Stavros Halkias Was Forced to Get Political: ‘I Hate It!’
Summary
Comedian Stavros Halkias joins the NYT Popcast to discuss his new Netflix special, *Uncle Stav*, and his role in the Anthony Bourdain biopic *Tony*. He reflects on his career evolution from podcasting to stand-up, emphasizing his commitment to writing original material over viral crowd work. Halkias also opens up about his struggles with weight, substance use, and physical injuries, sharing his nuanced perspective on using GLP-1 medications for health management.
Topics discussed
Sponsor message: Jewish Museum exhibition
Podcast growth and celebrity guest aspirations
Acting roles in Begonia and Tony
Being an uncle and childhood nostalgia
The movie Problemstown and Anthony Bourdain
Childhood summers working with family
Podcasting vs. stand-up comedy dynamics
Stand-up hierarchy and writing process
Comedy craft, Twitter, and Attell
Health struggles and touring lifestyle
Injuries, sobriety, and weight loss
Body image and confidence in comedy
Political views and Baltimore upbringing
Free speech debates and Lenny Bruce
Saudi Arabia deals and comedian ethics
Right-wing comedy and Zoran Mamdani
Podcast guests and political jokes
Back pain and gambling apps
Snack review: Caramel gummies and scallops
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