Print
Email
ShareThe satirically taboo-busting, notoriously potty-mouthed Sarah Silverman has written a book about … well, pee – among other things. You can read more about that in The Bedwetter, published by HarperCollins last month. Here, “Big S” talks with PopMatters 20 Questions about her affinity for Bugs Bunny, an affection for Mr. Rogers, and how, with the help of a time machine, she might have helped steer Hitler from his destructive course.
1. The latest book or movie that made you cry?
You Don’t know Jack, an HBO original movie about Jack Kevorkian. Al Pacino is brilliant and the story—the people he helped – is moving. It isn’t a sad movie but there are very sad moments in it.
2. The fictional character most like you?
Bugs Bunny. I’m obnoxious but for some reason my friends and family still love me. I’m very lucky, and I’m most attracted to myself when wearing a wig and lipstick.
3. The greatest album, ever?
It is not possible to answer that question! But let’s see… I’ll say, Patty Griffin, 1000 Kisses.
4. Star Trek or Star Wars?
Star Trek. Sorry!
5. Your ideal brain food?
Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood reruns. Seriously. He was my hero and one of America’s biggest losses. That and the Harper’s Index.
6. You’re proud of this accomplishment, but why?
It’s my personal Push by Sapphire.
7. You want to be remembered for…?
For intent and not content and context and not buzz words. By my friends and family for loving them well. But mostly for having creamy skin.
8. Of those who’ve come before, the most inspirational are?
Steve Martin, Garry Shandling, Albert Brooks, Woody Allen, Ruth Gordon, Bill Cosby, Joan Rivers, Paula Poundstone, Eddie Murphy
The Sarah Silverman Program: Season Two, Volume Two
(Comedy Central; US DVD: 9 Feb 2010)
9. The creative masterpiece you wish bore your signature?
The Trapper Keeper.
10. Your hidden talents…?
I’m good at arguing a point, and I can tap-dance.
11. The best piece of advice you actually followed?
When I was 19 I got my heart broken and I thought I was gonna die. My mom told me not to let the experience keep me from falling in love again, and that love is worth the risk of terrible pain.
12. The best thing you ever bought, stole, or borrowed?
I played poker at a friend’s house and I had shorts on. I was cold and he lent me his wife’s green sweatpants. I wore them home and pretty much for the next two years, but she wanted them back. I very reluctantly returned them. They were perfectly worn-in.
13. You feel best in Armani or Levis or…?
I like being comfortable. I’m at my best when I’m comfortable. So, yeah, some old cargo pants a perfectly worn-in t-shirt and a hoodie or cashmere sweater with sneakers. This has to be everyone’s answer, no?
14. Your dinner guest at the Ritz would be?
Eesh… seems boring to say Barack Obama but, yeah, maybe him.
15. Time travel: where, when and why?
I wouldn’t mind going back to when my parents were kids and protect my dad from his dad and my mom from her mom.
Or maybe go back to when Hitler was an art student. I know this is cocky but I feel like I could say the right combination of words to him to help him accept himself and therefore stick with his art.
16. Stress management: hit man, spa vacation or Prozac?
Bath tub soak, music, and if all else fails, wilding.
17. Essential to life: coffee, vodka, cigarettes, chocolate, or…?
I make a nice pitcher of Good Earth Original tea, iced.
18. Environ of choice: city or country, and where on the map?
New York City. Every single part of it except maybe Times Square.
19. What do you want to say to the leader of your country?
I still believe in you. This blind faith thing the Republicans have had for eight years is kind of great.
20. Last but certainly not least, what are you working on, now?
My glutes. You?
