Brooklyn bar owner becomes internet star after subway improv

Debbie Shields, a Brooklyn bar owner, found herself at the center of a viral moment after an unscripted comedy exchange with Conan O'Brien on a New York City subway car.

The interaction occurred during a taping of the internet show SubwayTakes, hosted by comedian Kareem Rahma. The program features regular New Yorkers and celebrities discussing their opinions while riding the train. Shields, who did not know about the show beforehand, was traveling to see her accountant.

Shields recognized O'Brien only after noticing a camera crew. A friend identified him, and she approached him to greet him. The two engaged in a spontaneous scene in which O'Brien joked that they were formerly married. Shields replied that they had two children, noting that one is in medical school and the other is in jail. The comment caused O'Brien to laugh.

The clip from the episode gained widespread attention online. Shields told CBC Radio host Nil Köksal that the buzz began on a Tuesday evening when patrons at her bar, Confessions Bar, showed her the video. By Wednesday morning, she had received numerous calls. One caller informed her that the clip had received five million views. Another said she had appeared on local television channels four and five.

The sudden fame has led to international interest. Shields reported receiving phone calls from Japan, Australia, and England. She also mentioned appearances on SiriusXM radio, 1010 radio, and the New York Times.

O'Brien has expressed interest in future collaborations. In an interview with New York Magazine, he stated that he is open to working with Shields again. "I'll do a sitcom with her," he said. "Or we can just hit the road, do a two-person show." Shields confirmed that O'Brien has been in touch and that Rahma's team has reached out to arrange another appearance.

Shields, who hosts a comedy night at Confessions Bar on Friday nights, said she enjoys making people laugh. She described her approach as giving back whatever she is given. "If you give it to me, I give it right back to you," she told Köksal. She said she was not nervous during the subway exchange and described the experience as having a ball.

The bar has already capitalized on the attention. Shields said the establishment created a new cocktail named Baby Daddy O'Brien. The drink contains whiskey, Triple Sec, lemon, lime, and blood orange. She also expressed interest in bringing her comedy show to Toronto, citing a fondness for Canada.

Shields stated that her dream appearance is on Saturday Night Live. She believes O'Brien could facilitate the opportunity. The viral moment has shifted her daily routine, but she continues to run her bar and host her weekly comedy events.

The incident illustrates how social media can amplify a brief, local interaction into a national story. Shields' background in performing at her bar prepared her for the impromptu performance on the train. Her quick wit resonated with viewers who appreciated her ability to match O'Brien's pace.