What happens when a DNA test flips your world upside down and you decide to make a comedy about it? Actor, writer, and producer Lisa Brenner joins Corey and Kendall to talk about her new film One Big Happy Family, opening in AMC Theatres on October 3, 2025.
Inspired by her own discovery at age 40 that the dad who raised her wasn’t her biological father, Lisa transformed a life-altering revelation into a heartfelt comedy. In this episode, she shares how she worked through shock and grief, why she wanted to honor her mother instead of vilifying her, and how humor became her way of finding perspective.
The conversation also celebrates the late Linda Lavin, star of Alice, who delivers her final screen performance in One Big Happy Family. As lifelong fans, Corey and Kendall reflect on Linda’s impact, her strength as a trailblazing actor, and the legacy she leaves behind.
This episode is a reminder that family is complicated, comedy can heal, and DNA discoveries don’t always have to end in tragedy, sometimes they spark laughter, connection, and a brand-new story.
When Your DNA Test Turns Into a Movie Script
Topics We Cover
- How a “just for fun” DNA test led to Lisa’s shocking discovery at 40
- Why she chose comedy instead of melodrama to tell her story
- The secrecy and shame around early IVF and donor conception in the 1960s
- Honoring her mom’s role in her life and avoiding the blame game
- The wild experience of finding multiple donor-conceived siblings
- Working with the legendary Linda Lavin in her final film role
- Why community and connection are so vital after a DNA surprise
Resources & Links
- 🎬 One Big Happy Family — Official Website
- ❤️ More Family Twist episodes at familytwistpodcast.com