Natasha Lyonne is the oldest girl in the world, a phrase that sparked a creative collaboration with Amy Poehler and now resonates in a recent episode of Poehler’s podcast, Good Hang with Amy Poehler. In this lively discussion, Lyonne, the Poker Face star, reflects on her journey as a child actor, her work on Russian Doll, and even quantum physics. Aired in 2025, the episode offers fans a fresh look at Lyonne’s wit, wisdom, and unique perspective. Let’s explore the highlights of this conversation and why Lyonne continues to captivate audiences with her authenticity and charm.
A Podcast Packed with Personality
In the Good Hang episode, Amy Poehler hosts Natasha Lyonne alongside guests Ronan Farrow and Jeremy O. Harris. The trio dives into a range of topics, but Lyonne steals the show with her candid storytelling. She recounts her early days as a child actor, starting at age six on Pee-wee’s Playhouse. Her raspy voice and fiery red curls made her stand out, even as a kid navigating the chaotic world of showbiz. Lyonne shares how those early experiences shaped her, giving her a seasoned perspective that Poehler playfully dubbed “the oldest girl in the world.”
The episode, produced by The Ringer and Paper Kite Productions, crackles with energy. Poehler and Lyonne’s chemistry is undeniable, rooted in their long friendship and collaboration on Russian Doll. They reminisce about creating the Netflix series, where Lyonne plays Nadia, a woman trapped in a time loop. The podcast reveals how the “oldest girl” concept evolved from a quirky insult into a groundbreaking show exploring identity and resilience.
From Child Star to Creative Powerhouse
Lyonne’s career is a testament to her staying power. She started with small roles in films like Heartburn and Dennis the Menace, but her breakout came with Slums of Beverly Hills in 1998. By her teens, she was already a veteran, yet she faced personal struggles, including addiction, which she openly discusses in the podcast. Her comeback through Orange Is the New Black and Russian Doll showcases her ability to channel pain into art. In Good Hang, Lyonne reflects on how her past informs her work, making her characters feel raw and real.
The podcast also highlights Lyonne’s role as a creator. She co-wrote and directed episodes of Russian Doll, earning Emmy nominations. Her latest project, Poker Face, sees her as Charlie Cale, a lie-detecting sleuth. Lyonne tells Poehler she draws inspiration from 1970s detective shows like Columbo, blending nostalgia with her unique flair. This ability to reinvent herself keeps her relevant, and the podcast captures her passion for storytelling.
Key Point Summary
- Podcast Appearance: Natasha Lyonne joins Amy Poehler on Good Hang in 2025, discussing her career and their Russian Doll collaboration.
- Child Actor Roots: Lyonne started acting at six, shaping her “oldest girl in the world” persona.
- Creative Evolution: From Russian Doll to Poker Face, Lyonne’s work reflects her resilience and creativity.
- Personal Insights: She shares how past struggles fuel her authentic performances.
Natasha Lyonne Is the Oldest Girl in the World: Quantum Connections
One of the episode’s quirkiest moments comes when Lyonne dives into the double slit experiment, a quantum physics concept about observation and reality. She ties it to Russian Doll’s themes of perception and choice, showing her knack for blending the profound with the playful. Poehler laughs as Lyonne riffs on how life feels like a series of loops, echoing Nadia’s time-bending journey. This segment reveals Lyonne’s intellectual curiosity, a trait that sets her apart in Hollywood.
Fans on platforms like YouTube and Instagram have been buzzing about this episode. Clips shared on The Ringer’s social media show Lyonne’s animated storytelling, with comments praising her “unfiltered genius.” The podcast’s relaxed vibe lets her shine, whether she’s joking about her New York roots or reflecting on her chosen family, including Poehler and friends like Maya Rudolph.
A Friendship That Fuels Creativity
The heart of the episode lies in Lyonne and Poehler’s bond. They met through mutual Saturday Night Live connections in the early 2000s, and their friendship has grown through shared projects. Lyonne credits Poehler with pushing her to create Russian Doll after their earlier pilot, Old Soul, didn’t take off. In Good Hang, Poehler calls Lyonne her “chosen family,” a sentiment that resonates with fans who see their collaboration as a model of mutual support.
Lyonne’s influence extends beyond acting. She co-founded Asteria, an AI-driven film studio, and is set to star as Joan Rivers in an upcoming biopic, announced in June 2025. Her ability to juggle acting, directing, and producing while staying true to her quirky persona makes her a standout. The podcast captures this multifaceted nature, showing why Natasha Lyonne is the oldest girl in the world in the best possible way.
Why This Episode Matters
The Good Hang episode offers a rare glimpse into Lyonne’s mind, blending humor with introspection. Her stories about surviving Hollywood, confronting personal demons, and finding joy in creativity resonate with listeners. The episode also underscores her role as a trailblazer for complex female characters. As Poehler notes, Lyonne’s work allows women to be “deadly, tender, and sexy” all at once, challenging stereotypes.
For fans, this podcast is a must-listen, available on platforms like Apple Podcasts and The Ringer’s YouTube channel. It’s a celebration of Lyonne’s journey from child star to cultural icon, wrapped in her signature wit. Whether you’re a longtime admirer or new to her work, this episode is a perfect entry point into her world.
Listen to Good Hang with Amy Poehler to hear Natasha Lyonne’s full conversation, and follow her on Instagram for updates on Poker Face Season 2 and her Joan Rivers biopic. Share your thoughts on social media—what makes Lyonne the oldest girl in the world to you?