As I delve deeper into my career and personal life, I can’t help but marvel at the transformative journey that I’ve embarked upon since my days on Felicity. The balance between work and family has always been a challenge for me, but now, finding myself engaged and a father of two, I feel more grounded than ever before.
[This story contains spoilers from the first two episodes of Teacup.]
Scott Speedman first captured hearts in the late ’90s as the love interest Ben Covington on the WB college drama series “Felicity.” However, for more than two decades, this British-Canadian actor has made a distinct mark in horror and thriller films, taking on progressively complex and tormented characters within the “Underworld” movie series, “The Strangers,” David Cronenberg’s “Crimes of the Future,” and the upcoming “Cellar Door.” In recent times, Speedman, due to his notable roles in “Grey’s Anatomy” and “You,” has once again found himself in the spotlight of popular culture.
Currently, “Teacup” serves as Speedman’s latest venture into the horror genre. Based on Robert R. McCammon’s novel “Stinger,” penned by Ian McCulloch (known for his work in “Yellowstone” and “Chicago Fire”), and executive produced by James Wan, this chilling eight-part series debuted with its first two episodes on Peacock. Set in rural Georgia, the story follows a diverse group of individuals who need to unite against an enigmatic danger to stay alive. Speedman portrays James Chenoweth, a man struggling to safeguard his family while grappling with the remorse of infidelity towards his wife Maggie (Yvonne Strahovski from “The Handmaid’s Tale”), and their neighbor Valeria (Diany Rodriguez).
In simpler terms, Speedman said, “The story was exceptionally well-crafted as a family drama. I felt it could thrive independently of its genre aspects. I remember thinking, ‘This is impressive! If we can bring this script to life before introducing the genre elements, we’re golden.’ I’m captivated by the world Ian has built. I believe he’s a distinctive and intriguing writer who creates an environment in his writing that translates well to television. So, I was eager to witness how he would navigate this genre realm since it isn’t typically his forte.
In an extensive interview with THR, Speedman discusses the production of Teacup, his continued role in Grey’s Anatomy as the love interest of Meredith Grey, played by Ellen Pompeo, how he managed stardom during Felicity’s peak period, and why he currently feels more driven and accomplished than ever.
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Aside from the central family drama in Teacup, what parts of horror genius James Wan’s work were you particularly excited to delve into throughout the eight-episode series?
As a fan, I found the intriguing way they introduced this character captivating – no backstory, just the revelation that he had betrayed his family and wife. I was left thinking, “Wow, what a difficult starting point for a TV character.” Given Ian’s knack for storytelling, I knew there would be a redemptive journey ahead over the next eight episodes. The question in my mind was, “Can they reel me back in after episode one?” I found that an exciting and challenging prospect. Moreover, I was particularly drawn to specific characters, especially when Maggie, Yvonne’s character, and I had our confrontation in the third episode. Not knowing her personally, but appreciating her acting skills and tenacity, I thought, “This is going to be a fantastic scene.” I felt we would complement each other well in our performances.
You said at San Diego Comic-Con that working on Teacup reminded you of working on The Strangers.
As a seasoned gamer immersed in the world of literature, when I delved into “The Strangers” and “Teacup,” I found myself instinctively securing my virtual door for an added layer of realism. The atmosphere these books exude is strikingly cinematic, a quality that, if translated onto the screen, promises an engaging experience. In essence, when I speak of comparing them to “The Strangers,” I’m not referring to their stories or horror aspects, but rather the immersive worlds they create. It’s as if I’m saying, “This feels like a blockbuster production that will resonate with viewers if we can successfully adapt it.” In my pursuit of something innovative in the current sea of 30 years worth of TV shows and movies, I seek a project that will challenge this vast ocean of entertainment and make a lasting impact.
Are you a big horror fan in real life?
Without a doubt, I’m a big fan of them. Horror films such as “The Conjuring,” “The Exorcist,” and “The Shining” are among my favorites to watch, and I genuinely mean it when I say so. These directors have become titans in the movie industry, particularly when it comes to horror movies. When they get it right, it’s truly captivating. One aspect that I find appealing is the shared experience of watching something frightening together in a darkened room. As a fan, I also appreciate creating intense and physically demanding pieces myself.
Regarding the physical demands of your new role, I’m curious if you’ve had to learn to ride a horse. If so, how proficient do you feel now as opposed to when you first began?
I’ve come a long way since I began, let me tell you! (Chuckles) Initially, I must admit, I wasn’t much of a cowboy when I arrived in Atlanta. It felt like being thrown into the deep end, and boy was it a challenge! But once I got past the initial shock of having to be good at riding a horse, working with the talented folks we found in Georgia was an absolute joy. After a long night shoot, I’d sleep for three hours before jumping up to practice riding every day. It was a humbling experience, but also rewarding. I’ve improved since then, but I believe it takes years of dedication to truly master something like horseback riding.
You started your acting career when productions relied heavily on practical effects, and it seems that Teacup harks back to that era. The grisly revelation in episode two about the fate of someone who transgresses a seemingly random boundary is both shocking and a stark reminder of the perils in this narrative. However, the sculpture created for the corpse is impressive. Could you share your experience filming scenes involving such effects?
When we stepped onto the set to film that scene, it was already a masterpiece of special effects, crafted meticulously by the team beforehand. These days, it’s common to blend practical and digital effects, and I believe this approach is gaining favor among audiences. In fact, I noticed in the movie Alien: Romulus, they used more practical effects, which I thought was brilliant and enhanced the overall experience.
I was utterly astonished. Ian crafted an extraordinary script that left me doubting our ability to handle the genre and its elements. After all, these aspects can significantly impact [the show] from the audience’s point of view. However, when I previewed what we had for episode two’s scene, my concerns were swiftly alleviated. The sculpture was grotesque yet terrifying in every way, but it also struck me as breathtakingly beautiful. Often, we are left imagining scenes with a tennis ball and a tripod. But in our case, we had a stunning work of art to work with.
As a gamer, I never expected that my brief guest role on Grey’s Anatomy would turn into a long-term gig! When Meg Marinis, the showrunner, noticed the chemistry between Dr. Nick Marsh (me) and Ellen Pompeo, they decided to expand my part from just a one-episode guest spot. Now, here I am, having appeared in over 30 episodes. It’s amazing how things can change!
Absolutely, I must admit I was quite taken aback when I realized that I joined the show during season 14 for a single episode and then returned as a series regular in season 18. You see, I enjoy taking on smaller, self-driven roles – they hold a special place in my heart. However, I have to confess that working on Grey’s Anatomy has been an incredible experience for me. Even now, in the 21st season, I continue to learn new things every time I’m there, which makes it such a rewarding job. To put it simply, it’s been a fantastic ride, and I didn’t anticipate enjoying it as much as I have.
What exactly have you learned from working on Grey’s?
Working on Grey’s Anatomy scenes can be quite complex due to the numerous elements involved. Unlike regular scenarios where there are fewer props and less to consider, here you need to adapt quickly. You’re primarily focused on delivering the scene authentically. Grey’s Anatomy forces you to think on your feet, change lines, actions, and be versatile. This show has significantly improved my ability to adapt as an actor. Typically, in other shows, you set certain boundaries. However, Grey’s Anatomy allows for a certain degree of freedom, enabling me to seamlessly fit into different situations or scenarios. This flexibility has been incredibly beneficial for me as an actor.
Has Ellen’s screen time been a hot topic lately in the current seasons? She’s set to feature in at least seven episodes this season, while reports suggest you’ll be in at least five. Has that remained consistent?
As a fan, I’m always thrilled to share that I’ve been invited back to contribute to the show for a while now, roughly speaking. The creators often reach out when they’re planning their seasons and ask if I’d like to rejoin for a certain period. Naturally, my answer is always yes! So, this year is no exception, and I’m excited to be a part of at least five episodes.
How do you manage discussions regarding the number of episodes you’re prepared to participate in? Is it essential to experience a strong desire to return following revelations about the writers’ plans for your character, or is it more about scheduling?
The issue here is scheduling. To put it simply, they’ve been wonderful towards me across all aspects. With projects like ‘Teacup’ and ‘Grey’s’, they’ve consistently shown flexibility when it comes to adjusting my tasks and allowing me the freedom to work on other things while still being involved with ‘Grey’s’. This is crucial for me, as I value this kind of flexibility at this stage in my career. Ultimately, it boils down to whether or not I enjoy working on this show, and I can honestly say that I do.
As a long-time admirer, I can’t help but wonder if you’ve ever addressed the issue that Ellen expressed, regarding Meredith’s ongoing struggles with Nick despite all she’s been through. What are your thoughts on their relationship at this point?
Starting from approximately season 18, I have a less established connection with the events preceding and those unfolding now. Given that we’re producing an hour-long TV drama, it’s essential for there to be dramatic elements to maintain audience interest. The storyline should evolve, experiencing peaks and valleys, until it reaches a sort of steady state – I believe we’ve reached that point now. We’re in sync, and I think this dynamic, where characters work on cases together instead of fighting each other, adds an enjoyable element. I feel that this balance was earned through a natural progression of events.
Ellen and I have open conversations about everything, making her an exceptional companion for discussing a wide range of topics, both related to the show and beyond. It’s been wonderful getting to know her better and sharing these experiences with her. What’s even more astounding is talking to someone who started a show back in 2005, and now, after 21 seasons, we’re still discussing it. This speaks volumes about the enduring appeal of her work.
Meg additionally expressed her belief that Nick and Meredith are destined for a lifetime of happiness together, at least for the moment. Are we considering them a secure television pairing now? What aspirations do you have for the future of these characters?
Well, honestly speaking, I must admit that predicting the future of this series is quite challenging. Over the years, I’ve come to understand that showrunners face an incredibly demanding role. The landscape is always shifting, and what works for one episode may not work for the next, so it’s essential to stay adaptable. As it stands now, we seem to be on solid ground. However, if the story were to unfold across multiple seasons, I believe there would likely be some turbulent moments. Navigating the twists and turns of this relationship would be quite a rollercoaster ride.
I do think, for me at least, and maybe not for [Pompeo] in a way because she’s been doing it for so many years and with other characters, but I do enjoy the dramatic parts of the show. Maybe that’s just me, but I really enjoy the rockier parts of it and finding our way back and having that tension and that chemistry. I think heat is where a lot of onscreen chemistry can come from, and the will-they-won’t-they part of things is fascinating and intriguing and watchable for an audience. But this [stable part of the relationship] has been fun, too.
Initially, you became well-known for portraying a unique will-they-won’t-they dynamic on the show “Felicity,” which first aired more than two decades ago. Could you tell us about your current relationship with the character Ben Covington and the series as a whole? Additionally, what topics do people usually approach when they encounter you in public?
In my opinion, the series seemed incredibly personal and relevant for me during that specific period of my life. For many others, Felicity was a captivating show to follow. However, for me, it wasn’t just a series to watch; it was an opportunity to be part of it and relate to the character in a deeply personal way. I believe that when an actor connects with a character on such a profound level, it often mirrors their own life experiences, particularly in the context of television, where authenticity resonates strongly. For me, the character was remarkably similar to who I was at that time.
More recently, I sat down for a rewatch podcast with Keri and the entire team. In truth, I hadn’t seen the series beforehand. They provided me with three episodes to catch up on, and I must admit, I was quite apprehensive. However, as it turns out, I was genuinely astounded by its quality across all aspects, including visual aesthetics, our collective dynamic, and the characters we portrayed as young actors. I can’t help but feel that I may never have performed as well as I did within that show’s context. It became clear why it resonated with audiences in a particular way. Reflecting on the experience now, being able to work on my first project alongside J.J. Abrams, Matt Reeves, Keri Russell, and the rest of the crew was truly unique. To have that debut show as part of my career is a rare privilege, making it all the more special. In my opinion, having that experience be a part of my life has been an extraordinary gift.
The show doesn’t seem to spark extended conversations among people. Instead, they express their admiration for it and share personal moments when they first watched it. Interestingly enough, these days more individuals are sharing the show with their children, which is quite intriguing. (Laughs) If anything, I believe what people find compelling to discuss is the emotional impact of the show and the emotions we evoked through the characters. That connection persists even today. Keri and I have remained friends, and our bond will endure in that special way.
In your mid-twenties, when you arrived on Felicity, how did you manage the process of maturing amidst public attention during the late ’90s and early 2000s?
In a unique sense, we used to be well-known, but times have significantly changed, and today’s generation seems to grow up accustomed to being under constant scrutiny. There’s almost an air of Big Brother surveillance in their actions, and they tend to portray a polished, sanitized version of themselves – something we didn’t grapple with. Back then, Los Angeles had a vibrant, entertaining undercurrent. People could maintain a professional image during their work and public appearances, while still having more freedom to lead their personal lives independently.
If I had grown up during the era of social media, I wouldn’t exist as I do today. The transformation from pre-social media to post-social media is clear in my memory, and the advent of publicly shared photos brought about a peculiar, dreamlike phase for me. In this period, I felt compelled to portray myself in a specific manner, and every person taking a picture became public. Thus, those were truly unusual times. I’m not convinced that social media has had the most positive impact on our industry.
A few years back, during an interview, you admitted, “I’ve never been great at finding balance, I’m more work-driven than ever before.” At that time, you didn’t envision yourself getting married or starting a family. However, now, you are engaged and a father of two. Could you share insights on your personal and professional transformation since the end of ‘Felicity’? How have your priorities shifted as you’ve grown older?
For quite some time following the release of Felicity, and for several years afterward, I found myself distancing myself from my job and its responsibilities, as they no longer held much appeal. This period was marked by a gradual return to more public roles, which I now find incredibly rewarding. In fact, over the past decade, I’ve been involved in more shows and movies that resonate with me on a personal level. Interacting with journalists, which is an integral part of my job, has also become more enjoyable for me. I’m embracing these opportunities more, recognizing their importance in our profession. This journey back to public engagement has been a fascinating one, filled with excitement and growth.
Reflecting on my past, it’s clear that having children in my 20s wouldn’t have been ideal. Now, however, I find myself at an age that suits me perfectly for parenthood. While it’s challenging at times, the rewards are also immense. [Laughs] As a young actor, life was like being a pirate, constantly moving from one job to another, causing mischief and enjoying the freedom of my youth. Now, I find myself more engaged in my work, more present on set, and more committed to my ambitions than ever before. This is exactly how I always wanted to be, and it’s taken me this long to finally arrive here. It feels authentic and fulfilling, aligning more closely with who I truly am.
Did you choose the name Indy Roy for your newborn son in honor of your late father, Roy, who passed away 25 years ago? Has becoming a parent caused you to reflect on your connection with your own father?
Absolutely, that significant aspect of my tale is undeniably linked to a crucial event in my life. The first time I shared with my father about starring in “Felicity” coincided with him revealing his illness, making the initial year of working on that series incredibly meaningful – a year marked by the show’s success and my father’s passing away. Losing him had a profound impact on my first ten years in LA. As a parent to two children now, I can empathize with what my dad might have experienced during my arrival, and cherish the relationship we shared, as well as envision the bond I wish to foster with my son throughout his life. Being a parent is truly a humbling experience, an arduous task, yet one that holds the utmost importance.
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On Thursdays until October 31st, you can catch two fresh episodes of Teacup exclusively on Peacock. Meanwhile, tune in to ABC every Thursday at 10/9c for a new episode of Grey’s Anatomy, or watch it the following day on Hulu.
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2024-10-11 18:56