With the entertainment industry in disarray due to the global pandemic, a lot of actors have had to find more creative ways of doing what they love. Although lots of famous folks use social media to keep their fans entertained, indie film star Sam Myerson has taken it to the next level.
The California native, who’s tirelessly worked to make a name for himself in Hollywood, is using his social media platforms to promote his own comedy sketches. His skits are a brilliant mix of current and classic humour, reminiscent of Jerry Seinfeld’s observational comedy.
After spending some time going through his growing catalogue of videos, I decided to find out more about the star behind these epic one-man shows. I caught up with Sam on one of his morning walks to chat about his journey into acting, and the creative process behind his videos.
After an injury ended his promising soccer career, Sam was signed to NEXT models in LA. Modeling success evolved into commercials, which is where his love of acting began. His guest-starring spot on The Bold and The Beautiful led to roles in indie films, and being featured in Meghan Trainor’s music video for Nice To Meet Ya.
Handsome, charming and talented, it’s actually baffling that he hasn’t been cast in a major Hollywood movie yet. But sometimes you just have to make your own breaks, and that’s exactly what Sam is doing.
What prompted you to create videos for social media?
“Obviously, with COVID and quarantine, my industry came to a crashing halt as did many businesses. I just decided that in this time, I had to be as creative as possible. So I started to make a piece of content every single day on Instagram and TikTok. Within about a week I had started to go viral, which was obviously incredibly rewarding. Even with all the hardship that this year has brought, it’s been such a nice way to distract myself and ultimately distracts others.”
Since you write the sketches yourself, how do you come up with the ideas?
“I truly don’t know how I come up with them. They usually just pop into my head and I quickly decipher if it would make a good comedy sketch or not.”
Your videos are very professional. What do you do for props, and are all the more involved backgrounds green screen?
“Some are green screens, and I don’t use a ton of props, but some I’ve bought from Halloween stores.”
Doing all your own camera work must be challenging. What goes into the process?
“I use a tripod and film one character’s coverage. Then I change clothes and film the other side. The tough part is making sure they match up framing and lighting-wise. That’s really what takes the most time considering it’s just me!”
Do you also do the sound (background music), video editing and other technical stuff by yourself?
“I do it all! Editing is a bit of a tedious process because I get a bit hard on myself with trying to make everything as good as possible. And the sound I use generally comes from the TikTok app.”
It’s probably difficult to choose, but do you have a favourite video?
“I really enjoyed recreating my horrible fake ID experience. Anything that comes from a truthful place I think really resonates with people and does well.”
Hoping to find his big break soon, Sam says he’d love to work with Paul Thomas Anderson someday. Especially since Boogie Nights is one of his favorite films. “I just think his style is something I would do anything to be a part of,” he said.
When he’s not creating content for social media, Sam enjoys quiet morning walks and spending time with family. And he’s happiest when hearing about how his comedy skits made someone smile.
Although his guest spot on The Bold and the Beautiful wasn’t renewed, Sam has worked with Hollywood heavyweight, Julia Roberts for Lancome. His films, Mary Loss of Soul and Find Me are currently available on Amazon Prime.
Check out all Sam’s comedy sketches by following him on Instagram and TikTok. He always has something that will lift your spirits and make you want to keep coming back for more.
