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Recode Decode: 'Will & Grace' co-star Sean Hayes

Decoder with Nilay Patel · with Sean Hayes · October 22, 2018 · 70 min

Summary

This episode offers a fascinating look into the career trajectory of Sean Hayes, highlighting his transition from iconic actor to successful producer. It explores how the internet has reshaped television production and revenue models, providing valuable insights for anyone in the entertainment or content creation industries. Entrepreneurs can learn from Hayes' strategic adaptation to changing media landscapes.

Key takeaways

Themes

founder & leadership

Topics covered

entertainment industry evolutiondigital media impacttelevision production changesrevenue model shiftssocial media strategycelebrity brandinglgbtq+ representation in media

Episode description

Actor and producer Sean Hayes talks with Recode's Kara Swisher in this live interview recorded at the Boomtown Brewery in Los Angeles. In this episode: (02:38) Hayes' background in music and dinner theater; (10:22) Moving to Los Angeles and doing commercials; (13:04) Acting on "Will & Grace"; (17:24) Ending the show and becoming a producer; (25:15) How the internet has changed producing; (33:05) The return of "Will & Grace"; (40:47) What will happen to the characters on "Will & Grace?"; (42:43) How the show has become more political; (44:02) Using social media for work and fun; (49:00) Being married, "Halloween" and documentaries; (54:16) Investing in technology and the impact of internet companies; (56:56) Barriers faced by gay people and the midterms; (1:02:32) Changing revenue models; (1:05:00) How Hayes decides what to produce and being "just Jack"; (1:07:32) Where he'll be in 10 years Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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Frequently asked about this episode

What does this episode say about founder & leadership?
Sean Hayes' career evolution from actor to producer demonstrates the importance of adapting skills to new roles in a changing industry.
What does this episode say about founder & leadership?
The discussion on how the internet has changed producing and revenue models is a critical insight for understanding current media economics.
What does this episode say about founder & leadership?
Hayes' strategic use of social media for both personal and professional branding offers a blueprint for leveraging digital platforms.
What does this episode say about founder & leadership?
The episode touches on the challenges and opportunities in content creation in the digital age, relevant for anyone looking to build a media business.
What does this episode say about founder & leadership?
The episode implicitly shows how public perception of a role can influence career management, offering lessons in personal branding.

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