Q&A: Andy Bumatai

We caught up with the veteran comedian a few weeks after the premiere of his new nightly KFVE talk show, NightTime with Andy Bumatai.

photo: courtesy of Andy Bumatai

Q: We’re guessing you play a bigger role behind the scenes than a typical host.

A: [Producer] Jim Bryan and I are owners in the show. We have a limited budget, so we do everything. We sell the ads. I do all the writing of the monologues. Jim does the production side.

Q: What’s surprised you about doing a show like this?

A: Little things you’d never think about. I did a screen test with a desk that had a sharp corner [facing toward the guest’s seat], and for some reason, the shot didn’t look right, but we couldn’t figure out why. Then we realized that every talk show host has a rounded desk. I also overprojected. I’m a nightclub guy, so I’m used to yelling out across a crowded room.

Q: Any locals complain about missing the Andy Bumatai of All in the ‘Ohana fame?

A: Oh, yeah. I made a nice living doing that, but I’m a 54-year-old man. It’s not like I want to put on goofy tees anymore. I’m thinking national with the show. We’re the new Hawaii Calls for the 21st century.

NightTime with Andy Bumatai airs Monday through Friday at 9:35 p.m. on KFVE and is rebroadcast at midnight on KHON sister station CW (digital channel 93).