Good Hang with Amy Poehler Favorite 'Parks and Rec' Memories
37 snips
Mar 3, 2026 
Aubrey Plaza, actor known for April Ludgate, shares audition and on-set anecdotes. Rashida Jones, actor and writer who played Ann Perkins, recalls filming and friendships. Mike Schur, creator and showrunner, talks origins and naming characters. They trade stories about casting, improvisation, memorable shoots, pranks, and the show’s comforting legacy.
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Give Every Bit Player A Distinct Name
- Mike Schur intentionally gave every minor character a real, unusual first and last name to honor actors and avoid legal issues.
- He aimed for names with no Google hits (e.g., Ophelia Papipopepe) and used hyphens or extra letters to ensure uniqueness.
Nick Offerman Tossed Co-Stars During A Scene
- A hunting-episode scene with Nick Offerman turned into hysterical physical comedy when Ron Swanson's strength repeatedly threw Amy Poehler and Rashida Jones.
- They couldn't hold him down; the cast kept flying off the bed, producing uncontrollable laughter.
Real Friendship Became Onscreen Chemistry
- Amy Poehler and Rashida Jones often genuinely conversed off-camera and then seamlessly transitioned into character for scenes.
- Their real friendship made recorded scenes feel like natural conversation, which producers noticed from the pilot onwards.