Finding Humanity Amidst Cult Chaos: Lake Bell on Taming TV's Most Deranged Comedy

You know Lake Bell, right? She’s one of those brilliant comedic minds, a face you recognize from smart, witty projects like 'Childrens Hospital' and a voice that brings characters to vibrant life. Lately, though, she's taken on a role that might just be her most deliciously unhinged yet: Petey St. Barts, the protagonist of Freeform's animated comedy 'Praise Petey.' And let me tell you, this show? It's a trip. Think 'Schitt's Creek' meets 'The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt,' but with way more cults.

The premise alone is enough to pique your interest, or maybe raise an eyebrow or two. Petey, a seemingly successful New York City 'It Girl' whose life is, in reality, crumbling, inherits her deceased father's small-town cult, 'New Utopia.' Suddenly, she's thrust into a world of eccentric followers, bizarre rituals, and the monumental task of transforming a literal cult into something... well, less cult-y. It's a wild, absurdist ride, tackling dark themes with a surprisingly light and genuinely hilarious touch. It’s the kind of show that makes you laugh out loud while simultaneously wondering, 'Did I just hear that right?'

For Bell, voicing Petey is a fascinating tightrope walk. You see, Petey isn't just a caricature; she's genuinely trying to do good, even if her methods are a little... unorthodox. Bell told The Daily Beast's Obsessed that she grounds Petey in a very real, human struggle. "She’s a very relatable character who is looking for a purpose," Bell explains, emphasizing that Petey's journey is about reclaiming her power and finding her own version of community, despite the inherently bonkers setting. It's that blend of relatable ambition and utter chaos that makes Petey so compelling, and Bell so perfectly cast.

Given the show’s deranged brilliance, you might wonder how Bell keeps her own head screwed on straight while immersed in Petey’s world. After all, spending hours bringing a cult leader to life could mess with anyone! Her secret, it seems, lies in strong boundaries and a healthy dose of self-awareness. "I don't bring Petey home," she shared, a simple but effective mantra. She leans into her family life and prioritizes self-care, consciously separating the wild world of 'Praise Petey' from her own reality. It's about embracing the absurdity during recording sessions, then stepping back into a world that makes a little more sense. It sounds exhausting, honestly, but also incredibly rewarding when you see the final product.

Ultimately, 'Praise Petey' isn't just about cheap laughs at the expense of cults. Creator Anna Drezen, whom Bell praises extensively, has crafted something truly clever. The show delves into themes of belonging, the search for meaning, and even how women can reclaim agency in unexpected ways. It’s smart, it’s sharp, and it's delivered with such infectious energy by Bell and the rest of the stellar cast (including Stephen Root, Christine Baranski, and Amy Hill). If you're looking for a comedy that dares to be different, that isn't afraid to get a little weird, and that features Lake Bell at her absolute best, 'Praise Petey' is definitely one to add to your watch list. You might just find yourself praising Petey too!