NPR Radio Interview

The NPR Radio interview I examined was the “Fresh Air” interview with Steve Carell on October 24, 2007, conducted by Terry Gross. The purpose of this interview was to promote Carell’s new move, “Dan in Real Life.” However, the interview is not limited to just his new movie but to previous movies he has done and shows he has and currently appears on. The interviewer new prior to the interview was to know what movies and types of movies he has done. Also what types of shows he has done and is currently on. Carell has been a correspondent on The Daily Show, and has also stared in the movies “Anchorman,” “The 40 Year-Old Virgin,” and currently stars in the sitcom, “The Office” on NBC. Gross built up to asking him questions by playing audio clips from his work in these shows, and asking him if those were his ideas or questions on his character. She especially asked him questions on the character, Michael Scott on the show, “The Office” because that is his most developed character and a character he has to play week after week. Other questions Gross asked were “How did you or who did you get inspiration from in your life to play Michael Scott since you never worked in an office before.” Carell answered by saying he has received much of his inspiration for that character and others from life experiences with teachers and former employers. The same strategy of building up to questions, playing an audio clip, was also used for follow up questions. For example, she would play a clip and then ask a question or after he answers, she would ask a question that went deeper into the subject. There did not seem to be any relationship between the interviewer and the interviewee. They seemed like strangers although they may have meet before. Listening to this interview, I have learned a lot about the interview process. Gross hardly asked any questions and that left Carell doing all the talking or telling. It was interesting to see that happen. Basically that means he is a good interviewee, which makes it easier on the interviewer. I found this to be interesting and a good learning tool.

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