In the ever-evolving landscape of parenting, comedian Sebastian Maniscalco has sparked conversation with his candid insights. Known for his relatable humor and engaging storytelling, Maniscalco recently shared his perspective on parenting in an exclusive interview with Fox News. The focus keyword that encapsulates his philosophy is “discipline,” and he believes that parenting necessitates a “half-psychotic” approach to ensure children grow up with the structure and values they need.
Having two young children with his wife, Lana Gomez—an eight-year-old daughter, Serafina, and a five-year-old son, Caruso—Maniscalco reflects on his upbringing and how it influences his parenting style today. He emphasizes the necessity of discipline within a child’s life. “I think kids need structure; they need discipline,” he states. “They actually thrive on it.” Growing up in a middle-class family, he learned the value of hard work early on through chores and responsibilities. For him, instilling these values in his children is paramount, especially as they navigate a world that offers them fewer struggles compared to his own upbringing.
Maniscalco’s approach to discipline is clear: he sees it as a 24/7 commitment. He draws attention to the importance of manners, insisting that children must be taught to say “please” and “thank you,” as well as understanding the necessity of rules. He mentions an instance where children at a recent party refused to listen to parental guidance when told to leave the pool—a situation he addresses with firm authority. “When you talk to your kids—‘GET OUT OF THE POOL’—they have to know when you’re serious, and they have to know when you are joking,” he explains. Such boundaries, he believes, help children understand consequences and the importance of respectful behavior.
Interestingly, Maniscalco often integrates his parenting experiences into his stand-up routines, using humor to address the absurdities and challenges that come with raising children. He acknowledges the delicate balance between being a disciplinarian and showing love, citing his own relationship with his wife as a yin-yang dynamic. While he often takes on the role of the tough parent, she embodies the nurturing side, creating a harmonious environment for their children.
Despite the rigorous demands of parenting, Maniscalco finds it to be the most fulfilling role of his life. “It’s great to mold them and give them the tools they need to be their own people,” he expresses proudly. Yet he also recognizes that this journey comes with challenges. He candidly admits that it’s a lot of work, underscoring the emotional and physical investment necessary for successful parenting.
Transitioning from parenting to his career in comedy, Maniscalco discusses the evolution of his social media presence. In an age where instant feedback is the norm, he finds himself more cautious about the content he shares. “You don’t know how people perceive things,” he explains. In contrast to the controlled setting of stand-up performances, where he can perfect his delivery, social media scrutiny adds a layer of pressure that makes him hesitant to post.
His desire to elicit laughter without stirring controversy reflects current societal sensitivities. “It’s sad that you even have to think this way because people are so sensitive,” he notes, which poses a dilemma for comedians who thrive on social commentary and humor. For Maniscalco, the challenge isn’t performing live, but rather navigating online interactions where jokes may be misunderstood.
In addition to these reflections on parenting and comedy, Maniscalco is also making waves in the entertainment industry with his new role in Apple Podcasts’ first scripted docudrama, “Easy Money: The Charles Ponzi Story.” This eight-part series chronicles the rise and fall of Charles Ponzi, an infamous figure in the world of financial schemes. Maniscalco portrays Ponzi, bringing a unique perspective to a figure he finds both fascinating and cautionary.
He shares that his intrigue with Ponzi schemes developed over the years, particularly after almost becoming involved in a scheme himself. “I ended up not doing it, thank God,” he recalls, grateful for the decision that kept him from financial ruin. Reflecting on his experience in the recording booth, he describes it as unlike any previous acting role, showcasing his skills in a new format that merges audio with dramatic storytelling.
Ultimately, whether he’s giving advice on discipline in parenting or voicing a character in a podcast, Sebastian Maniscalco’s multifaceted career continues to intersect with his life as a father. The humor, sincerity, and dedication he brings to both areas invite audiences to reevaluate their own approaches to parenting and the arts.
In a world of rapid change and increased pressures, Maniscalco stands as a reminder of the timelessness of certain values. His approach to parenting—focused on discipline—encourages parents to be proactive and engaged. Just as he navigates the complexities of parenting and performance, he inspires others to embrace both the challenges and rewards of raising children in a way that promotes growth and resilience. For those looking to cultivate a healthy family environment, his commitment to discipline serves as a powerful testament to the importance of raising children with clear values and expectations.
Source link