John O’Hurley Interview: National Dog Show, Seinfeld and More

In this 2023 interview, John O’Hurley discussed the National Dog Show Presented by Purina, his years as J. Peterman on Seinfeld, Dancing with the Stars, writing, animal welfare and the role imagination has played in his career.

The National Dog Show and a memorable Irish Setter

“Remember the year the Irish Setter won?” O’Hurley said. “That was the one that got me. I’d always hoped for it, the perfect embodiment of poise, that coat shimmering with elegance. I turned to Dave, my co-host, and I said, ‘I can retire now.’”

He added, “I went right over to the Irish Setter. Yes, and I still hear from the owner today.”

J. Peterman after Seinfeld

O’Hurley is widely known for playing J. Peterman on Seinfeld, but his connection to the company continued beyond the series. “Most people don’t realize I bought the Jay Peterman company after ‘Seinfeld,’ resurrected it from bankruptcy, and even served on the board for two decades.”

He also discussed continuing to perform the Peterman persona for fans through Cameo.

Dancing with the Stars

Looking back at the first season of Dancing with the Stars, O’Hurley said, “I’m the only one who’s ever had the experience of losing and then winning.” He described the experience as “an enormously difficult mental stress, just trying to stay focused and learn grand routines.”

Books inspired by dogs and family

O’Hurley discussed Before Your Dog Can Eat Your Homework, First You Have to Do It, a story built around an older dog sharing life lessons with a newborn.

He also explained the origin of The Perfect Dog: “My son asked me if the Best In Show dog was perfect, and I responded with a poem.” The idea developed into a children’s book and musical.

A Man with Standards

O’Hurley described the connection he feels performing his one-man show, A Man with Standards. “I feel a deep connection every time I do it,” he said. The show combines singing and storytelling, including a performance of “Moon River” in tribute to his mother.

Animal welfare

At the time of the interview, O’Hurley discussed his involvement with the Puppy Food Bank, which had helped shelters obtain food during and after the pandemic-era disruption.

Following imagination

Asked about the range of projects in his career, O’Hurley pointed to imagination. “I listen to my imagination,” he said. “It’s the sole determining factor of what I do in my career. I take more chances when I listen to my imagination.”

He also told us about his involvement with a waste-to-energy venture called Gold Seal Industries. Because company roles and technology claims can change over time, that reference reflects what O’Hurley told Famadillo in the 2023 interview.

More Famadillo interviews

Explore more conversations in Famadillo’s Interview archive.