Shawn Parikh plays the character of MATT in End of the Cornfield. Check out our interview with Shawn and learn more about his experience voicing Matt, and his future projects.
You’re an accomplished writer (NBC sitcom writer, ‘21 NBC WriterOnVerge, ‘21 CAPExBlackList, ‘21 Outfest/NetflixLab) as well as an actor. How does your work as a writer inform your work as an actor?
I am lucky enough to have writing help me act, and acting help me write. Both are so interestingly related. As, a writer, I now know how actors need to find every arc in every scene. There needs to be a reason for them to say everything to inform the character, and an actor needs to know how to find that.
Why acting? What do you love about it?
I loved being able to come out of my shell. I grew up as a big, fat band nerd, and auditioning for the school play was something so out of my comfort zone. It made me feel like I could try something out of the ordinary.
What initially drew you to the project (End of the Cornfield)?
I love a twisty thriller. Sign me up for any crime, true crime, thriller show/movie. I have watched Gone Girl wayyyy too many times.
How would you describe your character Matt?
He’s misunderstood. Stuck in a rut and is constantly putting his foot in his mouth. He has trouble expressing himself when confronted and needs a hug.
Is there a moment or scene (without giving any major plot points away) that resonated with you?
There is an intense scene with an actor. You will know.
Who inspires you as an actor?
Mindy, Jordan Peele, Issa … people who create their own work!
What are some of your upcoming projects?
I just finished writing on the NIGHT COURT reboot. Tune in soon to NBC in January.
Favorite place in LA: Santa Monica
Favorite hike in LA: Cabarello Canyon, no one knows about it.
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