James Austin Johnson Transforms from Trump to Grinch in New Podcast
James Austin Johnson, known for his impression of former President Donald Trump, is set to launch a new season of his podcast, ‘Tis The Grinch Holiday Podcast, on November 10, 2023. The production, created in partnership with Wondery and Dr. Seuss Enterprises, will feature Johnson reprising his role as the Grinch, blending humorous interviews with guests alongside a modern twist on the beloved character.
Over the past two seasons, Johnson has captivated audiences by infusing his portrayal of the Grinch with a mix of contemporary humor and engaging guest interactions. This season promises to elevate the experience with notable guests including Mark Hamill, The Jonas Brothers, activist Jameela Jamil, and former NFL star Rob Gronkowski. Johnson describes the show as a blend of family-friendly comedy reminiscent of programs like Eric Andre and Cunk on Earth, aiming to entertain both children and adults alike.
In discussing the podcast’s appeal, Johnson expressed his desire to create content suitable for his young son. “I want to share all the Saturday Night Live stuff with my son — I’m trying to indoctrinate him with comedy — but almost none of it is appropriate for someone who is about to turn four,” he noted. The Grinch persona allows him to explore clean humor while engaging with an adult audience through the diverse lineup of guests.
The upcoming season will consist of ten episodes, each filled with lively discussions and unexpected moments. For instance, Johnson shared insights about his experience interviewing Gronkowski, describing him as “a bucking bronco of outrageousness.” He also highlighted the unique dynamic of interviewing The Jonas Brothers, referring to them as “three guys at once who are also a singular entity.”
Johnson’s ability to connect with his guests is evident in his enthusiasm for the interviews, which he enjoys more than any other aspect of his work. He revealed that he once aspired to be a journalist, which informs his approach to these conversations.
While Johnson is known for his signature Trump impersonation, he acknowledges the shifting political landscape since his impressions first gained traction during the pandemic. “The sands shift,” he remarked, reflecting on the current climate surrounding the former president. He noted that the comedic landscape has changed as Trump’s political power has evolved, making it more challenging to find humor in the current situation. “How do you find what’s funny within that?” Johnson mused, acknowledging the complexity of the task.
In a recent sketch featuring guest Sabrina Carpenter, Johnson’s impression of Trump took on a more nuanced tone. The character’s existential questioning about morality offered a glimpse into a deeper layer of the impression. Johnson likened this complexity to Shakespeare’s characters, asserting, “I’m just trying to find new things happening with his speech and his brain and definitely the darkness.”
Although he has no immediate plans for new impression targets, Johnson remains open to exploring figures who embody authority and absurdity. “I really enjoy the ideas of playing people that fit into this soft old authority model,” he explained.
As the new season of ‘Tis The Grinch Holiday Podcast approaches, Johnson’s transition from the realm of political satire to family entertainment showcases his versatility as a performer. With a blend of humor and heartfelt moments, listeners can anticipate a delightful experience that captures the spirit of the holiday season.
