When longtime character actor Enrico Colantoni turned 60 last year, something clicked for him. “I realized I don’t have all the time in the world, so I’m going to enjoy every single moment,” he exclusively shares with Closer. This newfound clarity made life feel “expansive, alive, exciting, and fresh” again. It’s like hitting the reset button, and Colantoni is embracing it wholeheartedly.
Colantoni, a native of Canada, is best known for his iconic roles in cult favorites like Galaxy Quest, Just Shoot Me!, and Veronica Mars. These days, he’s busier than ever. Recently, he wrapped up filming the second season of Netflix’s action comedy FUBAR, starring alongside the legendary Arnold Schwarzenegger. Meanwhile, he’s stealing the spotlight as Principal Grant Moretti in FX’s heartwarming comedy English Teacher. His character, who avoids drama at all costs and relies heavily on Alka-Seltzer, has become a fan favorite.
“I’m so emotionally connected to this show,” Enrico says. “It’s current, alive, relevant, and funny. It’s got heart, and that’s what makes it special.”
Read also:Donny Osmond Hints At His Retirement Its Inevitable But I Still Have Fuel In The Tank
From Toronto to New York: The Early Years
Did you always dream of becoming an actor growing up in Toronto?
Not at all. My parents were Italian immigrants who hoped I’d either enter the priesthood or pursue higher education. Imagine their surprise when I told them I wanted to move to New York! But that decision didn’t come easily. Initially, I thought I’d become a teacher. During my first year at the University of Toronto, I took a theater elective, and it completely changed my life. Acting was my calling, and I knew I had to follow it, even if it meant disappointing my family.
Regrets? Not a Single One
Do you have any regrets about choosing this career path?
Not a chance. Moving to New York was one of the best decisions I ever made. Sure, there were struggles, but those challenges only made me stronger. Looking back, everything seemed to fall into place pretty smoothly. And let me tell you, I’m not done yet. Every day, I wake up excited about what I get to do. Acting is my passion, and I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.
The Big Break That Changed Everything
What do you consider your big break?
It was definitely the NYPD Blue episode where I played Peter Boyle’s son back in 1994. That role brought me to L.A., and soon after, I landed parts in shows like Hope & Gloria and Just Shoot Me!. But the role that keeps me in everyone’s mind is Mathesar from Galaxy Quest. People seem to connect with that character, and I’m incredibly proud of it.
Read also:Savannah Guthrie And Hoda Kotb Reunite On Vacation A Heartwarming Encounter
Veronica Mars and the Magic of Kristen Bell
How was your experience working on Veronica Mars?
Let me tell you, Kristen wasn’t a star when we started. We were just having fun, creating something special. And then, boom—her career exploded, and she became an icon. The fact that people still watch the show and connect with it makes me incredibly proud.
Did you know Kristen was destined for stardom?
Absolutely. She had this incredible presence from the start. Kristen was—and still is—an extraordinary actress with a radiant energy that lights up the screen.
Bonding with the Just Shoot Me! Crew
Which of your former costars are you still close to?
No one compares to the Just Shoot Me! gang. Those guys were truly one of a kind. When you’re part of a sitcom, it’s like being in a play. You spend so much time together that you form lifelong bonds. It’s like a second family, and those connections are invaluable.
Playing the Villain
What was it like stepping into the shoes of a bad guy?
I don’t often play villains, but Carl Elias from Person of Interest was a blast. Working alongside Michael Emerson and Jimmy Caviezel was a dream come true. Plus, it gave me a chance to return to New York, which I’ll always cherish.
Life Lessons from Fatherhood
What has being a father taught you?
Having kids forced me to step out of my own head and be present for them. As creative types, we tend to get lost in our thoughts, but raising children demands your full attention. It’s a challenging transition, but once you embrace it, you realize how rewarding it is. It’s all about investing in who they are and helping them grow.
The Joys of Travel
What do you love most about traveling?
For me, traveling is like time travel. You’re transported to a different world, surrounded by new languages, customs, and people. Your brain lights up with the novelty of it all. It’s a reminder of how vast and diverse our planet is. Experiencing different cultures expands your mind and soul in ways you can’t imagine.
Bucket List Goals
What’s left on your bucket list?
I’d love to direct something I’ve written. I’ve already started working on that. Two years ago, I had the incredible experience of performing in a Broadway show, Birthday Candles, alongside Debra Messing. It was unforgettable, and I can’t wait to return to the theater. There’s nothing like the energy of a live audience.
The Power of Positivity
What’s the greatest lesson you’ve learned?
You get out of life what you put into it. Always give your best effort and maintain a positive outlook. When you focus on the good in people and the world, everything falls into place. It’s a mindset I strive to live by every day.
Gratitude and Growth
What are you most proud of?
I’m proudest of leaving my comfort zone in Toronto and discovering a whole new world. That leap of faith opened my eyes to endless possibilities. If I hadn’t taken that step at 20, I’d never have known what was out there waiting for me. Sometimes, you just have to jump and see where the wind takes you.
Choosing Happiness
How do you achieve happiness?
Happiness is a choice. You can choose to see the negative or the positive, and I choose the latter. It starts with gratitude. Appreciate what you have, and build from there. There’s no past or future—only the present. So, take a moment to appreciate the now and say thank you for the blessings in your life.
