Hollywood Obsessed

In Part Two of Tony Miros’ fascinating conversation with trailblazing director, producer, and writer Susan Seidelman, the story behind “Desperately Seeking Susan” takes center stage. Susan reveals how Madonna first entered her orbit as an unknown downtown artist—and how, during filming, she transformed into an international superstar almost overnight. From a casual screen test on the streets of New York to the sudden frenzy surrounding the production just weeks later, Susan shares surprising behind-the-scenes moments that helped turn the film into a cultural phenomenon. Along the way, she reflects on casting decisions, iconic fashion choices drawn from Madonna’s own closet, and the unpredictable twists that shaped the movie’s legacy.

Susan also offers entertaining stories about working with extraordinary talent across her career, including John Malkovich, Meryl Streep, and Jerry Lewis, revealing why comedy can be even more challenging than drama. She discusses her passion for casting actors in unexpected ways and recalls unforgettable “pinch-me” moments on set. The conversation also touches on the changing nature of fame, the complexities of revisiting beloved characters years later, and her role in shaping key casting and creative decisions during the early days of “Sex and the City”.

The episode concludes with insights into Susan’s later films, including “Boynton Beach Club” and “The Hot Flashes,” and how personal experiences influenced her storytelling. With candid reflections on creative risk-taking, evolving industry trends, and the serendipity that often shapes great careers, this episode delivers an entertaining look at the stories behind some of her most memorable work.

SUSAN SEIDELMAN
Susan Seidelman is an acclaimed filmmaker whose work helped define the spirit of independent cinema in the 1980s and beyond. A graduate of NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts Graduate Film Program, she first gained international recognition when her debut feature “Smithereens” became the first American independent film accepted into the Official Competition at the Cannes Film Festival. The film went on to win major festival honors and is now preserved in the prestigious Criterion Collection.

Her breakthrough hit “Desperately Seeking Susan” (1985), starring Madonna & Rosanna Arquette, was both a critical and commercial success, premiering at Cannes, earning a César nomination for Best Foreign Film, and later being named among the BBC’s 100 greatest films of all time. The movie also helped launch the careers of Aidan Quinn, Laurie Metcalf, and John Turturro. Siedelman went on to direct a wide range of notable projects including “Making Mr. Right” starring John Malkovich; “Cookie,” written by Nora Ephron; “She-Devil,” featuring Meryl Streep in her first comedic screen role; “Gaudi Afternoon;” and “The Dutch Master,” which earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Live Action Short Film.

Seidelman also directed the pilot & early episodes of HBO’s groundbreaking series “Sex and the City,” helping shape the look and tone of the cultural phenomenon, and earned two Emmy nominations for the Showtime film “A Cooler Climate” starring Sally Field and Judy Davis. Her later films include “Boynton Beach Club,” “Musical Chairs,” and “The Hot Flashes,” starring Brooke Shields, Daryl Hannah, Wanda Sykes, and Eric Roberts. She recently published her memoir, “Desperately Seeking Something: A Memoir About Movies, Mothers, and Material Girls,” a candid and engaging reflection on her trailblazing four-decade career.

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Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠

Trailblazing director, producer, & writer Susan Seidelman, best known for directing Madonna in her breakout role in “Desperately Seeking Susan,” joins Tony Miros for a lively conversation celebrating the film’s 40th anniversary. They revisit the slightly magical New York City that helped shape the movie’s unforgettable vibe & recall the surreal experience of watching an unknown young singer suddenly become a global superstar almost overnight. From the iconic music to the unexpected twists behind the scenes, Susan reveals how a series of serendipitous moments helped create a true cultural classic.

Susan also pulls back the curtain on what a director really does, describing the role as much like a conductor guiding an orchestra. She shares insight into the creative journey from pre-production planning & rehearsals to the intricate editing process that ultimately brings a film to life. Along the way, she reflects on collaborations with remarkable talent and explains why the ever-evolving creative process continues to inspire her more than four decades into her career.

The conversation also explores how Hollywood has changed since Susan’s indie breakthrough “Smithereens,” from the traditional studio system to today’s streaming-driven landscape. She discusses the evolution of TV storytelling, including her role in shaping the visual style of “Sex and the City,” and opens up about writing her candid memoir “Desperately Seeking Something.” Filled with behind-the-scenes stories, career reflections, and “pinch-me” moments—including her unforgettable trip to Cannes—the episode offers a fun, insightful look at one of independent film’s most influential voices.

SUSAN SEIDELMAN
Susan Seidelman is an acclaimed filmmaker whose work helped define the spirit of American independent cinema in the 1980s and beyond. A graduate of NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts Graduate Film Program, she first gained international recognition when her debut feature “Smithereens”  became the first American independent film accepted into the Official Competition at the Cannes Film Festival. The film went on to win major festival honors and is now preserved in the prestigious Criterion Collection.

Her breakthrough hit “Desperately Seeking Susan” (1985), starring Madonna & Rosanna Arquette, was both a critical and commercial success, premiering at Cannes, earning a César nomination for Best Foreign Film, and later being named among the BBC’s 100 greatest films of all time. The movie also helped launch the careers of Aidan Quinn, Laurie Metcalf, and John Turturro. Seidelman went on to direct a wide range of notable projects including “Making Mr. Right” starring John Malkovich; “Cookie,” written by Nora Ephron and starring Peter Falk, Dianne Wiest, and Jerry Lewis; “She-Devil,” featuring Meryl Streep in her first comedic screen role; “Gaudi Afternoon;” and “The Dutch Master,” which earned an Oscar nomination for Best Live Action Short Film.

Seidelman also directed the pilot & early episodes of HBO’s groundbreaking series “Sex and the City,” helping shape the look and tone of the cultural phenomenon, and earned two Emmy noms for the Showtime film “A Cooler Climate” starring Sally Field & Judy Davis. Her later films include “Boynton Beach Club,” “Musical Chairs,” and “The Hot Flashes,” starring Brooke Shields, Wanda Sykes, and Eric Roberts. She recently published her memoir, “Desperately Seeking Something: A Memoir About Movies, Mothers, and Material Girls,” a candid & engaging reflection on her trailblazing four-decade career.

To Purchase Susan’s Book - https://tinyurl.com/bde58bj8 
 
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Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠

Part Two of Tony Miros’ unforgettable conversation with Emmy Award–winning actor Gary Frank begins with the unforgettable night he won his Emmy for “Family.” He also shares stories of working with extraordinary talents like Elizabeth Ashley and Hollywood legend Henry Fonda, who guest-starred on “Family” in an episode directed by legendary actress Joanne Woodward.

Gary reflects on the deep bonds he formed with his co-stars, including James Broderick, and shares touching memories of the show’s creative team and the challenges that ultimately led to the series ending after five celebrated seasons. He offers fascinating behind-the-scenes insights and explains why “Family” never received the reunion it deserved.

Beyond the series, Gary recounts working with screen icons such as Glenn Ford, Julie Harris, Billy Crystal, and Eva Marie Saint, as well as early collaborations with rising talents including Jennifer Lopez. Gary shares fascinating stories about the projects that shaped his career—including his memorable appearance on “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.”

The conversation takes a deeply personal turn as Gary opens up about stepping away from acting, confronting life’s challenges, and finding renewed purpose through writing his powerful memoir “Up From Down.” With honesty, humor, and hard-earned wisdom, he reflects on sobriety, self-discovery, and the message he hopes readers take away: that even when life looks perfect on the outside, everyone faces struggles—and it’s never too late to begin again. 
 
For information on the Family 50th Anniversary Celebration with Kristy McNichol, Gary Frank, and their friends on October 25, 2026 at the Courtyard Marriott in Monterey Park, CA please email [email protected] 

GARY FRANK
 
Frank’s screen career began in 1974 when he was cast by director Richard Donner in the television movie “Senior Year,” which evolved into the CBS series “Sons and Daughters,” where he starred opposite Glynnis O'Connor.
 
Just days after that series ended, Frank was cast by director Mark Rydell, alongside producers Mike Nichols, Leonard Goldberg, and Aaron Spelling, in the acclaimed ABC drama “Family.” His portrayal of Willie Lawrence earned him the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in 1977. The series, which ran from 1976 to 1980, also starred James Broderick, Sada Thompson, Meredith Baxter, and Kristy McNichol.
 
Following the show’s successful five-season run, Frank built an extensive TV and film career, appearing in numerous movies and guest-starring on many of the era’s most popular series. His credits include “The Streets of San Francisco,” “T.J. Hooker,” “Charlie’s Angels,” “Fantasy Island,” “The Love Boat,” “Hill Street Blues,” “Friday the 13th: The Series,” and “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.” He also appeared in the feature film “Deadly Weapon” and had a recurring role in “Remington Steele.”
 
He also starred in numerous TV movies, including the acclaimed historical drama “Enola Gay: The Men, the Mission, the Atomic Bomb.” His film work includes the holiday movie “The Gift” opposite Glenn Ford, Dominick Dunne’s “People Like Us” with Eva Marie Saint, and the Eddie Murphy comedy “The Distinguished Gentleman.”
 
Beyond acting, Frank is an accomplished writer. He has written numerous scripts . His recent memoir, “Up From Down,” offers a deeply personal and heartfelt look at the triumphs, challenges, and defining moments of his life and career.

To Purchase Gary’s Book - https://tinyurl.com/5ecthukm 
 
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Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠

In Part One of this candid, funny, and deeply personal two-part conversation, host Tony Miros sits down with Emmy Award–winning actor Gary Frank, best known as Willie Lawrence on the beloved ABC series “Family”.

Gary takes us back to his childhood in Southern California, growing up across from Walt Disney Studios, and the unexpected moment that sparked his love for performing. From discovering Method acting in high school to studying under Lee Strasberg at the legendary Actors Studio, his journey is filled with bold risks, perseverance, and perfect timing.

You’ll hear how a breakout opportunity with director Richard Donner led to his first major role in  the short-lived series “Sons and Daughters”, how he navigated life as a young contract player at Universal, and the incredible twist of fate that landed him “Family”—the very same day he found himself out of work.

Gary also shares heartfelt and often hilarious behind-the-scenes stories about working with co-stars like Sada Thompson, James Broderick, Meredith Baxter, and Kristy McNichol. From the tight-knit bond the cast shared to the pressures of sudden fame, he paints a vivid picture of life both on and off set—including fan encounters that were sometimes flattering… and sometimes a little unsettling.

He also opens up about the groundbreaking storylines “Family” tackled—topics that pushed boundaries at the time and sparked powerful reactions from viewers across the country. Plus, Gary reflects on the realities of being a television star in an era when crossing over into film was anything but easy, and the actors who inspired him most. It’s nostalgic, revealing, and filled with unforgettable stories.

GARY FRANK
 
Frank’s screen career began in 1974 when he was cast by director Richard Donner in the television movie “Senior Year,” which evolved into the CBS series “Sons and Daughters,” where he starred opposite Glynnis O'Connor. He soon became a contract player at Universal Studios.
 
Just days after that series ended, Frank was cast by director Mark Rydell, alongside producers Mike Nichols, Leonard Goldberg, and Aaron Spelling, in the acclaimed ABC drama “Family.” His portrayal of Willie Lawrence earned him the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in 1977. The series, which ran from 1976 to 1980, also starred James Broderick, Sada Thompson, Meredith Baxter, and Kristy McNichol.
 
Following the show’s successful five-season run, Frank built an extensive television and film career, appearing in numerous movies and guest-starring on many of the era’s most popular series. His credits include “The Streets of San Francisco,” “T.J. Hooker,” “Charlie’s Angels,” “Fantasy Island,” “The Love Boat," “L.A. Law,” “Hill Street Blues,” “Friday the 13th: The Series,” and “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.” He also appeared in the feature film “Deadly Weapon” and had a recurring role in “Remington Steele.”
 
He also starred in numerous television movies, including the acclaimed historical drama “Enola Gay: The Men, the Mission, the Atomic Bomb.” His film work includes the holiday movie “The Gift” opposite Glenn Ford, Dominick Dunne’s “People Like Us” with Eva Marie Saint, and the Eddie Murphy comedy “The Distinguished Gentleman.”
 
Beyond acting, Frank is an accomplished writer. His recent memoir, “Up and Down,” offers a deeply personal and heartfelt look at the triumphs, challenges, and defining moments of his life and career.

To Purchase Gary’s Book - https://tinyurl.com/5ecthukm 
 
The Official Hollywood Obsessed Website - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.hollywoodobsessedthepodcast.com/ ⁠⁠ ⁠
 
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Titles VO Talent – Cam Frierson - ⁠⁠http://camfrierson.com/voice
 
Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠

In Part Two of Tony Miros’ candid and entertaining conversation with two-time Emmy winner Bonnie Bartlett Daniels, the legendary actress pulls back the curtain on one of television’s most beloved dramas, “St. Elsewhere.” Bonnie reveals that she originally auditioned for the head nurse before producers invited her to play Ellen Craig opposite her real-life husband, William Daniels. What began as a small role quickly evolved into one of the show’s most memorable relationships — though many of their co-stars, and even viewers, had no idea the two actors were actually married.

Bonnie also shares what it was like winning Emmy Awards on the same night as her husband, the challenges she faced fighting for proper billing on the series, and her honest reaction to the now-infamous “St. Elsewhere” finale. Along the way, she reflects warmly on a marriage that has lasted more than 70 years — built on friendship, humor, and a deep mutual respect.

The conversation also explores some of Bonnie’s most memorable roles beyond “St. Elsewhere,” including her unforgettable turn as the icy Barbara Thorndyke on “The Golden Girls,” her work in the hit miniseries “V,” and why she nearly walked away from the film “Twins” before director Ivan Reitman rewrote her role. She also speaks candidly about standing her ground in a male-dominated industry and how much the business has changed over the decades.

At 96, Bonnie Bartlett Daniels remains sharp, reflective, and wonderfully honest. From “Gunsmoke” to “Parks and Recreation” to “Better Call Saul,” she has witnessed nearly every era of modern television — and in this conversation, she shares the stories only someone who truly lived Hollywood history can tell.

BONNIE BARTLETT DANIELS

Bonnie Bartlett Daniels is a two-time Emmy Award–winning actress whose career spans more than seven decades across television, film, and theater. She first gained national attention in the 1950s playing Vanessa Dale Raven on the daytime drama Love of Life, launching a career defined by versatility and memorable character performances.

Born and raised in Moline, Illinois, Bonnie was inspired by her father, a touring stock actor. She studied drama at Northwestern University, where she met fellow actor William Daniels. The two married after graduation and moved to New York City to pursue acting careers. During this time, Bonnie studied with legendary acting teacher Lee Strasberg at the Actors Studio, refining the Method techniques that helped shape her long and successful career.

Bonnie later became widely known for her role as Grace Snider Edwards on Little House on the Prairie and for her Emmy-winning portrayal of Ellen Craig on the acclaimed medical drama St. Elsewhere, where she starred opposite her real-life husband, William Daniels. In 1986, the couple made television history by winning Emmy Awards on the same night. Over the years she has appeared in numerous television classics including V, The Golden Girls, Home Improvement, ER, and Boy Meets World, as well as the hit film Twins. After more than 70 years in show business, Bonnie recently added “author” to her résumé with her memoir, Middle of the Rainbow, reflecting on her extraordinary life and career.

To Purchase Bonnie’s Book - https://www.amazon.com/Middle-Rainbow-daughter-managed-herself/dp/B0BRLYKLQM 
 
The Official Hollywood Obsessed Website - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.hollywoodobsessedthepodcast.com/ ⁠⁠ ⁠
 
Follow the Official Hollywood Obsessed Facebook Page – ⁠⁠⁠HOLLYWOOD OBSESSED PODCAST⁠⁠⁠ 
 
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Titles VO Talent – Cam Frierson - ⁠⁠http://camfrierson.com/voice
 
Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠