Asher Grodman is starring in the new CBS series called ‘Ghosts,’ which premiered on October 7th.
The series follows Samantha and Jay, who recently inherited an estate they will convert into a bed-and-breakfast. Along with the terrible conditions of the estate, the home is inhabited by the spirits of previous residents. Samantha soon gains the ability to both see and communicate with the spirits. The show is a comedic fantasy that is heartfelt and expresses the importance of connection and self-discovery for both the living and the dead. Grodman plays one of the spirits named Trevor, who spent most of his time during the ’90s being the “life of the party” and worked on Wall Street at Lehman Brothers until he died in 2001. Trevor spends his time in the afterlife with no pants, which was the same way he was found when he passed away.
Grodman spoke with our correspondent Rebecca Eugene about his character Trevor and what fans are expected to see. He also credits the writing of Joe Port and Joe Wiseman for the comedic elements which allow the show to flow. Grodman discusses the bond that was created with the cast that resonates well for viewers and the show.
Credit: Emily Assiran
The Knockturnal: When did you start acting? What got you started?
Asher Grodman: In middle school, I was a quiet kid riddled with social anxiety and, not surprising, the only student not in the school play. The next year, my mother forced me to partake and I ended up enjoying it because I had a huge crush on a girl in the show. Shortly thereafter, I sang a song to her in front of the entire school. Obviously, that backfired, but it was the first time I felt part of a community. I think the desire to connect overwhelmed the fear of rejection. Then imagination and a love of storytelling brought me to acting.
The Knockturnal: Who is your inspiration?
Asher Grodman: There are many artists I admire, Philip Seymour Hoffman and George Clooney chief among them. That being said, I tend to find inspiration in the work itself – from stories, scripts, and a sense of play. I’ve also drawn a lot of inspiration from my friends and family.
The Knockturnal: How did you get into teaching acting for both theater and film at Hunter College?
Asher Grodman: When I moved back to New York from Los Angeles about five years ago, a friend of mine, Gregory Mosher, had been appointed the head of the theater department. The work he was doing sounded wonderful, and I knew I wanted to be involved. I interviewed and was invited to join the adjunct faculty. Hunter has made an incredible investment in the theater department; it’s a thrill to be a part of it.
The Knockturnal: What was it like instructing inmates at Rikers Island in acting?
Asher Grodman: Teaching at Rikers was easily one of the most challenging things I’ve ever done. I was working with teenagers, and in that environment it’s very hard to earn the trust necessary to make progress. I felt lucky that they were willing to share themselves and their work with me. It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
The Knockturnal: Tell me about your character ‘Trevor’ in the CBS series called ‘Ghosts’? What can fans expect to see from both your character and the show?
Asher Grodman: Trevor died in 2001 and partied his way through the 90’s. He spent his Wall Street career at Lehman Brothers before his untimely demise. He now spends eternity in the state in which he died: wearing a suit with no pants. Trevor (aka T-Money) is looking to have the best time possible. The show is wildly witty, charming, and will hopefully inspire many smiles. Our creators Joe Port and Joe Wiseman have written a show that has something for everyone, especially because the ghosts are all so different.
The Knockturnal: Your character ‘Trevor’ is spending the afterlife without pants. What was it like spending most of your time filming with no pants?
Asher Grodman: It was cold! It was a little daunting at first, but it’s really a lot of fun. In fact, in a comedy, it’s almost a relief knowing because no matter the scene, I’m always pantsless, which helps with the storytelling and jokes. But I am aware of how pasty my thighs are.
The Knockturnal: You’ve made television appearances in shows such as Succession, Chicago Med, House of Cards, Elementary, and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. How did your preparation for this role differ from the others listed?
Asher Grodman: Joe and Joe’s writing is so good and so funny that I usually just have to get out of the way and let their work shine. This show is different in that it’s a comedy so there are jokes and attention that must be paid to timing. But the biggest difference is playing with this incredible ensemble. We work as a group so much, and that’s where the show really shines.
