Full given name: Michael A. Scimeca
Current project(s): I am currently signed on to do many projects, most notably Honor Among Thugs and Psychology of Secrets [as well as Torn, an 11 Eleven 11 Project]
Where you were born and raised: Baldwin, Long Island, N.Y.
Zodiac Sign: Virgo
Why did you take this role?
To work with Mel Jackson and Sharon Tomlinson. I believe strongly in what they are doing to better the industry.
Did you have any particular mentors or inspirations as a young actor?
I started showing a real interest in studying actors well after graduating high school. As a kid, I would stay awake until two or three o’clock in the morning with my father watching the classics. I’m still a big Jimmy Stewart fan.
The one movie that you will never forget:
Love Story. When it first came out in the theaters in 1970, pathetically, I watched it three times in a row and, yes, I cried each time. What a dork!
Your personal acting idols:
As an actor of a similar age, I deeply admire the works of Robert Downey Jr.
Last good movie you saw:
The Avengers.
Some films you consider classics:
No doubt, It’s a Wonderful Life and The Lion King.
Performer you would drop everything to go see:
Been there, done that. The price would have to be right or I’m not going. [Soapbox time] ticket prices for top performers have gone way beyond what is reasonable. I deeply love and respect the art of entertainment, but if the average fan cannot afford to see their favorite entertainers performer their craft, I’m not going to endorse it. It’s a gift, people. Get a clue.
Pop culture guilty pleasure:
From my past, I’d say ABC Friday night television from the early ’70s. The lineup was “The Brady Bunch,” “The Partridge Family,” “Room 222,” “The Odd Couple,” and “Love American Style.” I told you I was a dork. Currently, however, it’s Coldplay.
Favorite cities:
New York.
First CD, tape or LP you owned:
Beatles’ Hard Day’s Night.
Moment you knew you wanted to perform for a living:
This goes back longer than I can remember. I perform in my head more often than I care to admit.
Worst flubbed line, missed cue or onstage mishap:
When I watch some of my performances from the ’80s on video, they look like one big series of mishaps. It’s hard to pick my “favorite,” though performing The Super Bowl Shuffle on stage has got to be way up there.
Most challenging role you have played:
Detective Mac in Shades of Grey. This one particular scene was designed to be played back in slow motion, therefore, I had to go through a myriad of emotions within a matter of a few seconds. I’m still extremely antsy to see it.
Worst job you ever had:
Garbageman.
Career you would want if not a performer:
I have it. I’m a life coach and I love it.
Three things you can’t live without:
God, love and family.
