Backstage With Gentry Thomas

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Go Backstage with Gentry Thomas as he interviews interesting people from celebrity musicians, athletes, and even movie stars.  STEP BEHIND THE SCENES ON THE BACKSTAGE PODCAST - HOSTED BY GENTRY THOMAS.   WHERE MUSIC LEGENDS, SPORTS ICONS AND MOVIE STARS GET REAL ABOUT THEIR FAILURES, HARD WORK AND RISE TO THE TOP. The Playground loves Gentry’s cool and laid-back interview style and thinks you will too. 

  1. Maria Menounos: Designed to Last and Learning to Listen

    2 HR AGO

    Maria Menounos: Designed to Last and Learning to Listen

    In this inspiring and high-energy episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, Maria Menounos joins Gentry to talk about her new Hulu series, Designed to Last. The show brings together teams of architects, engineers, and inventors as they compete in intense build challenges, creating homes designed to stand up against the worst Mother Nature can throw at them, including wind, water, snow, ice, and fire. Fans can watch Designed to Last on Hulu here: Designed to Last on Hulu Maria gives Gentry a behind-the-scenes look at the wild production of the show, including the damage, destruction, and chaos that made filming so much fun. She talks about the excitement of watching these builds get pushed to the limit and how the series blends entertainment, science, design, and real-world preparedness. The conversation also turns deeply personal as Maria opens up about surviving hardship, learning to roll with life’s punches, and becoming the CEO of her own health. She discusses how she discovered she had a brain tumor, the lessons she learned through that experience, and why resetting the nervous system has become such an important part of her healing and wellness journey. Maria and Gentry also talk about her incredible career, from interviewing multiple U.S. presidents to growing up as an 80s and 90s kid, and the mindset that has helped her keep moving forward through every challenge. From Hollywood stories to health wisdom and the chaos of a destructive design competition, this episode is full of heart, humor, resilience, and ins

    19 min
  2. Bob Odenkirk on Saul Goodman, Chris Farley and his new movie "Normal"

    3 DAYS AGO

    Bob Odenkirk on Saul Goodman, Chris Farley and his new movie "Normal"

    In this action-packed and hilarious episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, Bob Odenkirk joins Gentry to talk about his new film Normal, a kinetic neo-Western action thriller directed by Ben Wheatley and written by Derek Kolstad. Bob stars as Ulysses, an unassuming substitute sheriff with a troubled past who takes a quiet posting in a small town, only to get pulled into a dangerous conspiracy after a bank robbery reveals something far more explosive beneath the surface. Fans can watch the trailer for Normal Here -->  Normal - Official Trailer Bob and Gentry dive into what makes Normal such a wild ride, including the fun of working on action movies filled with chaos, guns, danger, and dark comedy. Bob also talks about working alongside the great Henry Winkler, why he believes Henry is such a gifted actor, and what it was like sharing scenes with him. The conversation also goes deep into Bob’s comedy roots. He shares what it’s like writing sketch comedy, including the legendary “Motivational Speaker” sketch with Chris Farley, and how that kind of writing helped shape his voice as a performer. Of course, Bob also reflects on playing Saul Goodman in Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, why audiences connected so deeply with the character, and how Saul became one of television’s most unforgettable personalities. From sketch comedy to prestige TV to full-throttle action, this episode is packed with stories, laughs, and insight from one of the most versatile performers in entertainment.

    14 min
  3. Cedric the Entertainer on What Entertains the Entertainer

    1 MAY

    Cedric the Entertainer on What Entertains the Entertainer

    In this fun and animated episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, comedy legend Cedric the Entertainer joins Gentry to talk about his new Netflix animated movie, Swapped. The film is a body-swap animated adventure featuring a stacked voice cast that includes Michael B. Jordan, Juno Temple, Tracy Morgan, Cedric the Entertainer, Justina Machado, and more. Watch Swapped on Netflix here: Netflix - Swapped  Cedric talks about what it’s like stepping into the world of animation, how voice acting differs from live-action comedy, and the challenge of bringing a character to life using only your voice. He also reflects on the different animated projects he’s been part of throughout his career and why animation allows performers to stretch in a completely different way. Gentry and Cedric also have some fun with the movie’s body-swap concept, including who Cedric would swap bodies with if he could choose anyone, alive or dead. The conversation also dives into his hit CBS show The Neighborhood, his current work on Broadway, and how he continues to evolve as a performer across stand-up, television, film, animation, and theater. From Netflix animation to sitcom success and Broadway lights, this episode is full of laughs, wisdom, and classic Cedric charm.

    17 min
  4. RZA on Wu-Tang’s Legacy, Tarantino, and the Mindset Behind It All

    30 APR

    RZA on Wu-Tang’s Legacy, Tarantino, and the Mindset Behind It All

    In this powerful episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, Gentry sits down with RZA, the legendary rapper, producer, filmmaker, and founding member of the Wu-Tang Clan. RZA joins the show to talk about his new film, One Spoon of Chocolate, a stylish action thriller starring Shameik Moore, Paris Jackson, RJ Cyler, Blair Underwood, and more. The film follows a veteran and ex-convict looking for a fresh start in a small town, only to uncover something much darker beneath the surface. Fans can watch the trailer, find screenings, and buy tickets here: One Spoon of Chocolate RZA and Gentry dive into what it takes to create a film from the ground up, with RZA breaking down the writing, directing, and production process behind One Spoon of Chocolate. He also opens up about whether making an album or making a movie is harder, and how hip-hop, cinema, martial arts, and storytelling all connect in his creative universe. The conversation also gets personal as RZA reflects on the loss of his Wu-Tang brother Ol’ Dirty Bastard, the legacy of the group, and what Wu-Tang means to hip-hop culture today. He shares stories about working with Paris Jackson, discussing her connection to Michael Jackson, and the unique timing of their projects being released around the same time. RZA also talks about his relationship with filmmaker Quentin Tarantino, his evolution from music legend to director, and the lessons he’s learned building worlds through both sound and cinema. From Wu-Tang history to Hollywood storytelling, this episode is packed with wisdom, creativity, and raw authenticity from one of the most influential artists of his generation.

    24 min
  5. Wes Scantlin Unfiltered: Music, Life, and the Road Back

    26 MAR

    Wes Scantlin Unfiltered: Music, Life, and the Road Back

    In this high-energy episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, we sit down with Wes Scantlin, frontman of Puddle of Mudd, to talk about the band’s brand-new album Kiss the Machine. Wes opens up about the inspiration behind the record, the evolution of their sound, and what fans can expect from this latest chapter in their rock journey. He also shares details about upcoming tour dates, what life on the road looks like today, and how performing live continues to fuel his passion for music. Fans can check out tour dates, merch, and more at: Puddle of Mudd Want to hear the latest music? Watch the new single “Free” here: Puddle Of Mudd - Free Wes and Gentry dive into everything from the roots of rock music to Wes’s upbringing and how being “country at heart” shaped his style. He reflects on learning guitar in a time before YouTube, where passion, repetition, and raw dedication were the only tools, and how that old-school grind still influences his approach today. From the rise of Puddle of Mudd to the future of rock, this episode is packed with stories, attitude, and authenticity. Don’t miss it.

    17 min
  6. Andrew McCarthy: The Brat Pack, Weekend at Bernie’s, and the Truth About Friendship

    24 MAR

    Andrew McCarthy: The Brat Pack, Weekend at Bernie’s, and the Truth About Friendship

    In this thoughtful and nostalgic episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, we welcome actor, director, and award-winning travel writer Andrew McCarthy. Best known for his roles in iconic 80s films like Pretty in Pink and Weekend at Bernie’s, Andrew joins Gentry to discuss his new book, Who Needs Friends: An Unscientific Examination of Male Friendship Across America. In the book, Andrew takes a deeply personal and introspective look at what friendship means, especially among men, traveling across the country to explore connection, vulnerability, and the challenges of maintaining relationships over time. Get your copy here: Who Needs Friends  Andrew and Gentry also dive into the legacy of the Brat Pack, sharing behind-the-scenes stories from one of the most defining eras in film. He reflects on the cultural impact of 80s movies, his experience filming Weekend at Bernie’s, and how that era continues to influence entertainment today. The conversation turns deeper as they explore the truth about friendship, how it evolves with age, and why it’s often harder, but more important than ever, to maintain meaningful connections. From Hollywood nostalgia to real-life insight, this episode is a must-listen for fans of classic cinema and anyone interested in the bonds that shape our lives.

    17 min
  7. Marlon Wayans Talks Scary Movie 6, Family Comedy Royalty & Crossing Every Line

    12 MAR

    Marlon Wayans Talks Scary Movie 6, Family Comedy Royalty & Crossing Every Line

    In this hilarious and high-energy episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, comedian, actor, and writer Marlon Wayans joins Gentry to talk about everything from stand-up comedy to the return of one of the most iconic parody franchises ever made. Marlon is currently on the road with his Wild Child Tour, bringing his fearless comedy and storytelling to audiences around the country. Fans can find tour dates and grab tickets here: https://www.marlonwayans.com/live-shows The conversation also dives into the highly anticipated Scary Movie 6, which Marlon helped bring to life alongside the legendary Wayans comedy legacy. He shares what it was like writing and developing the new film, how the creative process works behind the scenes, and why fans of the original films are going to love what’s coming next. Scary Movie 6 is scheduled to hit theaters on June 5, 2026, and fans will be able to watch it in theaters upon release. Marlon and Gentry also geek out over their favorite horror movies, talk about the shows and sitcoms the Wayans family grew up loving, and discuss the grind and excitement of life on the road performing stand-up night after night. Along the way, Marlon even opens up about his golf game, life lessons from comedy, and how staying creative keeps him energized. From behind-the-scenes movie stories to wild stand-up tour moments, this episode is packed with laughs, insight, and classic Marlon Wayans energy. Don’t miss it.

    13 min
  8. Alfonso Ribeiro: The Show Must Go On — From Fresh Prince to AFV and Life After Loss

    5 MAR

    Alfonso Ribeiro: The Show Must Go On — From Fresh Prince to AFV and Life After Loss

    In this fun-filled episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, actor and television host Alfonso Ribeiro joins Gentry to talk about the enduring success of America’s Funniest Home Videos (AFV), the longest-running primetime entertainment show in ABC history. Alfonso shares what it’s like hosting the iconic show that celebrates the funniest real-life moments caught on camera. New episodes of America’s Funniest Home Videos air Sundays on ABC, and fans can watch clips and learn more about the show here: https://www.afv.com/  Got a hilarious video? Alfonso explains how viewers can submit their own clips for a chance to be featured on the show—and even win serious prize money. Upload your funniest video here: https://www.afv.com/upload — where weekly winners can take home $20,000 and compete for a $100,000 grand prize. Beyond AFV, the conversation dives into Alfonso’s television career and the legacy of the show’s past host Bob Saget, whose humor helped define the early years of the series. Alfonso also reflects on his time on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, sharing memories of working alongside the late James Avery, beloved by fans as Uncle Phil. The discussion also turns emotional as Alfonso talks about the recent passing of James Van Der Beek, opening up about their friendship and the impact James had on those who knew him. From classic TV memories to viral videos and heartfelt stories from Hollywood, this episode is packed with laughs, nostalgia, and meaningful reflections. Don’t miss this conversation with one of television’s most recognizable personalities.

    15 min
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About

Go Backstage with Gentry Thomas as he interviews interesting people from celebrity musicians, athletes, and even movie stars.  STEP BEHIND THE SCENES ON THE BACKSTAGE PODCAST - HOSTED BY GENTRY THOMAS.   WHERE MUSIC LEGENDS, SPORTS ICONS AND MOVIE STARS GET REAL ABOUT THEIR FAILURES, HARD WORK AND RISE TO THE TOP. The Playground loves Gentry’s cool and laid-back interview style and thinks you will too. 

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