Pauly Shore on Joe Rogan: The Weasel Unplugged
Ever wondered what it’s like inside the mind of Pauly Shore, the iconic “Weasel” of the ’90s comedy scene? Joe Rogan dives deep with Pauly in this episode, exploring everything from his unique upbringing at The Comedy Store to the highs and lows of fame, and his reflections on comedy today. Get ready for a candid and surprisingly insightful conversation that goes beyond the typical celebrity interview.
TL;DR
- Pauly discusses his unconventional childhood growing up at The Comedy Store, surrounded by legendary comedians.
- He opens up about the challenges he faced navigating fame and dealing with the changing landscape of the entertainment industry.
- Pauly shares his perspective on the current state of comedy, touching on cancel culture and the importance of pushing boundaries.
- They explore the complex dynamic with his mother, Mitzi Shore, and her immense influence on the comedy world.
- Pauly reflects on his legacy and how he wants to be remembered.
Key Topics Covered
Growing Up at The Comedy Store
Pauly Shore’s childhood was far from ordinary. He was raised in the legendary Comedy Store, owned by his mother, Mitzi Shore. He describes being surrounded by some of the biggest names in comedy, like Robin Williams and Sam Kinison, essentially having them as his babysitters. This unique upbringing heavily influenced his comedic style and career path.
He talks about how the Comedy Store wasn’t just a workplace, it was his home. He witnessed the raw, unfiltered creativity of these comedic geniuses firsthand, shaping his understanding of humor and performance. The experience offered him a unique education outside of the classroom, and ingrained in him a deep respect for the art of stand-up.
“The Comedy Store was my school, my playground, everything. I was just soaking it all in.” – Pauly Shore
Navigating Fame and the Entertainment Industry
Pauly discusses the whirlwind of fame he experienced in the ’90s with movies like “Encino Man” and “Son in Law.” He acknowledges the highs of that period but also delves into the challenges of maintaining relevance and dealing with the constant pressure of Hollywood. He talks candidly about the ebbs and flows of his career and the importance of staying true to himself.
He also touches on the changing landscape of the entertainment industry and the difficulty of navigating new platforms and formats. While the initial fame was incredibly gratifying, he states it was also ephemeral and he has worked hard to keep reinventing himself.
The State of Comedy Today
The conversation shifts to the current state of comedy, with Pauly sharing his thoughts on cancel culture and the perceived limitations on comedic expression. He advocates for pushing boundaries and believes that comedy should be allowed to explore uncomfortable topics. He understands the need for sensitivity but emphasizes the importance of free speech and the role of comedy in challenging societal norms.
“Comedy is supposed to make you think, make you uncomfortable sometimes. If we’re all just playing it safe, where’s the fun in that?” – Pauly Shore
Intriguing Anecdotes & Stories
Pauly shares a particularly funny story about Robin Williams offering him some very adult advice when he was a young teenager. He was overwhelmed at the time, but looking back, it was a formative moment that showed him how even the biggest stars were still just people navigating life and relationships.
He also recounts an experience of sneaking into the Comedy Store at a very young age. He wanted to be around the action and the comedians, even if that meant bending the rules. This early experience solidified his deep connection to the club and his desire to be a part of the comedy world. He found his tribe there.
Conclusion
This episode of the Joe Rogan Experience provides a fascinating glimpse into the life and mind of Pauly Shore. It’s a surprisingly reflective conversation that goes beyond the surface-level persona. Anyone interested in comedy, the inner workings of Hollywood, or the challenges of fame will find this episode captivating. Pauly’s honesty and vulnerability make for a compelling and insightful listen.
Watch the Full Episode
If this summary piqued your interest, I highly recommend checking out the full episode. You’ll get to hear Pauly’s stories in his own words and experience the full dynamic between him and Joe Rogan.
Joe Rogan Experience #1981 – Pauly Shore on YouTube