Michael Urie Reflects on Career Transformation and Success

Michael Urie, known for his captivating performances in film, TV, and Broadway, has been gaining critical acclaim for his role in Apple TV+’s Shrinking. In a recent interview on Actors With Issues, Urie shared insights into his career journey and his hopes for the show’s upcoming season.

Despite his bold and charismatic on-screen presence, Urie admits that acting wasn’t always his first choice. Growing up shy, he initially aspired to be a movie director, inspired by the likes of Tim Burton. However, it was seeing Michael Keaton’s transformative acting range that shifted his focus towards pursuing a career in front of the camera.

His Broadway dreams were sparked by a performance of How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, where he saw Roger Bart in the role of Bud Frump. This pivotal moment led Urie to make his Broadway debut in the same musical, alongside Nick Jonas and Beau Bridges. Since then, he has graced the Broadway stage in multiple productions, showcasing his versatility and talent.

Urie rose to fame as Marc St. James on Ugly Betty, where he learned valuable lessons from his co-stars Vanessa Williams and America Ferrera about professionalism and leadership on set. He also formed a close bond with Becky Newton, emphasizing the importance of embracing what you don’t know and being unafraid to ask questions.

In Shrinking, Urie portrays Brian, a lovable lawyer navigating life’s complexities alongside his chosen family. With quirky and diverse characters, the show challenges viewers to keep up without overwhelming them with backstory. Urie looks forward to exploring Brian’s relationships further in the upcoming season, particularly with the character Sean, played by Luke Tennie.

Catch Michael Urie in seasons one and two of Shrinking, available for streaming on Apple TV+. Stay tuned for more engaging performances and heartfelt storytelling from this talented actor.