrifying Mission Of Her Life 05:50 Why She Got Involved In Fighting Trafficking 08:05 Helping Put Criminals In Prison 10:38 What She Hopes People Learn From Her Work 12:48 The Monsters Behind Trafficking 14:18 Steve Kmetko’s Chilling John Wayne Gacy Story 16:14 How Acting Helped Her Go Undercover 18:15 Discovering Acting In Chicago 20:48 Moving To Hollywood 22:47 Advice To Her Younger Self 23:52 Being Latina In Hollywood 25:02 The Frustration Of Self-Tape Auditions 26:20 Riverdale Becomes A Cultural Phenomenon 27:51 The Role That Challenged Her Most 29:47 What She Learned From Kiefer Sutherland 30:35 Working With Luke Perry 33:31 How Undercover Work Changed Her Acting 35:38 Talking To Her Daughter About Predators 36:44 The Internet And Child Safety 38:51 The Project She Wants To Make Next 39:39 Growing Up In Chicago 41:32 Her Daughter’s Creative Talent 43:01 Dream Actors & Directors To Work With 44:34 Turning Down A Major Movie Role 47:17 The Dark Side Of Hollywood 49:04 Why She Could Never Move Back To Chicago 52:08 Social Media Pressure & Mental Health 53:24 Fashion, Makeup & Being “A Girl” 54:26 Final Thoughts Show Credits Host/Producer: Steve Kmetko All things technical: Justin Zangerle Executive Producer: Jim Lichtenstein Music by: Brian Sanyshyn https://stillherehollywood.com http://patreon.com/stillherehollywood Suggest Guests at: stillherehollywood@gmail.com Advertise on Still Here Hollywood: jim@stillherenetwork.com Publicist: Maggie Perlich: maggie@numbertwelvemarketing.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
56 min
What happens when one of the funniest and most outspoken stars from Sex and the City sits down with one of television’s original openly gay entertainment journalists? In this deeply funny, brutally honest, and surprisingly emotional episode of STILL HERE HOLLYWOOD, Mario Cantone opens up to Steve Kmetko about fame, fear, gay representation in Hollywood, censorship, aging, Broadway, comedy, family, and the legacy of Anthony Marentino from Sex and the City and And Just Like That.... Mario reveals: Why Johnny Carson canceled his appearance The truth about working with the cast of Sex and the City What really happened after Willie Garson passed away His thoughts on Kim Cattrall not returning Why he believes AIDS set gay progress back decades The line from Sex and the City he still gets recognized for His emotional meeting with Carol Burnett Why he thinks comedians can’t say what they want anymore The conversation also dives into growing up gay in the 70s, Broadway, Liza Minnelli, Barbra Streisand, surviving Hollywood, and the cultural impact of Sex and the City. Funny, raw, emotional, and wildly entertaining, this is Mario Cantone like you’ve never seen him before. 00:00 Intro 00:47 Mario Cantone joins the show 01:44 Johnny Carson canceled Mario over “gay material” 04:52 Becoming Anthony on Sex and the City 06:45 Why And Just Like That ending hurt 07:01 Mario reads every comment online 08:46 The explosion of Sex and the City fame 10:07 Michael Patrick King directing Mario 11:24 Willie Garson’s death changed everything 12:35 Was Mario typecast? 14:49 Fear of being openly gay in comedy clubs 17:47 Anthony & Stanford’s relationship 19:48 Will & Grace vs Sex and the City representation 21:20 Lines Mario couldn’t believe he got to say 24:14 Most iconic Anthony scenes 25:38 Steve Kmetko opens up about coming out 28:52 Being bullied as a kid 30:08 How AIDS changed gay progress 32:06 Steve reveals his father married him to a woman 34:02 Mario says he never hid who he was 35:32 George Clooney reaction to People magazine article 36:40 Straight actors playing gay characters 39:40 Chris Noth controversy 40:38 Kim Cattrall not returning 41:50 Getting in shape for nude scenes 42:35 Willie Garson storyline discussion 45:12 Mario loves cooking and baking bread 47:29 Celebrity Autobiography on Broadway 49:20 Discovering Judy Garland at age 2 50:45 Steve’s Barbra Streisand story 52:54 Mario cries meeting Carol Burnett 54:11 Mario reflects on his cultural impact 55:27 Will Sex and the City ever return? Show Credits Host/Producer: Steve Kmetko All things technical: Justin Zangerle Executive Producer: Jim Lichtenstein Music by: Brian Sanyshyn https://stillherehollywood.com http://patreon.com/stillherehollywood Suggest Guests at: stillherehollywood@gmail.com Advertise on Still Here Hollywood: jim@stillherenetwork.com Publicist: Maggie Perlich: maggie@numbertwelvemarketing.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
1 hr 1 min
Some actors play powerful men. Others understand what power actually costs. On this episode of Still Here Hollywood , Steve Kmetko sits down with legendary actor Eric Braeden, the man behind Victor Newman on The Young and the Restless , a role he’s defined for more than four decades. But this conversation goes far beyond daytime television. From growing up in post-war Germany, to arriving in America and confronting its contradictions, to working with icons like Marlon Brando and James Cameron, Eric shares a deeply personal and unfiltered look at the life experiences that shaped both the man and the character. He opens up about the brutal demands of soap operas, the psychology behind Victor Newman, the reality of Hollywood, and why acting, at its core, is about truth, discipline, and survival. This is a powerful, honest conversation about legacy, resilience, and what it really means to endure in this business. THIS IS STILL HERE HOLLYWOOD, I’M STEVE KMETKO. JOIN ME WITH TODAY’S GUEST, FROM THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS, ACTOR ERIC BRAEDEN. 00:00 Opening Tease 00:01 Intro, Eric Braeden 01:25 Seinfeld, Comedy, and Great Casting 03:07 The Brutal Reality of Daytime TV 05:00 Why Acting Still Excites Him 06:16 Growing Up in Post-War Germany 09:51 Loss, Hardship, and Early Life 13:08 Working with Brando, Duvall, Legends 14:21 Hollywood, Cynicism, and Purpose 16:55 Why Acting Became Meaningful 19:27 Could Brando Handle Soap Operas? 21:07 Inside a 100+ Page Workday 22:36 Sports, Discipline, and Competition 24:48 Why He Didn’t Choose Sports 25:25 Life Outside Acting, Staying Sharp 31:49 What Young Actors Get Wrong 35:25 Almost Turning Down Titanic 41:56 Working with James Cameron 42:16 Thoughts on Streaming vs TV 46:43 Eric vs Victor Newman 47:08 The Evolution of Victor Newman 50:09 Breaking Out of “Bad Guy” Roles 51:08 Discovering the Truth About History 55:48 A Life-Changing Moment in America 59:53 His Autobiography 01:01:18 Closing Thoughts Show Credits Host/Producer: Steve Kmetko All things technical: Justin Zangerle Executive Producer: Jim Lichtenstein Music by: Brian Sanyshyn https://stillherehollywood.com http://patreon.com/stillherehollywood Suggest Guests at: stillherehollywood@gmail.com Advertise on Still Here Hollywood: jim@stillherenetwork.com Publicist: Maggie Perlich: maggie@numbertwelvemarketing.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
1 hr 0 min
She was discovered at 15 in a London coffee shop… and within years, she was starring in major Hollywood films alongside legends. In this episode, Steve Kmetko sits down with actress Vanessa Angel to talk about her unexpected rise from modeling to acting, working with icons like Dan Aykroyd, Bill Murray, and Woody Harrelson, and the reality behind building a career in Hollywood. From Spies Like Us to Weird Science and Kingpin , Vanessa shares the moments that defined her journey, including the role she almost had that changed TV history, the truth about being a young model alone in the industry, and why she spent decades trying to be taken seriously. She also opens up about imposter syndrome, personal growth, motherhood, and what success really means now after 40 years in the business. This is a candid, funny, and surprisingly emotional conversation about fame, resilience, and finding yourself when the spotlight fades. THIS IS STILL HERE HOLLYWOOD, I’M STEVE KMETKO. JOIN ME WITH TODAY’S GUEST, FROM WEIRD SCIENCE , ACTOR VANESSA ANGEL. 00:00 Intro, From modeling to Hollywood 01:04 Landing Spies Like Us and getting hooked on acting 03:30 “I didn’t know what I was doing” early career struggles 05:01 Training at the Actors Studio 07:13 Trauma, reflection, and emotional depth 09:18 Discovered at 15, navigating modeling alone 11:22 Paris, early industry exposure, and vulnerability 12:25 Arriving in New York, a life-changing moment 16:06 Modeling vs acting, finding her voice 17:51 Wanting more than just being “looked at” 19:00 Early acting work and learning on Baywatch 22:24 When she finally felt confident as an actor 24:47 Working fast, learning lines, and set discipline 27:53 Warren Beatty’s advice that changed everything 30:13 Meeting Hollywood legends early in her career 33:00 The role she lost, originally cast as Xena 35:53 How Kingpin happened through perfect timing 36:59 Working with Woody Harrelson 38:30 Bill Murray on set, total unpredictability 39:38 Learning comedy and finding her rhythm 41:37 Being typecast and not taken seriously 43:50 Advice to young actors and models 46:02 Comic Cons and connecting with fans 47:53 Full circle, life today and finding peace 49:32 Divorce, independence, and rediscovering herself 51:27 Life now, priorities and fulfillment 54:35 Travel, gratitude, and perspective 56:49 What she’s most proud of 59:45 Outro Show Credits Host/Producer: Steve Kmetko All things technical: Justin Zangerle Executive Producer: Jim Lichtenstein Music by: Brian Sanyshyn https://stillherehollywood.com http://patreon.com/stillherehollywood Suggest Guests at: stillherehollywood@gmail.com Advertise on Still Here Hollywood: jim@stillherenetwork.com Publicist: Maggie Perlich: maggie@numbertwelvemarketing.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
1 hr 7 min
Mike Farrell joins Still Here Hollywood to talk about his unforgettable role as BJ Hunnicutt on M A S H*, one of the most beloved television shows of all time. From the moment he landed the role to the emotional final episode that still holds the record for most-watched scripted television broadcast, Farrell shares what it was really like behind the scenes. He opens up about his close bond with Alan Alda, the collaborative culture that made the show so special, and the powerful themes that made M A S H* more than just a comedy. Farrell also reflects on his life beyond Hollywood, including the personal experiences that shaped his activism and worldview. This is a conversation about legacy, purpose, and what it means to do work that truly matters. 00:00 Intro 00:50 Landing M A S H* 04:30 Getting the role 08:30 First day on set 10:00 The M A S H* finale legacy 11:00 Creative process on the show 12:15 Why he doesn’t watch it now 14:30 Wayne Rogers story 29:00 Alan Alda and on-set chemistry 33:00 Life-changing personal experience 38:00 War and comedy balance 39:30 Challenging the writers 46:30 The controversial BJ storyline 49:00 Favorite episode 52:00 Final goodbye and male friendship 53:30 Ending the series 57:00 Final episode moment 1:03:00 What brings him joy Show Credits Host/Producer: Steve Kmetko All things technical: Justin Zangerle Executive Producer: Jim Lichtenstein Music by: Brian Sanyshyn https://stillherehollywood.com http://patreon.com/stillherehollywood Suggest Guests at: stillherehollywood@gmail.com Advertise on Still Here Hollywood: jim@stillherenetwork.com Publicist: Maggie Perlich: maggie@numbertwelvemarketing.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
39 min
Oscar-nominated actor June Squibb joins Steve Kmetko on Still Here Hollywood for a funny, honest, and deeply inspiring conversation about longevity, craft, and what it really means to keep working at the highest level in your 90s. June looks back on her early days in theater, including working with the legendary Ethel Merman in Gypsy, learning Broadway discipline, and why she always knew, even as a child, that acting was not just something she wanted to do, it was who she was. She also talks about Law & Order, Nebraska, Thelma, Marjorie Prime, Yellowjackets, and what it feels like to still be headlining films when most people have long stepped away from the spotlight. The conversation also explores aging in Hollywood, how Scarlett Johansson directed her in Eleanor the Great, what made Jack Nicholson such a generous scene partner, why realism matters so much in her work, and how Nebraska changed the way the industry saw her. June also shares her thoughts on inspiration, criticism, ambition, and the simple wisdom she would send back to her 35-year-old self. If you love great actors, great stories, and proof that a second act can turn into seven acts, this episode is for you. Support the show and get early access and extras at patreon.com/stillherehollywood 00:01 Intro: June Squibb and a breakout decades in the making 00:37 Why some people still call her Miss Squibb 01:06 Working with Ethel Merman in Gypsy 02:57 Learning to bump and grind on stage 03:37 Knowing she was an actor from the very beginning 04:18 If she had done anything else, it might have been forensics 04:46 Law & Order memories and Jerry Orbach 05:28 Broadway discipline and arriving early to the theater 06:20 Her backstage ritual before curtain 07:17 How June prepares for a role 08:04 Seven decades of acting, and still going strong 08:29 What she looks for in a script now 09:18 Aging in Hollywood and what audiences want to see 10:32 Why older stories matter more than ever 10:53 What has not changed in Hollywood 11:45 How age changes the roles she gets 12:37 Scarlett Johansson, Eleanor the Great, and using the cane 13:19 Working with Scarlett as a director 14:19 Oscar night for Nebraska and sharing it with her son 16:22 Patreon break 17:20 Nebraska cemetery scene and that unforgettable moment 18:16 Why she never thought “why did this take so long?” 18:57 How Nebraska changed the way she saw herself 20:00 Thelma, action comedy, and strength at any age 21:11 The best thing about her life right now 21:48 What roles she still wants to play 22:51 What quality makes people want to work with her 23:56 What performance of hers she recommends people watch 24:49 In & Out, comedy, and Frank Oz 25:19 Working with Woody Allen on Alice 26:15 Can you separate art from artist? 27:25 Who made a big impression on her, Jack Nicholson 28:20 Fame, recognition, and being known for the work 28:31 Marrying her acting teacher 29:07 What makes a director great for actors 30:17 Was she ever typecast? Yes, as a bimbo 31:17 Roles that felt too familiar 31:47 Supporting player vs leading lady 32:26 Seeing her younger self on screen 32:48 How old she feels now, 35 33:16 Does she watch her own performances? 33:44 The one truth that shaped her whole life 34:09 Her secret to looking good and feeling healthy 35:13 Being called inspiring, and that word “icon” 36:09 A June Squibb documentary may be coming 36:44 What she hopes people say about her work 36:59 Still hoping to work with Robert De Niro 37:30 At 96, does she think about mortality? 38:05 What she would tell her 35-year-old self 39:17 Closing thoughts and wrap-up Show Credits Host/Producer: Steve Kmetko All things technical: Justin Zangerle Executive Producer: Jim Lichtenstein Music by: Brian Sanyshyn https://stillherehollywood.com http://patreon.com/stillherehollywood Suggest Guests at: stillherehollywood@gmail.com Advertise on Still Here Hollywood: jim@stillherenetwork.com Publicist: Maggie Perlich: maggie@numbertwelvemarketing.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
46 min
She was on the biggest show in the world, but behind the slow motion runs and global fame, Nicole Eggert was dealing with something very different. On this episode of Still Here Hollywood, Nicole opens up about joining Baywatch in her early 20s, why she walked away from the #1 show on the planet, and how the “Baywatch bimbo” label shut down her career. She shares what fame really cost her, from dating struggles to doors suddenly closing in Hollywood. Then the conversation takes a powerful turn. Nicole talks candidly about her breast cancer diagnosis, discovering it herself after it was missed in screenings, and what it’s really like to live with cancer long term. From the emotional toll of telling her daughters, to the mindset it takes to fight through treatment, this is an honest, raw look at survival and perspective. This is Still Here Hollywood. I’m Steve Kmetko. Join me with today’s guest, from Baywatch, actor Nicole Eggert. 00:00 Intro 00:45 How Nicole Eggert landed Baywatch 02:30 Leaving the #1 show in the world at 20 04:10 The downside of fame, dating and perception 05:10 “Baywatch bimbo” label and career fallout 05:40 The truth about slow motion running 07:15 Why Hollywood doors suddenly closed 08:20 Stepping away from acting 09:10 Global fame and being recognized everywhere 09:54 Charles in Charge and early career 11:30 Growing up on set and life decisions 13:20 Real estate passion and life outside acting 15:30 Working with Scott Baio 15:45 Would she let her daughters act? 16:50 Cancer diagnosis and discovering it herself 19:00 The hardest part of cancer, mental vs physical 21:00 Living with cancer and ongoing treatment 22:20 What she’s learned from other cancer patients 24:50 Advice for women facing cancer 26:20 Telling her daughters the diagnosis 28:10 How cancer changed her as a person 29:00 Career today and finding purpose in podcasting 30:45 Chemo side effects and “chemo brain” 31:50 The lowest moment during cancer 32:50 Scary fan encounters and real threats 35:20 Does she regret Baywatch? 36:05 Producing the Baywatch documentary 37:15 Bringing Baywatch full circle Show Credits Host/Producer: Steve Kmetko All things technical: Justin Zangerle Executive Producer: Jim Lichtenstein Music by: Brian Sanyshyn https://stillherehollywood.com http://patreon.com/stillherehollywood Suggest Guests at: stillherehollywood@gmail.com Advertise on Still Here Hollywood: jim@stillherenetwork.com Publicist: Maggie Perlich: maggie@numbertwelvemarketing.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
1 hr 3 min
Melora Hardin, best known to millions as Jan Levinson on The Office , joins Steve Kmetko for a funny, revealing, and surprisingly wide-ranging conversation about her life and career in Hollywood. Melora looks back on working with Steve Carell, the improvisational magic behind The Office , and why the legendary “Dinner Party” episode still makes her laugh. She also opens up about her early years as a child actor on Little House on the Prairie , working with Michael Landon and Clint Eastwood, her thoughts on AI and creativity, and what it was like seeing Miley Cyrus at 15 during the Hannah Montana movie. Beyond acting, Melora talks about dance, directing, cabaret, parenting in Hollywood, Transparent , Dancing with the Stars , and the creative energy that still drives her after more than 50 years in the business. This is a smart, funny, and honest conversation with one of television’s most memorable performers. #MeloraHardin, #TheOffice, #JanLevinson, #SteveCarell, #StillHereHollywood, #SteveKmetko, #LittleHouseOnThePrairie, #Transparent, #MileyCyrus, #Hollywood CHAPTERS 00:00 Cold open, Steve Carell and AI tease 00:49 Intro, Melora Hardin joins the show 02:05 Melora’s colorful outfit and new scarf collection 02:43 More than 50 years in show business 03:23 Little House on the Prairie and first screen kiss 05:48 Working with Michael Landon 06:50 Clint Eastwood stories and singing for him 09:24 Did the cast of The Office get along? 10:01 Greg Daniels, improv, and the collaborative set 12:08 Does Melora watch old episodes of The Office ? 13:29 The “Dinner Party” episode and breaking on set 15:37 Melora’s lifestyle brand, wallpaper, and scarves 16:16 What kind of a kisser was Steve Carell? 16:38 How much improv happened on The Office 19:05 Miley Cyrus at 15 and the making of Hannah Montana 19:35 Melora’s thoughts on AI and creativity 23:58 Acting, dancing, singing, directing, and creative energy 25:04 Why ballet didn’t become her career 27:34 Playing Baby in Dirty Dancing 29:41 Biggest influences, her parents, and growing up in Hollywood 32:04 What she still wants to do next 34:17 More on Miley Cyrus and child stardom 36:32 Cabaret, singing, and getting through Covid 38:37 Social media, parenting, and raising kids without phones 42:18 Raising grounded children in Hollywood 44:54 Emmy nomination for Transparent 48:14 Why film and TV is the ultimate team sport 50:07 Directing, editing, and her documentary Hunter’s Thunder 54:11 Melora on going to the movies 55:30 Dancing with the Stars and loving dance 55:50 From Jan on The Office to Tammy on Transparent 57:03 What she wants next in her career 57:50 Where the name Melora comes from 58:31 Jan’s breakup on The Office 59:32 What still “flaps” Melora 1:00:46 Gratitude, family, and staying grounded 1:02:30 Final moments and ruby slippers story Show Credits Host/Producer: Steve Kmetko All things technical: Justin Zangerle Executive Producer: Jim Lichtenstein Music by: Brian Sanyshyn https://stillherehollywood.com http://patreon.com/stillherehollywood Suggest Guests at: stillherehollywood@gmail.com Advertise on Still Here Hollywood: jim@stillherenetwork.com Publicist: Maggie Perlich: maggie@numbertwelvemarketing.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
57 min
Frances Fisher joins Steve Kmetko for a candid, funny, and deeply thoughtful conversation about acting, ambition, heartbreak, Titanic , Clint Eastwood, Lucille Ball, and what it really means to build a life in Hollywood. Frances talks about growing up around the world, finding acting through community theater in Texas, bartending in New York while chasing work, and the unusual creative choice that transformed her performance in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof . She also shares a remarkable story about the phone call that may have led to Titanic , what made James Cameron such an effective director, and why Rose’s mother was one of the easiest characters she ever played. The conversation goes deeper as Frances reflects on grief, aging, motherhood, social media, ambition, and the one thing she wishes she had told her younger self: aim higher. This is Still Here Hollywood with Steve Kmetko. Episode Hashtags: #FrancesFisher,#Titanic,#ClintEastwood,#JamesCameron,#LucilleBall,#StillHereHollywood,#SteveKmetko,#HollywoodStories,#ClassicHollywood,#Acting,#FilmHistory 00:00 Introduction 00:49 The artist comes before the actor 01:34 Her first big acting paycheck 03:09 The black hair story from Cat on a Hot Tin Roof 06:35 How acting first hooked her 08:45 Growing up around the world 12:21 How being the new kid shaped her 13:27 Why the work mattered more than fame 16:35 The phone call before Titanic 18:26 Why she wanted Titanic so badly 19:43 James Cameron on set 22:04 Working with Leo, Kate, and the costumes 27:27 Playing Lucille Ball 31:36 What acting really is 36:08 What Clint Eastwood was like 42:19 The joy of being a grandmother 45:05 Frances Fisher on grief 48:49 Her thoughts on social media 52:19 Her toilet paper theory of life 54:40 Why she wishes she had aimed higher Show Credits Host/Producer: Steve Kmetko All things technical: Justin Zangerle Executive Producer: Jim Lichtenstein Music by: Brian Sanyshyn https://stillherehollywood.com http://patreon.com/stillherehollywood Suggest Guests at: stillherehollywood@gmail.com Advertise on Still Here Hollywood: jim@stillherenetwork.com Publicist: Maggie Perlich: maggie@numbertwelvemarketing.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
United States
Apple Podcasts rankings supplied by Mato Topic Intelligence Platform.
Observed July 30, 2026.
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