Act or Direct? (with Michael Showalter)

What this episode covers

Comedy legend turned director extraordinaire Michael Showalter joins Sam to talk about how he made this career shift and how he now realizes he hates acting. Michael tells Sam that he’d ultimately like to direct a film in every genre and he hopes horror is next. They talk about how they love traveling at this time of year to see how other countries celebrate Christmas, and why it’s better than staying home. Michael talks about fanning out when actors he loves are in his movies, how he fulfilled his one goal of college of being in a comedy troupe, why he had to write parts for himself when he couldn’t get cast in anything, and the last time he saw movie-magic. His new film, Oh. What. Fun is out now. Keep up with Samantha Bee @realsambee on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram. For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Choice Words with Samantha Bee?

This episode is 54 minutes long.

When was this Choice Words with Samantha Bee episode published?

This episode was published on December 11, 2025.

What is this episode about?

Comedy legend turned director extraordinaire Michael Showalter joins Sam to talk about how he made this career shift and how he now realizes he hates acting. Michael tells Sam that he’d ultimately like to direct a film in every genre and he hopes...

Can I download this Choice Words with Samantha Bee episode?

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