Michael Urie, best known for his breakout role as Marc St. James on Ugly Betty, has recently garnered significant recognition with his first Emmy nomination for his portrayal of Brian in Apple TV+’s Shrinking. Reflecting on his journey, Urie candidly shares his struggles with imposter syndrome throughout his career, initially believing that acting was an unattainable dream. He reminisces about his formative years, where encouragement from peers and mentors led him to drama school, ultimately landing roles in theater before unexpectedly securing a major part in Ugly Betty. The show’s success surprised him, evolving from a minor role to a pivotal character thanks to a unique rapport with his co-star, Vanessa Williams.
The nomination marks a significant milestone for Urie, who expresses gratitude for the opportunity to grow as an actor over the years. Shrinking features a complex narrative that first centers on Jason Segel’s character who grapples with grief after his wife’s tragic death, with Urie’s character introducing a profoundly emotional plot twist involving the man responsible for her death. Urie notes the delicate balance of a supporting character’s role; his character serves to further develop the plot without overshadowing the main story, showcasing the potential of "the outsider" to catalyze vital transformations within the narrative.
Urie’s current projects reflect his versatility, with a notable role in the critically acclaimed Broadway play, Oh, Mary!. He describes the experience as surreal and rewarding, transitioning from an audience admirer to being an integral part of the production. The collaboration with talented individuals within the off-Broadway scene only amplifies his excitement, fostering a sense of community that resonates deeply for Urie. His involvement in theater has been a crucial aspect of his career, paving the way for future ventures, including a role in Richard II, which he views as a bucket list achievement due to its literary richness and modern relevance.
Exploring themes of representation and community, Urie discusses his initiative, Pride Plays, designed to elevate queer voices in theater. Originating as a festival to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Stonewall, Pride Plays sought to create productions that celebrate diverse narratives rather than focusing solely on traditionally painful stories. By expanding to encompass a wide range of queer experiences, the festival has successfully fostered a platform for underrepresented talents that were previously sidelined in the theater world, creating a rich tapestry of queer storytelling.
Urie emphasizes the importance of representation, advocating for authentic queer narratives driven by queer creators. He provides insight into his journey as a gay actor in the industry, highlighting the often frustrating cycle of needing experience to gain experience. His commitment to mentoring emerging talents through Pride Plays seeks to break this cycle, providing opportunities for growth and visibility in an industry often dominated by established figures. He expresses confidence in the transformative power of storytelling that resonates with diverse audiences, encouraging a culture of inclusion and empathy across the arts.
Reflecting on the lasting impact of Ugly Betty, Urie remains enthusiastic about the prospect of a reboot, acknowledging the continued relevance of the show’s themes. With a podcast titled Still Ugly, where he revisits memories with his co-star Becki Newton, Urie contemplates where his character Marc could be today. Imagining scenarios that highlight the evolution of former characters, he recognizes the potential for engaging narratives that address the passage of time and personal growth. Urie’s nostalgia for the show’s cultural significance, coupled with a vision for its future, demonstrates his deep connection to a project that has shaped both his career and the landscape of television.
