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Waiting for the Pilot: Raymond, Oscar, and the Great Florida Flamingo Fiasco
July 02, 2025
Read Time: 1 minute, 18 seconds
While most actors spend the days before filming a TV pilot getting into character or hitting the gym, Raymond and Oscar—stars of It Happens in Florida—did something far more… Florida.
With the cameras set to roll on the pilot episode, our favorite odd couple decided to “clear their minds” and “soak up inspiration” the Florida way: by renting a paddleboat shaped like a giant flamingo.
Raymond, ever the professional, wore a button-down shirt, khakis, and boat shoes. Oscar wore what he claimed were “breathable swim trunks” and a mesh tank top that said Party Gator Don’t Play. Neither had sunscreen. Neither knew how to paddle a flamingo boat in 30 mph wind. Both brought snacks.
About 30 minutes into their adventure (or 5 minutes after launch, depending on whose timeline you believe), the flamingo boat was sideways in a manatee zone, Oscar was eating soggy Funyuns, and Raymond was trying to use Siri to call the Coast Guard.
“We’re just floating motivational metaphors,” Oscar declared, tossing half a peanut butter sandwich at a curious pelican.
When help finally arrived—in the form of an angry park ranger named Cheryl—Raymond attempted to explain they were TV stars preparing for a scene. Cheryl asked for credentials. Oscar produced a handwritten business card that said, Oscar D. Florida – Local Celebrity & Reptile Enthusiast.
They were politely escorted back to shore and told they were “banned from all inflatable birds until further notice.”
And that’s how, instead of a calm day of rest before the big shoot, Raymond and Oscar arrived to set sunburned, slightly damp, and smelling vaguely of tuna salad and shame.
So, if you ever find yourself waiting for your moment in the spotlight—just remember: some people meditate. Raymond and Oscar? They wrestle with flamingos.
July 02, 2025