Sometimes Facebook is a wormhole full of self-promotion, photos and snark that you’re not interested in. At other times, your personalized News Feed on Facebook can provide a lot of entertainment and amusement. A few weeks ago, I spotted a response by Matt McCarthy — to a post by singer/songwriter Mike Doughty — that cracked me up. I then realized that Matt McCarthy is a writer, comic and podcaster that I was already familiar with; his credits include Louie, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Brooklyn Nine-Nine and Adam Devine’s House Party. I immediately reached out to see if he would be game for a “Really Busy People” column.
Not surprisingly, Matt provided some great answers within our Q&A. If there’s a major take-away from interviewing Matt, it is that a person can make their dream career happen when they can offer great work and consistent effort along with an open mind. Ultimately, that drive has kept Matt working regularly since 2007 in a variety of media and formats.
More information on Matt, including upcoming stand-up dates, can found at his website while jokes and other observations can be read on his Twitter feed. The podcast referenced above is called We Watch Wrestling – as co-hosted with comics Vince Averill and Tom Sibley – and beyond iTunes, the series can be checked out through www.wewatchwrestlingpodcast.com.
You’re an actor, a writer, a comic and a podcaster. Which of those labels do you identify with most?
Matt McCarthy: Comedian, definitely, I’m nothing if I’m not funny. Plus I feel like a comedian can do a lot of different things. Comedian kinds of covers ALL of those things.
When was it that you knew that you could make a living in the entertainment world?
M: After I booked my first commercial gig for Diehard batteries in 2007. I quit my day job and every year has been something different ever since.
What is the biggest challenge you face in earning a living in entertainment?
M: Not knowing from where or when the next paycheck will come.
What was your first paying gig as a writer or creative mind?
M: My first year in stand-up I dated a teacher who got me a gig at her school’s annual teacher banquet for $75. Only the phys-ed teachers liked me. The girl dumped me not long after. Actually, later that weekend, now that I think about it.
Arguably, the most watched program you wrote for is WWE’s Monday Night Raw. How did you wind up writing for WWE?
M: WWE was reaching out to TV writers and several friends forwarded me the breakdown. I’ve always been vocal about being a big wrestling fan and it lead directly to getting the job. It pays to be honest about everything.
Do you think there are any misconceptions about writing for a “sports entertainment” company?
M: Nothing but…it’s without question the most demanding TV writing job that exists. Over eight hours of new content every week. No reruns. No off-season. Different city every week. The talent could get injured at any time. And it’s live.
Having worked around wrestling, was it tough to stay a fan after your writing job?
M: Just the opposite, it made me an even bigger fan.
When someone gives you flack for being a wrestling fan, do you have a stock response for that?
M: Yes. A bunch. My favorite is when someone says, “Wrestling was better when I was 12.” I usually say, “YOU were better when you were 12.”
When it comes to getting inspired and feeling creative, do you have a routine? Or environment you prefer to be around when writing?
M: The only thing I need in order to feel creative is to be happy. If I’m in a good, positive mood it seems like things happen.
Do you have any goals for your career? Or do you prefer to just let things happen as long as you’re making a living?
M: I have a lot of goals but things will happen that you can’t predict. Like WWE, that was a dream job I had never even considered. I’ve worked very hard but I’ve also been very lucky.
What sort of role does an agent or manager play on your career? Are they necessary to find you work, or more so there to negotiate terms and manage existing relationships?
M: They do all of that, yes, they are very necessary. But you still have to do the work, you still have to produce. Someone told me a long time ago that all they are is just another person out there that’s talking about you. It’s still up to you to get things done.
Is there a field or media you haven’t yet worked in but one day hope to?
M: One day I hope to make a really sweet Vine. I do have an idea for a book, but that seems a way’s off.
Wrestling aside, when you’re not working, what do you like to do with yourself?
M: I like making my wife laugh. Reading. Watching TV, I love old Johnny Carson on DVD. Going to movies. Video games have gotten too involved, I prefer Donkey Kong or Mario Kart. Comic books are too expensive now, Amazing Spider-Man costs $3.99, that’s insane.
Finally, Matt, any last words for the kids?
M: Just have fun, you’re going to die soon.
-by Darren Paltrowitz
