Answers with Lenny Jacobson

Answer 1

You're starring in Comedy Central's first ever series to air, "Big Time in Hollywood, FL", as one of the two delusional brothers that are kicked out of their parents house and forced on an epic life journey to find themselves. What was it like to play Alex Anfanger's brother on "Big Time Hollywood, FL"?

The 2nd time I auditioned I realized that one of the creators was playing the brother Jack, which was great because we got to read together and find a nice rhythm. It was very important to me that the brother relationship seemed real. Obviously, we must act like brothers but in this story Jack and Ben have an almost unhealthy relationship to each other because they are always together and are pretty awful to everyone else. Alex and I started taking on the characteristics of real brothers, we have fun like brothers, fight like brothers and now love each other like brothers...it was the same with Jon Bass, who plays Del, he's amazing!! We've spent so much time together and are all so passionate about making this show the best it can be. It's been one of the best parts of the job- creating those real relationships.

Answer 2

You've compared "Big Time in Hollywood, FL" to a mix between "The Three Stooges" and "Breaking Bad". Could you explain why you chose these 2 shows specifically?

Actually, a reviewer said the 3 Stooges, Quentin Tarantino...and we've always said Big Time has the crazy dark story style of Breaking Bad, including dealing with the consequences of your actions. BB is my favorite show of all time and I grew up with the 3 Stooges and that slapstick humor is amazing. Alex came up with the description "slapstick drama".

Answer 3

"Big Time in Hollywood, FL" is produced by Ben Stiller's Red Hour Films and Ben also stars in an episode this season. What was it like to work with hilarious and mega talented Ben Stiller?

A dream come true. Being a huge Stiller fan to begin with and then seeing how great he's been to Alex, Dan and our show. Everyone at Red Hour is family at this point. As far as working with Ben, after getting over the fear and awe of doing a scene with him, it was so easy and fun. He was hilarious and giving...just like one of the guys with us.

Answer 4

How does the fact that "Big Time in Hollywood, FL" is a continuous, episode-by-episode series change the storyline of the comedy?

Because it's written like a drama and shot with a very cinematic feel and look. The story and plot are just as important as the comedy. We were allowed to focus on the story and let the jokes happen organically--and because it is a comedy, some of the darker scenes are easier to get away with in the world we've created. It's my favorite thing about the show - the reaction people have - they say, "I find myself shocked & terrified at some of the things in the show, but I can't stop laughing. I'm addicted." It's a great compliment.

Answer 5

"Big Time in Hollywood, FL" also isn't just a comedy...some of the episodes actually get quite deep, dark and real world. How can we expect your character, Ben, to continue to develop as season 1 progresses?

In the beginning Ben is just as passionate as Jack in chasing their dream but maybe not in the same aggressive manner. He's the older brother but very much follows Jack's lead. As the season goes on Ben grows up a lot and takes on a more "older brother" type role and tries to be more of an adult which he kind of succeeds at but not really...Haha it's great to play.

Answer 6

What was it like to have Stephen Tobolowsky and Kathy Baker as parents on "Big Time in Hollywood, FL"?

Absolutely! Two of my favorite people alive. So talented and experienced and completely willing to come in and work with us weirdos. They really have become like our parents. We got so lucky to have them.

Answer 7

Any hints as to what we can expect in upcoming "Big Time in Hollywood, FL" episodes?

At around episode 5 a major event occurs that again changes the arc of the story and sets more problems in motion. Ben and Jack have to do some things on their own which as you can guess doesn't go so great. Del gets a girlfriend. Which is almost like watching a completely different show. By the last 4 episodes we are in a full crazy tornado of chaos heading towards the finale.

Answer 8

You also recently starred on Showtime's "Shameless" as Norbert. What was it like shooting on the "Shameless" set?

I've been really lucky to work on a lot of different shows and each one with a group of amazing actors and crew. I've always said I haven't had a "bad" working experience and Shameless was like the others... fantastic. It's a very family like atmosphere on that set and they are very welcoming to guest stars, so I immediately felt comfortable.

Answer 9

Can you describe the storyline of "The Veil" for Answers readers not familiar with the film?

It's about a cult back in the 70s or 80s where all its members died except one young girl. Cut to present day and a film crew wants to revisit the scene of where the cult was located with the now grown up girl. Umm... without spoiling...it doesn't go well. Haha

Answer 10

If you could work with one actor or actress in any future film or television series, who would you choose to work with and why?

Bryan Cranston. Besides being a huge fan of his from Breaking Bad. I love the story of his career and how he looks at doing the job of acting. No complaints...just keep doing the best work possible and great things will come. Also, he started in comedy and was able to do such a dramatic role and the role of his career and I some day would like to be able to do a mix between comedy & drama as well.