**Jake Shane Reflects on Broadway Debut and New Campaign with Poppi**
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In an exciting chapter of his burgeoning career, Jake Shane has recently made his Broadway debut in the production *All Out: Comedy About Ambition*, which ran from February 17 to March 8. As he gears up for new projects, Shane took a moment to share his experiences with PEOPLE, revealing how memorable moments backstage and his appreciation for fellow actors made this milestone particularly special.
Shane, who first gained notoriety in 2023 for his engaging comedic content, expressed that it was “the little things” that left a lasting impression during his time on stage. He fondly recalled watching acclaimed comedian Ray Romano as he waited to gauge the audience’s reaction each night. Additionally, Shane shared heartwarming moments with fellow cast member Jenny Slate, highlighting their tradition of exchanging affectionate hugs before every performance. He also recognised the dedication of Nicholas Braun, noting how he practised his lines daily, contributing to the enchanting atmosphere of the production.
Interestingly, Shane’s nerves dissipated after the second performance, revealing that he only felt anxious when personal acquaintances were in the audience. “It’s really just rinse and repeat,” he mentioned, explaining that focusing on the routine helped ease his mind. When tension did arise, he’d turn to walking around his hotel or even sipping on an energy drink for a boost.
For Shane, performing on Broadway has been a long-held aspiration. “If I was standing next to 11-year-old me, he’d be in shock,” he remarked. This sentiment speaks volumes about the significance of achieving one’s dreams, especially in a highly competitive environment such as theatre. Looking ahead, Shane is set to star in a new Hulu comedy series, where he will portray a version of himself. Working with veterans from acclaimed shows, including *Hacks*, he expressed his gratitude for the creative team surrounding him.
Managing multiple projects at once is no simple feat, but Shane claims the task is more manageable than one might assume. He emphasised the importance of organisation and prioritisation, alongside the invaluable trust he has in his team. Reflecting on a recent call with writing partners Genevieve Aniello and Paul Briganti, he shared a moment of gratitude, feeling genuinely appreciated for his contributions.
In an intriguing collaboration, Shane has partnered with the prebiotic soda brand Poppi for their latest campaign, “Make It Poppi.” In the advertisement, he navigates the trials of air travel, portrayed amusingly in a scene where he finds himself in a cramped middle seat. However, a swift change occurs once he opens a Poppi Shirley Temple drink—instantly upgraded to a luxurious “first-er class” experience.
The humorous ad aligns perfectly with Shane’s self-identified title as a less-than-ideal traveller. “They know I’m the worst traveller of all time,” Shane quipped, adding that they transformed his organic travel content into a memorable campaign. This light-hearted take on flying resonates with audiences, making it a fitting showcase of his unique brand of comedy.
In a candid moment, Shane recounted an unexpected culinary experience while travelling. He mentioned having octopus at an airport in London, calling it “super weird” and far less appealing than anticipated. This amusing anecdote fits within the context of his internet persona, which often incorporates themes around the octopus, the animal that initially captured the internet’s attention in his earlier work.
Discussing his tastes further, Shane expressed his aversion to Italian cuisine, stating, “I think the food in Italy is just too fresh,” and referencing his palate’s preference for more preservatives. Conversely, he noted that if he could travel anywhere strictly for the food experience, it would be Thailand, calling out his passion for Thai, Japanese, Vietnamese, and Chinese dishes.
Looking forward, Shane is eagerly anticipating heading to Coachella with Poppi, where he plans to enjoy the music festival alongside his friends. He expressed his enthusiasm about the performers, particularly mentioning his excitement for Justin Bieber and his curiosity about the musical group Katseye, especially concerning the status of member Manon Bannerman, who is currently on hiatus.
Jake Shane’s journey from viral content creator to Broadway actor and brand ambassador demonstrates his diverse talents and resilience. His love for comedy, travel, and culinary adventures continues to captivate audiences, making him a prominent figure in the entertainment landscape.