Part One: Behind the Bastards Q&A: Year's End Edition
Behind the Bastards
Deep Dive
What is Robert Evans' least favorite type of episode to do on Behind the Bastards?
Robert Evans dislikes episodes about foreign leaders, especially when he lacks prior knowledge of their political context. He finds them stressful due to the extensive research required and the high stakes of accurately portraying their actions, such as with figures like Netanyahu or Bolsonaro.
How did Robert Evans celebrate the passing of Henry Kissinger?
Robert Evans had a normal day when Henry Kissinger died. He acknowledged being glad Kissinger was dead but noted that Kissinger lived a long life without suffering, so he simply had a beer to mark the occasion.
Which topics or episodes on Behind the Bastards leave Robert Evans particularly shaken or angry?
Robert Evans is deeply angered by episodes on the U.S. healthcare system, industrial disasters like the Hawksnest Tunnel disaster, and Union Carbide's role in the Bhopal tragedy. He finds these topics more offensive than figures like Hitler because they involve individuals who present themselves as decent while causing widespread harm.
What is Robert Evans' opinion on modern Star Trek?
Robert Evans enjoys most modern Star Trek, with Lower Decks being his favorite since Deep Space Nine. He is tired of prequels and wants new stories that move the timeline forward, such as exploring Starfleet politics with an older Riker.
Who is Robert Evans' fantasy guest for Behind the Bastards?
Robert Evans would love to have Alan Moore or Werner Herzog as guests. He particularly wants to cook a meal with Herzog, though he also thinks Will Ferrell would be a great guest due to his sense of humor.
When can fans expect a sequel to Robert Evans' book 'After the Revolution'?
The sequel to 'After the Revolution' is nearly complete, with Robert Evans finishing the rough draft. He plans to release the first three chapters as a teaser in January and is working with his editor to finalize the book.
What is the most disappointing person Robert Evans considered covering but couldn't due to lack of material?
Robert Evans has encountered individuals with intriguing but insufficiently documented histories, such as CEOs involved in unethical practices. He also finds figures like Ben Shapiro too boring to warrant an episode, despite their negative impact.
Which Behind the Bastards episode received the most backlash from fans?
An episode about a doctor performing bad surgeries for trans people received mixed reactions, with some fans expressing specific frustrations. Robert Evans acknowledges the challenges of handling sensitive topics and the difficulty of pleasing everyone.
How did Behind the Bastards come to be as a podcast?
Robert Evans pitched the idea for Behind the Bastards while at Cracked, inspired by his interest in dictatorships. After being laid off, he refined the concept with Jack O'Brien and Sophie, shifting from a seasonal format to a weekly show about different historical figures.
What activities does Robert Evans do to ease his mental health after researching dark topics?
Robert Evans copes by spending time with his dog, Anderson, and engaging in physical activities like running, lifting weights, and shooting practice. He also hunts and trains with friends, though he misses using drugs as a coping mechanism.
- Robert found episodes about foreign leaders difficult due to the required research and anxiety about getting facts wrong.
- Sophie intensely disliked episodes about wilderness camp schools due to their disturbing nature.
Shownotes Transcript