Jim O’Heir on Parks, Pranks & Post-Show Life

In this unforgettable episode of Celebrity Interviews Live from The Grotto, host Greg Hanna sits down with Emmy-winning actor Jim O’Heir, the man behind one of TV’s most lovable punching bags—Jerry Gergich from Parks and Recreation. Jim dives into his multi-decade career, revealing what it was really like working on one of the most iconic ensemble comedies of our time. From on-set antics and legendary bloopers to his transformation into darker, dramatic roles, Jim offers a raw and hilarious look into the highs, lows, and lessons of Hollywood life. [00:00] – Welcome to The Grotto! Greg Hanna introduces Jim O’Heir and clears up a sitcom mix-up. (Hint: It’s Parks and Rec, not Community.) [00:01:00] – Jim shares the Parks and Recreation improv tradition: “Fun Runs” and the wildest blooper ever featuring Chris Pratt and Kim Kardashian. [00:02:00] – The surreal experience of acting alongside legends like Amy Poehler, Rob Lowe, and even Michelle Obama. [00:03:00] – Behind-the-scenes on the infamous “Jerry gets mugged” episode—ripped pants, burritos, fart jokes, and how Amy Poehler nearly broke from laughter. [00:05:00] – Jim reveals the story of how Chris Pratt got in trouble with NBC lawyers—and why Jim almost topped him. [00:06:00] – Life before Parks: Playing a creepy serial killer on Diagnosis: Murder, struggling actor stories, and landing a career-changing role. [00:07:00] – How Jim got the part of Jerry (originally auditioned for Ron Swanson!), and the uncertain early days of the character that didn’t even exist in the script. [00:09:00] – Greg Daniels' fateful decision: “Put him at a desk. He’s funny.” [00:10:00] – Dream Sitcom Crossovers: Jim’s picks include Seinfeld, 30 Rock, Cheers, and even Get Smart. [00:12:00] – If Jim had his own show: ensemble cast dreams, working with Alec Baldwin, Mo Collins, and why he loves not being the lead. [00:14:00] – Life after Parks and Rec: How the indie dark comedy Middle Man shattered his Jerry persona and won major festival awards. [00:17:00] – On being typecast, the struggles actors face post-iconic role, and how his recent drama shot in Spain pushed him to new limits. [00:19:00] – Greg asks about standout guest appearances—Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Friends, Criminal Minds (which Jim forgot he did!), and working with David Schwimmer. [00:23:00] – What Jim learned from the Friends set and how that dream environment mirrored what they built on Parks and Rec. [00:24:00] – Hidden talents? Well… oversized TV marathons, bottomless snacks, and a “very large tongue.” [00:25:00] – Final reflections: What Jim’s learned about life, saying “no,” protecting your peace, and wisdom from Amy Poehler. [00:26:00] – Jim’s book Welcome to Pawnee: Stories of Friendship, Waffles, and Parks and Recreation—why fans are framing the cover. [00:27:00] – How to connect with Jim online and what’s next for the man behind Jerry. Parks and Recreation (NBC) The Chris Pratt “Kim Kardashian” blooper: [YouTube it. You’ll cry laughing.] Jim’s post-Parks film: Middle Man Jim’s book: Welcome to Pawnee: Stories of Friendship, Waffles, and Parks and Recreation Instagram: @TheRealJimOHare Facebook: Jim O’Heir New episodes weekly featuring candid convos with actors, musicians, athletes, and creators you love—broadcast from the legendary Grotto! 🔑 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:📘 Mentioned in This Episode:👋 Stay Connected with Greg Hanna and Celebrity Interviews Live from The Grotto