Maya Rudolph: Making Art with Friends

You know how some people just make you feel good as soon as you meet them? You instantly know they’re filled with light and wisdom, even without knowing all the details of their life. Maya Rudolph radiates a calm, generous presence that makes us all want to be friends with her. Maya often plays characters that are likeable despite their many flaws. Her version of Kamala Harris could have been overly serious or full of responsibility, but she looks for the joy in each character and finds projects like Loot that celebrate her values. Maya expresses herself through voice work, singing, producing, acting, and fashion. Friend and work wife Natasha Lyonne says, “Her entire system is wired for being a vehicle of joy.” While Amy Poehler says Maya has “big mom energy.” Through her work, it’s clear Maya finds meaning in the surreal, seeks out fresh points of view, and shares her vision of the world through her performances. She seems to make it a point to work with her friends, and perhaps most refreshingly, she looks like she’s having fun.

You’re Invited

Maya’s show Loot is based on the idea of a billionaire who learns to do good in the world. It’s opulent and outrageous, but also sweet and earnest. It’s the kind of show you want to live in. If you were creating a show, how would you want someone to describe the world you had created? If you’re inspired, share your vision in the comments.  

Sources, Samples, and Further Reading

https://ew.com/celebrity/maya-rudolph-ew-cover-story/

https://ew.com/tv/amy-poehler-kristen-wiig-natasha-lyonne-talk-maya-rudolph/

https://www.romper.com/entertainment/maya-rudolph-husband-kids

(What is she doing at the two-minute mark???)

If this doesn’t make you laugh, I don’t know what will.