Emmy Winner Reveals Why Obama Was 'Concerned' About Him
Sep 17, 2026 · 40m
Summary
Alex Edelman discusses his role in The Paper, the Office spin-off, and his award-winning one-man show Just for Us. He shares a memorable anecdote about meeting Barack Obama, who praised the show’s themes of empathy. Edelman also previews his new Edinburgh Fringe show about working as a hospital clown and reflects on the ongoing existential anxiety of sustaining a creative career despite major accolades.
Topics discussed
Sponsorship: The Mandalorian and Rocket Mortgage
The Paper promo and Obama's reaction to Just for Us
Introduction of guest Alex Edelman
Alex Edelman's Brooks Brothers modeling gig
The Paper's connection to The Office universe
The state of local journalism and the show's premise
Comedy dynamics in open-plan office environments
Creating the character Adam: the 'golden retriever' idiot
Sponsorship: Ziotics pre-alcohol probiotic drink
Transitioning from solo performance to ensemble acting
Real-life inspirations for the character Adam
Pressure and excitement of joining an Office spin-off
The Paper's identity versus The Office legacy
Mockumentary camera logic and production techniques
Why The Office became a cultural phenomenon
Barack Obama's praise for Just for Us and empathy
Collaborative creation of Just for Us and humility
New show about working as a hospital clown in Edinburgh
Millennial anxiety and the insecurity of creative careers
The meaning of awards and closing remarks
Sponsorship: The Devil Wears Prada 2 and The Paper
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