We’re looking forward to introducing you to Kevin McNamara. Check out our conversation below.
Kevin, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
I used to think I had a clear and well defined path but I have found that I don’t have a singular passion or dream in my life. I am so curious and love to learn that I find myself wandering into other areas of art and expression often. I would say my path is more of a labyrinth.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hello readers and thank you for your time and interest. My name is Kevin McNamara and I am an actor, film maker, and standup comedian. I am president of Bad Lad Productions. My brand… well good question. I have been a successful actor, writer, director, producer, and stand up comedian. I have chased dreams and caught them by the tail but never quite got a hold of them. That’s why I’m writing my own intro right now and you have probably never heard of me. In a nutshell I’d say my brand is blind faith in the pursuit of almost impossible goals… and comedy. I’m known for funny. That said you can catch my film Topper on AppleTv. I wrote, directed, and produced it independently and it is a love letter to the art of turning trauma to triumph.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who taught you the most about work?
My mother taught me what true grit and work ethic is. She was a single mother and survivor of an abusive marriage who raised 3 kids and did so with grace and determination. She is a super hero who drove a Hi-lo at a Ford plant for 35 years
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
What it’s like to truly be hungry and feel unsafe. When you don’t know where the next dollar is coming from you find an ability to see opportunity where others wouldn’t even look.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
That we create art. This industry has not been focused on the true artistic expression for some time. Story has taken a back seat to profit. IP is valued not for its deep connection to an audience but for its deep connection to pockets. It’s easier to retell the same story with a fresh coat of paint rather than take risks on creating new masterpieces. Risk is what makes great cinema. There is no art in comfort.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. When do you feel most at peace?
When I am standing on stage looking out at a crowd of people laughing at words that I carefully strung together to take them away from their struggles for a brief moment of levity. When I sit in a movie theater and see a room full of people taking a break from their phones long enough to matter. When I sit at my desk and stare at the possibilities of a blank page.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: KevinMac
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-mcnamara-13a094375?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kmaccomedy?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@kevinmac?si=gGql6yTqcsSg38bl
- Other: Tik Tok @TheKevinMac
