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Tony Hale has made a name for himself as a comedy heavyweight with unforgettable roles in Arrested Development and Veep, but his latest project, Anna Kendrick’s directorial debut Woman of the Hour, takes a dramatic turn. Hale plays a game show host in the true-crime thriller based on the bizarre real-life story of serial killer Rodney Alcala’s appearance on The Dating Game in the midst of his killing spree. The actor spoke with Kyle Meredith about the film, as well as Arrested Development and wanting to do more with his Veep character, so listen above or wherever you get your podcasts.
Hale’s character (who is based on original Dating Game host Jim Lange, but named Ed Burke in the film) is meant to represent the detached, sexist culture of the 1970s. “He had this rhythm and cadence that really symbolized his disconnection from reality,” Hale explains, adding, “[The movie] doesn’t glorify the serial killer. It’s about the victims, and that was important to me.” Hale also praises Kendrick’s work behind the camera, noting the unique dynamic of working with someone who has an actor’s sensibility. “It’s always a gift to work with an actor-director because they know the questions you’re going to ask,” Hale says, emphasizing the trust and vision Kendrick brought to the project.
While Hale is excited to show his versatility with this dark role, he also has a willingness to revisit beloved characters like Buster Bluth and Gary Walsh. Speaking about his work on Arrested Development, Hale recalls how easily he slipped back into character for the show’s Season 4 and Season 5 revivals. “The minute I heard Jessica Walter say ‘Buster,’ it was like a Pavlovian response. I was back,” he says with a laugh, fondly remembering the late actress. Similarly, Hale speaks fondly of his time on Veep, where he says he’d love the chance to return. “If they ever decide to do anything more, everyone would jump at the chance. We just love it.” With the HBO hit more prescient than ever, perhaps now’s the time for a reunion?
Listen to Tony Hale talk about Woman of the Hour, Arrested Development, Veep, his upcoming role in Sketch, and more in the new episode above or by watching the videos below. Keep up on all the latest episodes by following Kyle Meredith With… on your favorite podcast platform; plus, check out all the series on the Consequence Podcast Network.
