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John Mulaney’s Poker Face Role Proves He Needs More Scripted TV Roles!

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WARNING: SPOILERS ahead for Poker Face season 2, episode 3.

In the third episode of season 2 titled “Whack-a-Mole”, John Mulaney’s impressive guest role in Poker Face showcases his potential as a scripted actor, suggesting he should take on more such roles. Known for his success as a stand-up comedian and comedy writer, particularly on Saturday Night Live from 2008 to 2013, Mulaney is now demonstrating his versatility as both a dramatic and comical actor. Prior to his role as FBI mole Maverick / Danny Clyde-Otis in Poker Face, he also appeared in several episodes of the Emmy-winning FX series The Bear, portraying a member of the Berzatto family tree.

In the third episode of season 2 of “Poker Face,” Mulaney’s character Danny conceals his long-standing financial arrangement with Rhea Perlman’s character Beatrix Hasp, a powerful figure in the Five Families crime syndicate. The reason for Danny helping Beatrix isn’t explicitly clear other than the fact that she’s been giving him money for years. However, this secret is eventually uncovered during the episode. It’s worth noting that “Poker Face” season 2 is a classic murder-mystery series where each week presents a new cast and setting, implying that Mulaney may not reappear in the popular Rian Johnson production. Nevertheless, this turn of events could open up more writing roles for Mulaney in his current Netflix talk show.

John Mulaney’s Performance In Poker Face Season 2 Further Proves That He Needs To Be In More Scripted TV Shows

His Role As A Corrupt FBI Agent Shows He’s Got Natural Talent For Scripted Acting

For quite some time now, John Mulaney has been recognized as one of the most hilarious stand-up comedians in the industry. After gaining fame on SNL, Mulaney has produced a total of seven comedy specials, with half airing on Comedy Central and the rest on Netflix. Although his skills as a comedian and comedy writer are undeniably impressive, his acting career might not be as extensive, but in season 2, episode 3 of Poker Face, Mulaney demonstrates his versatility by showing that he is capable of more than just being the funny guy. He showcases a remarkable aptitude for on-screen performances, and his role in Poker Face serves as proof.

Though John Mulaney’s stand-up comedy shows, such as his latest variety show “Everything Live with John Mulaney” on Netflix, are highly entertaining, it’s clear that he has a knack for character performances, as seen in the TV series “Poker Face.” He also shines as the supporting character Stevie on “The Bear,” providing humor in episodes like “Fishes” from season 2 and “Tomorrow” from season 3. In contrast to these acting roles, Mulaney has primarily been featured in sketch comedy series or as a voice actor for animated shows over the years.

Aside From The Bear, John Mulaney Has Mostly Done Voice Roles In Recent Years

He Voiced Andrew On The Emmy-Winning Animated Series Big Mouth

Previously, Mulaney portrayed a character on screen before his roles in ‘Poker Face’ or ‘The Bear’, was in the Apple TV+ series ‘Dickinson’. He played Henry David Thoreau, the transcendentalist writer, during its run from 2019 to 2021. However, Mulaney only appeared in two episodes of season 1, which were aired about six years ago.

Given his numerous writing, hosting, and voice-acting roles, it’s not surprising that Mulaney might find it challenging to take on a full TV series character. Nevertheless, with Netflix’s Big Mouth wrapping up after eight seasons (where he voiced Andrew from 2017 to 2025), it would be worthwhile for him to think about such an opportunity, given the prospect of new ventures.

In addition to voicing Spider-Ham in “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” that he’ll return to in 2027’s sequel, “Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse”, Mulaney has also secured a role as Trip Hawkins in David O. Russell’s upcoming John Madden biopic. This film will feature Christian Bale and Nicolas Cage portraying the main character. Fingers crossed, Mulaney will build on his recent success on TV with shows like “The Bear” and “Poker Face”, and continue to accept more acting roles in scripted projects.

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2025-05-10 14:25

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