Jeff McCarthy Discusses 'Urinetown', 'Star Trek' & Studying All Facets of the World

I was first introduced to Jeff McCarthy when I heard his voice on the Urinetown soundtrack, and I found myself constantly trying to mimic his vocal inflections when I would use his opening Lockstock monologue for auditions. Jeff is an amazing talent and true acting veteran that has left his mark for many years. On Broadway, McCarthy originated roles such as Officer Lockstock in Urinetown and Terry in Side Show (still to this day one of the most talented OBC in musical theatre history in my honest opinion). He has also been seen on Broadway in Smile, Zorba, Beauty and the Beast (Beast), Chicago (Billy Flynn), and The Pirates of Penzance. Off-Broadway, he has starred in Southern Comfort and Kunstler (Title Role).

You may also recognize him from his Film & TV credits such as RoboCop 2, Eve of Destruction, Rapid Fire, Cliffhanger, Starting Out In The Evening, Consent, Star Trek (TNG and Voyager), Law and Order: SVU, Cheers, Designing Women, Matlock, and LA Law just to name a few. 

Jeff is an actor whose career I have followed for a long time, and he truly knows how to completely transform himself into any character he plays while at the same time staying true to himself and his artistry. He also knows the value of focusing on different aspects of the world that aren't arts-related which, in return, makes you a better artist. I am so thankful to have the amazing honor, opportunity, and chance to feature such a masterful artist! 

How old were you when you knew you wanted to be an actor? 

I think I was 8 when my grandmother took me to the Truth or Consequences show with Bob Barker. I never wanted to be a game show host, but the experience at that age and the way he combed his hair definitely planted the seed!  From there, I went on to writing and performing plays in my garage several times a year for the rest of my childhood. I will always be grateful to the memory of my mother encouraging me in that way. 

Are there any teachers or mentors in your life who truly helped you become the wonderful artist you are today?

Oh yes, many.  For one, Donovan Marley who created the Pacific Conservatory for the Performing Arts in my hometown of Santa Maria, California was major in my life. My luckiest break ever was growing up 3 blocks from that theater company where I went on to become pals and work with Boyd Gaines, Harry Groener, Robin Williams, Daniel Davis, Michael Winters, Lauren Tewes, and many, many more people who became pillars in the American theater scene. 

It is a breath of fresh air to see the light at the end of this tunnel which has left all artists wondering when things will get back to normal. What are some things you have done to keep your spirits up during these times?  

I've managed, oh, 5 or 6 jobs during the pandemic, gratefully. I've done some demos, voice-over jobs, and a couple of jobs that required self-taping at home, but my primary creative outlet has been painting. I've done quite a lot of that in the last year.

I have been a fan of yours for many years! I cannot express to you how many times I have used your opening Officer Lockstock monologue in Urinetown for auditions. Are there any roles, shows (Stage, TV, or Film), or moments in your career that stick out and will always be near and dear to your heart?   

Urinetown is definitely one of my very memorable experiences.  Star Trek (the next generation) would be another. I loved spending a week with Andy Griffith on Matlock.  I have so many great TV memories. I once did a production of Buried Child, and Sam Shepard actually came and worked with us on that production at ACT in San Francisco.  A year opposite Anthony Quinn in Zorba is a rich memory.  Arms and the Man up at the Huntington Theater up Boston was another wonderful experience.  And any and all Sondheim shows I've done will forever be highlights in my career. 

What advice would you give any young aspiring artists who want a career in the performing arts?

I've done masterclasses several times over the years, and often I find the students very often are only really passionate about theater topics. Pay attention to and study all facets and perspectives of the world, science, politics, visual arts, literary work of all kinds.  Acting and the performing arts are a reflection of the world, so keep your eyes wide open on all fronts.