Explore every episode of the podcast The Marx Brothers Council Podcast

Hot off the presses, THE UNCUT MARX BROTHERS explores comedy bits, scenes, and storylines that, for one reason or another, never made it to the screen. Author David Koenig joins us to detail his discoveries, and how he uncovered these rare materials. Noah delivers a rundown of discarded Groucho character names, while Matthew unveils something you never imagined you'd ever hear… Without question, one of our most important episodes.

A decade after publication, we celebrate Noah’s "Gimme a Thrill", his acclaimed book about the Marx Brothers’ lost Broadway debut, "I’ll Say She Is", and the remarkable effort to bring it back to life. With Noah temporarily promoted to guest, we look back at the book’s creation, the research and discoveries behind it, and what may in store for ISSI’s second hundred years.

We check back into Room Service, this time putting the spotlight on listener comments about the much-debated 1938 Marx adaptation of the Broadway hit. We rethink the film’s restrained version of the team, missed opportunities, and which brother surprisingly fares best. It’s a lively back-and-forth featuring defenses, complaints, fresh observations and some wonderfully specific nitpicking. By the end, Room Service may not have won everyone over, but it certainly gives us plenty to argue about.

Stop the presses—one of the great mysteries of Marx Brothers fandom has finally been solved! After decades of anonymity, the manicurist from A Night at the Opera has a name. Bob Stryker joins us to explain how he stumbled onto the elusive answer, and we follow the story from a brief onscreen appearance to her surprising later career working behind the scenes in Hollywood.

Today, we spotlight two new Marx releases that are a feast for the eyes: Richard S. Greene’s book, "Marx Madvertising", overflowing with ads, stills, and promotional artwork, then (at 43:56) Andrew Murchie's fascinating new 3D conversion of "Animal Crackers"—available on disc or as a download, complete with a commentary by your favorite podcast hosts. We talk with both creators about how these passion projects came to life and what fans can expect. We also explore how modern tools are helping preserve—and even reimagine—Marx history, from restoring fragile artwork to bringing the Brothers (even Zeppo) into three dimensions.

We’re proud to welcome Allen Eyles, author of 1966’s "The Marx Brothers: Their World of Comedy"—the first in-depth look at the team’s films—and its successor, 1992’s "The Complete Films of the Marx Brothers", for his first-ever podcast on these landmark works. The conversation ranges from Eyles’ favourite (see what we did there) British comedians to his accidental status as the world’s foremost authority on the missing "Horse Feathers" footage. Along the way, he recalls the Herculean efforts needed to study Marx films in the pre home-video era, and reflects on his evolving opinions of the Brothers' filmography.

Listeners share their thoughts on the most divisive Marx film. Is it the last hurrah or the last straw? We sift through comments on everything from Tootsie-Frootsie to the excised “Dr. Hackenbush” song, while confronting the water carnival sequence that turns watching the movie into a hostage situation. We also take on the film’s most uncomfortable sequence, doing our best to put it in perspective... Along the way, there are Beatles comparisons, Lindy Hop history, and a listener who thankfully wasn’t one of Chico’s children. And as always, enough nitpicking to put any fan under observation at the Standish Sanitarium.

Matthew joins us in New York City for our first-ever episode in front of a live audience, recorded at the Museum of the Moving Image—just steps from Kaufman-Astoria Studios, where the Marxes filmed their first two movies. We kick things off with a quick dive into Horse Feathers (because The Cocoanuts or Animal Crackers felt a little too obvious), before welcoming Craig Shemin for a look at the studio’s ongoing history. Next, we take questions from the audience, and are then joined by the great Cinco Paul, whose Schmigadoon! is set to premiere on Broadway. Finally, we make a special announcement about an upcoming project before Cinco serenades us with a closing song.

We welcome ethnomusicologist Meg Farrell, the great-granddaughter of Will B. Johnstone—an unsung hero of the Marx story who helped set the template for their act with I’ll Say She Is, and later contributed to Monkey Business, Horse Feathers, and A Day at the Races. Meg treats us to entries from “Grandpit’s” private diaries, revealing surprising Marx Brothers tales from the 1920s, and insights into his day job as a political cartoonist. We’ll also discuss the importance of the Napoleon scene from ISSI, Johnstone’s complicated relationship with S.J. Perelman, and speculate on his specific contributions to their films.

April 12th, 2026. NYC. A unique event. More details at: https://movingimage.org/event/horse-feathers/

We turn our attention to the Marx family circle—on and off stage—highlighting relatives and influences that shaped the team. We examine the showbiz roots of Minnie’s parents, the short life of Manfred, and figures like Aunt Hannah, Cousin Polly, Mabel O'Donnell, and Lou Levy. We question common assumptions about Minnie and Frenchie, with Brett Leveridge shedding light on Minnie’s brief fling in the soft drink business. Then, Trav S.D. returns to discuss Uncle Al Shean—his role in the Brothers’ development, and his famed partnership with Ed Gallagher.

The guys respond to insightful audience comments on the brothers’ MGM classic. Is the film actually more like their Paramount work than we give it credit for? Does the brothers’ career trajectory resemble that of Picasso—or Elvis? And did Margaret Dumont actually land a joke? These and other truly life-altering questions are debated, dissected, and delightfully overthought.

Matthew and Noah take a closer look at “Tell It to Groucho”, the short-lived 1962 successor to “You Bet Your Life”. Though nearly identical in format, the series curiously never found its footing with audiences and was quickly cancelled. The guys are joined by the delightful Joy Harmon—Groucho’s assistant on “Tell It…” whom he first met when she appeared as a contestant on YBYL. Joy shares how she landed the role and reflects on her warm, affectionate working relationship with Groucho. --------- (EDIT 4/26): R.I.P. Joy Harmon, who passed away some five months after this chat was recorded. It was likely her final interview. ---------

Award-winning writer/comedian and longtime Marx Brothers obsessive Elliott Kalan ("The Daily Show", "MST3K", "The Flop House", and the new book, "Joke Farming") takes us deep into the craft of professional comedy writing with a nice dose of Marx-inspired examples. Elliott details the difference between satire and parody, defends the noble pun, and tells the story behind his delightfully chaotic Marx-flavored children’s book, "Sharko and Hippo".

Council members weigh in with their takes on the 1933 classic. We dive into the big questions: Is the film genuine satire or just anarchy in disguise? Which supporting characters truly “deserve” the wrath of the Marxes? And why is there not even incidental sound in the famed mirror scene? We’ll also discuss the difficulty some folks apparently have in fitting the entire movie on a VHS tape. Join us as we spin our wheels trying to find logic in the brothers’ most illogical film.

In this episode, we listen to and examine some of Groucho’s, Chico’s, and (yes, even) Harpo’s most notable radio guest appearances. We discuss how, while much of their radio work was pedestrian, when paired with the right writers and co-stars, the brothers could flourish. These guest spots also let the brothers experiment in ways they couldn’t elsewhere — and even when the results were uneven, they were always fascinating.

Alexander Woollcott authority Brad Sohlo returns to explore the celebrated critic’s influence on Harpo’s life, career, and legacy—and the surprisingly equal role Harpo played in Woollcott’s. Brad also shares stories from his visit to Woollcott’s Neshobe Island retreat, where Harpo and fellow Algonquin Round Table regulars gathered to unwind, rough it, and battle it out over croquet.

A complete collection of listener submissions from episode 83, "Horse Feathers Reeducated". Because of time constraints and overlapping content, not every comment made it into the original episode. Now, you can enjoy the full, uncut versions of every clip we received—packed with great stories and fascinating insights. Enjoy!

Council members weigh in on one of the Marxes’ greatest films. Hear about a botched screening, why Jennings might be the dumbest gambler in history, and one member’s detailed dissent on Chico’s piano solo. You’ll also get mixed takes on the football finale, learn who holds the title of show business’s most ridiculed performer, and find out how Halle Berry’s name managed to enter the conversation.

Screen icon Elliott Gould joins the guys for a heartwarming and at times profound conversation about his friendship with Groucho. From deli lunches to hospital antics to reflections on Mae West, Erin Fleming, and the meaning of legacy, Elliott offers deeply personal stories with warmth and wit. You’ll even learn what Groucho considered Elliott’s greatest performance.

We're celebrating the tenth anniversary of Matthew Coniam’s “The Annotated Marx Brothers: A Filmgoer's Guide to In-Jokes, Obscure References and Sly Details”. In this retrospective, we explore how the book came to be—and how it ultimately became something quite different from what the title might lead you to expect. What sets it apart from other books on the Marxes? Is an updated edition on the horizon? And does Matthew still hate “Duck Soup”? These and other pressing questions will be lightly dodged before we inevitably try to sell you a copy.

Friend of the podcast Kathy Biehl joins the guys to explore Groucho's only two produced scripts, the 1937 film "The King and the Chorus Girl", and the 1948 play "Time for Elizabeth" - which was later adapted for TV, featuring himself in the lead role. The crew delves into how these collaborations with Norman Krasna mark a conscious shift from Groucho’s signature humor, pondering what might have driven him to this new direction. They’ll guess which lines bear Groucho’s unmistakable stamp, and weigh in on his acting chops in Elizabeth. By the end, you’ll have the answer to the big question: Did Groucho need the funny?

With listener insights, we take another look at the film that marked the Marxes’ Hollywood debut and stands out as the only one featuring a manicurist we can name. This episode highlights the distinctiveness of Monkey Business, as comments explore how it stands apart from both their earlier work and later films. We’ll dive into praise for Thelma Todd and even Zeppo, alongside the random nitpicks Marx fans are famous for. Joe Adamson, Scott Alexander and Eddie Deezen are among those contributing. Jay Hopkins would have as well, if he could figure out how to do it.

By all accounts, the brothers acquired their iconic names in 1914 while playing cards with a performer named Art Fisher…but does this story hold water, or even milk? To get to the bottom of this, we welcome master Marx researcher Pat McCaughey...and without spoiling anything, let’s just say, “it’s complicated”. We also reflect on the importance of the stage names and whether the brothers would have been successful without them. Later, Bob and Pat detail obstacles they’ve encountered while searching for the identity of the "Night at the Opera" manicurist.

Noah and Matthew dive into Robert S. Bader’s new book, Zeppo: The Reluctant Marx Brother, the first-ever biography of the universally acknowledged youngest Marx Brother. The guys explore Zeppo’s life of career shifts, ties to organized crime, and strained family relationships. They delve into why he didn’t bask in the glory of the Marxes’ 1960’s and 70’s resurgence, and find proof of his rumored great wit. Oh, and Matthew discovers a Groucho “Holy Grail” buried in Bader’s pages... Not too spoilery, this episode is a must-listen whether you’ve read the book or not.

Once again, our audience takes centerstage as we respond to listener comments on the Marxes’ second (or third) film… How is viewing the restored version akin to seeing the team live onstage? What is “insouciant whimsy”? Why is John Tefteller championing a bootleg? These are just a few of the questions we’ll ponder in another meeting of ‘The Matthew Coniam Appreciation Council’. We’ll also discuss why Chico arrives with an instrument he doesn’t play, and learn what famed comedian is not a fan of Lillian Roth.

Emmy-winning comedy writer and producer Frank Santopadre, renowned for co-hosting the often Marx-focused Gilbert Gottfried's Amazing Colossal Podcast, joins us for an insightful conversation. Frank shares how he first became a fan of the team and reveals his favorite Marx film (it’s not Go West, by the way). He also reflects on his time working with Gilbert, including memorable interviews with friends, family, and co-stars of the brothers. Frank illuminates the historical importance of these chats, as the number of people who personally knew or worked with the Marxes is rapidly dwindling. And yes, we’ll apologize now for the detour to Skidoo.

David Fleming, Erin’s nephew, offers raw and compelling insight into the complex life of Groucho’s “secretary.” He recounts visits to his aunt at Groucho’s home and encounters with the man himself. We are treated to contemporary letters from Erin, describing life at the Marx house, her relationship with Groucho, and her later descent into madness. David shares firsthand memories of Erin’s battle with mental illness in explicit detail, and explains why it was predictable. He also speculates on why Groucho was drawn to Erin. A sympathetic yet unfettered exploration of a tragic story that you won’t find anywhere else. NOTE: This episode contains adult language and content.

After 72 episodes of you listening to us, today we listen to you, as Council members offer their insights and opinions of the Marxes’ first (surviving) film. Are its age and creakiness actually a blessing in disguise? How many tunes named “The Monkey Doodle Doo” did Irving Berlin actually compose? And why is Matthew comparing Oscar Shaw to Pavarotti? All this, and Eddie Deezen…need we say more? A podcast that you won’t want to end, and it almost doesn’t.

Biographer, cultural critic, and comics veteran Danny Fingeroth joins Noah and Bob for a game of Marx Brothers "What If...?" inspired by the multiverse series Danny worked on in his days at Marvel Comics. They ask, what if Groucho had become a doctor? What if Chico had been good with money? What if Zeppo had been good at...well, performing? Danny also discusses growing up in the Marxes' old New York neighborhood and how Lee Harvey Oswald's killer Jack Ruby helped get Gabe Kaplan to participate in Marxfest.

Matthew and Noah share a few of the most perplexing Marx Brothers mysteries they've encountered in their research, which have remained unsolved despite considerable effort. No, this episode is not about Humor Risk or the manicurist. But Matthew will walk you down winding paths of confusion regarding the authorship of The Big Store and Double Dynamite, and Noah will call your attention to a Marx Bros. Scrapbook anomaly that can only be explained ridiculously.

This month the guys examine the directors of each of the Marx Brothers’ films. From Dick Smith of Humor Risk to The Incredible Jewel Robbery’s Mitchell Leisen, they discuss each director’s qualifications, and (Humor Risk aside) whether they elevated the material, brought their own perspectives, or simply stayed out of the way. Matthew provides detailed and often surprising biographical info, while Noah highlights specific moments where the directors shined—as well as the work of Edward Buzzell.

An in-depth report on Marxfest 2024 with two of Noah’s co-organizers, Kathy Biehl and Jonny Porkpie. Detailing each event, they share stories of the fans, presenters and performers who made it an unforgettable time. We’ll also share some choice audio clips. Along the way, you’ll learn the real reason why Groucho didn’t appear on “Welcome Back Kotter”, and hear Josh Max's McCartney-esque version of the “Love Happy” theme. In addition, we are thrilled to present three exclusive Marx Brothers radio excerpts provided by John Tefteller. These clips, from presumed-lost radio shows, premiered at the fest and will be featured in John’s upcoming release of restored Marx radio appearances, available (hopefully) later this year.

“The Marx Brothers Miscellany” is not only the name of a new book by our guest, Trav SD, it also aptly describes this episode. We engage in a free-wheeling discussion of numerous Marx topics, including their Vaudeville roots, how Gummo’s role in the act and family differed from Zeppo’s, and whether the Marxes are really the greatest comedy team. We also discuss the Algonquin Round Table’s place in Marx lore, and Trav details how he helped Noah bring “I’ll Say She Is” back to life in 2014.

In between episodes, Noah pops in with a few words about MARXFEST, coming to New York City in May of 2024. Tickets and information at marxfest.org.

Well, this one doesn’t need much explanation, does it? Muppeteer Eric Jacobson and writer/producer/historian Craig Shemin join us for a look at the intersection of the worlds of the Marx Brothers and the Muppets. We discuss their shared roots in the Vaudeville stage, their utilization of music, and their mutual delight in creating mayhem for mayhem’s sake. Eric and Craig also detail their efforts to evolve and modernize the iconic characters while staying true to their Jim Henson heritage, and Noah once again has to defend his criticism of the Punch and Judy scene from “Monkey Business”.

A deep dive into Maxine Marx’s 1980 biography of her father, “Growing Up With Chico”. Matthew and Noah discuss the book’s honesty in taking on Chico’s self-centered lifestyle, while also portraying him in a sympathetic and loving manner. They point out discrepancies in anecdotes told by Maxine as compared to other sources, and are surprised by her willingness to express raw feelings about the rest of the family. Mostly though, the guys enjoy the details that help fill in the cracks of the story of the most interesting, yet elusive brother.

A VERY special episode as we are joined by TV writer, comedian, and Council member Mike Rowe to premiere a previously unheard 1967 interview with Groucho, conducted by the infamous film collector and distributor, Raymond Rohauer. Noah, Matthew, and Mike discuss the interview’s numerous departures from oft-told Marx lore, including Minnie’s importance to their rise and how the team transitioned from a musical act to a comedic one. We learn which film Groucho thinks is their worst, and what later-effort gets a surprisingly glowing reaction from him. Mike tells of his introduction to the Marx films and his start in the world of comedy, including working with Henny Youngman and Rodney Dangerfield. We get the creation story of his ‘lost’ Marx Brothers film "Donkey Shines,” and Mike details meeting the enigmatic Rohauer, who entrusted him with the tape of his Groucho interview.

Groucho’s 1959’s autobiography, “Groucho and Me” is delved into, featuring the world’s most renowned impressionist of the man, Frank Ferrante. The guys question if the book is truly an autobiography or just a collection of entertaining half-truths. They note the moments of humility and surprising self-awareness by Groucho, while noting that what is left out is as telling as what is included. Frank details how he’s mined the book over the years to keep his one-man show fresh, and talks about the joy of bringing Groucho to life as well as his plans for the future. Reading “Groucho and Me” is not a prerequisite for enjoying the discussion, as the guys examine the man as much as what’s in the book.

A busy two-fold episode. First the guys deep dive into the world of Marx Brothers movie trailers, exploring their sometimes puzzling approaches, noting unique footage or dialogue, and lamenting those that are missing...one of which we get big news about in mid-show! To follow along, you can view all the trailers at: https://youtu.be/j2jbuHNeyZo Then (at 1:07:00), actor/writer Jerry Sroka joins the podcast to discuss his new semi-autobiographical film, “Our Almost Completely True Love Story” in which he plays a Marx Brothers fanatic who courts actress Mariette Hartley. Jerry details the genesis of the film, which is laden with Marx references, as well as his real-life marriage to Mariette. He also recalls some hilarious personal and professional encounters with Woody Allen.

This month the guys look at two films with historically-important Marx appearances that were restored and released on a 2020 Blu-ray…now do you get the title? First, Matthew and Noah dissect Harpo’s brief supporting turn in the obscure 1925 silent romantic-comedy “Too Many Kisses”. They speculate on how Harpo came to be in the film and point out nuances in his performance that show the Harpo we know and love. Then they examine the ‘Theatrical Agency’ scene from the 1931 Paramount promotional film “The House That Shadows Built”. The guys discuss the circumstances which led them to shoot a skit that pre-dates “I’ll Say She Is”, and wonder if it’s Zeppo’s greatest performance.

“30 Rock”, “Only Murders in the Building”, “2 Broke Girls”, “The West Wing”…this is a minuscule sampling of series directed by our guest, director/actor/producer Don Scardino, a rabid Marx Brothers fan since the 1960’s. We explore Don’s Marx backstory and how they’ve influenced his work. He talks in-depth about making comedy, with behind-the-scenes tales going back to his days as a performer in the original production of “Godspell”. Don gives his thoughts on what makes a good Marx Brothers director, and why he thinks their later career went the way it did. Don also details his latest film, the soon-to-be-released “Our (Almost Completely True) Love Story” which has a Marx Brothers fanatic at its center…and what it was like to work with thousands of worms in 1976’s “Squirm”.

On the occasion of our sixtieth episode (not counting the ones we don’t count), we look back at the history of The Marx Brothers Council Podcast. Starting with its origins, as most stories do, we recount memorable moments, surprising guests, and our few regrets...topped off by hopes and plans for the future. And to pay the bills, we also talk some actual Marx Brothers, as we discuss which films we’ve changed our mind most about over the years. This is our way of thanking you all for sticking with us after the “Skidoo” deep dive.

The lost 1932 Groucho/Chico radio series “Flywheel, Shyster, and Flywheel” has long been a white whale for Marx fans. While the scripts were discovered in 1988, and a few tantalizing recordings have turned up (with more coming soon), it was the 1990-1992 adaptations by Mark Brisenden for the BBC which allowed new generations to enjoy the show. Mark joins us for an oral history of the project, starting with becoming a Marx fan at age six, getting his feet wet writing comedy, and eventually landing at the BBC…where persistence made the “Flywheel” revival a reality. We’ll hear of Mark’s encounters with original writer Nat Perrin, as well as the legendary Spike Milligan, who was not only a fan of the show, but made a guest appearance.

This month, we welcome back “Schmigadoon!” co-creator/showrunner Cinco Paul to help sift thru the curiosity that is Groucho Marx’s final film appearance, the ‘far-out’ 1968 comedy, “Skidoo.” You don’t need to like (or even have seen) the film to enjoy our discussion of the whats, whys, and what-ifs from a movie that’s not quite as half-assed as you expect it to be. What was Groucho thinking? What was Preminger thinking? What does Jackie Gleason sound like after taking LSD? You’ll hear our thoughts on these…plus the tragic tale of one of your hosts who, after numerous viewings, is actually starting to like “Skidoo.”

Film preservationist and collector Eric Grayson joins us to examine the 2023 state of the Marx Brothers’ catalog. We discuss which films have missing, damaged, or subpar footage (and we don’t mean “Go West”), and whether there is any hope for upgrades. Eric gets into the weeds with info that will surprise even the most knowledgeable fan. We’ll also examine the copyright issues that the Marx films will soon face, and look forward to how AI technology may help in restoration efforts. Finally, you’ll find out what happens when we have a guest who’s never heard our podcast.

Once again we dip into the mailbag for questions and comments from our loyal listeners. Bob joins us to serve as quizmaster, as we discuss subjects such as post-Duck Soup Freedonia/Sylvania relations, Marx pets, Matthew’s and Noah’s book sale numbers, and Groucho’s connection to the Chicago 7 trial. Of course, we can’t ignore the um, er…well, let’s just say the recently discovered “Horse Feathers” stills. Talk about pre-code!

What if Eddie Buzzell directed “Horse Feathers”? What if the Marxes did a film with Mae West? What if Harpo and Chico made shorts in the 1940’s?… And what if Matthew and Noah did an episode pondering these questions and more? Yep, your Marx Brothers daydreams are this month’s topic, as the guys give into baseless speculation sure to please everyone…or not. Later, they are joined by musician Dan O’Farrell, who performs his self-penned tune, “Zeppo Speaks”.

Piggybacking on Robert Bader’s superb “Groucho & Cavett” documentary, we are joined by Brett Leveridge, Marxfest co-host and house manager for Noah’s “I’ll Say She Is” revival, for an in-depth look at more of Groucho’s late-career talk and game show appearances. Groucho’s wonderfully disruptive guest shots on “What’s My Line?” “The Tonight Show” and “The Dating Game” are dissected, as well as his surprisingly serious and thoughtful debate with William F. Buckley, Jr. on “Firing Line.” We also examine Groucho’s fascinating “Dick Cavett Show” encounter with Dan Rowan. …and don’t worry; all of these clips are available for viewing on our blog at marxbrotherscouncilpodcast.com In addition, Brett tells his backstory of becoming a Marx fan in Oklahoma City, and we pay tribute to the late Richard J. Anobile.

With Matthew and Nick’s book, “The Annotated Abbott & Costello” hitting the shelves, it is the perfect time to discuss the duo’s appeal, or sometimes lack thereof, to Marx Brothers fans. We almost entitled this ep, “Nick & Matthew Meet the Skeptic: Noah Diamond” as he has been resistant to Abbott & Costello’s charms so far. The guys put Noah to the test with choice clips to gauge his reaction (sorry folks, no “Who’s on First?”). Will his preconceptions be shattered? The guys also discuss the differences between the two teams, try to decipher exactly what is going on in Bud Abbott’s head...and wonder if Bud, in fact, was the funnier of the pair. We know you’ll enjoy this as sure as 7 x 13 = 28.