Kevin Pollak, the multi-talented actor and comedian, has carved a unique path in the entertainment industry. Starting as a stand-up comic and impressionist, he transitioned seamlessly into the world of dramatic acting. His breakthrough role came in 1990 with Barry Levinson’s critically acclaimed film Avalon. Reflecting on this pivotal moment, Kevin, now 62, told Closer Weekly: “It was life-changing. I was incredibly fortunate to work with a writer-director who despised seeing anyone ‘acting’ in the traditional sense. He was all about capturing the moment, spontaneity, and improvisation, which fueled my passion and desire to grow as an artist.”
Kevin’s latest challenge finds him playing Moishe Maisel, the boisterous and short-tempered ex-father-in-law of the titular comedian in Amazon’s highly acclaimed dramedy, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. Describing the experience, he said, “It’s treated like theater. I wasn’t used to delivering eight-page monologues. But it’s been the most challenging and instantly rewarding role of my career.” This is high praise coming from someone who has starred in iconic films like A Few Good Men, The Usual Suspects, and Casino. Despite his illustrious career, Kevin remains grounded and forward-thinking. “You really need to be present with your life and not take anything for granted,” he advises.
Keep reading for more of our conversation with Kevin Pollak!
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Why Did You Say Yes to Playing Moishe Maisel?
When Amy Sherman-Palladino and Daniel Palladino, the executive producers of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, approached Kevin with the opportunity to play Moishe Maisel, it was almost a no-brainer. After watching the pilot, Kevin was captivated by its sharp wit, cleverness, and the magical way it captured the era. “It was incredibly smart and clever and magical in its milieu. It was a bit of a no-brainer, quite frankly,” he explained.
Is Moishe Maisel Modeled After Anyone You Know?
Kevin drew inspiration for Moishe from his own family. “Yes, my grandfather and his twin brother, who escaped the Cossacks, would sit at opposite ends of the dinner table during Passover and yell at each other from across the room, misremembering their history,” he recalled with a chuckle.
What’s It Like Working With Tony Shalhoub?
Kevin and Tony Shalhoub, who plays Abe Weissman on the show, had never met before working together. However, they instantly clicked. “It was instantly a mutual lovefest. We’re part of a group of actors of a certain ilk and age, where it’s one of us but not all of us who are chosen for a particular project,” Kevin noted. He added that Tony’s character is his favorite on the show. “Any time he opens his mouth, I cry with laughter,” he admitted.
What’s the Toughest Part About Playing Moishe?
Kevin admitted that playing Moishe, who talks over everyone else and rarely listens, was a new challenge. “I wasn’t really accustomed to my character being such a blowhard who speaks right through everyone else. Moishe doesn’t listen — he just talks, and the scene happens around him,” he explained. Interestingly, his real-life friends and family insist this role was tailor-made for him. “Apparently, I’m louder than I think I am,” he joked.
