Staff Review With Todd Levin - Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend Recap

Podcast: Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend

Published: 2026-03-05

Duration: 28 min

Summary

In this episode, Conan O'Brien chats with writer Todd Levin about their collaborative journey in comedy, reflecting on their shared love for the art form and its evolution over the years. They delve into the importance of silence and timing in comedy, as well as their personal experiences growing up with humor.

What Happened

Conan kicks off the episode by introducing his guest, Todd Levin, who has been a key part of his writing team since 2009. As they prepare for the Oscars, Conan expresses his gratitude for having such a talented writer by his side, highlighting Todd's unique, understated approach to comedy. Todd's ability to craft sharp, humorous lines while maintaining a quiet demeanor stands in stark contrast to Conan's more boisterous style, which they both acknowledge and appreciate.

As the conversation unfolds, Todd shares his origin story in comedy, tracing back to his childhood in Albany, New York. He credits his father for introducing him to comedy through records, specifically mentioning Bob Newhart, whose storytelling style left a lasting impression on him. Both Conan and Todd reminisce about their early encounters with comedy, emphasizing how their family environments shaped their understanding and appreciation of the craft. They reflect on how their paths led them to New York, where they finally felt the pull of the comedy scene, encouraging each other to take the stage and pursue their passion for humor.

Key Insights

Key Questions Answered

What inspired Todd Levin to pursue comedy?

Todd recounts that he always loved comedy as a kid but didn't realize it could be a career. Growing up in Albany, New York, his parents had a limited record collection, but his father introduced him to comedians like Bob Newhart. This early exposure to comedy, combined with special movie nights where he could stay up late to watch funny films with his dad, solidified his passion for humor.

How do Conan O’Brien and Todd Levin's writing styles differ?

Conan describes himself as a more animated writer, often referring to himself as a 'bitch in the room' and someone who performs in a loud and expressive manner. In contrast, he characterizes Todd as a 'ninja' or 'assassin,' who quietly absorbs the environment and delivers sharp humor without the need for constant chatter. This difference highlights the diverse approaches to writing and performing comedy.

What was Todd's journey to becoming a comedy writer?

Todd shares that his journey began in New York City, where he felt drawn to the improv and stand-up comedy scene. He started performing by reading prepared bits, reflecting a style similar to that of Bob Newhart. Encouraged by friends, he gradually transitioned into more spontaneous performances, which helped him grow as a comedian and writer.

What role did Todd's father play in his comedic development?

Todd credits his father with sparking his interest in comedy, as he was the one who introduced Todd to various comedic records and films. By allowing Todd to stay up late for funny movies, his father created a unique bond through comedy, which became a significant part of Todd's upbringing and eventual career choice.

How does Todd Levin view the performance aspect of comedy?

Todd states that he was never uncomfortable with performing but preferred a more understated approach. He likens himself to a 'bad magician,' trying to distract the audience while focusing on the precision of his jokes. This self-awareness about his performance style reveals his understanding of the mechanics of comedy and the importance of delivering well-crafted material.