Tag: Megan Stalter

In a candid conversation with Katya Zamolodchickova, actress and comedian Megan Stalter opened up about her journey through comedy, her role in Hacks, and the trials of navigating both personal and professional relationships in the entertainment world.

When asked about her favorite comedian on Grindr’s Who’s The A**hole podcast, Stalter’s enthusiasm was palpable. She mentioned Maria Bamford, a personal favorite, along with the dynamic duo of John Early and Kate Berlant, who she admires not just for their talent but also as close friends.

She shared, “I was fans of them before becoming friends,” admitting that it’s always a bit surreal when people you admire become successful. However, the relationship isn’t without its complexities, as Stalter reflected, “Isn’t it weird when your friends become really successful?”

The conversation soon shifted to Hacks, the popular HBO series where Stalter plays Kayla, a character who has captured the hearts of viewers for her quirky energy. Katya, a self-proclaimed Hacks superfan, praised the chemistry between Stalter’s character and Jimmy, played by Paul W. Downs. “Jimmy and Kayla’s dynamic is one of the most charming, lovely, funny relationships on TV in history,” Katya said. Stalter, with a laugh, responded, “That’s so nice,” but didn’t shy away from offering her thoughts on the fictional relationship, suggesting that Kayla, despite her affection for Jimmy, never sees him in a sexual light. Instead, “She’s hungry for his attention,” Stalter quipped, encapsulating the odd, almost sibling-like tension that defines their relationship.

The excitement surrounding the show’s upcoming season was palpable during their conversation. While Stalter couldn’t spill too many details, she teased, “It’s a wild, unpredictable time.” When asked about her character’s appearance, she mentioned that Kayla would have a more “mature” look, though she added with a laugh, “I sound like I got a boob job or something.” Fans of the show can expect surprises, though Stalter kept the specifics under wraps.

Stalter’s reflections on Hacks weren’t just about her character’s evolution but also about the joy of performing. “I think a dream job is just being on stage because I like to live perform a lot,” Stalter shared. The thrill of a live audience, she noted, is unparalleled. Despite her success on television, Stalter remains deeply passionate about live performance, admitting that nothing compares to the energy of being in front of an audience.

However, not all her experiences in entertainment have been glamorous. Stalter revealed that she had once auditioned for Saturday Night Live but didn’t make the cut. While she confessed that it would have been a dream to be a part of the iconic show, she jokingly added that today, she might hesitate, especially if the pressure was as intense as Katya’s hypothetical scenario: “Gun to my head?” Stalter quipped, showing her comedic sensibility even in the face of challenging questions.

The topic of celebrity relationships took an unexpected turn when Katya asked about the dynamics between Hacks’ showrunners. Stalter shared that the three creators, Paul W. Downs, Jen Statsky, and Lucia Aniello, are a married couple. “They’re a power couple,” she said, adding with humor that they kept their romance professional on set, though “I’ve probably seen them kiss at a party.”

Beyond her role in Hacks, Stalter has made waves with her candid, often provocative insights into social behavior. She and Katya discussed everything from bi representation to the ethics of using weight-loss drugs like Ozempic. Stalter, who is known for her no-nonsense approach, spoke critically about people using Ozempic to lose weight without acknowledging the consequences, such as the side effect of frequent bathroom trips. “I would rather be 500 pounds than shitting all day,” Stalter remarked, illustrating her disapproval of such quick fixes. The conversation veered into a humorous yet serious discussion about body image and societal expectations, as Stalter questioned why anyone would sacrifice comfort for a smaller body.

In a more playful segment, Katya and Stalter played a game of “asshole or not asshole,” in which they debated various behaviors. Stalter shared her perspective on everything from sexual behavior to career priorities, revealing her values when it comes to relationships and work-life balance. “Life is about people,” Stalter said when discussing the importance of prioritizing loved ones over career achievements. “If you don’t prioritize the people around you, then what will you do, have your tapes to watch?”

While her role in Hacks has catapulted her into the spotlight, Stalter’s humor and frankness about the entertainment industry, celebrity culture, and personal dynamics make her a refreshing voice. Her honesty about the struggles of fame, navigating friendships, and finding joy in live performance adds a personal touch to her career achievements, proving that Stalter’s success is as much about her authenticity as her talent.

As Stalter continues to shine on Hacks, she remains grounded in her commitment to both the craft and the people who matter most. Whether discussing the unpredictable world of television, the complexities of relationships, or the trials of living in the public eye, Stalter proves she’s more than just a rising star—she’s a comedian unafraid to speak her truth.