Will Arnett, the Emmy-nominated actor known for his memorable roles and as a co-host of the popular SmartLess podcast, opens up about the balancing act of fatherhood and career in a recent interview. Despite his fame and accomplishments, Arnett shares the everyday concerns of a parent, highlighting a relatable moment when he wondered why his teenage son took a rideshare instead of hitching a ride with his brother. “That’s my baseline,” he says with a chuckle.
His latest film, “Is This Thing On?”, scheduled for release on December 19, delves into themes of loss and self-discovery that resonate deeply with him as a father and a divorced man. Arnett portrays Alex, a man navigating the trials of divorce, who unexpectedly finds solace and clarity in New York City’s stand-up comedy scene. This role hits close to home for Arnett, who co-wrote the script inspired by the life of British comedian John Bishop, who began his comedy career during his separation from his wife.
In the film, Arnett’s character uses humor as a form of therapy to cope with his changing life, mirroring the actor’s own experiences post-divorce from ex-wife Amy Poehler. Their amicable relationship and shared parenting responsibilities have shaped how Arnett connects with Alex’s journey. He expresses a desire for authenticity in his portrayal, stating, “I wanted him to feel really real. I wanted people to connect on it in a real way.”
Arnett acknowledges the personal experiences that contribute to his portrayal of Alex, stating that while not autobiographical, his life influences the character significantly. The emotional depth of the film includes moments of vulnerability, reflected not only in the narrative but also through Arnett’s own exploration of identity in midlife. He articulate the challenges of reassessing one’s identity outside of being a partner or parent and notes, “It’s a moving target… you have those moments where you ask, ‘What am I?’ And it shifts.”
Even with the heavy themes, “Is This Thing On?” also showcases moments of humor, including some comedic nude scenes that Arnett embraces with a light-hearted perspective. He playfully recalls feedback from friends after a screening, reinforcing that vulnerability is part of the artistic process.
For Arnett, the essence of happiness lies not in his professional achievements but in his role as a father. He reflects, “You’re only as happy as your least happy child,” emphasizing that his children’s well-being is of utmost importance. With a new son, Denny, in addition to his two teenage boys, Arnett’s commitment to fatherhood remains a central part of his life, shaping both his identity and career.
With “Is This Thing On?”, audiences are invited to witness an emotional and humorous exploration of life’s unexpected turns, offering a poignant reflection on personal growth amid adversity.