If you haven't been watching HBO’s "BARRY" then you’re missing out. The series just concluded its sophomore season and proved yet again why it’s the savviest show on television.

If case you haven’t seen it…

The series comes from Aleg Berg (“Silicon Valley” co-creator) and Bill Hader (of “SNL” fame) and follows low-level hit man Barry Berkman (Hader) seeking a life change. While on a hit in Los Angeles, he follows his target into acting class and finds his new passion – acting. His new girlfriend, Sally (Sarah Goldberg), doesn’t know he’s a hitman and his handler, Fuches (Stephen Root) and associate NoHo Hank (Anthony Carrigan), won't let him walk away. During the second season, NoHo Hank convinces Barry to train his Chechan misfits into an army of assassins to pay-back a debt.

One of NoHo Hank’s henchmen is Yandar, played by actor NICK GRACER. Born in Lithuania and raised in Los Angeles, Nick fits into the razor-sharp comedy perfectly as the huggable-yet-scary teddy bear of a killer.

Nick comes to the show with numerous credits under his belt, including stints on "Madam Secretary," "NCIS: New Orleans," "S.W.A.T.," "Lethal Weapon," "Shooter," "Ray Donovan," and "The Mentalist." He also appeared in the feature films "The Fate of the Furious," "Oh Lucy!," "Victor" and "Tooken."

And coming soon, Nick will head back HBO guest starring on Larry David’s comedy “Curb Your Enthusiasm.”

In between his TV appearances, Nick Gracer answered a few questions:


Tell us about your role in “Barry.”

NICK: I play Yandar, one of Noho Hanks henchmen and trusted confidants. Kind of a happy go lucky bad guy if you will.

How was it to work on-screen Bill Hader and Anthony Carrigan?

NICK: Working with Bill Hader and Anthony Carrigan was an amazing experience. Bill makes you feel like you've known him for years. This only makes it easier for you to do your best. His ability to find comedic moments in the smallest details is pure genius. Anthony Carrigan is so hilarious as NoHo Hank, that I had a very hard time trying to keep a straight face in our scenes. Definitely had to stay on my toes and be ready to roll with him.

Was there some collaboration with the show’s creators Alec Berg and Bill Hader while working or do they simply shoot what’s written?

NICK: Yes of course. If the scene didn't work, changes were made on the go. If the scene worked, but an improvised line made it better, then they kept it.

What would you consider your characters ‘best’ quality? And their ‘worst’?

NICK: Loyalty to his friends would be his best. Worst? Well he is a henchman after all, so I think that list would be long.

Any interesting stories from the set you can share with us?

NICK: During a night shoot in the dessert, the temperature dropped below 30 degrees. It was so cold that in between takes, you could literally hear a sea of chattering teeth!

What’s the biggest lesson you learned from working on this project?

NICK: Seeing the amount of hard work that Alec Berg and Bill Hader put in behind the scenes was an eye-opening experience. Comedy is a serious business and I am very grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of this very funny show.

And, now just for fun:

Who’s your favorite actor/actress?
NICK: James Gandolfini

What role from the past do you wish you could have played?
NICK: A mobster on the “Sopranos” in a scene with James Gandolfini

Favorite movie or TV show from your childhood.
NICK: “Gilligan's Island”

Tell us one thing that would surprise our readers to learn about you.
NICK: Love to collect and restore Camaro Irocs and Buick Grand Nationals

How can fans keep up with you?
NICK: Follow me on Instagram @nickgracer link


Thanks, Nick – can’t wait to see your next ‘killer’ character.