Tim Blake Nelson

Tim Blake Nelson

From Wild Card with Rachel Martin by NPR

April 9, 2026 · 44 min

About this episode

Tim Blake Nelson discusses his career in acting and his transition to writing novels, reflecting on his childhood and the importance of storytelling.

From "O Brother, Where Art Thou" to "Watchmen" to "Poker Face,” Tim Blake Nelson is the actor you call when you want a character’s face to tell a lifetime of stories. But Nelson’s storytelling isn't limited to acting; lately, he's turned to writing novels, including his latest book, “Superhero: A Novel.” He talks to Rachel about his delinquent childhood in Tulsa and the dangers of prioritizing the present. To listen sponsor-free and support the show, sign up for Wild Card+ at plus.npr.org/wildcard See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

People in this episode

Host: Rachel Martin

Guest: Tim Blake Nelson

Topics covered

  • acting
  • storytelling
  • writing
  • childhood
  • personal growth

Keywords

  • Tim Blake Nelson
  • O Brother, Where Art Thou
  • Watchmen
  • Poker Face
  • Superhero: A Novel
  • Tulsa
  • storytelling
  • acting

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: O Brother, Where Art Thou, Watchmen, Poker Face, Superhero: A Novel

Places: Tulsa

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