Michael O’Keefe – City on a Hill

By starrymag | March 28, 2021

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) What can you tease is new this season on “City on a Hill” and with Salvy Clasby?

 

A) The new season continues the unlikely alliance of Kevin Bacon and Aldis Hodge as the take on corruption in Boston.  Salvy is drawn back into to Jackie’s crazy world even though he’s retired from the FBI. Jackie is the like the mob, you may think you’re out, BUT THEN THEY PULL YOU BACK IN!

 

Q) How was your character originally described to you?

 

A) Salvy was described as Jackie’s (Kevin Bacon) wizened and loyal partner.

 

Q) Was there anything you added to him that wasn’t in the initial breakdown?

 

A) I added the fact that Salvy is much more handsome than the writers intended.

 

Q) What continues to challenge you about your portrayal?

 

A) The challenge of “City on A Hill” is a complex and gratifying one. The writing is superb, and the actors are the best. You gotta bring your “A Game” to that playing field.

 

Q) The city of Boston plays a role itself in the series. Talk about the incredible cinematography for this series.

 

A) Our cinematographer, Joe Collins, is the best. We’d worked together before on Michael Clayton. His work is integral to conveying the mood and appearance of Boston’s tough urban landscape.

 

Q) Going into Season 2 were you looking forward to sharing a scene(s) with someone in particular?

 

A) I finally got to work with Aldis Hodge this season. He’s a gifted actor, and one of the best of his generation. It was a privilege to be in a scene with him.

 

Q) What are some episodes or moments from filming Season 2 that viewers should look out for?

 

A) Watch for Jackie’s corruption to catch up with him. He’s got to pay the piper.

 

Q) After filming such intense scenes, how do you shake off a long day of shooting?

 

A) I’m pretty good about leaving my work at the office. So, no worries about me bringing corrupt 90s Boston home after my work is done.

 

Q) What do you think it is about “City on a Hill” that continues to make it such an intense fan favorite crime drama?

 

A) For me, the real star of “City On A Hill” is the writing. That’s what keeps bringing the audience back. The actors have rich material to work with and they get to show their best stuff.

 

Q) Your vast incredible career features incredible dramatic work on series and films. What is it about this genre that continues to draw you in?

 

A) I am grateful that my teenage dream of being an actor came true. So, being asked to work opposite Kevin Bacon, Aldis Hodge and everyone on the show was an offer no actor would refuse.

 

Q) What are some of your favorite roles that you portrayed? Your work on “Law & Order” always stands out to me.

 

A) See above. Just being an actor is my favorite role.

 

Q) You are a part of social media. Why is that such an important way for you to connect with your fans?

 

A) I love reaching out on Twitter and Facebook to make announcements about work and causes that I support.

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who are fans and supporters of you and the work you do?

 

A) To all my supporters I say, “Thanks!” To my detractors I say, “Thanks!” A man is known by his enemies as well as his friends.