By: Kelly Kearney
Q) You’ve had a remarkable career as a water polo athlete, and since 2020, you’ve been dipping your toes into the TV and film pool. What drew you to the world of acting?
A) I really appreciate that. Water polo was a huge part of my life and taught me so many valuable lessons that directly translated to my acting career. I actually retired after the 2013 World Championships and went straight into acting. So, it’s been nearly twelve years now, which is wild to think about. Looking back, the transition was really organic for me. I feel that that’s in part because I had always been interested in acting but also my sisters who were auditioning while I was growing up, a relative of mine owned a modeling agency and I always found tons of inspiration in actors and artists. It truly always was, and still is, my dream to act.
Q) How did you land the opportunity to work on Season 5 of “Only Murders in the Building?”
A) The audition process is a whole beast of its own! [laughs] I had auditioned for the show (a different role) about six weeks prior to getting the call. When my agents, Mike Staudt and Kent Ochse, rang me and told me I got the job… to which I actually had to ask, “Which one?” When they said “ONLY MURDERS IN THE BUILDING,” I let out a HUGE hip hip hooray! [laughs] I gotta say, those are the best phone calls to get.
Q) After that season 4 cliffhanger, we pick up right where we left off—the murder of the Arconia’s beloved doorman, Lester. How does your character Tony Cacciomelio fit into Season 5’s story?
A) I think we’re going to have to wait and see how the Cacciomelio family fits into the whole storyline. [smiles]
Q) You spent most of your time working opposite Bobby Cannavale, who plays the patriarch of the Cacciomelios and whose comedic timing always owns every scene he’s in. What was it like working with him?
A) He’s such a generous and charming person. I’ve been a massive fan of his work for the longest time! I’ll say this; he’s an even cooler, kinder, more charming person off camera than he appears on camera.
Q) Did you and the four other Cacciomelio brothers build a pseudo-sibling bond on set?
A) We text every single day! They’ve met my wife and have come to my house. They’re such a phenomenally talented group of actors; from leading Broadway shows to comedic geniuses with great sketches on Instagram to multiple theatrical film roles – they’re all so dynamic and kind. Being on set with them, I often found myself thinking, “How is this considered work when it’s so much fun?”
Q) “Only Murders in the Building” is known for blending comedy with mystery. Did you find yourself approaching your role with a certain mindset—like leaning into the stereotypical Corleone mob humor—or did the directors give you specific guidance on tone?
A) The beauty of working with John Hoffman is that his writing takes care of a lot of the guesswork for you. It’s truly a gift and a pleasure to work with and then he gives you the freedom to improvise and play within your character’s world. We had a blast. We also had the pleasure of working with the incomparable Jamie Babbit, who taught me so much. I cannot wait to see how her comedic timing and creative genius are on display throughout the season!
Q) The show has such an impressive cast with Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez—supported by a gold-medal lineup of big Hollywood names like Renée Zellweger, Christoph Waltz, and of course, the incomparable Meryl Streep. Was stepping onto set with that level of talent intimidating?
A) It’s hard to even put into words. These are people I’ve looked up to my entire life. Sitting across from them in a scene – that duality of being both a massive fan and also having to focus and do my job was unlike anything I’ve ever felt. Of course, I was intimidated, but I can honestly say the entire cast was so welcoming and charming…That made it a lot easier to settle in and focus on the work.
Q) Fans love the friendship between Marty, Steve, and Selena both on and off the screen. Do you have any memorable behind-the-scenes moments with them, or an interaction that stood out to you?
A) I had one of the best days of my career just sitting in the makeup room with Marty. Steve, Selena and other cast members were coming in and out and Marty was just riffing, bringing that legendary humor and banter into the room. I was truly taken aback. Just being a fly on the wall among the Mount Rushmore of comedians still makes me smile as I write this.
Q) With the big names mentioned above, who were you most looking forward to sharing a scene with?
A) It’s impossible to choose. I’ve admired and looked up to every single one of them my whole life. How can you pick? They’re all incredible. I’m incredibly lucky and grateful.
Q) What has it meant to you to have played a part in such an iconic series like “Only Murders in the Building?”
A) I think you can hear my excitement from my previous answers. It’s been an honor and a privilege to collaborate on the show, but more importantly, with the people who make the show. The cast, the crew, the writers – everyone. Truly a privilege.
Q) What’s next for you, Shea? Are you working on any other projects fans can watch out for?
A) We definitely have some things in the works. [smiles] It may be a little early to say but keep an eye out! What I will say is this: I love my job so much. I wake up every day with fulfillment and joy that I get to act for a living. I plan on doing it until the wheels fall off.
Q) What would you like to say to the fans who have followed your career from water polo to the screen?
A) I’d just like to say: thank you. Wow. What a change, and what a shift you’ve supported me through. The love and support mean the world to me and inspire me to be my best every day. It’s my hope that I can continue to make you all proud as I grow in my craft and career.