Did Jim Downey Write that?
Episode Description
David and Dana have Jim Downey back on the podcast this week to talk about One Battle After Another, being officemates with Bill Murray, and the new documentary about him, Downey Wrote That. Also, the most potent writing staff he ever worked with, Eddie Murphy’s first year on SNL, and Casey Kasem.
Listen free: Apple: link.pscrb.fm/f0281/flyonthewallseriesapple-27cc3 Spotify: link.pscrb.fm/f0281/flyonthewallseriesspotify-e5650
Brief Summary
Jim Downey shares SNL stories, including Eddie Murphy's rise and Chris Farley's antics, while discussing his writing style and career.
Key points
- Chris Farley's Entrance. A humorous setup for Chris Farley's unexpected entrance.
- Oscars Surprise. A surprising moment during the Oscars that caught everyone off guard.
- The Perfect Thing. The audience took the ride with me, and it was a fun experience.
- Cold Openings. The easiest slam dunk was to go right up a bush cold opening.
- Bill Murray's Advice. Bill Murray asked for help on a script that won an Oscar.
- The Best Writing Staff. A discussion on the potency of different writing staffs over the years.
Ask about Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade
Episode highlights
- Chris Farley's EntranceA humorous setup for Chris Farley's unexpected entrance.“Chris Farley is out in the hallway and he's completely naked.”0:52Jun 17, 2026
- Oscars SurpriseA surprising moment during the Oscars that caught everyone off guard.“I was shocked by that.”13:15Jun 17, 2026
- The Perfect ThingThe audience took the ride with me, and it was a fun experience.“The audience was right with me.”22:01Jun 17, 2026
- Cold OpeningsThe easiest slam dunk was to go right up a bush cold opening.“It was always like such a good go-to that would work.”23:01Jun 17, 2026
- Bill Murray's AdviceBill Murray asked for help on a script that won an Oscar.“I wouldn't change anything, certainly I can't think of anything that I would do to change it.”28:38Jun 17, 2026
- The Best Writing StaffA discussion on the potency of different writing staffs over the years.“Was it the original writing staff or were they all just very comparable?”43:09Jun 17, 2026
- The Evolution of SNL WritersThe writing staff of SNL has changed significantly over the years, with fewer writers in the past. The best writers were often performers themselves, creating a unique blend of talent.“The idea was that performers writing for themselves helps; it's good for them.”45:10Jun 17, 2026
- Eddie Murphy's Rise to FameEddie Murphy's journey from a featured player to a comedy legend is explored, highlighting his early struggles and eventual breakthrough.“Eddie is amazing how great he was. It's not a hot take, just interesting context.”50:46Jun 17, 2026
Tension
40/ 100Low tension
