“SmartLess” is making its grand debut at the Hollywood Bowl this fall, with a podcast taping scheduled for November 15. This event marks a significant milestone, positioning “SmartLess” as the first live podcast to be recorded at this iconic venue. Hosted by the dynamic trio of Will Arnett, Jason Bateman, and Sean Hayes, this promises to be one of the most anticipated podcast events in recent memory.
### Ticket Sales and Venue
Tickets for the event will be available for purchase starting Friday at 10 a.m. PT via Ticketmaster, with an exclusive presale for American Express cardholders beginning today. Given the star power of the hosts and the venue’s storied history, the excitement around ticket sales is palpable. The Hollywood Bowl, known for hosting legendary performances from artists like The Beatles, offers a unique backdrop for what could be a historical evening.
### Guest Speakers and Anticipation
While the identities of the two guest interview subjects are still under wraps—a practice that aligns with the surprise element of the podcast—the sheer anticipation surrounding potential guests adds to the event’s allure. Given the podcast’s history of attracting high-profile guests, it is certainly within the realm of possibility that one or both guests may be musicians or industry giants, which would synergize perfectly with the Bowl’s ambiance. Recent notable guests of “SmartLess” have included names such as John Mayer and Ariana Grande, among others.
### “SmartLess” Podcast Overview
Launched in July 2020, “SmartLess” has quickly ascended to become one of the top five most listened-to podcasts in the U.S., amassing over 270 episodes. Its unique format blends humor, spontaneous interviews, and a host’s dynamic chemistry to create a talk-show feel that resonated with audiences. The show is produced by Michael Grant Terry, Bennett Barbakow, and Rob Amjärv, and, significantly, was acquired by SiriusXM from Amazon in 2024, marking its evolution into a multimedia entity.
### Record-Breaking Aspirations
Although the Hollywood Bowl event will draw a large crowd, it will not surpass the Guinness World Record for the most tickets sold for a podcast, which is held by Canadian podcaster Mike Ward. Ward’s show “Mike Ward Sous Écoute” achieved an impressive 20,986 tickets sold during a performance in Montreal. The Hollywood Bowl, with a capacity of 17,500, cannot break this record but has the potential to secure the title for the largest podcast taping audience in the United States.
Considering previous high-profile attempts, including a taping of “New Heights” featuring Jason and Travis Kelce that was hindered by inclement weather, the stakes are high for “SmartLess.” The event at the Bowl could well eclipse the turnout of 12,500 that managed to attend the rescheduled indoor show.
### Audience Expectations
As audiences prepare for this event, expectations run high, not just for the unique venue but also for the unpredictable nature of the guests. Audiences tuning in to “SmartLess” appreciate the spontaneity that accompanies each episode. This unpredictability has made the podcast exceptionally engaging over the years, often leading to unexpected and often hilarious outcomes.
The ambiance of the Hollywood Bowl, combined with the improvisational nature of the show, suggests that attendees can expect an environment overflowing with energy, laughter, and genuine interactions. The outdoor setting, particularly during the fall, allows for an intimate yet grand experience—a mix that is increasingly rare in the podcasting world.
### Cultural Significance
The significance of “SmartLess” taping at the Hollywood Bowl cannot be overstated. It highlights the growing acceptance and popularity of podcasts as a legitimate form of entertainment on par with traditional media. By choosing to host such an event in one of the country’s most celebrated venues, “SmartLess” is helping to carve out a new space for live podcasting.
This shift indicates that podcasts are no longer just art forms enjoyed in isolation; they are becoming communal experiences. The camaraderie of a live audience transforms the podcast into something more vibrant and interactive, and this transformation is likely what will make the Hollywood Bowl episode memorable.
### The Hosts’ Sentiment
In a joint statement, the hosts expressed their feelings about this historic moment. “We’re beyond honored, and honestly still a little confused, to be the first live podcast ever recorded at the Hollywood Bowl,” Arnett, Bateman, and Hayes said. Their humorous acknowledgment of their place in the Bowl’s extensive history speaks to the playful nature of the show while also indicating a profound respect for the venue’s legacy.
### Conclusion
Ultimately, the “SmartLess” podcast taping at the Hollywood Bowl on November 15 promises to be an electric experience not just for fans of the podcast but also for newcomers discovering the dynamic energy of live podcasting. With an intriguing mix of surprise guests, a renowned venue, and a blend of humor and spontaneity, the evening is poised to be a landmark event in the podcasting landscape. As ticket sales open and excitement grows, the Hollywood Bowl prepares to add a new chapter to its rich narrative—a chapter where laughter, improvisation, and heartfelt conversation come alive on stage.
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