Episode 1431 – Tituss Burgess

In Episode 1431 of the 'WTF with Marc Maron Podcast,' Marc Maron engages in a deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation with actor and singer Tituss Burgess. The episode begins with Maron’s musings on the possibility of attending Willie Nelson's birthday celebration and his reflections on Nelson's impact on music and culture. Maron then transitions to his guest, Tituss Burgess, known for his work on Broadway and his standout role in 'Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt,' as well as his recent series 'Schmigadoon!' on Apple TV Plus.

Maron and Burgess discuss the latter's journey from a farm in Georgia to the stages of New York. Burgess recounts his upbringing, his relationship with his mother and grandmother, and the early recognition of his musical talent. He shares the poignant story of his grandmother's influence and how her singing while doing housework left a lasting impression on him.

The conversation delves into Burgess's struggles with his father and the abuse he endured as a child, which Burgess bravely opens up about. He speaks about his father's recent attempts to reconnect and his own process of forgiveness and healing. Despite the forgiveness, Burgess explains he does not feel the need to establish a relationship with his father, as it was never there to begin with.

Burgess also reflects on his career, the typecasting he has experienced, and his eventual pivot to television and film. He discusses the creative fulfillment he found in composing a gospel record for his church, which allowed him to explore his faith and personal struggles through music. The episode touches on the broader theme of identity and how Burgess has navigated the entertainment industry as a gay Black man.

Maron and Burgess further explore the concept of God and faith, with Burgess expressing his belief in a God that transcends traditional labels and limitations. He shares his views on the inclusivity of his church and the significance of being true to oneself in the face of societal expectations.