How Did We Get Weird with Vanessa Bayer and Jonah Bayer Remember First Memorable Candy Experiences? (with Martin Starr)
Feb 23, 2026
Martin Starr, actor/producer/writer best known from Freaks and Geeks and Silicon Valley, chats about his career and candy ventures. He recalls leaving arts school for TV, launching Sweet Stash to make premium gummies, and hilarious childhood candy memories like getting banned for stealing gummy bears. They debate nostalgic treats and tease new Jams gummy products.
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Choosing Acting Over An Arts High School
- Martin chose Freaks and Geeks over his arts high school because the school limited missed days and he hit his 11th absence during the pilot process.
- He valued the arts school as the first place his weirdness fit, and agonized before leaving to film the show at 15 years old.
How Real Stories Made Freaks And Geeks Timeless
- Martin credits Freaks and Geeks' longevity to its emotionally honest, real-life rooted stories and exceptional crew care.
- Writers mined personal childhood experiences and the production vetted crew to protect and authentically shape the young cast's environment.
Career Uncertainty Led To Starting A Candy Company
- After Freaks and Geeks ended Martin felt unmoored in the industry with managers and agents who didn't know how to guide him.
- That restlessness and curiosity led him to cofound a candy company as a creative outlet beyond acting.