Johnny Knoxville Doesn't Know Who Tom Segura Is | Bertcast # 720

1. Knoxville's Early Connection to Bert

Timestamp: 00:00:37 to 00:05:37 - watch this moment on skim

Johnny Knoxville recalls meeting Bert Kreischer in 1997, long before Jackass became a hit, and remembers Bert's early aspirations and his unique idea of performing stunts like being shot with a crossbow. This early encounter planted a seed for Knoxville, making him feel like he was present at the genesis of the Jackass concept.

Significance (Medium): This foundational meeting highlights the organic beginnings of Jackass and establishes a personal connection between the two comedians, framing Knoxville's later success as a realization of early ambitions.

Sources in support: Johnny Knoxville (Host/Guest), Bert Kreischer (Host)

2. The Grueling Pitch Process for Jackass

Timestamp: 00:05:03 to 00:08:03 - watch this moment on skim

The creation of Jackass was a challenging journey, with pitches to networks like HBO, Comedy Central, USA, and VH1 all resulting in rejections. Ultimately, both MTV and Comedy Central wanted the show, but MTV secured it, marking a pivotal moment after numerous failed attempts to get the concept approved.

Significance (High): This reveals the significant hurdles faced in bringing Jackass to air, underscoring the network's initial skepticism and MTV's bold decision to greenlight a show that would redefine reality television.

Sources in support: Johnny Knoxville (Host/Guest)

Neutral sources: Bert Kreischer (Host)

3. The 'Hurt Bert' Conundrum

Timestamp: 00:08:04 to 00:11:04 - watch this moment on skim

Bert Kreischer's solo stunt show, 'Hurt Bert,' lacked the essential camaraderie that made Jackass successful. Without the group dynamic and shared laughter, watching Bert get injured felt uncomfortable and lacked the humor derived from collective experience, highlighting the importance of the 'peanut gallery' in Jackass's appeal.

Significance (High): This comparison sharply defines what made Jackass unique: not just the stunts, but the shared experience and the bond between the performers, which transformed pain into entertainment.

Sources in support: Bert Kreischer (Host)

Neutral sources: Johnny Knoxville (Host/Guest)

4. Knoxville's Stunt Philosophy and Fear Management

Timestamp: 00:11:20 to 00:13:20 - watch this moment on skim

Johnny Knoxville describes his approach to stunts, noting that while he experiences fear days in advance, this anxiety transforms into excitement as the stunt approaches. He has learned to embrace the process, even when facing significant physical danger, suggesting a psychological adaptation to extreme risk.

Significance (Medium): This insight into Knoxville's mindset reveals the psychological fortitude required for his career, suggesting that his ability to manage and even enjoy fear is a key component of his enduring success in dangerous stunts.

Sources in support: Johnny Knoxville (Host/Guest)

5. The 'Wizard of Oz' of Jackass Production

Timestamp: 00:14:23 to 00:16:53 - watch this moment on skim

The production of Jackass operates with a 'Wizard of Oz' dynamic, where directors like Jeff Tremaine and Spike Jonze know nearly all the planned stunts, while the cast remains largely in the dark. This secrecy is maintained to keep the performers genuinely surprised and reactive, contributing to the raw authenticity of the show.

Significance (High): This reveals the calculated strategy behind Jackass's spontaneity, highlighting how controlled ignorance among the cast fuels the genuine shock and humor that defines the franchise.

Sources in support: Johnny Knoxville (Host/Guest)

Neutral sources: Bert Kreischer (Host)

6. Aaron 'Ern' Smith: The Unwitting Whipping Boy

Timestamp: 00:16:00 to 00:18:30 - watch this moment on skim

Aaron 'Ern' Smith is highlighted as a crucial, albeit often tormented, figure in Jackass, serving as the 'liver' or 'whipping boy' whose reactions filter the show's content. Despite being subjected to constant abuse and ridicule, his inherent nature makes it impossible for the cast to maintain any sustained sympathy or kindness towards him.

Significance (Medium): This sheds light on the internal dynamics of the Jackass crew, illustrating how specific personalities like Aaron Smith become integral to the show's comedic structure, even at their own expense.

Sources in support: Johnny Knoxville (Host/Guest)

Neutral sources: Bert Kreischer (Host)

7. Bert's Deep Emotional Connection to 'Walking Tall'

Timestamp: 00:17:41 to 00:19:41 - watch this moment on skim

Bert Kreischer recounts an intensely emotional experience watching the movie 'Walking Tall' on a plane, where he was so moved by a scene of the protagonist revealing scars that he broke down sobbing uncontrollably, despite being drunk.

Significance (Low): This anecdote reveals Bert's capacity for deep emotional engagement with media, showcasing a vulnerability and passion that contrasts with his usual comedic persona.

Sources in support: Bert Kreischer (Host)

Neutral sources: Johnny Knoxville (Host/Guest)

8. Knoxville's Forgotten Pilot and Bert's Admiration

Timestamp: 00:18:24 to 00:20:54 - watch this moment on skim

Bert Kreischer vividly remembers a pilot script Johnny Knoxville did for NBC after Jackass, describing it as one of the best he'd ever read, featuring a memorable scene where Knoxville's character tortures a masseuse. Knoxville, however, has no recollection of this pilot, highlighting the vastness of his career and the selective nature of memory.

Significance (Medium): This exchange underscores the deep admiration Bert holds for Knoxville's career, while also pointing out the sheer volume of projects Knoxville has been involved in, some of which fade from his own memory.

Sources in support: Bert Kreischer (Host)

Neutral sources: Johnny Knoxville (Host/Guest)

9. Bert's Fanaticism and Knoxville's Impact

Timestamp: 00:23:38 to 00:25:38 - watch this moment on skim

Bert Kreischer expresses profound admiration for Johnny Knoxville, viewing his success as a source of hope for 'regular dudes' entering the entertainment industry. He describes himself as a 'fan' who roots for Knoxville's achievements, finding validation in his continued success and solid career.

Significance (High): This sentiment elevates Knoxville's career beyond mere entertainment, framing it as an inspirational narrative that provides encouragement and a sense of possibility for aspiring individuals in the industry.

Sources in support: Bert Kreischer (Host)

10. The Surreal Impact of Jackass Fame

Timestamp: 00:27:14 to 00:30:15 - watch this moment on skim

Johnny Knoxville describes the disorienting experience of becoming an overnight global sensation with Jackass, moving from being broke to being on the cover of Rolling Stone in just three months. He notes that this was a different era of fame before social media, making the transition even more abrupt and life-altering.

Significance (High): This point highlights the transformative power of media and the rapid ascent to fame, setting the stage for Knoxville's reflections on managing such a drastic life change.

Sources in support: Johnny Knoxville (Host/Guest)

Neutral sources: Bert Kreischer (Host)

11. Knoxville's Enduring Style and Impulsive Nature

Timestamp: 00:30:29 to 00:33:35 - watch this moment on skim

Knoxville discusses his consistent, simple style, primarily wearing Dickies for decades, and attributes it to laziness and a lack of desire to change. He connects this to his core personality trait of being driven by impulse, which he acknowledges has been both a driving force for his career and a challenge he addresses in therapy.

Significance (Medium): This reveals a key aspect of Knoxville's persona – a blend of stubborn simplicity and a raw, impulsive drive that fueled his stunts and career, while also necessitating personal work.

Sources in support: Johnny Knoxville (Host/Guest)

Neutral sources: Bert Kreischer (Host)

12. Therapy and the 'Thought Before Action' Philosophy

Timestamp: 00:33:04 to 00:35:19 - watch this moment on skim

Knoxville shares how therapy helped him understand the concept of 'thought before action,' a stark contrast to his previous 'first thought, best thought' mentality. He admits that while this impulse control is crucial for his well-being, he still cherishes the feeling of immediate action and spontaneity.

Significance (Medium): This point illustrates Knoxville's personal growth and self-awareness, showing a conscious effort to balance his innate impulsivity with a more considered approach to life.

Sources in support: Johnny Knoxville (Host/Guest)

Neutral sources: Bert Kreischer (Host)

13. Appreciation for 'Bad' Movies and Unconventional Comedy

Timestamp: 00:34:48 to 00:36:32 - watch this moment on skim

Knoxville and Kreischer bond over their shared appreciation for 'so bad it's good' movies like 'Samurai Cop' and 'American Movie,' finding humor in their technical flaws and absurdities. This highlights a specific taste in comedy that values earnest, low-budget, or unintentionally hilarious content.

Significance (Low): This reveals a shared comedic sensibility between the host and guest, suggesting that their appreciation for unconventional humor influences their own creative output.

Sources in support: Johnny Knoxville (Host/Guest), Bert Kreischer (Host)

14. The Journey of Steve-O and Addiction Recovery

Timestamp: 00:36:46 to 00:37:57 - watch this moment on skim

Knoxville reflects on the incredible journey of Steve-O, from his extreme drug use and dangerous stunts to his current sobriety and thriving life. He expresses admiration for Steve-O's bravery in facing his demons daily, contrasting it with his own experiences with stunts.

Significance (High): This point underscores the profound impact of addiction and recovery, showcasing the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of sobriety within the Jackass circle.

Sources in support: Johnny Knoxville (Host/Guest)

Neutral sources: Bert Kreischer (Host)

15. Jackass's Unlikely Beginnings and Near Cancellation

Timestamp: 00:38:51 to 00:40:44 - watch this moment on skim

Knoxville recounts how the Jackass pilot was shut down, and the show itself was nearly canceled multiple times due to dangerous stunts and run-ins with law enforcement. He emphasizes that the team had no expectation of success, making its eventual TV and movie triumphs even more remarkable.

Significance (High): This narrative highlights the underdog spirit of Jackass, demonstrating that groundbreaking success can emerge from seemingly impossible odds and against significant opposition.

Sources in support: Johnny Knoxville (Host/Guest)

Neutral sources: Bert Kreischer (Host)

16. Jackass: The Movie as a Masterpiece of Comedy

Timestamp: 00:42:12 to 00:43:18 - watch this moment on skim

Knoxville passionately argues that 'Jackass: The Movie' is a masterpiece of comedic filmmaking, surpassing even beloved comedies like 'Happy Gilmore.' He praises its tight structure, iconic stunts, and the sheer comedic representation of laughter it achieves, solidifying its place in comedy history.

Significance (High): This elevates the perception of Jackass from mere stunts to high art in comedy, challenging conventional views and asserting its significant cultural impact.

Sources in support: Johnny Knoxville (Host/Guest)

Neutral sources: Bert Kreischer (Host)

17. Equitable Distribution of Success within Jackass

Timestamp: 00:45:40 to 00:47:18 - watch this moment on skim

Knoxville explains that while initially paying cast members per stunt, for the movies, everyone received a piece of the back end, ensuring equal importance and shared success. He highlights how this equitable approach has fostered strong camaraderie and is evident in the continued contributions of all cast members, including newer additions like Poopies and Adam Ray.

Significance (High): This reveals the core philosophy behind Jackass's enduring success: a commitment to fairness and shared reward that cultivates loyalty and a strong team dynamic.

Sources in support: Johnny Knoxville (Host/Guest)

Neutral sources: Bert Kreischer (Host)

18. Brad Pitt's Surprise Cameo and Hollywood's Embrace

Timestamp: 00:49:14 to 00:51:18 - watch this moment on skim

Knoxville recounts the surreal experience of Brad Pitt appearing at Spike Jonze's house and agreeing to be in a Jackass sketch, ultimately appearing in a gorilla suit. This moment symbolized traditional Hollywood embracing the raw, accessible nature of Jackass.

Significance (High): This anecdote illustrates the surprising reach and acceptance of Jackass within mainstream Hollywood, demonstrating how even A-list stars were drawn to its unique brand of entertainment.

Sources in support: Johnny Knoxville (Host/Guest)

Neutral sources: Bert Kreischer (Host)

19. The Heart of Jackass

Timestamp: 01:16:49 to 01:19:53 - watch this moment on skim

Johnny Knoxville identifies Chris Pontius and Steve-O as the emotional core of the Jackass crew, emphasizing their unique personalities and contributions beyond the stunts. He notes Pontius's unexpected humor and creative mind, stemming from his family background, and Steve-O's sweet nature despite his wild persona. This perspective highlights that Jackass was more than just stunts; it was about the camaraderie and distinct characters within the group.

Significance (Medium): This insight humanizes the often chaotic and extreme nature of Jackass, suggesting that the show's enduring appeal was rooted in the genuine personalities and relationships of its cast members, not just the shock value of their actions.

Sources in support: Johnny Knoxville (Host/Guest)

Neutral sources: Bert Kreischer (Host)

20. Jackass in the Modern Era

Timestamp: 01:20:01 to 01:22:03 - watch this moment on skim

Johnny Knoxville reflects on how Jackass might not be able to exist in today's media landscape due to the prevalence of online stunts and increased sensitivity. He contrasts the original show's debut before YouTube with the current environment where similar content is abundant online. This suggests that the groundbreaking nature of Jackass was partly due to its timing and its ability to shock audiences through traditional media channels.

Significance (Medium): This point underscores the impact of Jackass as a cultural phenomenon that predated and arguably influenced the rise of online content creation, while also acknowledging the challenges of replicating its success in a saturated digital age.

Sources in support: Johnny Knoxville (Host/Guest)

Neutral sources: Bert Kreischer (Host)

21. The Final Jackass and Future Ventures

Timestamp: 01:22:03 to 01:26:08 - watch this moment on skim

Johnny Knoxville announces that 'Jackass Best and Last' is releasing in theaters on June 26th, marking the end of the Jackass film series. He also mentions a new podcast with Jeff Tremaine starting June 18th. Knoxville expresses a desire to explore new creative avenues, including a potential heist movie with the Jackass crew, moving beyond the traditional Jackass format while still working with people he likes.

Significance (High): This signals a significant transition for Knoxville and the Jackass brand, indicating a move towards new forms of entertainment while leveraging the established camaraderie and comedic sensibilities of the crew.

Sources in support: Johnny Knoxville (Host/Guest)

Neutral sources: Bert Kreischer (Host)

22. Celebrity Friendships and Admiration

Timestamp: 01:24:43 to 01:28:26 - watch this moment on skim

Johnny Knoxville shares his admiration for several celebrities, including The Rock and Willie Nelson. He recounts a memorable moment when The Rock retweeted him, causing immense excitement for his daughter. Knoxville describes Willie Nelson as a significant friend, appreciating his humor and the quality of his cannabis products. He also mentions a yearly dinner with friends like Mike Judge and John Stamos, highlighting his genuine connections within the entertainment industry.

Significance (Low): This segment reveals Knoxville's genuine appreciation for his peers and the impact of celebrity interactions, offering a glimpse into his personal relationships and the value he places on authentic connections.

Sources in support: Johnny Knoxville (Host/Guest)

Neutral sources: Bert Kreischer (Host)

23. The Evolution of Entertainment and Personal Reflection

Timestamp: 01:29:56 to 01:35:07 - watch this moment on skim

Johnny Knoxville reflects on his career, expressing contentment with his achievements and contemplating his future endeavors. He discusses his love for making documentaries, citing 'The Wildboys' as a successful example. Knoxville also touches upon his desire to explore acting roles beyond playing himself, even considering a heist movie with the Jackass crew, indicating a desire for new creative challenges and a potential shift in his career focus.

Significance (Medium): This introspection highlights Knoxville's artistic growth and his strategic thinking about his career's next phase, suggesting a desire to evolve beyond the Jackass persona while still valuing his past work and collaborations.

Sources in support: Johnny Knoxville (Host/Guest)

Neutral sources: Bert Kreischer (Host)