Dropping Names ...and other things

Brent Spiner & Jonathan Frakes
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  • Comedy Interviews
  • Every two weeks

Dropping Names ...and other things with Brent & Jonny is a conversation podcast show from Star Trek: The Next Generation stars Brent Spiner and Jonathan Frakes. Each episode, these longtime friends sit down with fascinating characters they’ve met across decades in Hollywood. Whether you're a sci-fi fan, a film buff, or just here for the laughs, this is the show where great stories meet great conversations… and a few names get dropped along the way. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 10 hr ago

    Michelle Hurd: My Mother Taught Us to Lead With Love and Not With Fear

    Michelle Hurd sits down with Brent Spiner and Jonathan Frakes on Dropping Names and the first thing she gives them is her father. Hugh Hurd was 18 when he shipped out with a Black battalion in World War II, and he was one of the soldiers who walked through the gates of Dachau, where the prisoners who crawled out of hiding called the men who freed them black angels. Ten years later a hand reached out on a New York City bus to ask whether he thought a face like that could ever be forgotten. From there Michelle keeps going: her father in Shadows, the very first John Cassavetes film, Peter Falk pretending his glass eye had fallen out in Times Square, Godfrey Cambridge as her godfather, Maya Angelou raising money for Doctor Martin Luther King at cabarets her dad helped organize, and Hugh on Broadway in The Little Foxes with Elizabeth Taylor, who gave up her first class seat to go sit with the cast. She also explains why a Black father and a white mother sat their three daughters down in front of Star Trek every week so they could watch Nichelle Nichols take up space. The rest is just as good. Michelle talks about playing Raffi Musiker on Star Trek Picard opposite Patrick Stewart and Michael Dorn as Worf, and Jonny confesses that he tried to make her look strung out for a scene and the makeup department told him she was simply too fine to ruin. She describes the survivor guilt of being the only member of the original Picard cast held over after the others were let go, and what Terry Matalas told her about why. There is a producer who once phoned to say their research proved a woman of color could only be taken seriously with straightened hair, which is exactly why Raffi has a mane of curls in the 25th century. There is Bruce Campbell climbing on top of the car from Ash vs Evil Dead to apologize to two hundred people, a story worth the whole episode on its own, and a Charles Bronson anecdote from Brent that lands as its perfect opposite. Plus her sister Adrian at Alvin Ailey, Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell on Anyone But You, her husband Garrett Dillahunt on Deadwood, and a genuinely clear explanation from the secretary treasurer of SAG AFTRA about how actors lost their health insurance. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  2. 26 Aug

    Animal House to West Wing with Tim Matheson

    In this exclusive episode of Dropping Names, we sit down with the legendary Tim Matheson to explore his incredible journey through Hollywood. From his iconic role in 'Animal House' to his unforgettable appearances in 'West Wing', Tim shares behind-the-scenes stories and insights that reveal the heart and humor behind his storied career. Discover the secrets of working with comedy giants like John Belushi and Leslie Nielsen, and hear about his experiences with directors like Steven Spielberg and Clint Eastwood. This episode is packed with laughter, nostalgia, and name-dropping galore! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  3. 12 Aug

    Secrets from Star Wars and Star Trek with Sam Witwer

    In this episode of Dropping Names, we sit down with the incredibly talented Sam Witwer, known for his roles in Star Wars and Star Trek. Sam shares his unique approach to choosing roles, his experiences in the industry, and some behind-the-scenes stories that will blow your mind. From his time on Battlestar Galactica to his iconic role as Darth Maul, Sam opens up about the highs and lows of his career. He also discusses the challenges of the acting world, including his time at Juilliard and the lessons learned from industry legends. Don't miss this insightful and entertaining conversation with one of Hollywood's most versatile actors. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  4. 29 Jul

    Michael Dorn and his Untold Stories

    In this captivating episode of Dropping Names, we sit down with the legendary Michael Dorn, best known for his iconic role as Worf in Star Trek. Join us as we delve into his fascinating career, from his early days on 'Chips' to his memorable moments with Glenn Close and beyond. Michael shares hilarious behind-the-scenes stories, including a near-miss flight adventure and his experiences working with Hollywood greats. Plus, get a sneak peek into his upcoming film project. Don't miss this exclusive insight into the life of a true Hollywood icon. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  5. 15 Jul

    The INSULT That Created The Big Bang Theory's Bill Prady

    What happens when one of your biggest heroes completely crushes your dreams? In this episode of Dropping Names, Bill Prady shares the unbelievable story of how a disappointing meeting with legendary science fiction author Isaac Asimov unexpectedly launched his writing career. Along the way, Brent Spiner and Jonathan Frakes swap incredible stories about Jim Henson, The Muppets, Big Bang Theory, Jerry Lewis, Sammy Davis Jr., Frank Sinatra, John Landis, Dream On, Star Trek, and some of Hollywood's greatest legends. This conversation is packed with hilarious behind-the-scenes moments, career-changing advice, unforgettable celebrity encounters, and the kind of stories you only hear when three lifelong Hollywood insiders sit down together. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  6. 1 Jul

    Tom Bergeron Unplugged: From Hollywood Squares to Star Trek Adventures

    In this captivating episode of Dropping Names, Tom Bergeron takes us on a journey through his illustrious career, sharing behind-the-scenes stories from Hollywood Squares, Dancing with the Stars, and more. From unexpected encounters with celebrities like Whoopi Goldberg and Bob Dylan to hilarious anecdotes about his time on set, Tom's tales are both entertaining and insightful. Join us for a deep dive into the world of television hosting, celebrity interactions, and the art of improvisation. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  7. 17 Jun

    Jane Leeves Reveals What Betty White Was REALLY Like On Set

    In this captivating episode of Dropping Names, we sit down with the delightful Jane Leeves, known for her iconic role as Daphne on "Frasier." Jane opens up about her experiences working with legendary stars, including the incomparable Betty White. Discover behind-the-scenes stories from her time on "Hot in Cleveland" and other fascinating anecdotes from her illustrious career. From her unexpected encounter with Benny Hill to the heartwarming tale of how she met her husband, this episode is filled with laughter, nostalgia, and a touch of Hollywood magic. Tune in for an unforgettable conversation with one of television's most beloved actresses. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  8. 3 Jun

    Wedding Crasher Tales and Hollywood Secrets with Ron Perlman

    In this captivating episode of "Dropping Names," Ron Perlman takes us on a wild ride through Hollywood's golden stories and his bold vision for the future of the film industry. From crashing Linda Hamilton's wedding for tacos to working with legendary figures like Marlon Brando, Ron shares candid anecdotes and insights that are as entertaining as they are enlightening. Dive deep into the heart of Hollywood with Ron as he discusses his new venture, Asylum Studios, aiming to revolutionize the way we create and consume films. Don't miss this blend of humor, nostalgia, and forward-thinking from one of the industry's most intriguing personalities. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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Hosts & Guests

About

Dropping Names ...and other things with Brent & Jonny is a conversation podcast show from Star Trek: The Next Generation stars Brent Spiner and Jonathan Frakes. Each episode, these longtime friends sit down with fascinating characters they’ve met across decades in Hollywood. Whether you're a sci-fi fan, a film buff, or just here for the laughs, this is the show where great stories meet great conversations… and a few names get dropped along the way. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    Brent Spiner & Jonathan Frakes
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    17
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Dropping Names, LLC
  • Show Website
    Dropping Names ...and other things