January 4, 2008
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As I undertake my fifth blog, the holidays recede into the past. For Kedakai and me, they’re a deeply satisfying memory. I hope the same can be said for you.
Now we face the considerably less jolly prospect of winter’s long cold grip. Of all the months of the year, I suspect that January and February are the least anticipated and, in the northern hemisphere, the least appreciated, as we await, with growing impatience, the first glimmer of Spring late in March.
As an antidote to these lackluster days I hope you’ll accept an excerpt from my book Inside Inside -- which, thanks to tens of thousands of you out there, is enjoying sales that fulfill the publisher’s and my wildest hopes.
One of the chapters of the book that has leapt from the pages to the headlines is the account of the rites of passage I underwent as a very young man in Paris. Some of it, I admit, is too scandalous to include, bleeped, or unbleeped, in my blog (I guess you’ll just have to read the book), but maybe this account of my first evening in Paris on a cold, wet March night a long time ago may brighten your dark winter as it brightened mine:
On my first night in Paris -- my first night anywhere outside the United States, apart from Windsor, Ontario -- I asked the concierge of the Hôtel Duminy to recommend a nearby restaurant, and he pointed me toward Chez Pierre à la Fontaine Gaillon. As I walked there on an early March night, the Paris streets were dark and cold and wet and indescribably beautiful.
Comments
John Kayfman wrote:
Congratulations on Inside Inside. I've long watched your program and have always found it to be one of the last bastions of intelligent conversation on television. By concentrating on process, you open a window into a fascinating world and provide means by which dreams are made possible. The joining of those whose energy has given them the talent and persistence to find careers with those who hope to do so is a meeting of minds, aspirations and energies whose warm glow is felt not only by those present but by those watching as well.
The same qualities that imbue your show with its special value enliven every page of your wonderful book.
posted on January 5, 2008 at 7:58 AM
Tom wrote:
As a computer semi-literate who doesn't understand that he has a URL, and who has avoided blogs until now, I have to say that I'm now into reading blogs (yours in particular) on a religious basis. I know that in 13 years you've interviewed a lot of folks. My regret about the show is that I missed many of the early guests, Norman Jewison comes to mind. I wish Bravo offered a late night reruns edition that went back into your early years. Norman Jewison may not have the glitzy attraction of Halle Barre, but I am interested in the process, the techniques, the motivation of those I call the technicians of the business. Thanks for the story of your first night in Paris, and the Bob Hope story.
Tom
posted on January 5, 2008 at 5:10 PM
Laurie D. T. Mann wrote:
I agree with Tom. I'd love to see the early interviews, the ones with Sally Field and Ellen Burstyn especially. I'd also love the see the rumored five hour unedited Robin Williams interview. I've had a copy of the hour long version on my data recorder since the last time it was on.
posted on January 8, 2008 at 12:07 PM
Tony wrote:
Congratulations Mr. Lipton all the way from the UK. I have to import my DVD's of your fine show. I do have a request though: If at all possible, could we release ALL of the epiodes of ITAS onto DVD in one huge boxset? I would certainly buy it. Obviously, the shows that followed the release of said boxset could be released individually. Anyhow, it may be a pipe dream but I look forward to the next new episode of ITAS.
Thank You again.
posted on January 8, 2008 at 4:13 PM
Jane wrote:
Thanks Mr. Lipton for your wonderful show. Truly, IAS was the show that opened my eyes to the craft of acting. I had no idea the work that went into it until I watched your show. What geniuses these people are! My only complaint is that I can't find your show. It changes dates and times so often and now I think it's only on at 1am. I'm not up. Is there any chance it will be on in the future at a reasonable time and day? Amidst all of the stuff on the Reality channel, oh - sorry, Bravo Channel shows, your show is sorely missed.
posted on January 9, 2008 at 5:39 PM
Renata wrote:
Is there any chance that, in the next season, you interview the Scottish actor Gerard Butler?!?!?!?!?!?!?!
It is an interview awaited by many of his fans!
posted on January 10, 2008 at 1:22 PM
Donna wrote:
Mr. Lipton...I've watched Inside the Actors Studio for years. I enjoy every minute of it...especially the questionaire of Bernard Pivot's. Have loads of fun with your new blog!!
posted on January 10, 2008 at 1:55 PM
Steven Kahler wrote:
Thank you for being the thread that ties them to us. Warmest regards.
posted on January 10, 2008 at 7:05 PM
chris wrote:
James, love your show and very much appreciate your preparation and knowledge. Looking foward to new ones - not that you need suggestions, but how about Bill Murray, or maybe even Phil Collins? Big fans of both of them, and love to see them answer your questions. Peter O'Toole and Don Rickles also would be wonderful too - they're such institutions.
posted on January 12, 2008 at 1:14 PM
John Hewett wrote:
After listening to your interview on the Diane Rehm show back in early December, I ordered a copy of the book for my wife for Christmas. Much to my surprise (and delight), on Christmas morning two copies of your book were revealed - the one I'd bought her, and the one she'd bought me.
We've just returned from a week's vacation. My constant companion was this most delightful book. I read the final two chapters aloud to her as we drove home today, and when we got to the Martha Graham story, and the final poem, we were both weeping.
Thank you, James Lipton, for your most fascinating life, and the way you've shared it so eloquently with so many.
posted on January 12, 2008 at 9:18 PM
Karen Sucher wrote:
Hi Mr. Lipton...
I have never written to (or read) a blog before! This is my first time...
My son, Kevin, gave me a copy of your new book, Inside Inside, for Christmas -- and I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed it! Your style of writing is so descriptive it makes your stories come to life!
I have been a fan of Inside the Actors Studio for years -- but never really knew a lot about you until I read your book. You have had quite a life filled with adventure!!! I didn't know that you grew up in Detroit! (I was born at Harper Hospital -- and grew up in Royal Oak!) It was interesting to read about your time at Wayne State...
Thank you for writing the book -- and for your wonderful interviews on Inside the Actors Studio...
Karen
posted on January 13, 2008 at 9:36 PM
carole hadlock wrote:
Dear Mr. lipton,
After watching you on Charlie Rose,recently, i just couldn't wait to read Inside Inside.I have been delighted with your very honest and absorbing accounts both of your life and those of your honored quests.
As a former middle school (English) teacher, I am always thrilled to learn what makes others tick, and ,therefore, find your wonderful, exacting, detective work mesmerizing!!!
God bless you for this service to others,Carole
P.S.Your own life is as, if not more engaging than those you interview!!
posted on January 18, 2008 at 10:52 AM
carole hadlock wrote:
Dear Mr. lipton,
After watching you on Charlie Rose,recently, i just couldn't wait to read Inside Inside.I have been delighted with your very honest and absorbing accounts both of your life and those of your honored quests.
As a former middle school (English) teacher, I am always thrilled to learn what makes others tick, and ,therefore, find your wonderful, exacting, detective work mesmerizing!!!
God bless you for this service to others,Carole
P.S.Your own life is as, if not more engaging than those you interview!!
posted on January 18, 2008 at 10:52 AM
Philippa Chapman wrote:
I am posting to request that you [or your people] approach Adam Baldwin to be on your program. With a career that spans over 25 years, from teen to now and ongoing, both on tv and in many movies, he'd be fascinating, insightful and funny. He would be *amazing* acting in a romantic comedy but the right role for that doesn't seem to have come his way [yet].
Thank-you
posted on January 18, 2008 at 4:47 PM
Pam wrote:
Mr. Lipton, you have a way of revealing the true person in an actor. Your interviews/sessions are respectful and intelligent. I'd like to see more, more often. I record them all and just finished watching John Cusack's.
On a different note, I have searched high and low for a year for a copy of the opening and closing music. Please point me in the right direction.
posted on January 19, 2008 at 10:30 AM
Susan Hopmans wrote:
Thanks for the great show, the best thing on television, and thanks for all the time and effort you put into making a great book. It is the bible of the film industry. It is now my favorite book, to be reread many times.
posted on January 19, 2008 at 8:08 PM
India Mitchell wrote:
Mr. Lipton; Many years ago I happened across your wonderful show and have been an avid viewer ever since. Imagine my surprise on one episode, one of the students in the audience, stood up to ask a question of one of your guests, and I realized he was my neighbor's son! He has now gone on to become a new director. For a time, our cable network removed Bravo from it's line up and I was quite irritated. Then they brought Bravo back and I immediately searched for ITAS. Then I was surprised to see that our ex-Governor and Senator, Bob Kerrey, was the president of the New School. I don't know what all this has to do with my love of your show, but please don't stop. And, I also plan on getting your book. I read the excerpt and it is really intriguing...Best wishes...
posted on January 20, 2008 at 11:27 AM
Alejandra wrote:
Heloo, Mr. Lipton. I'm from Argentina and I never miss the show. I'd like to congratulate you on your book and hope I can get hold of it somehow. So far, libraries here haven't acquired it.
Your first night in Paris sounded wonderful! It was quite funny. seeing you now, it's hard to imagine you uncomfortable in any situation.
I love the show and I'm sure I'll love the book. The blog is very entertaining.
Greetings from Buenos Aires.
By the way, regarding a previous post, my son is left-handed and he's starting first grade next year!
posted on January 25, 2008 at 9:14 AM
alejandra wrote:
My apologies. I meant "book stores", not "libraries".
posted on January 25, 2008 at 9:16 AM
John wrote:
Dear James,
May I add to the request for repeats of the earlier shows such as Carol Burnett, Shirley Maclaine, etc? Bravo has only been available to us since about 5 years ago and I would love to see some of the shows that were on in your first years.
Thank You in Advance
P.S. Thank you for posting the first chapter of your book and the snippet in this post. I'm looking forward to buying and reading your book.
posted on January 26, 2008 at 8:35 PM
Marshall wrote:
Dear Mr. Lipton
I shall be brief. First congratulations on your book. I enjoy reading all your blogs, and I'm proud to say I have watched "Inside the actors studio" since Mr. Paul newman and yourself brought it in all it's glory to our television sets. However I have one wish, that you please, PLEASE! before the season is done, and if it truly is your last... PLEASE! have DANIEL DAY LEWIS on your program! I will leave a post on every one of your blogs, until Mr. DANIEL DAY LEWIS is sitting across from you... I hope you don't mind!
The best of luck to you sir,
Marshall V.
posted on January 27, 2008 at 5:25 AM
Joy in Kansas wrote:
Mr. Lipton, I am among the many fans of your television program. When I first discovered the show I did not realize it had been on the air for many years. Soon finding this out, I wished the episodes were available for purchase; add my vote to those who have previously expressed interested in such a product. Extended versions as well, for while you may not believe it, some of us fans would even enjoy "the boring parts." I have always been interested in acting, and [approaching 40] soon plan to get involved in community theatre. I treasure every moment of each episode of IAS, from the biographical vignettes to the professional acting tips I would otherwise never have the opportunity to experience. I hope you never run out of guests, and the show continues for many years. Have you considered e-bay for those blue cards? I close with much appreciation for your great work, best wishes for continued success, and congratulations on joining the brave new world of blogging. I shall return, in eager anticipation of each new installment.
posted on January 28, 2008 at 2:14 AM
Eric Boyd wrote:
The way you handled yourself on Da Ali G show was amazing. You totally played right back at him. I WORSHIP THE GROUND YOU STAND ON GOOD SIR !!
posted on January 28, 2008 at 2:37 AM
amber wrote:
PLEASE HAVE DANIEL DAY-LEWIS ON YOUR PROGRAM! IT WOULD BE THE MOST AMAZING SHOW EVER, I'M SURE!!!
posted on February 17, 2008 at 12:53 PM
Annette wrote:
Mr. Lipton
Greetings to you and all those who work along side you in making such a great show celebrating all thespians and their work.
I share the sentiments of one of your other bloggers who wishes, as do I, to see Mr. DANIEL DAY-LEWIS sit across from you. I can only ask of you that you try again and again. PLEASE!PLEASE! I suspect it's not from lack of trying on the part of you and your production team. I understand Mr. Day-Lewis does not grant too many interviews. However, if Charlie Rose had him on his show, PLEASE, try to have him on yours. He's such a living legend and such an amazing actor. There must be some way to have him share some time with you and in turn share some time with us the fans of your show.
Best wishes always,
Annette
posted on July 17, 2008 at 7:48 PM