Nneka McGuire
Hi, Michelle. This is Nneka McGuire from The Lily. Thanks for agreeing to talk with us. Well, text.
Michelle Buteau
Yeah of course! Are we talking on the phone or just texting?
Nneka McGuire
Just texting. We’re trying something different. Have you ever had a text-only interview before?
Nneka McGuire
It’s my first time, too. We’re in the same millennial boat.
Nneka McGuire
So you just wrapped up your first season of Late Night Whenever in July. What are some of the most significant lessons you've learned from having your own podcast?
Michelle Buteau
Oh man. Go big or go home. If someone asks you what you want to do, don’t follow it up with, well, what do you need? Be clear on what you want to say, what kind of fun you’d like to have, how you’re portraying yourself, because it’s out there forever. Also, speak the f--- up. People aren’t a mind reader. Just because execs know you’re talented, it doesn’t mean they know what you want.
Treat every show you’re producing like you’re a bridezilla.
Nneka McGuire
Those are some profound insights — and they can apply in so many contexts.
Anything you’d like to do differently, or experiment with, next season?
It’s rare to be like, I got it good right out the gate?
But I’m super proud of Late Night Whenever
It’s a culmination of a bunch of shows I’ve hosted, cohosted, failed pilots
So, I think the only thing to do differently for next season is
or ... let’s get it on TV!
You are the third queen so it’s only appropriate.
Nneka McGuire
In this moment there are so many emoji I want to trot out but for work purposes I can only use this one.
So and we’ll use our imaginations.
Michelle Buteau
Yes, but not a special, even though that is special, but to be a fixture in the late night landscape
Nneka McGuire
You’ve got a lot on the docket. Like “First Wives Club.” Congrats on being cast as a lead. How are you feeling about it?
Michelle Buteau
OVER THE GAHT DAMN MOOOOON
I’m in really good company.
And it’s so important now more than ever to showcase women’s stories.
A dramedy is truly the sweet spot
Life has its up and downs
So why not lean into that.
Tracy is so dope at story telling and letting an artist shine.
Also Ryan Michelle & Jill are also 2 Dope Queens
so I’m just like … yes yes yes #strongertogether
Just followed you on Twitter!
Nneka McGuire
Speaking of #strongertogether, you’re participating in Bentzen Ball with a whole host of other women/non-binary headliners. How’d you get involved?
Nneka McGuire
And thanks for that follow. I know you can’t hear my tone via text but it’s highly excited.
Michelle Buteau
I’ve known Tig for years in comedy. We run in different circles but made our way back to each other when she directed the first season of 2 Dope Queens! We were like, how come we don’t hang and what not?
She’s such a baller shot caller, I love her and her wife so so much.
So when I got the call to do the festival I was like #duh #jahbless
Yes, I’m saying to the dress …
Nneka McGuire
We at The Lily are beyond looking forward to the fest. Have you crossed paths with the other performers (besides Phoebe Robinson, of course)?
Michelle Buteau
Yes! I just performed at Jonathan Van Ness’s show last night at The Bell House
I wish I could be alive 2 or 300 years from now
Where we’re all non-gender binary
hahaha sorry it’s been a week
I also know Rhea, Amanda, Sheng, it’s really such a great well curated festival
And of course, doing my monthly show with the homey
the best girlfriend in comedy I could’ve wished for
Every show we donate part of the proceeds to an organization
this month will be Nia Wilson’s family
Last show was The Trevor Project
Comedy is such a self-serving career it’s really important to give back, do some good when you can
perhaps raise awareness all while having fun
My uncle is the Archbishop of Jamaica so I grew up fundraising
Nneka McGuire
Oh wow, I knew your mom is Jamaican but didn’t know that about your uncle.
Michelle Buteau
Yes! Maybe I shouldn’t have said that hahaha I talk about very dirty thangs on stage
Nneka McGuire
I know our time’s technically up, but could I ask you another couple questions? I’ll type as swiftly as my stubby little fingers can
Nneka McGuire
Thank you, thank you. In a Gothamist interview, you said that you missed out on performing in high school, like in plays, because you were too shy. These days you’re so open on stage. How did you overcome shyness in adulthood?
Michelle Buteau
Honestly, I think once I went to college and started thinking for myself, and not in a group, things shifted. I had sex. I didn’t have to run it by anyone. Lots of people were expressing themselves and weren’t getting in trouble for doing so (teachers, parents, bosses etc) and I just felt like I always had a voice that I stifled. I also knew the answer in high school but was afraid to raise my hand because I thought I’d sound stupid even when I knew I was right. Working and living in New York City was such a great education for me, because I couldn’t afford to be shy, I had to speak up, otherwise I’d be the last in line for everything. I don’t, I guess life just happened and I had to keep up. I’m so glad it did, because now I can’t shut the f--- up.
Nneka McGuire
Thank you for that honest answer. What you described — so many people can probably identify that.
You bill yourself as the “no-budget Oprah.” Have you met the actual Oprah?
Michelle Buteau
I have not but Black Jesus please come fix that.
Nneka McGuire
What’s one thing that you love but feel guilty about?
Michelle Buteau
I’m a woman! I feel guilty about feeling guilty! I mean, pasta? Rosé? Terrible reality TV? Road rage? Returning clothes after I wear them? Pick ya poison!
Nneka McGuire
I watch the Bachelor like it’s my religion. I can relate.
Last question (cross my ): If you had to describe yourself in three emoji, what would they be?
Nneka McGuire
Thanks very much for chatting, Michelle. It’s been a pleasure. Have a great evening (hope it includes some guilt-free pasta and a big glass of rosé).
Michelle Buteau
Gah! Thai food and rosé cause it’s summah!
have a great night and see ya at the show!
