Why ‘Somebody Somewhere’ Star Bridget Everett Insisted Miley Cyrus’ ‘The Climb’ Be Sam’s Defining Anthem: It’s the Song ‘That Matters Most’

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In Season 1 of HBO’s “Somebody Somewhere,” the focus landed on Sam (played by Bridget Everett), a 40-something who was wandering and searching for purpose in her small-town home of Manhattan, Kansas.

In the premiere of a heartwarming comedy-drama, I found myself being coaxed onto the stage by my dearest friend Joel (played by Jeff Hiller). With hesitation, I agreed and ended up leaving the audience in awe as I powerfully sang “Don’t Give Up” by Peter Gabriel and Kate Bush. Music isn’t something I embrace easily, but it’s undeniable that it serves as my means of communication.

In the final episode of this series, there I was, feeling all emotional as Sam grabs the microphone to serenade her cherished loved ones (with Joel playing the piano once more). To me, she’s traveled an incredible distance compared to Season 1. It might appear insignificant to a casual viewer, but our goal with Sam was to keep her striving for progress. She usually prefers to step back, but here she’s moving forward. Watching this performance was enlightening not just for the character, but also for me as Bridget Everett, as I learned from it too.

With confidence radiating from her and treating a fortunate companion to a dance, Sam passionately performs Miley Cyrus’ “The Climb,” a powerful song that mirrors the uplifting outlook on life Sam has earned after a tough battle across three seasons.

In her cabaret performances, Everett typically ended with a specific song, which she’s adept at wrapping up a show. Director Lennon Parham aimed to let her continue this tradition without hindrance. Armed with three cameras, they were prepared to record every second, even the unexpected ones such as when Everett ascended a chair and twirled the fan on the ceiling, festooned with dollar bills.

Parham explains that because Bridget is putting in her all, you don’t get many chances to photograph her. He suggests stepping aside and providing her with room, ensuring that other aspects are handled, so she can perform at her best.

Everett has never crossed paths with Cyrus, nor is it certain if the celebrity is even familiar with their program. However, whoever managed to secure the song for their modestly-funded music budget will always have Everett’s appreciation. “I requested they play ‘The Climb,’ which holds a special significance for me,” she shares. “Amazingly, that was one of the first songs that fit within our budget. It was as if it was destined to happen.

In the final season, Everett didn’t need to get permission for the touching song she wrote herself, which was featured in Episode 2. During this episode, Brad (Tim Bagley), known for his quiet demeanor, asked Sam for assistance in composing and performing a surprise song for his boyfriend Joel at a dinner party. Everett found the words for the song by tapping into stories that Bagley shared about his late partner, Bill.

She shares, “I inquired from Tim about what it was that they adored in each other, and he enumerated a thousand qualities he cherished in Bill.” Afterward, I asked, “‘So, what do you love about you?’ He simply replied, ‘I can’t quite put my finger on it, but it’s the way he gazes at me.'” She found this sentiment to be the most sincere and enchanting, so she decided to incorporate it into her song.

Filmed in an intimate setting with minimal space, director Robert Cohen praises Sam for taking center stage. However, it was Bagley who moved everyone on set and off it to tears. He describes it as the epitome of “Somebody Somewhere” because it showcases top-notch talent, exceptional writing, and a powerful show that resonates deeply within its confined space, touching everyone it reaches.

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2025-06-08 00:16