D’Arcy Carden Says She Was a Nanny for Bill Hader’s Kids When She Landed an Audition for “Barry”

**D’Arcy Carden Reflects on Early Career as Bill Hader’s Nanny Before Rising to Fame**

In an unexpected twist of fate, actress D’Arcy Carden’s journey to stardom is intricately linked to her former role as a nanny for comedian Bill Hader. Before finding her footing in the entertainment industry, Carden spent time caring for Hader’s two eldest daughters, Hannah and Harper, as he balanced his career and family life. This experience not only shaped her professional path but also laid the foundation for a significant partnership in her acting career.

On the latest episode of the podcast “Dinner’s On Me,” hosted by Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Carden shared insights into her relationship with Hader during her time as a nanny. She described their dynamic as one of mutual respect, emphasising that she avoided mixing her personal ambitions with her professional responsibilities. “We had worked together for so long, you know, babysitter-to-daddy,” Carden recalled. This camaraderie only deepened her appreciation for Hader, who she believes played a crucial role in her career development.

While employed as Hader’s nanny, Carden had the opportunity to learn about his project “Barry,” which would later become a pivotal point in her acting journey. When the audition for “Barry” presented itself, she voiced her initial apprehension, saying, “Oh god, this is going to be awkward, right?” Nevertheless, Carden recognised the talent required for the role and was enthusiastic about the improvisational aspects of the audition. This opportunity would eventually lead her to portray Natalie Greer on the show, which aired from 2018 to 2023.

Beyond her role in “Barry,” Carden is widely recognised for her portrayal of Janet in NBC’s acclaimed series “The Good Place.” Her performance in the latter garnered her a Primetime Emmy Award nomination in 2020, an achievement she credits in part to Hader’s support. Upon receiving her Emmy nomination, Hader reached out to her with a supportive message that resonated deeply. Carden described it as “one of the sweetest texts” and appreciated Hader’s ability to remind her of the significance of her achievements.

Carden’s time spent with Hader’s children greatly influenced her life, both personally and professionally. Having begun working with them around 2012, she developed a close bond, especially with the eldest daughter. In an interview with Seth Meyers on “Late Night” in 2018, Carden spoke fondly of her relationship with Hannah, saying, “we were like best friends … we would just talk like friends would talk.” This connection illustrates not only her dedication as a nanny but also the lasting impact of those formative years on her character and resilience.

Reflecting on her career, Carden emphasises the gratitude she feels towards Hader for his belief in her talent. “He really changed my life,” she stated, underscoring the importance of mentorship in the entertainment industry. Carden’s experience serves as an exemplary narrative of how personal relationships and professional opportunities can intertwine in meaningful ways.

As Carden continues to forge her path in Hollywood, her close ties with Hader and his family remain a cherished part of her story. The combination of her experiences as a nanny and her subsequent success in demanding acting roles illustrates the unpredictability of the entertainment industry and the value of fostering relationships.

With Carden’s career trajectory, it is evident that her dedication and hard work have paid off, leading to critical acclaim and a solid fan base. As she looks ahead, she carries with her the lessons learned through both her personal connections and professional experiences, ready to tackle whatever challenges and opportunities await her in the future.