Charlie Rose Season 24 Episode 35 Ted Koppel Steve Martin and Edie Brickell

On this episode of Charlie Rose, three iconic figures from various fields gather for a fascinating discussion. Ted Koppel, a veteran journalist and former ABC News anchor, is joined by Steve Martin, an accomplished actor, comedian, and bluegrass musician, and Edie Brickell, a singer-songwriter who has collaborated with Martin on several musical projects.

The conversation begins with a look back at Koppel's legendary career in journalism, which spans more than five decades. He reflects on some of the major stories he covered, including the Iran Hostage Crisis, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Koppel also shares his thoughts on the state of contemporary news media, expressing concerns about the rise of opinion-based journalism and the lack of trust in traditional news outlets.

Next, the discussion turns to Martin and Brickell's creative partnership, which began when they met at a party several years ago. They discuss their mutual love of bluegrass music, which led them to collaborate on an album called "Love Has Come For You" in 2013. Martin talks about his transition from comedy to music, explaining that he always harbored a love for the banjo and began learning the instrument seriously in his 40s. Brickell praises Martin's musical talent and describes the enriching experience of writing songs together.

The trio also discusses their individual creative processes and inspirations. Brickell explains that she draws on personal experiences and emotions when writing songs, whereas Martin notes that he often begins with a musical phrase or chord progression and builds from there. Koppel offers his own insights into the nature of creativity, arguing that it arises from a combination of talent, hard work, and luck.

As the conversation continues, the trio touches on a wide range of topics, including politics, globalism, and the importance of community. Martin reflects on his own political beliefs, noting that he has become increasingly interested in civic engagement in recent years. Koppel offers his thoughts on the current state of American politics, expressing concerns about the fragmentation of political discourse and the lack of civility in public life.

Throughout the discussion, the guests demonstrate a deep respect and admiration for one another's work. They share stories and insights with humor and warmth, creating a lively and engaging exchange that is sure to captivate viewers. Whether discussing the craft of journalism, the art of musical collaboration, or the importance of social connection, this episode of Charlie Rose offers a fascinating glimpse into the minds of three legendary figures.