October 9, 2007
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As you may know, near the end of each episode of Inside the Actors Studio, I ask my guest, “If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates?”
This moment feels a bit like that, as I arrive for the first time at the portals of cyberspace, staring apprehensively into the void, with no deity waiting to take up the conversational slack. In De Niro’s -- and Scorsese’s -- famous words: “There’s nobody here but me.” And nothing but this ominous silence that, I’m told, I’m supposed to fill.
With what? The question is: how to fill a vacuum without being vacuous?
Where’s Will Ferrell when you need him, ready to take over and be the garrulous me that seems to have an answer to everything?
At this moment, I feel as if I have the answer to nothing! Where to start? A friend said I should think of the blog as a diary, but I’ve never kept one, and, anyway, who gives a rat’s ass what’s on my mind? No blue cards here, no two weeks of preparation. Just me and...you, I guess, whoever you are.
Someone else told me, “Think stream of consciousness.” Which once again assumes that there’s someone out there who cares what I’m thinking, consciously, or unconsciously. I find that scary.
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Comments
Mauricio Romero wrote:
Mr. Lipton Congratulations for having your first blog. I think its a great oportunity to share your experience in acting and interviewing celebrities. Im a independent film maker in Mexico. I´ve studied a litle bit of directing actors with David Wheeler at Harvard. Im a great fan of your show, and it has been a big inspiration to continue on the job, considering the dificulties of an indie, and more in a bearly existing industry in Mexico. I always learn from your show and think you have done a great job. Also i would like to read your book. Where can i buy it? Also i´m purchasing the episodes of your show in i tunes. When will you publish the rest of the episodes?
Again congratulations and best regards.
posted on October 10, 2007 at 1:05 AM
kimmi wrote:
I would like very much to see Mr. CLIVE OWEN in your show.
posted on October 10, 2007 at 1:24 PM
klc wrote:
Thanks for stepping up, I wondered for some time if they could convince you to write one. I can hear your voice in your writing and I enjoy it, just as I enjoy the show when I have the opportunity to watch it. I watch as much for you as for your guests. Your gentle wit amuses me greatly.
good luck and keep posting.....
posted on October 10, 2007 at 1:54 PM
Heidi wrote:
Jim,
You are the BEST! I love your blog!! Keep them comin!!! Tell me what your favorite word is...
posted on October 10, 2007 at 2:41 PM
Jessica wrote:
How exciting that you are blogging! As an avid watcher of Inside, I have always wondered more towards your thoughts, as to your answers to the questions you always ask. You have become intriguing to many, whether wanted, or intentional. I say run with it. Congratulations.
posted on October 10, 2007 at 3:02 PM
Leslie wrote:
How nice it is to read your first blog. I am a faithful viewer and I love your style! I look forward to reading what is on your heart and your and your mind as this continues. Congratulations! You are the reason I watch the show!
posted on October 10, 2007 at 5:55 PM
Denise wrote:
James,
I am a fan of your show because you get the actors to talk about what matters to "them". I would love to hear what your answers would be to the questions of Bernard Pivot (sp?) your favorite word? your least favorite word? etc...... oh!......what would your tatoo be? Your reactions to the actors are hilarious.
Especially when Billy Crystal threw the blue cards off your table.
Don't ever think you're just there to ask questions and to get outta the way. We love you.
posted on October 10, 2007 at 7:35 PM
Susan wrote:
Thank you for the wonderful interviews over the years. Your dream is so remarkable considering what you have evolved into doing. I had a recurring daydream in which I joined the circus. Until I read Water for Elephants, I had no idea how close my fantasy resembled life in the circus. I sorely miss Sunday nights with you, when I could block off that time to enjoy the program. Now, Monday night is a difficult night to enjoy your kind of program, and I think Bravo made a mistake changing the time slot. What would Saturday Night Live be on a Tuesday?
I would like to see you expand your interviews to authors, but then, it wouldn't be the Actor's Studio.
Thank you for all the wonderful interviews.
posted on October 11, 2007 at 11:29 AM
Heather wrote:
Write it and we will read...
It's truly enjoyable to read blogs of people we see on TV. It makes you more real.
I certainly want you jumping out of the way as quickly as possible. Your answers and your input on the show is just as interesting as the actor's. I expecially like it when they get you to break out of your mold..and perhaps....dance.
Thank you for taking the time to write.
posted on October 11, 2007 at 1:05 PM
Kris wrote:
James,
Thank you greatly for finally venturing into the blogosphere, I have been an avid fan of yourself and the Actor's Studio for sometime, and you insight and wisdom has become absolutely pivotal to the show!!
As you continue your blog, I would love to hear your insight into the many faces that grace the stage at Pace University. Your interviewing style lends itself to some of the greatest views of people we have always seen as someone else, and seldom as theirselves. It is often interesting to watch the sturggle that ensues with this and your ability to extend humanity to them at this time.
posted on October 11, 2007 at 2:52 PM
Jennifer Nathe wrote:
I love, love, love you and your show, and the fact that your wife is always in attendance is a welcoming sneak peek into the life of James Lipton "the man"! Has she changed her mind yet when it comes to you getting a tatoo?!II? If so, do we get to see it sometime?!! (Just kidding!) Believe me when I tell you that the manner in which you- James Lipton "the host"- interviews your guests is not only unique, but also brilliant. It is a powerful way of reminding us that these famous people we all seem to think we know (thanks to the tabloids, the media, etc.), are human beings with families, and feelings, and challenges just like ourselves. Alleluia!!! While you still have a chance, I think it would be incredible to see you interview B.B.King, and last but not least, I too have just blogged for the very first time!!!!
How lucky for me to have something in common with someone
like you! I wish you continued success and happiness always!
posted on October 11, 2007 at 5:17 PM
Audrey Johnson wrote:
I enjoyed your blog. I watch as often as possible. Your show is better than most. Everyone seems more real. Any chance of re-running old, old shows that some of us new watchers may have missed (like Barbara Streisand)?
posted on October 11, 2007 at 6:45 PM
Cathryn wrote:
James, Thank you for the look inside the world of acting. Sometimes it's hard to imagine the real lives, loves and passion these cultural icons harbor. Too often the media shows us too much and it isn't pretty, nor is it people we should honor. Your style and form produce a raw and unscripted response from such complex beings, People pretending to be other people. Who's who? Thank you for a fascinating journey to these actors. Thank you for the journey into your thoughts.
posted on October 11, 2007 at 7:24 PM
Quyen wrote:
Mr. Lipton,
Who is your favorite guest? Is there a guest that you've been wanting to interview but won't come on the show. When do we get to see you interview Brad Pitt.
posted on October 12, 2007 at 7:15 AM
Pam Snider wrote:
James
I have enjoyed your transparent nature for years on the Inside the Actor's Studio. I have also asked your interveiw quesitons in my business when I had my moment with the boss. I was told later that my questions were insightful. So thanks James for your humble insightful look into the lives of others that have something meaningful to say. What is your next project? Possibly taking your show to other icons in our lives. Thank you for making your show very entertaining and inspiring. Be blessed my friend. pam
posted on October 12, 2007 at 8:39 AM
Barbara wrote:
So glad to see that you are blogging! I was in the Actor's Studio Drama School (albeit briefly - now I write) and enjoyed our chats. Look forward to seeing more of these and thanks for keeping it all going :)
posted on October 12, 2007 at 9:43 AM
christina wrote:
Jim-
Good luck with your blog!! I have been fortunate enough to see two tapings of IAS in person, and I must say it was amazing! Keep up the great work!
posted on October 12, 2007 at 11:22 AM
Christy Donovan wrote:
I decided we needed cable television when Babylon5 moved from broadcast to cable just prior to its last season (a decision I do not regret). When I learned about Inside the Actors Studio, I decided to pay for the premium channels so we could get BRAVO (another good decision). What I love so much about your show is the insight into how creative people do their work. Because your research is so thorough, because your mission seems to be to hold a mirror to the talent of others, and because your guests trust you so completely, your audience is given access to unique and personal visions of life and ways of working. What generosity on your part and on the part of your guests, to share yourselves so openly. Thank you.
posted on October 12, 2007 at 4:07 PM
Frank wrote:
Hi James. You are a very welcomed addition to the blog world. Your show has been quite amazing over all these years. I, like most, love when you "gush" about our beloved actors. I await the day when Jack Nicholson will grace that stage. What an amazing evening that would be. James, if I understand correctly, most, if not all of the interviews go on for several hours. If this is true, I would love to see the whole, extended interviews. Hopefully a dvd collection could be arranged including all that we don't see in the final edit. I have yet another request. I hope you are a fan of the show Thirtysomething. If so, I would love to see a two hour, (at least) show including the cast and creators. Thirtysomething is I think, such an amazing testament to the art and craft, and of course passion for acting, and writing. Hope you will consider this. The dvd of this series is hopefully coming out soon. This would be an amzing way to launch that dvd. Many thanks James, and all the best.
posted on October 12, 2007 at 8:23 PM
Jeff wrote:
I have to admit that the Diana Ross special was indeed one of the most entertaining shows I have ever saw. She really is a Diva looking amazingly as she always does. I particularly loved her anwers to your final questions. What is your favorite word, "Love"she responded. I hope this show remains in re-runs. Ross is a truw American gem and sometimes I am saddened sometimes that she does not receive the recognition that she truly deserves.
posted on October 13, 2007 at 2:30 PM
David wrote:
Your show is such a gift to the world, and I would like suggest a companion show (because I don't want Actors Studio to end): Inside the Writer's Studio.
Every actor says "it's the words" and applying the same approach to writers would be WONDERFUL.
Also, your blog could included anecdotes from past shows, i.e. things that didn't make it to air yet were memorable to you.
And I agree some others: Monday nights don't work.
Saturday or Sunday time slots allow for a more savory experience of time and attention (truth be told, I have to tape you and watch on the weekends).
All the best ~
posted on October 14, 2007 at 5:46 PM
JIm-your brother-in-law wrote:
Your blog is also a good way for your geographially distant family to catch up on your daily activities. Kedakai keeps my posted and now I can also check your blog too. Good Luck with it. Remember this, your stories are always funny and insightful anyway - just keep it that way and everyone will enjoy it.
posted on October 15, 2007 at 10:08 AM
Cloe wrote:
James,
I LOVE INSIDE THE ACTORS STUDIO! I was wondering how long you have lived in New York and what your is your favorite thing to do in New York?
posted on October 15, 2007 at 10:35 AM
nicole wrote:
Would love to see Denzel Washington on your show. Yours is the only show on television I consistantly watch.
posted on October 15, 2007 at 4:24 PM
Donna wrote:
Congratulations Mr. Lipton!
I have been a fan of you and your show for years and I am so happy to know you now have a blog. I love your questions particularly those regarding what drove the actors to pursue the craft and the creative process. Much of what you discuss applies to the psychotherapy field (i.e. energy fields, synchronicity, compassion) of which I am privileged to work in. I should tell you that I cry at the end of each show. First, it's the end of a show, second, the music itself and third "ah, what might have been." Best wishes to you. I'd love you to interview Bonnie Raitt AND I'd love your show to move back to Sunday nights. Thanks so much.
posted on October 15, 2007 at 7:22 PM
Stephanie wrote:
Mr. Lipton,
Since moving to a place in which I could no longer afford Bravo TV, I'm so glad to read your blog. I have a recurring fantasy of being interviewed by you ... too bad I'm not an entertainer of some sort, only a history student who dreams of writing books the general public will understand and enjoy.
posted on October 16, 2007 at 12:41 AM
Selma Celiktemur wrote:
Dear Mr. Lipton,
We are at last have the chance to watch "Inside The Actors Studio" show in Turkey. I am a great fan of your works. We are organising conferences to the Retail Sector in Turkey. This November we will be hosting Pelé-the legendary football player in our conference I would LOVE to learn the opportunity to host you and an actor/actress whom we will agree upon in our conference to be realised on October 2008. Please send me a contact information with whom I will correspond the details.
Regards,
Selma
posted on October 16, 2007 at 7:28 AM
Strider wrote:
Well, now... be gentle? You weren't gentle the first time I saw Inside the Actor's Studio, despite your soft-spoken words and soul-baring questions.
No, you absolutely shook me into actually believing that a show about actors could be interesting. More than the puff of those TV Personality shows, shunning the shallow puddle of E!-type "interviews".
Nice job. Now give me Marg Helgenberger and Mariska Hargitay, dammit!
posted on October 16, 2007 at 3:35 PM
robin wrote:
great show... one of the few tv shows i actually watch. it's great to hear the actors actually talk about the craft and not about the gossip side of things. good luck with the blog and have fun with it...
posted on October 16, 2007 at 8:11 PM
Pam wrote:
Glad to see they talked you into writing a blog. Your thoughtful and intelligent questions are the reason I watch the show. you get them to talk about the process of their business, how they get there, and not the 'bling' of their success...who they are dating and other gossip.
Might I suggest Bill Cosby?
posted on October 17, 2007 at 3:52 PM
Melissa wrote:
Love to watch your show, you handle your guests in a profeesional manor which we are lacking in this day and age!
Replay the Jane Fonda interview and / or have her on your show again. Thanks!
posted on October 18, 2007 at 2:50 PM
JUDITH wrote:
I love you James. My husband knows it; my children know it; and now you know it.
My life is now complete because I can read your blog every week - be still my heart.
Of course, you are probably blushing and taken aback by my outburst of devotion; however, please, don't say anthing because God would say, "Judith, that's a good thing; a very good thing!"
posted on October 19, 2007 at 12:18 PM
Nina wrote:
James,
A blog and a book; Has Christmas come early? Your book is a treasure. It is insightful, warm, and a reflection on the man you are and the grace you bring to television.
Thank you for a wonderful, educational experience every time. And of course, the laughter!
Warmest Regards,
NH
posted on October 19, 2007 at 2:20 PM
Holly wrote:
Mr. Lipton,
Glad to see you blogging and I love your show.
I would LOVE for Bravo to offer LONGER dvds of the shows. Don't you tape for several hours? It would be great to buy longer, more in depth versions.
Thanks for making quality television.
posted on October 20, 2007 at 8:38 AM
atilla yavuzkasap wrote:
ı AM WRİTİNG FROM TURKEY. cONGRaTULATIONS you on your program. I need a favor. Please forward to me the name of music by angelo badalementi of the program. Where can I find that music?I will appreciate that.
Yours Sincerely
posted on October 20, 2007 at 1:30 PM
Kate wrote:
Mr. Lipton-
Thank you so much for many years of viewing pleasure.
If I may suggest a show that would be very similar to your show with the cast of The Simpson's--The Daily Show with Jon Stewart and as many correspondent's(past and present) as possible. It would be hysterical! Thanks, again!
posted on October 20, 2007 at 1:48 PM
nikki wrote:
I appreciate your stream of conciousness approach.
posted on October 21, 2007 at 10:34 PM
Brice Johnson wrote:
Mr. Lipton:
There is so much about life in America these days that has me wondering if we should pack our kids and move to some Micronesian island or something.
Society really seems to be decomposing and i am losing hope.
Unlike much of America, and especially Hollyweird, you are not an attention junkie, you don't draw attention to yourself and you don't consider yourself the center of the universe. You are a model for minimalistic celebrity in that you have become very famous without drawing attention to yourself (intentionally). In fact, most of the time you work at diverting attention. You have become famous for educating your audience.
Another gift you give us is that you communicate with us at or above our level. Thank you. I am so sick of the "dumbing down" of America and honestly believe the practice to be in concert with the efforts to sabotage our education systems. Stupid people are easier to control and market to, aren't they? Remember when we had a constitution? We have happliy allowed it to be shredded.
When did the use of words like "Kentucky" or "delight" become so challenging that we now use KFC or Sunny D, etc.? I am dumbfounded that even the National Geographic Society, an institution previously dedicated to education and now a corporate globb, is pressing their new "Nat Geo" brand as if we should not consume gray matter actually uttering the full words.
Thank you for the Dave Chappelle interview. He's really an impressive man once you peel back the normally worn layers of BS.
You have written a book and are now maintaining a blog to compliment your great show. Over the years you have expressed your position on the school and the show. I am curious about your politics and about your beliefs regarding society and the world. You are a desperately needed intellectual in a decaying society. I believe that you can influence positive change by expressing what's right and, being you, how to fix it. Everyone has a voice but you have an audience, a big one. You can use it for positive change and add that to your legacy.
When you plan to visit Chicago, please contact me so we can plan to meet.
Until then, thank you for educating us all.
posted on October 22, 2007 at 10:19 AM
Lisa C. wrote:
Hi,
This is my favorite show, I love to watch Inside the Actors Studio.
I would like to see Patrick Swayze on Inside the Actors Studio.
And will you have John Travolta on again, and will that interview be on any DVD's and Debra Winger's interview also, I would buy
those interviews on DVD, will those interviews ever be available to buy?
I think this is one of the best shows on TV.
posted on October 25, 2007 at 8:45 AM
Arlene wrote:
Hi Mr. Lipton... greetings from this ole gal in British Columbia.
Just wanted to say THANK YOU... for all you do in order to enable the 'actors' to just be themselves on your program. On so many 'hollywood type' tv programs... I don't think the actors get a chance to just 'be themselves'. We so enjoy your program, and look forward to the continuation in the coming year ahead.
:) Ms. Arlene Campbell
posted on December 12, 2007 at 2:42 PM
Clara wrote:
You should have Johnny Depp on your show again!
posted on January 2, 2008 at 4:11 AM
Judith Nawrozki wrote:
James: I would like to watch and purchase the Edward Norton episode. Can you please run it again and advertise the date it will be on so I don't miss it and tell me how to purchase it. I'm sure it will be a best seller. He's such an excellent actor. Thanks. Judith Nawrozki Can you have him on again to discuss his new films?
posted on January 4, 2008 at 2:11 PM
April wrote:
I love the show and find you so witty and entertaining. It's amazing to hear that you cut yourself out of the show since sometimes its your reactions that I love. Drew Barrymore doing her backwards dance for you was one of my favorite episodes. Second to that would have to be Will Smith dancing to the audiences' singing. Your trying to coax them into these actions (although Drew was more than willing) and your reaction to watching them dance was almost as much fun as them actually doing it. Thanks for providing so much insight into actors lives as that is what makes them more human to the average person.
posted on February 21, 2008 at 1:55 AM