Amy Poehler has candidly shared her reluctance to work with animal actors, reflecting on a particularly unsettling experience during her time on Saturday Night Live. In a recent episode of her podcast, Good Hang, the actress, now 54, recounted a memorable sketch featuring a young chimpanzee that left her feeling anxious about working alongside animals.
Poehler, who was a cast member on SNL from 2001 to 2008, described a moment when she participated in a sketch with Jason Bateman, where a chimp named Mikey played a pivotal role. The premise involved Bateman as a TV host tricking Sean Connery, played by Darrell Hammond, into a humorous yet chaotic interview that culminated in the chimp throwing feces. Poehler’s role was that of Sharon Stone, but it was Mikey’s behavior off-camera that triggered her discomfort.
“I don’t like working with animal actors,” Poehler admitted during the podcast. “It’s too stressful for me.” She humorously recalled an incident in which the chimp grabbed her wrist and refused to let go while she was in the midst of a costume change. “I think it was the blonde hair or my vibe,” she joked. Although she was startled by the strong grip of the chimpanzee, the interaction concluded without incident.
Earlier this year, Poehler also joined Bateman on his podcast, SmartLess, along with her ex-husband Will Arnett and Sean Hayes. During that conversation, Arnett expressed his gratitude for their co-parenting dynamics and the supportive relationship they maintain post-divorce. “I’m really, really lucky to have her as a partner in this way,” he shared, highlighting the trust and communication that continues to define their partnership in raising their two sons, Abel and Archie.
Poehler’s insights not only shed light on the challenges of working with animal co-stars but also reaffirm the importance of human connections, whether within the professional environment or in personal relationships. Her anecdotes blend humor with a genuine reflection on the demands of her career, leaving listeners both entertained and enlightened.