Josh Groban (The Office)

Josh Groban has had several multi-platinum hit records and he has appeared in movies (“Crazy, Stupid, Love”) and television shows (“Ally McBeal” and “Glee”). However, on Thursday, October 13, 2011 at 9PM on NBC, Josh will be guest starring on “The Office.” The episode is entitled “Garden Party” and Josh will be playing Walter Jr., who is Andy Bernard’s (Ed Helms) younger brother. Shakefire had a chance to talk with Josh about the episode and his experiences with the cast of “The Office".

SHAKEFIRE: How was your overall experience on filming this episode and working with the cast of “The Office?”
JOSH GROBAN: I had lots of fun and everyone was so friendly and welcoming on the set. We were filming for two days on the set and each day was about14-15 hours. It was very hot during filming, but we had to wear winter clothes because this episode was set in the winter time. The cast is so funny and humble. I was not sure what to expect since they’ve been working together for such a long time, but they were so nice and fun to hang out with.

SF: Do you follow the show or watch it often?
JG: I have been following this show since it started in England. I’ve had all the DVD seasons and always thought this show was a hilarious entity. I have watched every episode and I was thrilled when I got the call to appear on it.

SF: Have you always been interested in acting?
JG: I was interested in theater at a very young age. I love improv and have always admired classical theater and Shakespeare. I also started my own improv group in high school. Acting was half of what I wanted to accomplish in the arts. The comedy acting has been a nice transition for me.

SF: How is Walter Jr. different from Andy?
JG: Andy is the first born and usually the first born children are the favorites. However, that’s not the case here. Walter Jr. stole Andy’s name for reasons unknown. This episode gives a good back-story for Andy. You’ll see why he tries so hard to be an overachiever all the time.

SF: Andy loves to sing and was part of an accapella group in college and you have a great voice and a background in music. Is there going to be a sing-off on the show?
JG: In this episode, you are going to see how competitive Andy can be and the rivalries in the Bernard family. The rivalries are not only between Andy and Walter Jr., but their father is involved in it as well. Their father sparks a lot of the rivalries in general.

SF: Being a fan, how was it for you to visit the Schrute Farm?
JG: I was surprised they didn’t blindfold me on the trip to the farm. It was a lot of fun to see and though it was very detailed. The prop guys did an excellent job of making everything look so realistic. It was cool to be there and was a beautiful piece of land.

SF: I’m very jealous! I have seen you guest star on “Glee” and “Ally McBeal.” What other TV shows would you want to guest star on if given the chance?
JG: I think a character on “Breaking Bad” as a drug dealer would be really cool. I love that series and I think that would be a big surprise to everyone. In terms of comedies, there are a lot of good shows out there. 30 Rock is a show I’d love to guest star on. Then again, I would love to be on “The Office” again also. Both shows are consistently smart and funny with an improv vibe and I am a huge fan of both.

SF: Do you have any other acting gigs coming up?
JG: Its kind of difficult since I am on tour. For “The Office,” the producers tweeted me and I was surprised. I just happened to be in town for a concert when they were taping this episode and it was all just serendipity. As for the acting gigs, I have to wait till I finish the tour first. I am excited to check other acting projects out. The tour finishes 1^st week of December and have to wait till then.

SF: Sounds great! I can’t wait for the episode tonight and your future work in both acting and music. Thank you so much for your time!!
JG: Thanks for talking with me and have a good day!!