Hollywood Obsessed

Tony Miros
  • 4.5 (16)
  • TV & FILM
  • UPDATED BIMONTHLY

Hosted by Hollywood casting director, journalist, and former studio tour guide, Tony Miros, HOLLYWOOD OBSESSED is an illuminating podcast featuring insightful interviews with entertainment professionals and insiders who share their personal stories about Hollywood and its colorful history. In each episode, listeners will take a captivating journey, discovering fun movie & TV facts and trivia that will enlighten and delight. If you’re as obsessed with Hollywood as Tony is (or would like to be), join him and his latest guest every other Monday for an exciting, new episode of HOLLYWOOD OBSESSED.

  1. 4D AGO

    Episode 162 – From Walnut Grove to St. Eligius: Bonnie Bartlett Daniels Reflects on an Iconic Career (Part 2)

    In Part Two of Tony Miros’ candid and entertaining conversation with two-time Emmy winner Bonnie Bartlett Daniels, the legendary actress pulls back the curtain on one of television’s most beloved dramas, “St. Elsewhere.” Bonnie reveals that she originally auditioned for the head nurse before producers invited her to play Ellen Craig opposite her real-life husband, William Daniels. What began as a small role quickly evolved into one of the show’s most memorable relationships — though many of their co-stars, and even viewers, had no idea the two actors were actually married. Bonnie also shares what it was like winning Emmy Awards on the same night as her husband, the challenges she faced fighting for proper billing on the series, and her honest reaction to the now-infamous “St. Elsewhere” finale. Along the way, she reflects warmly on a marriage that has lasted more than 70 years — built on friendship, humor, and a deep mutual respect. The conversation also explores some of Bonnie’s most memorable roles beyond “St. Elsewhere,” including her unforgettable turn as the icy Barbara Thorndyke on “The Golden Girls,” her work in the hit miniseries “V,” and why she nearly walked away from the film “Twins” before director Ivan Reitman rewrote her role. She also speaks candidly about standing her ground in a male-dominated industry and how much the business has changed over the decades. At 96, Bonnie Bartlett Daniels remains sharp, reflective, and wonderfully honest. From “Gunsmoke” to “Parks and Recreation” to “Better Call Saul,” she has witnessed nearly every era of modern television — and in this conversation, she shares the stories only someone who truly lived Hollywood history can tell. BONNIE BARTLETT DANIELS Bonnie Bartlett Daniels is a two-time Emmy Award–winning actress whose career spans more than seven decades across television, film, and theater. She first gained national attention in the 1950s playing Vanessa Dale Raven on the daytime drama Love of Life, launching a career defined by versatility and memorable character performances. Born and raised in Moline, Illinois, Bonnie was inspired by her father, a touring stock actor. She studied drama at Northwestern University, where she met fellow actor William Daniels. The two married after graduation and moved to New York City to pursue acting careers. During this time, Bonnie studied with legendary acting teacher Lee Strasberg at the Actors Studio, refining the Method techniques that helped shape her long and successful career. Bonnie later became widely known for her role as Grace Snider Edwards on Little House on the Prairie and for her Emmy-winning portrayal of Ellen Craig on the acclaimed medical drama St. Elsewhere, where she starred opposite her real-life husband, William Daniels. In 1986, the couple made television history by winning Emmy Awards on the same night. Over the years she has appeared in numerous television classics including V, The Golden Girls, Home Improvement, ER, and Boy Meets World, as well as the hit film Twins. After more than 70 years in show business, Bonnie recently added “author” to her résumé with her memoir, Middle of the Rainbow, reflecting on her extraordinary life and career. To Purchase Bonnie’s Book - https://www.amazon.com/Middle-Rainbow-daughter-managed-herself/dp/B0BRLYKLQM    The Official Hollywood Obsessed Website - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.hollywoodobsessedthepodcast.com/ ⁠⁠ ⁠   Follow the Official Hollywood Obsessed Facebook Page – ⁠⁠⁠HOLLYWOOD OBSESSED PODCAST⁠⁠⁠    Follow our Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/hollywoodobsessedpodcast/⁠   Titles VO Talent – Cam Frierson - ⁠⁠http://camfrierson.com/voice   Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠

    38 min

  2. 4D AGO

    Episode 161 – From Walnut Grove to St. Eligius: Bonnie Bartlett Daniels Reflects on an Iconic Career (Part 1)

    In Part One of this candid and captivating two-part conversation, host Tony Miros sits down with two-time Emmy winner Bonnie Bartlett Daniels — best known as Ellen Craig on “St. Elsewhere” — for a fascinating journey through nearly a century of life in and around Hollywood. At 96, Bonnie is sharp, funny, and wonderfully outspoken. She shares how her memoir “Middle of the Rainbow” began as a screenplay years ago before being revived during the #MeToo movement, when she decided it was finally time to speak honestly about the way women were treated in the entertainment industry. As Bonnie puts it, “At my age, I’m entitled to say what I want.” The conversation travels back to her childhood in Illinois, where movie stars were her idols and theater was her dream. She recalls studying Method acting with Lee Strasberg at the Actors Studio — alongside classmates like Marilyn Monroe — and explains why she always saw herself as a character actor devoted to the craft rather than chasing glamour. Bonnie also reflects on performing live on the soap “Love of Life,” her move to Hollywood with husband William Daniels, and memorable experiences working on “Little House on the Prairie,” “Salem’s Lot,” “Ike,” and films like “The Last Tycoon” and “Primary Colors.” Along the way she shares behind-the-scenes stories about Robert Duvall, Robert Mitchum, Ed Flanders, and Larry Hagman — and recounts the moment she stood her ground during an uncomfortable scene in Blake Edwards’ “S.O.B.” It’s an honest, entertaining, and eye-opening look at classic Hollywood from someone who truly lived it — and this is only Part One. BONNIE BARTLETT DANIELS Bonnie Bartlett Daniels is a two-time Emmy Award–winning actress whose career spans more than seven decades across television, film, and theater. She first gained national attention in the 1950s playing Vanessa Dale Raven on the daytime drama Love of Life, launching a career defined by versatility and memorable character performances. Born and raised in Moline, Illinois, Bonnie was inspired by her father, a touring stock actor. She studied drama at Northwestern University, where she met fellow actor William Daniels. The two married after graduation and moved to New York City to pursue acting careers. During this time, Bonnie studied with legendary acting teacher Lee Strasberg at the Actors Studio, refining the Method techniques that helped shape her long and successful career. Bonnie later became widely known for her role as Grace Snider Edwards on Little House on the Prairie and for her Emmy-winning portrayal of Ellen Craig on the acclaimed medical drama St. Elsewhere, where she starred opposite her real-life husband, William Daniels. In 1986, the couple made television history by winning Emmy Awards on the same night. Over the years she has appeared in numerous television classics including V, The Golden Girls, Home Improvement, ER, and Boy Meets World, as well as the hit film Twins. After more than 70 years in show business, Bonnie recently added “author” to her résumé with her memoir, Middle of the Rainbow, reflecting on her extraordinary life and career. To Purchase Bonnie’s Book - https://www.amazon.com/Middle-Rainbow-daughter-managed-herself/dp/B0BRLYKLQM    The Official Hollywood Obsessed Website - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.hollywoodobsessedthepodcast.com/ ⁠⁠ ⁠   Follow the Official Hollywood Obsessed Facebook Page – ⁠⁠⁠HOLLYWOOD OBSESSED PODCAST⁠⁠⁠    Follow our Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/hollywoodobsessedpodcast/⁠   Titles VO Talent – Cam Frierson - ⁠⁠http://camfrierson.com/voice   Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠

    41 min

  3. FEB 23

    Episode 160 – Gregory Harrison: The Heartthrob Who Became a Hollywood Legend – Part 2

    In Part Two of this candid and entertaining conversation, Tony Miros continues his deep dive with Gregory Harrison—exploring the bold choices, unforgettable roles, and personal stories that defined his life as one of television’s most recognizable leading men. Gregory opens up about producing and starring in the cult-favorite TV movie “For Ladies Only,” the groundbreaking project that turned him into an ’80s heartthrob and unexpected pop-culture sensation. He shares how real-life experiences inspired the story, what it was like training with Chippendales dancers, and how the film’s success connected him with a passionate and loyal fan base.   The conversation also revisits Gregory’s scene-stealing turn on “Falcon Crest,” where he stepped into villain territory for the first time as the slick and deliciously devious Michael Sharpe—earning award nominations and proving just how fun it is to play the bad guy. From his comedic work on the cult miniseries “Fresno” alongside legends like Carol Burnett, to his lasting friendships with co-stars across decades, Gregory offers a behind-the-scenes look at the joy, pressure, and evolution of life at the top of Hollywood.   Gregory then reflects on one of the most meaningful projects of his career, the powerful film “It’s My Party,” and what it meant to help tell a compassionate, human story about love and the AIDS crisis alongside an all-star cast. He also shares heartfelt memories of working with icons like Olivia Newton-John, his continued success on shows like “9-1-1” and “General Hospital,” and the enduring on-screen chemistry he shares with longtime collaborators like Wendie Malick.   It’s a moving, funny, and deeply personal conversation about legacy, resilience, and what it really means to be a star. And as Gregory looks ahead—writing his memoir and continuing to create—he reveals the one thing he hopes people will remember most: that he lived his life as a good man who always tried to take the high road. GREGORY HARRISON Gregory Harrison is an American actor, born in Avalon, California. Harrison gained widespread recognition for his role as Dr. George Alonzo "Gonzo" Gates on the popular television series, Trapper John, M.D., which aired from 1979 to 1986. His portrayal of the charming and skilled surgeon earned him critical acclaim and a loyal fan base. Besides 7 years on TrapperJohn, M.D., Harrison has appeared in countless other TV shows including Logan's Run, the miniseries Centennial, Falcon Crest, One Tree Hill, Joey, Rizzoli And Isles, and most recently, 3 years on General Hospital. He has also starred in over 50 TV movies and a dozen feature films.  In addition to his television and film work, Harrison has appeared in numerous stage productions on Broadway and regionally, including Steel Pier, Follies, Chicago, Guys And Dolls, and The Lion InWinter.  Harrison is also known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in supporting environmental causes and the arts. An avid surfer, Harrison has been on the advisory board of the Surfrider Foundation for decades. He has long been a spokesperson for cancer charities and, with 38 grateful years of sobriety, he continues to try to help others live clean and sober lives.    Gregory Harrison Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/p/Gregory-Harrison-100058317420519/   Gregory Harrison Cameo - https://www.cameo.com/gnhsurf    The Official Hollywood Obsessed Website - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.hollywoodobsessedthepodcast.com/ ⁠⁠ ⁠   Follow the Official Hollywood Obsessed Facebook Page – ⁠⁠⁠HOLLYWOOD OBSESSED PODCAST⁠⁠⁠    Follow our Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/hollywoodobsessedpodcast/⁠   Titles VO Talent – Cam Frierson - ⁠⁠http://camfrierson.com/voice   Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠

    39 min

  4. FEB 23

    Episode 159 – Gregory Harrison: The Heartthrob Who Became a Hollywood Legend – Part 1

    In Part One of this lively and revealing two-part conversation, host Tony Miros sits down with beloved television icon Gregory Harrison—best known as Dr. “Gonzo” Gates on “Trapper John, M.D.” and Michael Sharpe on “Falcon Crest.” Gregory takes us all the way back to his childhood on Catalina Island, where his family ran the famous glass-bottom boat and where, as a teenager, he first fell in love with acting after watching stars like Doris Day and Rod Taylor film scenes right in his own backyard. That spark would carry him through his service as an Army medic during the Vietnam era and ultimately into a decades-long Hollywood career. Along the way, Gregory shares incredible behind-the-scenes stories from his early days studying acting on the GI Bill, learning from powerhouse performers like Karen Black on “Trilogy of Terror.” He reflects on his breakout year starring in “Logan’s Run,” his close friendships with co-stars like Heather Menzies and Donald Moffat, and the unforgettable moment he landed his breakthrough role as Dr. “Gonzo” Gates on “Trapper John, M.D.” opposite the formidable Pernell Roberts—a collaboration that would shape his life both professionally and personally. Gregory also pulls back the curtain on life as a top TV star in the 1980s—screen tests, studio lots buzzing with shows like “The Love Boat,” “M*A*S*H” and “Charlie’s Angels,” and working with stars such as Cheryl Ladd. He also opens up about the realities of fame, the pressures that come with sudden success, and the personal challenges he faced behind the scenes—including his journey to sobriety and what he’s learned about resilience, compassion, and staying grounded in Hollywood. It’s a warm, honest, and often funny conversation about talent, resilience, and the remarkable life of a true Hollywood leading man—packed with stories you won’t hear anywhere else. GREGORY HARRISON Gregory Harrison is an American actor, born in Avalon, California. Harrison gained widespread recognition for his role as Dr. George Alonzo "Gonzo" Gates on the popular television series, Trapper John, M.D., which aired from 1979 to 1986. His portrayal of the charming and skilled surgeon earned him critical acclaim and a loyal fan base. Besides 7 years on TrapperJohn, M.D., Harrison has appeared in countless other TV shows including Logan's Run, the miniseries Centennial, Falcon Crest, One Tree Hill, Joey, Rizzoli And Isles, and most recently, 3 years on General Hospital. He has also starred in over 50 TV movies and a dozen feature films.  In addition to his television and film work, Harrison has appeared in numerous stage productions on Broadway and regionally, including Steel Pier, Follies, Chicago, Guys And Dolls, and The Lion InWinter.  Harrison is also known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in supporting environmental causes and the arts. An avid surfer, Harrison has been on the advisory board of the Surfrider Foundation for decades. He has long been a spokesperson for cancer charities and, with 38 grateful years of sobriety, he continues to try to help others live clean and sober lives.    Gregory Harrison Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/p/Gregory-Harrison-100058317420519/   Gregory Harrison Cameo - https://www.cameo.com/gnhsurf    The Official Hollywood Obsessed Website - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.hollywoodobsessedthepodcast.com/ ⁠⁠ ⁠   Follow the Official Hollywood Obsessed Facebook Page – ⁠⁠⁠HOLLYWOOD OBSESSED PODCAST⁠⁠⁠    Follow our Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/hollywoodobsessedpodcast/⁠   Titles VO Talent – Cam Frierson - ⁠⁠http://camfrierson.com/voice   Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠

    41 min

  5. FEB 9

    Episode 158 – Actress & Author Denise Nicholas: Breaking Barriers and Finding Home – Part 2

    In Part Two of this wildly entertaining and revealing conversation, host Tony Miros continues his deep dive with actress, screenwriter, and author Denise Nicholas, whose career places her at the center of some of Hollywood’s most unforgettable moments. Denise walks us through her film journey—from the Aaron Spelling TV thriller “Five Desperate Women” to the cult classic “Blacula,” the first film to feature a Black vampire. She shares unforgettable stories about working with Sidney Poitier, including their first meeting at Carnegie Hall, and reflects on witnessing Hollywood “firsts,” including being among the earliest Black leading ladies on primetime television. She also opens up about collaborating with legends such as Bill Cosby, James Earl Jones, Ossie Davis, and Brenda Vaccaro, winning an NAACP Image Award for “Let’s Do It Again,” and navigating the pressures of sitcom life on “Baby… I’m Back!”—an experience so stressful it sent her straight to Spain once the show ended. The conversation turns especially powerful as Denise recounts joining “In the Heat of the Night,” forming a deep bond with Carroll O’Connor, and making television history once again as part of one of the era’s first interracial couples. Mentored by O’Connor, she went on to write six episodes of the series, launching a second career as a writer that led to her acclaimed novel “Freshwater Road” and her deeply personal memoir “Finding Home.” Honest, funny, and inspiring, this episode offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at Hollywood—told by someone who truly lived it. DENISE NICHOLAS Denise Nicholas is best known for her groundbreaking role as high school guidance counselor Liz McIntyre on ABC’s “Room 222” and for co-starring as Councilwoman Harriet DeLong opposite Carroll O’Connor on “In the Heat of the Night.” Between those landmark series, she appeared on numerous television shows including A Different World, Amen, 227, Magnum P.I., The Cosby Show, and My Wife and Kids. Her film work includes Let’s Do It Again and A Piece of the Action with Sidney Poitier and Bill Cosby, as well as Ghost Dad. Over the course of her career, she earned three Golden Globe nominations, three NAACP Image Awards, and two Los Angeles Emmy Awards for the PBS special Voices of My People: In Celebration of Black Poetry. Denise began her professional journey as a founding member of the Free Southern Theater,during the most dangerous years of the Civil Rights Movement. She later became a founding member of New York’s Negro Ensemble Company, the first professional company of its kind. From the stage of St. Mark’s Playhouse, she was invited to screen test for Room 222, launching a television career that would make history. During her time on In the Heat of the Night, she also wrote six episodes of the series under the mentorship of Carroll O’Connor. After the series ended, Denise devoted her creative life to writing. She trained in Janet Fitch’s Journeyman’s Workshop, where she developed her acclaimed debut novel “Freshwater Road,” named one of the Best Books of 2005by The Washington Post and other major publications and later adapted for the stage at Brown University. Her writing has appeared in Essence, The Washington Post, and Hands on the Freedom Plow. Her memoir, “Finding Home,” was published by Agate Publishing in November 2025 and is available now in bookstores and online.   Denise Nicholas Website - https://denisenicholas.net/about/    To Purchase Denise’s Books on Amazon - https://tinyurl.com/5h4r4nwf    The Official Hollywood Obsessed Website - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.hollywoodobsessedthepodcast.com/ ⁠⁠ ⁠   Follow the Official Hollywood Obsessed Facebook Page – ⁠⁠⁠HOLLYWOOD OBSESSED PODCAST⁠⁠⁠    Follow our Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/hollywoodobsessedpodcast/⁠   Titles VO Talent – Cam Frierson - ⁠⁠http://camfrierson.com/voice   Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠

    39 min

  6. FEB 9

    Episode 157 – Actress & Author Denise Nicholas: Breaking Barriers and Finding Home – Part 1

    In Part One of this fascinating two-part conversation, host Tony Miros sits down with actress, writer, and trailblazing entertainer Denise Nicholas, best known for her iconic roles on the groundbreaking comedy-drama “Room 222” and the acclaimed series “In the Heat of the Night.” Denise opens up about her powerful new memoir, “Finding Home,” and why writing about her own life proved far more challenging than writing her celebrated novel, “Freshwater Road.” Denise reflects on growing up in Detroit. She shares why storytelling requires balance: honesty without becoming too dark, and vulnerability mixed with humor. From being featured on the cover of Jet Magazine at just 16 as a “future educator” to eventually playing one on television, Denise’s journey is full of unexpected turns. She takes us inside her life-changing years with the Free Southern Theater during the Civil Rights Movement, performing for rural Southern audiences who had never seen live theater before—and how profoundly meaningful those experiences were. Denise also recounts her move to New York, becoming a founding member of the Negro Ensemble Theatre, and the terrifying leap into television auditions. One unforgettable moment leads directly to her breakout role on “Room 222”—including a nerve-wracking screen test at 20th Century Fox, a controversial “personality test,” and the sudden shock of instant fame. Denise shares behind-the-scenes stories from the show, her close friendships with castmates, working with Aretha Franklin, the darker side of celebrity, and even a wild chapter involving “The Dating Game” and a trip to Japan. DENISE NICHOLAS Denise Nicholas is best known for her groundbreaking role as high school guidance counselor Liz McIntyre on ABC’s “Room 222” and for co-starring as Councilwoman Harriet DeLong opposite Carroll O’Connor on “In the Heat of the Night.” Between those landmark series, she appeared on numerous television shows including A Different World, Amen, 227, Magnum P.I., The Cosby Show, and My Wife and Kids. Her film work includes Let’s Do It Again and A Piece of the Action with Sidney Poitier and Bill Cosby, as well as Ghost Dad. Over the course of her career, she earned three Golden Globe nominations, three NAACP Image Awards, and two Los Angeles Emmy Awards for the PBS special Voices of My People: In Celebration of Black Poetry. Denise began her professional journey as a founding member of the Free Southern Theater,during the most dangerous years of the Civil Rights Movement. She later became a founding member of New York’s Negro Ensemble Company, the first professional company of its kind. From the stage of St. Mark’s Playhouse, she was invited to screen test for Room 222, launching a television career that would make history. During her time on In the Heat of the Night, she also wrote six episodes of the series under the mentorship of Carroll O’Connor. After the series ended, Denise devoted her creative life to writing. She trained in Janet Fitch’s Journeyman’s Workshop, where she developed her acclaimed debut novel “Freshwater Road,” named one of the Best Books of 2005 by The Washington Post and other major publications and later adapted for the stage at Brown University. Her writing has appeared in Essence, The Washington Post, and Hands on the Freedom Plow. Her memoir, “Finding Home,” was published by Agate Publishing in November 2025 and is available now in bookstores and online.   Denise Nicholas Website - https://denisenicholas.net/about/    To Purchase Denise’s Books on Amazon - https://tinyurl.com/5h4r4nwf    The Official Hollywood Obsessed Website - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.hollywoodobsessedthepodcast.com/ ⁠⁠ ⁠   Follow the Official Hollywood Obsessed Facebook Page – ⁠⁠⁠HOLLYWOOD OBSESSED PODCAST⁠⁠⁠    Follow our Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/hollywoodobsessedpodcast/⁠   Titles VO Talent – Cam Frierson - ⁠⁠http://camfrierson.com/voice   Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠

    34 min

  7. JAN 26

    Episode 156 – The Incredible Life of Legendary Hollywood Casting Director Joel Thurm - Part 2

    In Part Two of this wildly entertaining conversation, host Tony Miros continues his deep dive with legendary casting director Joel Thurm, pulling back the curtain on the chaos, creativity, and pure magic behind some of Hollywood’s most iconic projects. From producing The Boy in the Plastic Bubble under impossible time constraints to stepping in behind the scenes on Grease—without ever getting official credit—Joel shares jaw-dropping stories that prove how much really happens off camera. The heart of the episode belongs to Grease. Joel reveals how the film nearly fell apart, how John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John bonded on set, why casting “older” actors was exactly the right choice, and how a last-minute carnival saved the movie’s legendary finale. He also spills the real stories behind casting Stockard Channing, Sha Na Na, and the brilliant decision to lean into the film’s fairy-tale tone rather than realism. It’s a masterclass in trusting instincts—and knowing when to fight for them. Joel also dives into the genius casting of Airplane!, explaining how ignoring studio demands for comedians and instead casting serious dramatic actors made the movie a comedy classic. From Lloyd Bridges and Robert Stack to Barbara Billingsley’s unforgettable jive-talking cameo, Joel shares how bold casting choices changed film comedy forever—and how close the movie came to being something very different. The episode wraps with Joel’s powerful years at NBC, where he helped shape shows like Cheers, The Golden Girls, The Facts of Life, and The Love Boat. He tells behind-the-scenes stories about casting battles, network politics, missed opportunities, and why he still has zero filter well into his 80s—think Sophia Petrillo with a casting résumé. Funny, candid, and packed with insider revelations, this is an episode every classic TV and movie fan needs to hear.  JOEL THURM  Joel Thurm is a legendary & highly influential Hollywood casting director whose instincts, wit, and fearless advocacy for actors have helped shape decades of TV and film history. Born on one of the last remaining dairy farms in Brooklyn, NY, he grew up surrounded by cows, Broadway cast albums, and a love of movies. A graduate of Hunter College, he briefly worked as a substitute teacher before realizing his creative instincts were better suited for the entertainment world. His path into show business began in theater, including formative work with legendary Broadway producer David Merrick, where he learned the business from the ground up. He soon transitioned into casting and made his mark in Hollywood with an extraordinary run of film credits, including Grease, Airplane!, and The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Early on, he recognized that John Travolta was far more than a teen idol, casting him in The Boy in the Plastic Bubble and helping launch one of the most iconic careers in film history. From 1980 to 1990, he served as Senior Vice President of Talent and Casting for NBC and Paramount Television. He played a pivotal role in discovering and guiding River & Joaquin Phoenix as children and helping set them on their paths to stardom. Overseeing casting for groundbreaking series like Cheers, Taxi, The Golden Girls, Hill Street Blues, and many more, he became known for casting against type, championing authenticity, and respecting actors’ craft—later chronicling his remarkable journey in his candid memoir, Sex, Drugs & Pilot Season: Confessions of a Casting Director. Joel Thurm Website - ⁠https://www.joelthurm.com⁠  To Purchase Joel’s Book on Amazon - ⁠https://tinyurl.com/453capve⁠ The Official Hollywood Obsessed Website - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.hollywoodobsessedthepodcast.com/ ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠   Follow the Official Hollywood Obsessed Facebook Page – ⁠⁠⁠⁠HOLLYWOOD OBSESSED PODCAST⁠⁠⁠⁠    Follow our Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/hollywoodobsessedpodcast/⁠⁠ ⁠ ⁠ Titles VO Talent – Cam Frierson - ⁠⁠⁠http://camfrierson.com/voice⁠   Music by⁠⁠ ⁠⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ ⁠from ⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠⁠

    48 min

  8. JAN 26

    Episode 155 – The Incredible Life of Legendary Hollywood Casting Director Joel Thurm - Part 1

    In Part One of this must-listen, two-part conversation, host Tony Miros sits down with legendary casting director Joel Thurm to explore his extraordinary Hollywood journey & the stories behind his new memoir, Sex, Drugs & Pilot Season: Confessions of a Casting Director. From humble beginnings to shaping TV and film history, Joel shares how a kid who grew up on his grandfather’s dairy farm in Brooklyn—with cows and a love for The Wizard of Oz and Some Like It Hot—found his way into the heart of show business. He opens up about his path to Hollywood: flunking out of Hunter College, becoming a truly terrible substitute teacher, and stumbling into theater through summer stock. Along the way, he shares unforgettable early encounters, including a rain-soaked meeting with Judy Garland that forever shaped his expectations of artists—and artistry. His big break came working for legendary Broadway producer David Merrick, where he was thrown into the fire, learned the business from the ground up, and discovered his instincts for casting. The conversation also dives into Joel’s eye for talent and storytelling, including how he discovered River and Joaquin Phoenix when they were just kids, his close relationship with their family, and how Joaquin later encouraged him to finally write his memoir. Joel reveals why it took years—and a global pandemic—for him to finish the book, and why he famously opens it by apologizing for “discovering” David Hasselhoff. We also hear how Pearl Bailey brought him to Hollywood, leading him to CBS TV Studios and the start of an iconic career casting shows like The Bob Newhart Show. Joel shares behind-the-scenes stories like casting Georgia Engel on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, championing diverse & against-type casting, and his early involvement with The Rocky Horror Picture Show and Grease. JOEL THURM  Joel Thurm is a legendary & highly influential Hollywood casting director whose instincts, wit, and fearless advocacy for actors have helped shape decades of TV and film history. Born on one of the last remaining dairy farms in Brooklyn, NY, he grew up surrounded by cows, Broadway cast albums, and a love of movies. A graduate of Hunter College, he briefly worked as a substitute teacher before realizing his creative instincts were better suited for the entertainment world. His path into show business began in theater, including formative work with legendary Broadway producer David Merrick, where he learned the business from the ground up. He soon transitioned into casting and made his mark in Hollywood with an extraordinary run of film credits, including Grease, Airplane!, and The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Early on, he recognized that John Travolta was far more than a teen idol, casting him in The Boy in the Plastic Bubble and helping launch one of the most iconic careers in film history. From 1980 to 1990, he served as Senior Vice President of Talent and Casting for NBC and Paramount Television. He played a pivotal role in discovering and guiding River & Joaquin Phoenix as children and helping set them on their paths to stardom. Overseeing casting for groundbreaking series like Cheers, Taxi, The Golden Girls, Hill Street Blues, and many more, he became known for casting against type, championing authenticity, and respecting actors’ craft—later chronicling his remarkable journey in his candid memoir, Sex, Drugs & Pilot Season: Confessions of a Casting Director. Joel Thurm Website - https://www.joelthurm.com  To Purchase Joel’s Book on Amazon - https://tinyurl.com/453capve The Official Hollywood Obsessed Website - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.hollywoodobsessedthepodcast.com/ ⁠⁠ ⁠   Follow the Official Hollywood Obsessed Facebook Page – ⁠⁠⁠HOLLYWOOD OBSESSED PODCAST⁠⁠⁠    Follow our Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/hollywoodobsessedpodcast/⁠   Titles VO Talent – Cam Frierson - ⁠⁠http://camfrierson.com/voice   Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠

    37 min
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4.5
out of 5
16 Ratings

About

Hosted by Hollywood casting director, journalist, and former studio tour guide, Tony Miros, HOLLYWOOD OBSESSED is an illuminating podcast featuring insightful interviews with entertainment professionals and insiders who share their personal stories about Hollywood and its colorful history. In each episode, listeners will take a captivating journey, discovering fun movie & TV facts and trivia that will enlighten and delight. If you’re as obsessed with Hollywood as Tony is (or would like to be), join him and his latest guest every other Monday for an exciting, new episode of HOLLYWOOD OBSESSED.

Information

  • Creator
    Tony Miros
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    162
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Tony Miros
  • Show Website
    Hollywood Obsessed

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