Donald Glover Discusses the End of Childish Gambino on New Hot Ones Episode
Donald Glover appears on the newest episode of Hot Ones, comparing the hot wings challenge to an Ayahuasca trip.
Glover and Hot Ones host Sean Evans engage in this thrilling and entertaining edition of interview journalism: spicy torture of celebrities. While eating the final wing of the challenge, the “Redbone” singer jokes, “Donald Glover dies on Hot Ones. Says, ‘Please listen to the album.'”
The host delves into Glover’s personal endeavors as the interview begins through less hot flavors. The artist announces the end of an era for his rapper persona, Childish Gambino. “I always knew Childish Gambino was a character. On some level, I wanted it to end,” he states.
The star has embodied the alter ego since 2011, crafting hits like “This Is America,” “3005,” and “Heartbeat.” The rapper and comic separated his careers by using the stage name Childish Gambino while pursuing acting and comedy under his legal name, Donald Glover. “It’s a little sad,” he shares as he reveals the retirement of his moniker. “But it’s also like, ‘Wow.’ The cycle kind of continues.”
Reflecting on his success as a rapper, he discusses how anger served as a motivator. “It’s almost like a dark art… where it’s like, it’s something you need or maybe experience when you’re young. ‘Cause I don’t need that as much anymore…It doesn’t really serve you as well as you want.”
When asked how he balances his dual identities as a rapper and comedian, his response is deeply introspective, “That’s probably been the hardest part on some level, as far as like people understanding… I don’t want to be the king, and I also don’t have to be the peon. Like, I’m the joker in the court. I get to do what I want.”
Glover has achieved success in both music and acting. He is a noteworthy writer, star of the hit FX series Atlanta, and creator of the musical score for the Amazon Prime mini-series Swarm. Glover has graced national screens as an actor in Marvel‘s Spider-Man: Homecoming and Disney’s The Lion King.
He also stars in the new Bando Stone & The New World trailer, linked to his upcoming final album. The impending conclusion of the Childish Gambino persona and release of the album is set for Friday.
Glover and Evans endure the entertaining and painful experience of consuming increasingly spicy hot wings until the interview concludes. The “Feels Like Summer” singer’s journey as an entertainer is a testament to his dedication and passion, as he asserts, “Everything I’ve ever made is just like something I would watch. You can’t make it for somebody else.” His story is an inspiration to all aspiring entertainers.
With his multifaceted talents and unique perspectives, Donald Glover remains a compelling figure in entertainment, consistently pushing boundaries and challenging norms. As fans anticipate his final album under the Childish Gambino moniker, the artist’s influence and legacy in music and acting continue to grow. Purchase tickets to his upcoming tour and view his Hot Ones interview below.
