🎙️ Full episode
DEBRIEFWritten and voiced by AI from the episode's audio
In this episode of GQ's One More Question, Zach Baron sits down with SNL cast member Ashley Padilla during her third season on the show. Padilla reflects on her unconventional path to Studio 8H—dropping out of college after a week, working retail at Sephora, grinding through years at the Groundlings comedy theater in Los Angeles, and working as an assistant to Diane Keaton. She discusses her distinctive comedic style built on awkwardness, self-deprecation, and carefully deployed pauses, and explains why she deliberately avoids oversharing on social media. Central to the conversation is Padilla's philosophy of relentless positivity and gratitude, which she frames not as innate but as an active choice—a daily practice of rejecting despair and choosing to find joy in small moments. She also touches on her summer 2026 film debut in The Catch alongside Emma Stone and Chris Pine, and her aspirations to write and direct. Throughout, Padilla emphasizes luck, collaborative spirit, and a commitment to the craft of performance over celebrity.
🎧 AI Debrief
Show notes
In this episode of GQ’s One More Question, Zach Baron meets with breakout Saturday Night Live star Ashley Padilla during her third season on the legendary sketch series.
Padilla reflects candidly on her climb to Studio 8H—from dropping out of college to working retail at Sephora and spending years in the Groundlings trenches alongside mentors like Diane Keaton. Addressing her signature brand of off-kilter comedy and the blunt, joyful attitude that anchors her performance style, Padilla rejects the instinct toward gloom, exclaiming: "There's no other option... To be in hell? For what?! Who wants that?!"
One More Question is GQ’s weekly video interview series hosted by Zach Baron, pairing him with the most compelling figures across entertainment, sports, and culture for honest, revealing conversations.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices