Nick Offerman is a Renaissance man. The actor, writer, woodworker, musician, and comedian is coming to Oklahoma City this Sunday, September 29th at The Criterion with his new live show, All Rise.
In this interview, we'll talk about how he stumbled into doing his own version of stand-up, his love for Oklahoma (which he calls his second home), how his wife Megan Mullally helped jumpstart the career of another Oklahoman, Bill Hader, and he'll also share some of his favorite songs.
Hear the conversation above and read below for interview highlights.
On always learning
I find ways to make my living always learning. Woodworking and writing books and working as an actor - anything you do as a human being, you always have the flaws of humanity. No one ever does anything perfectly. So, if you continue striving towards that, I think it helps you get up in the morning a lot more easily.
On Oklahoma
I'm crazy about it. When I started visiting Oklahoma City twenty years ago when I started dating Megan (Mullally), I was immediately charmed by it. The people and the pace really remind me of my own upbringing in central Illinois. It's dustier and the dirt is redder, but there's a warmth and a friendliness that remind me of the Midwest. I've watched pockets of culture, restaurants, and art centers take root and begin to blossom and that's been really gratifying. I'm a big fan of a chicken fried steak and the entire menu at Johnnie's, but it's also nice to get some choices for when I come to town.
On the message behind Tom Waits' "Come On Up To The House"
Life is hard. No matter where you are or what you situation is, the human condition is gonna lay you low from time to time. And no matter what your trevails may bring you, the answer is come on up to the house and we'll take care of you. I think that's incredible advice for what has befallen our society. We've lost the sense of fellowship around the dining table, a sense of community, of leaning on one's neighbors. I love that song.
