Amy Poehler recently recalled what it was like to film with Michelle Obama during the former First Lady’s Parks and Recreation cameo, and it sounds like she embraced her inner Leslie Knope for the occasion. Poehler portrayed the passionate deputy director of the Pawnee parks department for all seven seasons of Parks and Rec. In that time, the NBC sitcom featured many famous guest stars, including big-name actors and politicians. Leslie Knope was well-known for her obsession with Joe Biden, but the show’s lead was just as excited to meet Michelle Obama.
The former First Lady of the United States appeared in the Parks and Rec season 6 finale, giving Leslie advice as she was considering a job that would take her away from Pawnee. Leslie was shocked to see Obama, and as it turns out, Poehler was also “overwhelmed” during her appearance. The two recalled their scene together on a new episode of the Good Hang With Amy Poehler podcast. Obama admitted that she was “nervous,” too, and that the whole thing “was very much a blur.“
Poehler praised Obama’s brief performance, while admitting her relief that the other woman didn’t recall one detail of their interaction. According to the Parks and Rec star, meeting Obama made her drool — a hilarious revelation that shows why she was perfect to play Leslie. Poehler was nearly as excited about this scene as her character:
“You were perfect. You got your line. You hit your mark. You said your line, and my character, Leslie Knope, is supposed to be overwhelmed by seeing you. And I, Amy Poehler, was also very jazzed. And I went to say my line, and I drooled. Do you not remember? I’m glad you don’t remember. I full-on drooled.”
The SNL Alum Really Was The Perfect Choice To Play Leslie Knope
Poehler’s recollection of meeting Obama while filming Parks and Recreation highlights what a great fit she was for the role of Leslie Knope. It’s not hard to feign a character’s excitement when you’re equally enthusiastic about the same people and events. Leslie’s passion likely came off as authentic because it often was — especially when it came to big cameos, like Obama or Biden.
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It speaks to Parks and Rec‘s reputation that it was able to land such huge appearances as well. Obama being nervous about this scene is equally humorous and sweet, as she doesn’t come off that way while watching it. Although Leslie is a ball of nerves, Obama appears cool and collected. She nails the bit, so you’d never know that both Obama and Poehler are anxious about their parts here.
Our Take On Amy Poehler & Michelle Obama’s Recent Discussion
It’s Great To Get A Feel For What Was Happening Behind The Scenes
It’s always interesting to get actors’ takes on certain scenes, even years after they happen. After all, those feelings don’t typically come across while someone is acting. In this case, it’s hilarious how closely Leslie’s energy matches that of the actress playing her. It leaves viewers to wonder what other Parks and Recreation cameos left Poehler freaking out. Perhaps we’ll hear about more of them on future episodes of her podcast.
Source: Good Hang With Amy Poehler