Jeff Hiller opens up about real-life ‘Tini Time’ with Bridget Everett beyond ‘Somebody Somewhere’ finale.
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Jeff Hiller’s ‘Teenie Time’ goes on behind the camera too
Have you ever wondered what happens when the camera turns off? For Jeff Hiller and Bridget Everett of HBO’s “Somebody Somewhere,” their on-screen friendship isn’t just acting—it’s carried straight into their real lives, with their own version of martini time.
When Joel meets Sam… off camera
The chemistry between Hiller and Everett hasn’t stopped at the HBO set.
Their characters’ martini-sharing ritual (affectionately called “‘Teenie Time”) has become a real-life tradition, though with some important differences.
“There’s usually a lot of people,” Hiller explains with a laugh.
In contrast to their intimate on-screen hangouts, in real life they’re “two mutual friends who are a couple, so sometimes there’s four or five of us, including my husband.”
“Momma gets a hangover”
While his character Joel can drink a martini like a pro, Hiller admits he can’t keep up with him.
“I don’t have to drink a ‘tiny anymore because Momma gets a hangover,” he confesses with the same self-deprecating humor that makes his character so endearing.
“Sometimes before I leave a party, I think, ‘Oh my God, I’ve got a hangover.’ I’m not as big a drinker as Joel is.”
This honest confession shows the difference between character and creator—one of many insights Hiller shares about his life beyond the show.
Reunion dreams
With “Somebody Somewhere” ending its final season in December 2024, fans are desperate for more. Are Hiller and Everett done with their beloved characters?
If they are to be believed, absolutely not.
“We’ve dreamed about it,” Hiller says, his voice warming. “There was no one who said, ‘Oh, well, let’s move on to the next one.’ It was very special to all of us, and we really love each other.”
The cast’s genuine connection is reflected in his words when he says, “I think if something happened, everyone would be on board in a heartbeat.
I mean, it’s all about money, networks, scripts, and writing.”
From bullied kid to breakout star at 44
Hiller’s journey to HBO wasn’t a typical Hollywood story. Her recently released memoir, “Actress of a Certain Age,” chronicles her journey—from being bullied as a gay kid in Texas to becoming a social worker and then landing her breakthrough role at age 44—an age when many actors get fewer opportunities, not more.
Released June 10, this collection of autobiographical essays gives readers a glimpse into the tenacity that lies behind the performer we see on screen.
Life After “Somewhere”
While fans can still stream “Somebody Somewhere” on Max, Hiller continues to build on the platform the show provided.
Her memoir represents not just a look back, but a step forward in sharing her unique voice with the world.
And yes—perhaps while on book tour with a ‘tini in hand, hangover risk notwithstanding.