Carley Whitt has a healthy dose of delusion
What were you like as a teen?
I was a fan of The Office and had aspirations of being a TV writer (maybe performing too, although less so now!). I wouldn’t call myself a class clown, I mostly said my observations under my breath so one or two people might hear and laugh. I had a friend tell me in earnest that they could see me having a show “like Ellen…” so take that as you will.
Did you have an un-sexy starter job?
Many! A bunch of unpaid internships in college including one in “development” in Marina Del Rey where I just walked 3 dogs. Dr. Phil Show, barista, retail, Writer’s PA and assistant (although I like to think I made being an assistant sexy). I got something out of all my past jobs. Important skills in a lower stakes setting, friends, confidence and only a little trauma. All my experiences inspire my writing, sometimes not right away or into a whole pilot idea, but they shape the worlds and characters I create.
What do you consider to be your biggest comedy achievement to date?
Being hired as a staff writer and co-writing an episode of TV! Truly a dream come true.
When you were coming up in comedy, what helped you stick with it?
I had supportive family, friends and an amazing boss/mentor. And a healthy dose of delusion!
Have you ever dealt with trolls?
I have had a few coworkers when I was coming up as an assistant that had bullying or toxic tendencies. I mostly tried to not let them drain my energy and accepted that not everyone’s going to like me and that not everyone you work with has to be your friend.
On your deathbed, what transcendent advice would you croak at a young comedian?
Closed mouths don’t get fed!!
Best comedy advice you ever got?
Write a lot!!! Scripts, jokes, whatever you can.
Worst comedy advice you ever got?
“Don’t be too good of an assistant or your boss will never want to lose you.”
How has being funny helped you in your life?
Making people laugh has always been the way I connect with others. Since I was a kid, I always tried to lighten the mood and make things feel a little less serious. Plus, it helped me get funny friends who keep my life entertaining!
What specific things should a novice comedy writer do to shape their voice?
Journaling, 20 mins of free writing sessions, reading your old work, and trying a new medium for fun.
Was there one person who inspired you to go into comedy?
Mindy Kaling! I read her books and was so inspired by her. I didn’t even know TV writing was a job until researching The Office on Wikipedia. I also loved The Mindy Project. I feel so lucky to have gotten to actually meet her, get to see her work and eventually write for one of her shows.
Do you have a writing routine?
Oh no! My weakness! When I’m on a roll and excited about something, I work really fast. But the slow times hit me and I sometimes have trouble pushing through. When no one is asking me for anything and there are no deadlines…the self motivation can be tough during certain seasons of life. Sometimes, when I feel stuck I tell myself I only have to write for 20 mins, and usually by the end I want to keep going.
What is your go-to show?
I’m not really a show/movie repeater but Arrested Development always makes me laugh! I also love the What We Do in the Shadows movie.
What word always cracks you up?
Fedora.
