This episode explores Danny McBride's creative journey, focusing on his work as a writer, actor, and producer, particularly his show "The Righteous Gemstones." McBride discusses the origins of the show, initially inspired by the Memphis Mafia and later influenced by the prevalence of megachurches in the South, detailing how moving to Charleston, South Carolina, deeply shaped the show's content, including the incorporation of local elements like a mysterious red van. He reflects on his religious upbringing and how it informed his approach to portraying faith on screen, aiming for satire without disrespecting believers, and shares anecdotes about working with John Goodman and developing the unique names for his characters. As the discussion pivoted to his writing process, McBride revealed that while there is a script, improvisation is allowed, especially during church lunch scenes, and he also touched on the use of cursing as a character development tool. McBride also recounts a surreal experience of meeting Kanye West, who wanted him to play him in a biopic, and shares the emotional experience of concluding "The Righteous Gemstones," highlighting the challenges and camaraderie on set. Ultimately, the conversation reveals McBride's commitment to creating character-driven stories rooted in his experiences, blending humor with insightful observations about human behavior and culture.
