Martin Short: A Masterclass in Comedy, Drama, and Staying Relevant
In a candid discussion, acclaimed actor and comedian Martin Short shared insights into the phenomenal success of the hit series “Only Murders in the Building.” Short, the sole lead to receive an acting Emmy nomination for the show this year, revealed a humorous anecdote about his co-star Steve Martin’s reaction to the news.
Short, who also recently secured his first SAG Award for his role as Oliver Putnam, finds immense satisfaction in the show’s quality. “It’s a great show, it’s well written, it’s well directed, it’s well crafted, and it’s a hit,” he commented, noting the rarity of such widespread acclaim at this stage of his career.
Oliver Putnam: The Heart of the Arconia’s Mysteries
As Oliver Putnam, Short anchors the narrative of “Only Murders in the Building.” The character’s journey across four seasons-and soon five-has captivated audiences, exploring his complex relationship with his son, his reflections on a career that could have been, and his blossoming romance with Loretta, portrayed by Meryl streep. The season four finale, which culminated in a wedding and a surprise murder, sets the stage for the highly anticipated fifth season, premiering September 9.
when asked about the show’s longevity, Short drew parallels to television giants like “The Dick Van Dyke show,” which concluded after five seasons to preserve quality, and “Friends,” which maintained brilliance over many years. He acknowledged the surprise and delight that the show has sustained its success for so long.
A Workplace Built on Joy and Laughter
The atmosphere on set is a key ingredient to the show’s success, according to Short. he described the set as a “very loose” and joyful environment, attributing it to the collaborative spirit shared with co-stars Steve Martin and Selena Gomez. “Everyone is laughing, and… action! Oh a, screw up, laughing. That kind of joy of life is what permeates the set,” he explained, believing this positive energy translates to the screen.
Beyond Comedy: Embracing Dramatic Challenges
While celebrated for his comedic genius, Short has also proven his versatility in dramatic roles in series such as “The Morning Show” and “Damages.” He expressed a ideology of embracing challenging roles, stating, “If someone writes you a great role that’s dramatic, you don’t say, ‘no, I only do comedy.'” He actively seeks out projects that are “exciting and intriguing and risky.”
new Horizons: Hosting “Match Game”
Most recently, Short ventured into hosting ABC’s “Match Game,” a role he embraced for its inherent challenge and the possibility of failure. “You don’t know what you’re doing, but you know it’s always intriguing to try something new,” he shared, finding the prospect of potential missteps exciting at this point in his career.
The idea of hosting “Match Game” as his iconic character Jiminy Glick was considered, though ultimately not pursued. Short noted the practicalities, including the extensive makeup required, and Mike Myers’ prior experience with a similar concept on “The Gong Show.” While Glick remains a beloved character, with Short recently guest hosting “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” in character, he has transitioned away from other signature personas like Ed Grimley, feeling they no longer resonate in the same way.
| Area | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Primary Role | Oliver Putnam in “Only Murders in the Building” |
| Recent Accolades | SAG Award for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Comedy Series; SAG Award for Comedy Series Ensemble |
| Emmy Nominations | Received an acting nomination for “Only Murders in the Building” |
| Versatility | Proven ability in comedic and dramatic roles (e.g., “The Morning Show,” “Damages”) |
| New Ventures | Hosted ABC’s “Match Game” |
| Signature Characters | Jiminy Glick (still active), Ed Grimley (former) |
The Enduring Appeal of Martin Short
Martin Short’s career trajectory exemplifies the power of adaptability and a genuine love for performance. From his early days in sketch comedy to his current success in a critically acclaimed mystery series, short has consistently reinvented himself while staying true to his comedic roots. His willingness to embrace new challenges, whether it’s a dramatic turn or a hosting gig, keeps him a vital and engaging presence in the entertainment landscape.The enduring nature of his humor and his ability to connect with audiences showcase a timeless talent that continues to shine brightly.
Did You Know? Martin Short’s character, Oliver Putnam, was inspired by the flamboyant personalities often found in the theater world.
Frequently Asked Questions About Martin Short and His Roles
- what primary role is Martin Short currently known for?
- Martin Short is currently best known for his role as Oliver putnam in the hit hulu series “Only Murders in the Building.”
- Has Martin Short won any awards for “Only Murders in the Building”?
- Yes, Martin Short won a SAG Award for his performance in the series and was nominated for an Emmy Award for his acting in “Only Murders in the Building.”
- How does Martin Short view taking on dramatic roles?
- Martin Short actively seeks out dramatic roles that are exciting, intriguing, and risky, demonstrating his versatility beyond comedy.
- What is Martin Short’s approach to set atmosphere?
- Short fosters a joyful and loose atmosphere on set, believing that shared laughter and camaraderie translate positively to the final product.
- Did Martin Short ever consider playing Jiminy Glick on “match Game”?
- Yes, the idea was floated for martin Short to host “Match Game” as his character Jiminy Glick, but practical considerations prevented it.
- Which of Martin Short’s signature characters has he moved on from?
- Martin Short has indicated he has moved on from characters like Ed Grimley, feeling they are best left in the past, while characters like Jiminy glick can remain relevant.
What are your favorite Martin Short roles, past or present? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
