John Krasinski Career Retrospective | SAG-AFTRA Foundation Conversations

Career Conversations with John Krasinski. Moderated by Jenelle Riley, Variety.
John Krasinski has established himself as one of the most exciting talents as an actor, writer and director, engaging audiences on the big and small screen. He directed, co-wrote and stars in A Quiet Place.
On the small screen, Krasinski can be seen as the title character in Amazon’s adaptation, Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan, inspired by the novelist’s impressive franchise.
Krasinski last directed and starred in The Hollars alongside Anna Kendrick, Richard Jenkins, Margo Martindale and Sharlto Copley, which premiered to great acclaim at Sundance 2016 and was released by Sony Pictures Classics. Krasinski also starred as a Navy SEAL in Michael Bay’s Benghazi thriller 13 Hours.
Through his own Sunday Night banner, Krasinski executive produces Lip Sync Battle on Spike TV alongside Jimmy Fallon and Stephen Merchant, based on the popular segment on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon which he created with Merchant and Fallon in 2013. The hit show is in its fourth season. Sunday Night recently made an overall producing deal with Paramount TV. Krasinski notably starred on NBC’s Emmy®-winning smash hit The Office for nine seasons, where he portrayed the charming boy-next-door Jim Halpert.
His recent film credits include the Gus Van Sant directed Promised Land, which he also wrote with Matt Damon; Disney Pixar’s Monster’s University in which he lent his voice; legendary Japanese filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki’s latest animated film The Wind Rises; and Cameron Crowe’s Aloha. His additional film roles include performances in the uplifting family film Big Miracle; Something Borrowed; Nancy Meyers' It's Complicated; Sam Mendes’ Away We Go; the animated smash hits Monsters vs. Aliens and Shrek the Third; George Clooney's Leatherheads; Ken Kwapis' License to Wed; Christopher Guest's For Your Consideration and Bill Condon's Kinsey.
Krasinski previously adapted and directed the David Foster Wallace book Brief Interviews with Hideous Men. The independently financed film screened at Sundance in 2009, and was released by IFC later that year. He also co-wrote an untitled action-adventure script with Oren Uziel, which was sold to Warner Bros. in 2013 that he will produce alongside Uziel.
He won a Theatre World Award for his stage debut in DRY POWDER, which he starred in alongside Claire Danes and Hank Azaria at the Public Theater in New York.
Krasinski graduated from Brown University as an honors playwright and later studied at the National Theater Institute.

[@parkviewmo]

She is a very good interviewer--well-prepared, smart, and engaging. John Kransinski is , of course, one of the most charming people in the world and a great storyteller!

[@tbam73]

She really is. First interview i saw with her was with Mathew Mcconaughey and it was brilliant

[@annemccarron2281]

She is very good - so enthusiastic!

[@jennhoff03]

John's a good sport. Everyone asks him the same questions, and I've heard most of this before. But you would think that it was the first time the way he very genuinely answers these questions.

[@Guhonter]

was the first time I heard him about any of it, I love this interview, so authentic, inspirational and charming :)

[@teedsdesnake701]

Just discovered Jenelle Riley, where has she been all my life? And the dress is gorgeous. John is always great in interviews.

[@kevinhiggler2896]

I didn't realize John went to Brown. Ivy League. Emily is bold knowing she dated and married a very intelligent person. Good for her. John is from Newton Mass. so it figures. Wealthiest town in Mass.

[@tomstaubyn5515]

😅😅

[@CloudslnMyCoffee]

I love he's a total A-lister but still acts like a normal guy lucky to be there

[@user-zu1po6er8o]

OK, gotta say that John Krasinski could not be more down to earth and funny. THESE are the guys you root for in this industry and there aren't very many of them. But then it's not easy staying earthbound with the accolades, adoring fans and constant attention. John doesn't seem to have an ounce of affectation in him. And Jenelle, you are terrific at this art form. No one better at it. You're so engaging, knowledgeable, responsive and curious while being able to put them at ease with your wonderful laugh. Thanks! I just wish you interviewed EVERYONE.

[@wilbeugre]

And... I love the way she laughs! So refreshingly genuine ☺️

[@leannereilly]

I could listen to John talk for hours. Imagine just chilling, having the chats, sitting in front of a fire, drinking tea and coffee and sharing stories ☕️🔥

[@Your-moms_spaghetti]

Emily blunt is a lucky lady

[@kims.1717]

Watching during quarantine... Long-time Office fan but just found this interview. The interviewer is putting on her own master class! She is beautiful, kind, prepared, and has a natural conversation with John. Long-time John fan, new fan of Jenelle Riley!

[@gerry_atric]

Everything you said- same for me. Went from Office 》 Carell/Krasinski on talk shows 》 Carell here 》 John here 》 sub'd & who's on the playlist 👍

[@loveherstuff]

Just discovered Jenelle Riley, where has she been all my life? And the dress is gorgeous. John is always great in interviews.

[@lizarrrdbeth]

Jenelle Riley....you are awesome!!! I love this interview. You are such a relaxed soul. You didn't rush John through the interview. You're a class act ... plus I love your dress!!

[@SuperMiguelito2000]

John K. had me almost crying talking about his wife...❤️

[@JML689]

Time stamp?

[@elenavorobeva6747]

@@JML689 1:16 - 1:23

[@alhambralions5985]

🐝 John is the most grounded and generous actor ever. He performed a true public service during a time of crisis. His SGN made staying at home these past three months more bearable. It connected people in a way that no commercial means of communication could have. He reached out to other entertainers and drew them into our homes, and shone a light on the kindness of “everyday” people. I have not watched the office, (not really a fan of that sort of confrontational humor), but I may watch it now, knowing.some stories of its origins. Many thanks, also, to this lovely interviewer.

[@Ndi1st]

I love this guy and I just adore the way he talks about his wife!! 😭🥰🥰

[@alex0589]

The Robin Williams story at around 36:24 is the best thing i've ever heard anywhere. Jenelle's reaction makes it even better. Nicely done, once again, solid interview.

[@KenTWOu]

35:48 to be precise...

[@user-rk6wh6sn8]

"I made a promise to some younger spiritual self of mine " greatly said 💚💚

[@aboutkimmy]

John just gives that vibe that makes you want to meet him and talk with him about anything. ya know ?

[@JanooProductions]

I love Tuna in any talking show or interview, he is so friendly and funny.

[@teedsdesnake701]

That interviewer is amazing

[@Patricia-ok1cd]

Really enjoyed this interview. I love the way he talks about Emily his wife and how we can tell he just adores and respects her so much .as his wife and an actress. I feel like I got to know John throughout the interview. Just an amazing honest open down to earth person. Thank you for this .

[@newmanifest]

She’s a terrific interviewer (and he’s a great interview).

[@raindropsfukushemiaflavore9914]

A year later, May 2020 and this guy does SGN Some Good News while everyone around the world is basically in quarantine from covid19. Made lotsa people happy! Thanks John ❤

[@mollymcdonald2334]

i just sat through this entire interview to realize one thing. i'm still amazed by his presence. even being so famous, he's so raw.

[@karabellaellaellaella]

Here after bingewatching Jack Ryan and just loving him in interviews 😍 Emily’s so lucky!

[@TheNetgirl71]

Respect to John. My first time watching him speak in an interview. Unexpected.

[@mikekillagreen9432]

Love this! Big fan of his and Jenelle is the best moderator hands down.

[@bessmahaneypilates8638]

Another great interview by Janelle, plus her dress is cute! Love John!

[@aishab007]

I love both John and Emily, they are a fantastic duo - so talented and lovable! Also - Jenelle - it is always a joy when you do an interview - always with great questions and so much knowledge! Wow!

[@slonecznikdoniczkowy]

The host is amazing! ❤️ ❤️ ❤️

[@heyitsaradia]

This is one of my all-time favorite interviews EVER. I love love love that we got to learn so much about John. He's such an inspiration to me. Thank you

[@saeikhshiyat2468]

Mine too! I watch this interview often to motivate myself to do things!

[@lindsaycrawford-paul7181]

What a fabulous trip he’s having 😍

[@aliciarb9046]

He has THE BEST Robin Williams story

[@cathlynpollom2545]

How does this woman manage to get all that she does out of the actors she interviews? Amazing 😉

[@carolhunt2023]

Jenelle. You’re amazing - so present responding off of what they say. You’re the best interviewer. Phenomenal. John’s not too bad either.

[@user-zu1po6er8o]

Loved this, Jenelle! He's a real charmer. So happy for his success, and that Emily and John found each other! He has an impressive background. The Quiet Place grabbed my heart. The love of family alone would have sold me on that film.

[@missshooey]

Greatest guy ever.

[@ZARAGOLD]

I love him so much!!!

[@betonthis1]

Wow this is so good. He can tell a story and be completely enthralling as well. I have the hugest crush on Emily Blunt so I had that weird thing where I didnt like him because of that but now I can't help love the guy.

[@juliavieira7901]

John is such an incredible guy, so down to earth! I admire and love him so much

[@ellaenglish]

Thanks for the episode. You guys ask the best questions! I know this before I even watch the video. Loved the one with Leo too

[@dhanya440]

This is Soooooo good man!!!

[@debbiehorn8263]

I'm old enough to be Johns' mother but I wish I'd gotten to him before Emily !!!! LOL Love both of them . The perfect couple .

[@TheScmtnrider]

Awesome. The American dream fulfilled! Love his work and Emily's for sure. Thank you. 👍 I love these long conversational interviews and podcasts that we get to see these days. They're insightful. You're either entertained with someone's stories, unguarded candor, perspectives, and see the human decency, such as with this video? Or not see it... ✌💨

[@JM-ig4ed]

great interview - interviewer was great too.

[@ObviouslyBlonde]

Very insightful, thanks for sharing! Even though I know most of John's stories by now, I always enjoy new content. Such a great interveiwee.

[@rebeccamarkle5870]

I love him so much

[@Jemppu]

Right. Next step on my conversations with actors binge: Inside the Actors' Studio with Ed Harris.

[@quewrzquewrz8123]

Thank you to spending your money, time and energy...

[@jm6169]

1:09 OMG I WOULD BE FREAKING OUT HE’S SO ADORABLLLLEEEEEEEEEEE 🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺

[@karenlee188]

Enjoyed this interview very much.

[@tomada36]

He's so easygoing about this, that it makes her job so much easier

[@itzzsteezyy]

God bless you john

[@supermansteve6832]

John is the best.

[@dr.calebrobbins.3177]

I've not had the opportunity to find the Interviewer 'S name ...I will. In the last 36 hrs. I HAVE enjoyed all the interviews you have conducted. I enjoy the open, honest, & uncomplicated style. You ALLOW the subject to kick back & JUZ be themselves. Perhaps it would be clearer if I said you don't need to impose YR. agenda onto them ... You have the knack of putting an actor at ease with the process. Many interviews seem to be about the Interviewer 's perceived 'celebrity ' , not their Subjects - AH ha - methinks you have a policy of "All yee who pass this point leave YR. Ego right here - ABSOLUTELY no exception indulged " Excellent , don't change that principle EVER !!! CR.

[@wilhelmina8843]

Janelle Riley. She’s awesome.

[@Superior_Productions]

One of those 7 dislikes is from Hugh Jackman

[@debbiehorn8263]

That's funny !

[@naturalallnaturalwhitepist1789]

You should definitely put these onto apple podcasts you would get so many more listens, it won’t drain up everyone’s battery when on the go 👍🏻

[@pamelak.6117]

Off topic, but her dress is gorgeous.

[@beckyleonardis6331]

John's so great! I couldn't stop laughing! I heard that him and B.J. went to school together in Boston. He's very sophisticated. I was tuned into everything, he said. I'm a die-hard fan of The Office! I saw that blooper of Dinner Party. When Steve was showing them, his Plasma TV. And he said, we're never going to get through this episode. I don't know, how they did!

[@janresendez7991]

BIG TUNA!!!

[@mjeansz]

Beautiful soul.

[@ElenainMovieland]

The Emily blunt and Matt Damon story hahaahahahaha omg crying😂😂😂😂😂

[@hellooohellooo123]

To me Jim, I mean john is just a normal person who's done some cool things rather than an actor.

[@christofferaro]

Folds...right In to the wall 🤣🤣🤣

[@escapetalks]

that last question, she wanted him to mention the MCU... phase... "4" ...

[@carolynluckas1219]

Let me recommend to anyone going into ANYTHING, take as many English courses as you can fit in. Writing, poetry, greek mythology, free writing…everything they offer. No matter WHAT FIELD you go into, it will keep you ahead of the rest.

[@huzefajawadwala1347]

Wohoooooo !

[@omaradem1538]

I only watch Interviews that Jenelle Riley moderates

[@viantzpradz4771]

He is a guy from the Office...!!!

[@Jj14048]

He really is captivating but he talks a lot and fast, damn.

[@c.assidyeden]

theres 3 people i want to meet really bad. ellen. jennifer aniston. and john.

[@jigodiieplinalumea4565]

He is like all actors an emotions trader. Money and fame in exchange for emotions. I bet anyone would love that lifestyle.

[@johnmeyer1052]

He's a Patriot.

[@iglooz0]

18:29

[@nononouh]

9:30

[@peachlily22]

Those chairs don’t look comfortable at all!

[@monicaah2468]

He talked for an hour and a half straight

[@elenagaxho7615]

My mom it is happy right now. I see she is upset right now.

[@peterleatherman6922]

Yes.... words

[@joycegibbs5267]

So, he used Jenna to get the part, that's why he was so nice to her during the audition? Very calculating is Mr. Krasinski. It's funny, she is the least liked character/person but both Krasinski & Rain Wilson said she was key to their getting the parts, or Wilson said how amazing Jenna was when he did his audition with her, so she was good for something !! Krasinski was absolutely brilliant in The Office though, they all were, best show of all time IMO.

[@svetaivanov1344]

I dont know what you mean when you say that jenna is the least liked character. She was one of my favorites and played an integral part in the show. But I guess it's to each their own

[@LittleSkyscrap3r]

That interviewer is amazing

[@delgadocooley6500]

John's a good sport. Everyone asks him the same questions, and I've heard most of this before. But you would think that it was the first time the way he very genuinely answers these questions.