Fanacek

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Fanacek explores all things film and television by starting with a theme and then diving down the IMDB rabbit hole. We’ll explore acting credits, crazy guest stars, cool locations, awesome move posters, and absurd and obscure projects that have been lost to history.

fanacekpodcast


    • Jun 2, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • every other week NEW EPISODES
    • 54m AVG DURATION
    • 110 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Fanacek

    S7 E1 Hall of Famer? Paul Sorvino

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2025 53:04


    I get it.  You like Paul Sorvino.  I like Paul Sorvino.  We all like Paul Sorvino.  But he is a Hall of Famer?  Or is he just the guy from Goodfellas?  He had a long, career.  Some great, some not.  Now it's time to comb through that resume and determine if he belongs in the Hall!  Along the way, we'll chat about some other fun stuff like Robert Mitchum's drunken antics and the time I saw Jonathan Schaech jogging.  I also, in real time, forget who directed The Shining.  What the hell, Fanacek?

    Season 7 Introduction

    Play Episode Listen Later May 31, 2025 1:56


    What to expect from the exciting new season of Fanacek!

    S6 E10 Even More Movies that became TV shows...80s Edition!

    Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2025 53:39


    This is the last one, I swear!  No more TV adaptations of 80s movies ever again!  But let's end it with a bang as I chitchat about 1980's Fame, and as I wax poetic 1983's Blue Thunder, or as I contemplate 1988's Working Girl, all before I finally offer my in-depth thoughts on 1980's Stir Crazy.  Who else would do that for you?  And, as an added bonus, I'll offer up some opinions on Sam Peckinpah's Bring Me the Head of Alfredo Garcia, Dana Carvey's slasher film origins, and Patrick Swayze teaching Rob Lowe to fight.  It's a doozy.

    S6 E9 More Movies that became TV shows...80s Edition!

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2025 38:26


    You thought I was done with this topic, didn't you?  Well, I did some sleuthing and found a few more 80s shows that became short lived, unbelievably bad television shows.  And unbelievably bad television shows is kind of my thing!  We're gonna chat about Richard Pryor's Bustin' Loose which did not turn out to be a DYN-O-MITE series.  I'll also enlighten you regarding Down and Out in Beverly Hills, The Four Seasons, and Nothing in Common.  Along the way we'll touch on Nick Nolte's mugshot, my time with Jonah Hill, EGOTs, and a ton of Garry Marshall chit chat.  It's a somewhat decent episode, I must say.

    S6 E8 Fanacek's Year in TV: 1989

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2025 65:30


    The 80s have finally come to a close, and the decade's final moments did not disappoint.  Join me as I discuss the envelope pushing antics of the Conner family on Roseanne, the "they're not lesbians, I promise" relationship between Kate & Allie, and the trauma we all experienced watching Life Goes On.  I'll also crack wise about the comedy stylings of Wes Craven, stars yelling at audiences, and the decision making process that went into creating Small Wonder.  Cheers!

    S6 E7 Fanacek's Year in TV: 1988

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 24, 2025 75:31


    We're closing in on the end of the 80s and things are getting crazy.  Spinoffs are dominating the airwaves as shows like Empty Nest and A Different World crack the Top 10.  Also, our televisions are being assaulted by continuations and reboots that we didn't want as Mission: Impossible, The Munsters Today, and War of the Worlds are brought to life via first run syndication.  The good news is that we also get Vietnam shows, and murder, and more blended families than we ever imagined.  It was a wonderful time to be alive.  

    S6 E6 Fanacek's Year in TV: 1987

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2025 73:52


    This is the 100th episode folks!  100 episodes of me yapping about stuff that most folks don't care about, but I love it and I'm grateful for everyone that listens.  Join me as I take a look at 1987 television as I experienced it.  We're gonna discuss Remington Steele and The Wonder Years.  We're gonna explore how 21 Jumpstreet made me want to be an undercover cop.  We're gonna chit chat about Energizer commercials and New Coke.  And finally, I'm gonna yap about Joey Buttafuoco, VCRs, and how Weezy fails to make me horny.  100 episodes,.  Wow.

    S6 E5 Fanacek's Year in TV: 1986

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 24, 2025 62:56


    1986.  It was a great year to be alive.  Sure, the space shuttle Challenger exploded killing everyone onboard and traumatizing the children who watching it on TV.  But, rather than dwell on that, I'd rather talk about Night Court.  And Amen.  And T.J. Hooker.  Hell, I'm even gonna educate you on Peter Boyle killing a house full of hippies why Whitman Mayo is a national treasure.  Was Rebecca Schaeffer's murder a tragedy?  Yes it was.  Was it also likely a good thing for My Sister Sam's legacy?  I think so.  So come with me for all of this and more and experience Fanacek's 1986.

    S6 E4 Fanacek's Year in TV: 1985

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 10, 2025 60:06


    We're halfway through the decade and sitcoms are starting to rule the airwaves!  Audiences are losing interest in the rich folks of Dynasty, Dallas, and Falcon Crest as they fall in love with the likes of Tony Micelli, Alex P. Keaton, and America's favorite gynecologist, Dr. Huxtable.  This episode takes a closer look at classics like The Equalizer, Family Ties, and Alice while also having fun with Courtney Cox's failures, Charles Durning as the patriarch of a black family, and the saga of Claudia Wells. Want Fanacek stickers?  Email me at fanacekpodcast@gmail.com

    S6 E3 Fanacek's Year in TV: 1984

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2025 50:15


    Forget about George Orwell's 1984.  That book is a downer.  Fanacek's 1984 will lift your spirits as we explore such shows as Crazy Like a Fox, One Day at a Time, and Murder, She Wrote.  We'll also crack wise about some forgotten television shows that included the murderous Delta Burke, monkeys with alien superpowers, and a gay dude in Philly.  It might be the greatest podcast episode of all time.  I said "might be".

    S6 E2 Fanacek's Year in TV: 1982 & 1983

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 13, 2025 92:06


    I'm back and this time I'm exploring shows from 1982 & 1983.  Luck you!  We'll touch on such classics as  Simon & Simon, Newhart, The Incredible Hulk, Cagney & Lacey, Webster, and M*A*S*H.  I'll also explore some interesting programs that are forgotten or that I wish were forgotten...shows that involve horny puppets and racism.  BTW, that was the name of my band in high school.  Horny Puppets and Racism.

    S6 E1 Fanacek's Year in TV: 1980 & 1981

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2025 58:37


    Happy 2025!  A new year and a new season of your favorite (doubtful) podcast, Fanacek!  The next few episodes will deal with the programs that flooded our TV sets in the 80s.  I can't really title the episodes "THE Year in TV" or "YOUR Year in TV" because I often focus on some weird shit.  But rest assured, you'll enjoy learning about obscure TV shows and hearing my thoughts on your favorite classic TV shows as I go year by year celebrating "FANACEK'S Year in TV".  Enjoy!

    S5 E24 80s Actors: Movies vs TV (The Finale!!)

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 9, 2024 44:42


    It's finally effing here!  The finale in my 9 part series comparing movie and television actors of the 1980s.  This fun filled episode has me discussing three different actors across two categories: Thank God They Left TV and Now You're Just Showing Off!  The former takes a deep dive into the careers of 2 actors who were the stars of their own television shows before throwing it away to become big screen icons: Geena Davis & Michael Keaton.  The latter takes a look at an actor who had a thriving movie career, took a quick pit stop just to prove she could crush it on television, and then went right back to being a movie star: Jamie Lee Curtis.  Sit back, pour yourself a bourbon, and let 'ol Fanacek school you.

    S5 E23 80s Actors: Movies vs TV (Part 8)

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 25, 2024 59:45


    This is a fun episode, folks.  It's also a little depressing.  But depressing can be fun, right?  Well, fun or not, we're about to take a deep dive on three actors whose fall from grace left television as their only option in the 80s.  George Peppard, George C. Scott, and Jan-Michael Vincent were once stars of the silver screen, bur after years of drinking, financial woes, and poor behavior, found that TV was their last chance for any significant roles.  Like Richard Gere in An Officer and a Gentleman, they had nowhere else to go!!!  Enjoy!

    S5 E22 Fanacek's Thanksgiving Special: Planes, Trains & Automobiles

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 11, 2024 59:10


    It's time to kick off the holiday season Fanacek style.  You see, here at the Fanacek house, the holidays officially start with the annual viewing of Planes, Trains & Automobiles.  There's no better way to get ready for both Thanksgiving and Christmas than by watching the genius of Steve Martin and John Candy in this 1987 classic brought to us by Mr. John Hughes.  I'm joined by a guest and we break down the movie scene by scene, discuss favorite lines, and fill in the plot holes by educating you on the deleted scenes that were in John Hughes's original 3 hour cut.  And, as usual,  I also find ways to go off on tangents and make things about me.  Six bucks and my right nut says you're gonna enjoy this episode.

    S5 E21 80s Actors: Movies vs TV (Part 7)

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2024 62:44


    There are some actors from the 80s (I'm not gonna name names) that should have abandoned their movie careers early on and make the switch to television.  It would have saved them years of decline and humiliation as the quality of their movies slowly sunk into the depth of the VHS bargain bins.  Again, I'm not gonna name names...Steve Guttenberg and Judge Reinhold!  To show I can also reward actors who made great career choices, I also take a look at an actor who did make an early jump to television and it proved to be brilliant.  I won't give away this name, but it rhymes with Schmill Schmeaton.  Live long and prosper...or whatever.

    S5 E20 80s Actors: Movies vs TV (Part 6)

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 7, 2024 51:55


    We've talked about 80s winners.  We've talked about 80s losers.  Now, it's time to talk about the "just okay" of the 80s.  Please join me as I discuss some 80s film and TV actors that were jack of all trades, bur masters of none.  Some, like Robert Hays and Kristy McNichol are no brainers, while my man, Don Johnson, is a hot take and will likely piss some of you off.  Regardless, it's time to kick back and allow me to wax poetic about more 80s actors.  

    S5 E19 80s Actors: Movies vs TV (Part 5)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2024 58:00


    There are still so many 80s actors I want to talk about!  In this episode, I ask the question, "Why the quick jump television"?  So far, I've focused on actors who had TV success and either crushed it in movies as well, crashed and burned in movies, or maybe just dabbled in feature films before heading back to television where they belonged.  Now, I'm gonna focus on actors who I think should have stayed the course just a little bit longer with their big screen careers before making the transition to the boob tube.  We're gonna stroll down memory lane with folks like Bronson Pinchot, Heather Langenkamp, Paul Reiser, and the legendary Burt Reynolds.

    S5 E18 80s Actors: Movies vs TV (Part 4)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2024 91:37


    If you love the 80s, you're probably enjoying this season of Fanacek.  If you don't , well suck it up and let me educate you.  This week I'm discussing 80s actors who could have made a run at big screen stardom, but they knew damn well that television is where they belonged. What they lacked in feature film potential, they made up for in self awareness.  Follow me down this road as I wax poetic about such folks as John Stamos, Erin Gray, Suzanne Somers, Loni Anderson, Richard Dean Anderson and The Hoff himself, David Hasselhoff.  Enjoy, suckas!

    S5 E17 80s Actors: Movies vs TV (Part 3)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 19, 2024 68:22


    There's an old saying in Hollywood: "Never Quit the Hit".  Well, the TV actors we're gonna discuss today did not take heed of this wisdom.  Rather, they threw caution to the wind and chased movie stardom, only to land flat on their asses. We start with the Cautionary Tale Queen herself, Shelley Long, and then weave our way through the careers of Justine Bateman, Kirk Cameron, Lisa Bonet, Roseanne Barr, and Mark Harmon.  It's a lot of fun.  Well, its a lot more fun than any of the movies these folks made.  Enjoy!

    Eric Todd & Brad Crain from This Week In Charles Bronson

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2024 79:28


    As a kid, I would love when my favorite shows would advertise an upcoming "very special" episode.  It often meant there was gonna be drug use, domestic violence, or the threat of pedophilia.  Sadly, this "very special" episode of Fanacek has none of those things, but it does have Eric Todd and Brad Crain from one of my favorite podcasts, This Week In Charles Bronson.  I was a guest on their show earlier this year to discuss the 1972 Charles Bronson classic, The Mechanic.  Since then, I've been an avid listener of their show and you should be as well.  Their show is helping to keep the Bronson movie catalog and legend alive and the world is a better place for it.  During our chat we discuss the origins of their show, some of our favorite Bronson movies, and wax poetic on Bronson's strengths as an actor.  Enjoy!

    S5 E16 80s Actors: Movies vs TV (Part 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2024 64:16


    "Never quit the hit".  That's what they say.  Hollywood history is filled with the cautionary tales of actors who, despite television success, were seduced by the glitz and glamour of big screen stardom.  Let's not forget, there used to be a very solid line drawn between movie stars and TV stars.  On this episode, we are going to look at actors we knew in the 80s who worked on screens both big and small, but ultimately chose to stay in their lane and pursue TV stardom.  They knew that their bread was buttered on TV and they were just fine with it!  Make a cocktail, recline back in the lazy boy, and let 'ol Fanacek tell some tales.

    S5 E15 80s Actors: Movies vs TV (Part 1)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2024 51:38


    Remember when there was a definitive line between movie actors and television actors?  Movie actors were at the top of the food chain while TV actors were bottom feeders.  Prestige TV and streaming services have changed that forever, but in the 80s it was a still very real divide.  The next several episodes will look at actors in the 80s who did both.  Some did it well, some crashed and burned, and others just knew it was best to stay in their lane.  Part 1 will take a look at actors who kicked ass on both the big screen and small.  Crack a beer, recline back and enjoy.

    S5 E14 A Mark Blankfield rabbit hole

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2024 46:14


    I spend more time on the IMDb app than any human being should.  I love pausing whatever I'm watching to look it up on IMDb and study the cast, trivia, filming locations, etc.  I call these my little rabbit holes and this episode of the podcast is a journey through forgotten TV shows and movies that started when I thought I recognized actor Mark Blankfield from a Saved By The Bell episode.  This somehow leads us to a discussion of The Incredible Shrinking Woman, Joe Pesci's forgotten TV show Half Nelson, and some of Glen A. Larson's TV misses like Manimal, Automan, The HighwayMan, Chameleons, and NightMan.  We're also gonna touch on ABC's sketch show Fridays, abysmal made for TV movie sequels, and Tarzan's link to a religious cult.  Somehow this all ends with The Sopranos and I don't even remember how I got there.  Enjoy!

    S5 E13 Movies that became TV shows...80s Edition! (Part 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2024 74:09


    More 80s!  More Movies!  More failed TV shows!  This week we're looking at some almost classic Sci-Fi films that became short lived TV shows like Starman and Alien Nation.  We also discuss The Outsiders and do a head to head comparison between the iconic cast of The Outsiders movie and that of Fast Times at Ridgemont High.  We'll also go down the rabbit hole that I call Baby Boom and my feelings toward Diane Keaton.  We conclude by discussing the sordid history of the television version of 9 to 5.  It's amazing if you're into this sort of thing.  A colossal waste of time if you're not.

    S5 E12 Movies that became TV shows...80s Edition! (Part 1)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 27, 2024 65:10


    I know I know.  I covered some of this stuff in Season 2.  Well, I'm not done covering it, so sit back, kick off your Roos and pop open a Diet Rite while I dissect and poke fun at some classic 80s movies that became not-so-classic 80s TV shows.  We'll explore the cast of Ferris Bueller and how they couldn't fill the shoes of the O.G. cast.  I'll try and explain the rationale behind Ron Howard's Gung Ho being made into a sitcom while also scratching my head at Dirty Dancing's foray into television.  We will finally make Joaquin Phoenix go head to head with Leo DiCaprio as we discuss Parenthood's first dip in the TV pool and I'll wrap things up by celebrating arguably the greatest young cast in movie history, the stars of Fast Times at Ridgemont High.  Aloha! 

    The Church of Tarantino's Reverend Scott K!

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2024 74:41


    I love Quentin Tarantino.  Hell, I devoted an entire season of the show to my favorite movie of all time, Once Upon A Time in Hollywood.  So imagine my surprise in 2023 when I came across a podcast called The Church of Tarantino.  It made me want to be an altar boy again!  The Church of Tarantino dives deep into QT's films by focusing on scenes, characters, QT's inspirations, and everything else in the Tarantino Universe.  This season, the show is focusing on the 30th anniversary of Pulp Fiction.  I was lucky enough to be joined in this episode by host Reverend Scott K and we had a blast talking about Quentin's latest abandoned project, The Movie Critic, and some of the actors, movies, concepts, etc. that Quentin's movies, book, and podcast turned us onto.  So grab some Jesus juice and pull up a pew because we're about to take you to church!

    A Conversation with Author Thom Shubilla

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2024 61:41


    Thom Shubilla is an author and his new book kicks ass!  James Bond and the Sixties Spy Craze takes us on an in depth journey of film and television's obsession with spies in the 1960s.  We start with James Bond in 1962's Dr. No and weave our way through the rest of the 60s Bond movies.  But you can't stop there because 'ol 007 inspired countless wannabes in spoof films, international films, and some of our favorite 60s TV shows.  We have exploitation films, rom coms, horror movies, and even The Flintstone's got in on the spy craze.  So, slap on a tux, shake up a martini, find yourself a Bond girl and enjoy this special episode of Fanacek.

    Things That Make You Go Hmmm..80s TV Edition

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2024 59:36


    There was so much weird stuff going on in some of our favorite 80s TV shows and this episode is gonna shine a little light on some of my favorite questionable choices exposing a few of my favorite things that make you go hmmm... We'll start with The A-Team's willy nilly approach to remaining incognito, and ALF having complete freedom to roam the house.  We'll also get frisky while discussing Al Bundy's libido and the big Boner on Growing Pains.  Let's not forget the bastard daughter on My Two Dads and the #smartiestoowhite approach to education on Head of the Class.  We'll wrap things up by questioning the awful life choices of Jesse and Joey on the most edgeless show of all time, Full House.  So, pull up a chair and crack a beer cuz this shit is gonna be fun.

    S5 E8 Keeping House Part 3 -The Finale

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2024 88:55


    It's arrived!  The finale of my three part series, Keeping House.  This episode will take a close look at two iconic 80s sitcoms that, surprisingly, did not feature housekeepers.  First up is The Golden Girls.  I'm not sure how these four ladies kept their house so clean and they're wardrobes so pristine without some hired help.  What I am sure of, though, is that these ladies liked men and the men of Miami liked them as well.  I explore every horny detail.  You're welcome!  Next up is The Cosby Show.  This is a tough one to tackle given the legacy of The Coz.  I explore the unrelatable themes of the show and eventually shine a light on how creepy this show truly was...while also being really funny...it's very conflicting.  So, get out the chocolate cheesecake, turn up the jazz, put on your favorite brightly colored sweater and enjoy!

    S5 E7 Keeping House Part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2024 38:33


    Woo Hoo!  More 80s!  More sitcoms!  More housekeepers!  This week I'm focusing on two shows about strange men moving in and cleaning house!  The first is the Tony Danza classic, Who's The Boss?  A rich, single mom allows a strange New Yorker to move in and sleep only a few feet away from she and her son.  Interesting.  We'll also take a look at Charles In Charge, which is Like Who's The Boss if Tony Danza were a scumbag with no sexual boundaries.  Can you tell I'm a fan?  Saddle up, grab your Windex, and enjoy!

    S5 E6 Keeping House Part 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2024 50:28


    Keeping with Season 5's 80s theme, I'm now gonna start taking a look at 80s sitcoms that heavily featured housekeepers.  We'll examine the role they played in the families and identify if they were needed, if they took too many liberties, whether or nor they were surrogate parents, and even if they were any good at actually cleaning the house.  Part 1 will start with Diff'rent Strokes, Gimme A Break, and Mr. Belvedere.  Grab your swiffer and enjoy!

    S5 E5 Teen Wolf: The Boof Conundrum Finale!

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2024 59:17


    This is it, listeners.  I have completed the most comprehensive search for a new Boof since...well, since ever.  I started with 400+ actors, narrowed it down to about 100, corralled them into categories, and studied each one until I identified the perfect Boof.  It was hard work.  There were times I thought I would quit.  But I persevered.  And now I've reached the finish line.  This is the final episode of my search.  We take a look at categories consisting of Oscar winners, Brat Packers, brunettes, and then the women who are seemingly perfect.  We'll then head into the finalist bracket where the final 16 compete until only one lady is left standing.  She is our new Boof.  Honor her.

    S5 E4 Teen Wolf: The Boof Conundrum Part 3

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2024 46:48


    I know what you're thinking.  "Is he really continuing down this road?  Is he nuts?  How do I unsubscribe?"  I don't blame all of you doubters out there, but I am determined to get this thing done.  Who would have been the perfect Boof??  In this episode we will discuss candidates that are scary and possibly bat shit crazy.  We'll opine over some candidates who are "friendly".  We'll wax poetic about some women who would be absolute game changers as Boof.  And we'll even discuss a few candidates plucked right out of the pages of Michael J. Fox's real life.  Stay with me!  Now is not the time to turn your back on Fanacek.

    S5 E3 Teen Wolf: The Boof Conundrum Part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2024 65:12


    What's the point of having 24 hours in the day if you can't spend the bulk of them researching actresses who would have elevated the role of Boof in Teen Wolf?  Right?  Who's with me?  Anyone?? This episode explores more women who would have brought some flare prestige to the role.  There's the #teenwolfsowhite category devoted to diversity and inclusion.  How about the "No Wolf, ahh, no part" category aimed at identifying actors who could have played Boof utilizing another iconic character from their resume.  Maybe you'll like the "Show Her The Money" category.  This is a list of women who would haver never even entertained the thought of being in Teen Wolf unless there was serious $$$ involved.  All these and more in this exciting episode of.....Fanacek!

    S5 E2 Teen Wolf: The Boof Conundrum Part 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2024 52:10


    Yes, I'm back with more Teen Wolf.  Get used to it.  I am convinced that if Boof had been portrayed by anyone other than Susan Ursitti, Teen Wolf's legacy would be held in higher regarded and it would be cemented as one of the great 80s teen flicks.  Taking a scientific approach, I have identified hundreds of potential actresses who could have been cast.  Dr. Fanacek then filtered out women not born between 1955 and 1965.  He also tossed aside any that were not working actors by 1984.  Those left have been sorted into various categories and will be rolled out over the next several episodes.  Part 1 covers actresses in the categories of Blast From The Past, Similar Vibe, But Better, and The Ethan Wayne.  That's right, The Ethan Wayne.  Sit back and enjoy this fun, informative, snarky, colossal waste of time.  I've come too far to turn back now.

    S5 E1 Teen Wolf

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 16, 2024 61:40


    Season 5 of Fanacek is finally here!  I hope you like the 1985 classic Teen Wolf because I'll be devoting a few episodes to this Michael J. Fox tour de force.  For this episode I am joined by a returning guest to break down the history, story, and cast of Teen Wolf.  I grew up on this movie, he had just seen it for the first time.  I think it deserves a greater place in 80s film history, he thinks I'm nuts.  So sit back, listen to us crack wise, and you can be the judge:  Is Teen Wolf a Masterpiece or a Master Piece of Shit?  Either way, you're gonna win in the end.

    S4 E18 The Season Four Finale William Devane Part 3

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 3, 2024 54:52


    That's a wrap on William Devane and that's a wrap on Season 4!  Fanacek shall return with new content in 2024.  In the meantime, check out this episode and dive deep with me as we wade through Mr. Devane's career in the 90s and 2000s.  I'll walk you through his projects while also chit chatting about my time alone with Michael Richards, OJ Simpson's missing knife, the fraud that is the final season of 21 Jumpstreet, Sean Young's nutty antics, and a whole lotta Jesse Stone!  Happy New Year!

    S4 E17 William Devane Part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 18, 2023 45:21


    Yep.  More Fanacek and more Mr. Devane.  We're gonna pick up where we left off in 1978 and take a good hard look at why he never became a bona fide feature film star.  I'll focus mostly on his Knots Landings years (83-93).  While we learn about William Devane's roles, I thought we'd also learn about Tobe Hooper being replaced by the director who once threatened Charles Manson, John "Bud" Carlos.  We can also learn about the real Johnny Fontane, the crappy production company that employed my friend, tricked folks at the videos stores, and ultimately created Sharknado, Danny Pintauro's connection with Ryan White, my grandmother and I obsessively watching A Current Affair, and the lengths I went to to see Shannen Doherty topless.  Happy Holidays!

    S4 E16 William Devane Part 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 11, 2023 58:12


    I love William Devane.  I was first introduced to him as Kelly Leak's dad in The Bad News Bears in Breaking Training.  I enjoy him at least once a year when I re-watch Rolling Thunder.  He's done tons of Film & Television and I'll explore most of it.  I will also inundate you with useless shit like Christopher Motisanti's knowledge of the Cuban Missile Crisis, Donna Mills being "buoyant", Hitchcock and Al Packinow, and the various revenue bonds issued to build the Astrodome.  This is my Christmas gift to the world.

    S4 E15 Bill Bixby Part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 27, 2023 41:15


    November 21 marked the 30th anniversary of Bill Bixby's passing.  I'm glad I could honor him with these episodes.  In Part 2, I will finally take the deep dive that we all want...The Incredible Hulk!  I'll also discuss his final TV lead, Goodnight, Beantown, and I'll playfully goof on some of the made for TV movies he pumped out in the 80s.  If you're a Bill Bixby fan, you'll love this.  If you're not, then just hang tight because I have stuff for you too, like my thought on incest porn, the 80s classic Sledge Hammer, and why it is so damn hard to commit murder these days.  Take notes.  There will be a quiz.

    S4 E14 Bill Bixby Part 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 20, 2023 64:32


    I love Bill Bixby.  He was doin' Marvel shit before doin' Marvel shit was cool.  He had several hit shows of his own...My Favorite Martian, The Courtship of Eddie's Father, The Magician, and of course, the one about a scientist...and gamma radiation...and being overly emotional.  Bill (Mr. Bixby if you're nasty) also did tons of film and TV guest spots and I'll discuss them all.  I'm also gonna thrill you with tales of Sascha Baron Cohen trading an iPad for a baby, the similarities between Alan Hale Jr and "Grandpa" Al Lewis, and the Russian submarine that was lost at sea in 2000.  I encourage you to listen and enjoy and please remember to not make me angry.  You wouldn't like me when I'm angry.

    S4 E13 Paul Leder's Filmography

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 13, 2023 63:08


    So, I've been obsessing about Paul Leder and his apparent Ed Wood approach to filmmaking ever since I stumbled on his work while researching Dick Sargent.  I thought I would do a real time IMDB exploration of his filmography.  It's rough.  Like, seriously bad.  But funny.  I'll take you through each of his films.  I'll also give commentary about the abundance of fistfights on 90210, the time I got Elizabeth Berkeley to flip me off, and my the first porn flick I ever saw. Goodnight and Good Luck.

    S4 E12 Vic Tayback Part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2023 77:23


    We're gonna pick up where we left off and 'Ol Vic is gonna hit big with the character that he's best remembered for...Mel Sharples.  We'll also weave our way through his credits of the late 70's and 80's.  Get a pen and paper and take notes, because we're gonna list all of the SUPERSTAR actors he worked with on The Love Boat while also discussing the demise of the band Berlin, the crappy movies pumped out by The Cannon Group, Mary Catherine Gallagher's TV Movie monologue, and Telly Savalas's infamous appearance on Alice.  We'll also relax to the soothing sounds of the intro theme for "Medical Center".  It's fun.  I promise.

    S4 E11 Vic Tayback Part 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 23, 2023 65:48


    Vic Tayback was such a stud that he deserves TWO episodes of Fanacek.  This is the first and we're gonna discuss his early career from its beginning in 1958 until the end of 1973.  During this time, Vic did classic TV like Rawhide, The Man From U.N.C.L.E., That Girl!, and Mission Impossible.  He also did 3 McQueen movies: Love With A Proper Stranger, Bullitt, and Papillon.  And, like everyone else, he did WTF stuff that we'll shine a light on.  As we weave through his career, we'll also touch on such fare as inappropriate reactions to young Natalie Portman and Reese Witherspoon, 70s tough guy actors doing biblical projects, hobo culture, and my longing for good old fashioned TV movies.  Enjoy with a nice whiskey drink.

    S4 E10 Dick Sargent - Beyond Bewitched

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2023 48:42


    That's right.  We're going "Beyond Bewitched" in our examination of the career of Mr. Dick Sargent.  His 70s and 80s are chock full o' classic TV Shows like The Six Million Dollar Man, McMillan & Wife, Alice, Benson, Baretta, and literally tons more.  We'll explore them all.  We'll also enjoy a massive Paul Leder tangent and take a look at his "not to be confused with King Kong" film Ape.  And just for fun, I'll talk about a real life Milf porn story, Arnold's nasally friend on Diff'rent Strokes, my George C. Scott autograph, and scream queen Brinke Stevens.  Enjoy!

    S4 E9 The Battle of the Dicks...York vs Sargent (Part 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 2, 2023 61:11


    Ding Ding Ding.  Round 2 Begins.  We're gonna dive and see who had the better 1960s.  I will shine a light on each of their film & television accomplishments.  Along the way, I'm gonna wax poetic about Ida Lupino, Saturday detention, Netflix's "Love", Buying mulch with Matthew Nelson and Pauly Shore's parents.  Attaboy Luther!

    S4 E8 The Battle of the Dicks...York vs Sargent (Part 1)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2023 46:44


    They're both named Dick.  They both worked for 39 years in film & television.  They both died in their early 60s.  And...they're both famous for the same role!  Weird.  But who were they beyond playing the goofy Darren Stevens?  More importantly, who was the better Dick?  There can be only one!  This is Part 1 in a series in which I have these two gentlemen compete decade by decade to finally answer the question that has plagued man for decades: who is the better Dick?  York or Sargent?   We'll explore their lives and careers while also touching on such hot topics as the Once Upon a Time in Hollywood novel, Roger Corman, John Carradine's super creepy wake, and the USS Flannery.  Listen to this with someone who shares your name.

    S4 E7 Robert Culp Part 3

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2023 51:11


    The third and final installment of my exploration of all things Culp.  We start in 1980 with The Love Boat and weave our way through The Greatest American Hero, Columbo Goes To College, I Spy Returns, and tons more.  Speaking of weaving, we'll also weave in some of my thoughts on Jack Tripper sleeping with a hot MILF, Eddie and the Cruisers, Julie McCullough's saga with both Kirk Cameron and Scott Baio, the creepy Jason Hervey, and The Pigeon Underwear...you had to be there.  Enjoy!

    S4 E6 Robert Culp Part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 11, 2023 45:36


    Fanacek is back and so is Bob Culp.  More trivia, more credits, and more tangents.  We'll start with Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice and we'll work our way through Columbo and other films and TV shows.  And the tangents, you ask?  Well, try these on for size: Emo Rap, The Doodletown Pipers, Raquel Welch movie posters, casting couches, The ACTUAL Apollo 13 "Houston" quote, nostalgic TV Guide ads, the ease of film making in the 70s, Arnold Horseshack and The Old Testament, and the beloved 21 Jumpstreet Pilot.  Boom.

    S4 E5 Robert Culp Part 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2023 35:46


    Damn I love Robert Culp.  I've just always dug his vibe.  He is the king of guest stars and maybe the best Columbo killer of all time.  Sadly, I never knew much else about him.....until now.  I'm inviting you to join me on a wondrous journey where we'll yap incessantly about all 174 of Robert Culp's screen credit.  Maybe not ALL 174, but pretty damn close.  I'm also going to veer off the road a bit to talk about Friday the 13th Part 8, my desire to hang out at the Playboy Mansion in the late 60s, Leonard Nimoy as a Native American, and the many comebacks of The Twilight Zone.  It' exhausting being Fanacek.

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