Will Arnett - Fresh Air Recap

Podcast: Fresh Air

Published: 2025-12-23

Duration: 47 minutes

Guests: Will Arnett, David Bianculli

Summary

Will Arnett discusses his role in Bradley Cooper's film 'Is This Thing On?' and reflects on his career in voicework and comedy, while TV critic David Bianculli shares his top TV picks for 2025.

What Happened

Will Arnett returns to the film scene with a starring role in Bradley Cooper's 'Is This Thing On?,' where he portrays a man navigating the tumultuous waters of divorce through the lens of the New York comedy scene. Arnett co-wrote the film, which is inspired by the real-life story of British comedian John Bishop. He recounts performing at the Comedy Cellar under the alias Alex Novak to prepare for the role, an experience that reignited his passion for stand-up comedy.

Arnett, well-known for his roles in 'Arrested Development' and 'Bojack Horseman,' shares how his voice has evolved over the years, attributing its deepening to age. He discusses his long-standing role as the voice of GMC Trucks, a gig he has held since December 1998, and how his early aspirations to be a dramatic actor shifted as he discovered his knack for comedy.

Reflecting on his past, Arnett recalls being expelled from a prep school for being a troublemaker, mainly due to smoking and breaking curfews. He humorously notes that he was 'asked not to return,' a distinction he maintains with pride. This rebellious streak may have contributed to his comedic edge, which became evident when he started reading sitcom pilots to pay the rent.

TV critic David Bianculli joins the episode to highlight what he considers the best TV of 2025, focusing on intense shows like the Netflix drama 'Adolescence,' which he describes as haunting. Bianculli also praises 'The Pit' on HBO Max and 'The Diplomat' on Netflix for their gripping narratives.

In the realm of comedy, Bianculli notes the success of shows like Apple TV's 'The Studio' and Hulu's 'Only Murders in the Building.' He appreciates their ability to blend humor with intriguing storylines, providing a much-needed respite from the intensity of other featured dramas.

Bianculli's recommendations extend to non-fiction television, where he highlights Apple TV's 'Mr. Scorsese' and HBO's 'Pee-Wee As Himself' as standout productions. He also commends Netflix's 'Stranger Things' for maintaining its suspenseful edge and innovative storytelling into 2025.

The conversation wraps up with Bianculli sharing his favorite TV moment of the year, CNN's live broadcast of 'Good Night and Good Luck,' starring George Clooney. This moment stands out for its historical significance and the powerful performance delivered by Clooney as Edward R. Murrow.

Key Insights