From: 30 Rock
Genre: Television
Who said it?: Lenny Wosniak
The story behind the quote: This week’s quote comes from the critically acclaimed sitcom 30 Rock. The show is about a fictional sketch show originally called “The Girlie Show,” which is produced by Liz Lemon (played by show creator Tina Fey). However, under the behest of network executive Jack Donaghy (played by Alec Baldwin), the show is retooled so that top comedian Tracy Jordanwould topbill the show. The show is mostly a spoof about the backstage happenings and insanity of producing a show.
The quote comes from the 8th episode of the 7th season. Entitled “The Tuxuedo Begins,” it has Jack attempting to enlist private investigator Lenny Wosniak (played by Steve Buscemi) after he was mugged. When asked about his time with the police, Lenny describes his time working as an undercover officer infiltrating high schools while dressed as teens. The scene then flashbacks to the operation where an obviously looking middle-aged Lenny trying to connect with the kids delivers the quote.
Geek wisdom: You cannot force a connection by faking your own personality. You also have to get over the fact that there will always be a disconnect between people. But attempting to change yourself in order to get into a group just isn’t the way.