Judd Apatow Talks Mushrooms, Leslie Mann and His Netflix Documentaries

Judd Apatow brought his trademark humour to Jimmy Kimmel Live!, discussing everything from an unconventional experience with wife Leslie Mann to his latest documentary projects celebrating two distinctive voices in comedy.

During the October 15 interview, the filmmaker spoke about experimenting with mushrooms alongside Mann, offering another glimpse into the couple's off-screen relationship. The conversation also touched on Apatow's attempts to convince host Jimmy Kimmel that he is genuinely fun to spend time with, despite some questionable evidence.

Beyond the personal anecdotes, Apatow discussed two Netflix documentaries exploring the lives and creative legacies of comedians Norm Macdonald and Maria Bamford.

Norm: The Tale of Norm Macdonald celebrates the late comedian's unmistakable delivery, unconventional humour and influential career, including his memorable years on Saturday Night Live. The documentary arrived on Netflix on October 16, 2026.

Meanwhile, Paralyzed by Hope: The Maria Bamford Story, co-directed with Neil Berkeley, follows Bamford's journey through stand-up comedy, personal challenges and her remarkably candid approach to difficult subjects.

Together, the projects highlight Apatow's continuing interest in the people behind comedy, exploring the experiences that shape performers and the work they leave behind.

Between the documentary discussions and his entertaining marital anecdotes, the interview offers a lively combination of Hollywood storytelling and Apatow's self-deprecating humour.

Paralyzed by Hope: The Maria Bamford Story premieres on Netflix on October 23, 2026.