1. Thank you for taking the time to do this interview! You are in the new Amazon Prime series Countdown. What can you tell us about the series and the character you play in the show?
Countdown is an action crime thriller about a secret task force compiled of the best Los Angeles law enforcement officers and headed by an FBI Chief played by Eric Dane. It’s been discovered that there is a massive threat to LA and the team is assembled to try and stop the pending disaster. My role is LA District Attorney Grayson Valwell, and I’m there to facilitate the team with my connections all across the state. There’s a ton of action, great writing with some compelling twists! I’m excited for everyone to see it on Amazon Prime!
2. You worked with many veteran actors on that show such as Eric Dane and Jensen Ackles. What did you learn from working with them?
The entire cast is great! Most of my scenes are with Eric Dane and it was such a pleasure working with the iconic actor. Eric has such grace about him and is a blast on set. We also shared a lot about our personal lives with each other and developed a bit of a bond.
3. What drew you to the character of D.A. Valwell? What do you look for in a character?
I like that Valwell is polished yet complicated. Showrunner Derek Haas was masterful in integrating me into this show. One look at the character breakdown he provided and it was an easy decision for me. Outfitting me in tailored designer suits might have helped a bit too. Haha!
4. Countdown looks like a high energy action show! Is this the first time you’ve done a show like this? Do you prefer comedies or dramas?
I have not done a show quite like this. I’ve done great political thrillers like Scandal, and action shows like 9-1-1, but this one is an adrenaline rush of action and thrills! I think I’m probably best suited in dramas, just because of my archetype, but I love every chance I get to take part in comedy shenanigans. My last one was a show called Act Your Age with Yvette Nicole Brown and it was gloriously funny.
5.What is your favorite memory from working on Countdown?
There are many, that’s for sure. I will say there was one moment that comes to mind when I was on set in D.A. Valwell’s office. It was elaborate and ornate! They had photo mockups of me all on the walls. Degrees and ceremonial awards all about. It struck me that this was the first time I was doing a role where they created an entire set just for my character. As an actor doing several guest stars over the years on established shows, I’m always walking into ‘their’ environment. This one was MINE. I am so grateful to Derek, Jonathan, and the team at Amazon/MGM for giving me that moment.
6. What are you working on now? Any new projects?
Ooooooh….I do have something in the works, yes. I can’t disclose much just yet, but I will say it is based on a show from the 90s that was a show we all needed. With its new reimagining, I’m sure it will have an instant following.
7. Fun Question– As an actor, if you could work with anyone alive or dead who would it be and why?
That’s actually a tough question because there are so many actors that I revere! The obvious ones are Denzel Washington, Meryl Streep, and Gary Oldman. I do think I would probably sacrifice a bit more than usual if I were offered a hefty role opposite Andre Holland. I see his work and am always floored. I also admire the projects he chooses. So, if he’s in it, I’m pretty sure I’ll absolutely love it. Plus I could see us creating something great. I should also mention Giancarlo Esposito! We keep running into each other at events and he’s always a joy.
8. Where can we follow you on social media?
I’m on Facebook and Instagram (I know…I’m old according to my kids..haha!). Instagram: @therealmerrickmccartha, Facebook: Merrick McCartha (and Merrick McCartha The Actor). I’m also on BlueSky and trying to be there more and more as I migrate away from the bigger companies.