Interview with Keith Powell

We all know Keith Powell as James "Toofer" Spurlock on "30 Rock". In our exclusive interview he told us about his life on set of "30 Rock", what he likes most about being an actor and what plans he has for the future.

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1. How much did the Tisch School of the Arts prepare you for your life as an actor? Do you feel better prepared than some of your colleagues who did not go to an acting school?

I don't think being a good actor necessarily means being trained at a fancy school. I loved my time at Tisch, and I learned a great deal from my classes, but I don't feel more prepared than those who did not go to an acting school when I walk onto a set. We're all in it together -- figuring out how to tell the same story.

2. How does a "normal" day on set look like?

Believe it or not, we're pretty low key at "30 Rock". All of the actors get along very well, so we just stand around joking with each other between takes. Because we do so many fun scenes, each day feels different, and I can't exactly tell you what a normal day would be like.

3. What kind of roles do you prefer – serious or funny characters?

I prefer working on roles that challenge me and allow me to have a great deal of fun. I don't think about if it's a comedy or drama, I think about trying to play what is honest for the character. Perhaps that's why I got cast as Toofer -- I didn't walk into the audition room seeing him as a comedian, I just saw him as a normal, misunderstood, guy.

4. What are you doing in your free time when you are not standing in front of the camera?

If we're still on set, I just stand around and talk with the other actors and crew members who are also waiting for the cameras to roll. After four years, the cast and crew have become a really tight family and we greatly enjoy each other's company. Outside of set, I enjoy writing.

5. Did you audition for the part of Toofer? What did you like most about the part?

As I've stated earlier, I did audition for "30 Rock". What makes Toofer fun for me is that he's a full human being. He's not just an uptight Harvard dude, though that is certainly an element to him, he also knows how to relax and have fun with the other writers. He's not all one thing -- and he doesn't focus on race, class, or politics for too long. There's a lot going on there that will, hopefully, be explored one day.

6. There are many guest appearances on “30 Rock”. Which one impressed you the most?

I always enjoy Will Arnett when he comes around. The way he delivers a line is so different than what you would expect that it's a total riot.

7. What was your favorite scene from "30 Rock" so far?

I don't really have a favorite scene. Every day, a new scene becomes my favorite. But if I were to give you a favorite episode, it would probably be the one where Tracy does Conan.

8. Can you give us some scoop about what is coming on next?

I do know Julianne Moore is going to do a few episodes as a potential love interest for Alec Baldwin's character. I met her recently and I just melted when she told me she was a fan of my character. That woman is extraordinary.

9. As "30 Rock" just started in Germany what can the German viewers expect from the show in general?

I think the fun of the show is how completely absurd some of the storylines become. You follow along thinking the story will have one plot and the writers completely twist it and you find yourself inside a completely different plot. The humor is certainly irreverent. If you just strap in for the ride, you'll enjoy it.

10. What plans do you have for your future? Are there any new projects coming up?

I have a few writing projects that I'm working on now, but I don't want to say much more until they become reality. Cross fingers!

11. Since myFanbase is an online magazine about TV series, do you have a favorite one?

I still think "Cheers" is the zenith of good television. I think prior TV shows were building to it, and I think every show since owes some measure of their success to it. The writing, acting, directing was so spot-on. It was a perfect storm of talent.

Catherine Bühnsack - myFanbase