'Only Murders in the Building' star Michael Cyril Creighton on how his background in performing arts shaped his experience on set

Michael Cyril Creighton has had quite the journey in the comedy universe alternating between film, television, and theatre. However, the quirks of Howard Morris—the animal-loving character in Only Murders in the Building, are a tad more special for Creighton. With season 4 out, Creighton has been promoted from a recurring character to a series regular, and the excitement is evident. Having just wrapped up the premiere, the actor has a heart full of love for his castmates, Selena Gomez, Steve Martin, and Martin Short who play Mabel Mora, Charles-Hayden Savage, and Oliver Putnam respectively.

We caught up with the actor to chat about his character Howard Morris, his background in performing arts, his experience on set and whom he thought was the funniest person. But no matter what, Creighton just could not bring himself to choose the funnier one out of the three, but what he is sure of, is a brand-new season and character sketches that will keep you asking for more. 

Harper’s Bazaar: What are some of the characteristics of your character Howard Morris that you like, dislike, and relate to?

Michael Cyril Creighton: Interesting, what I love about Howard the most is how tenacious he is. Every season, he’s trying to figure out what he’s good at, and he’s never giving up, even though maybe sometimes he should. What I find relatable about him is that he wants to be part of something. He wants to have a community. And it’s part of why he’s so nosy and gossipy. It’s because he wants to be integral to that building, and wants to insert himself in the life of the trio.

HB: What are the similarities and dissimilarities between Howard Morris and Micheal Cyril Creighton?

MCC: I would say there’s some overlap. I am not quite as emotional as Howard is. My mood shifts are a little bit smoother than his are. But I can relate to his needs, his wants, and his desire to be accepted. And I think he’s just a lot of fun to play, quite honestly. He can go through six emotions in one minute, and it’s very cathartic and satisfying.

HB: Have you given a thought to a Howard Morris spinoff?

MCC: I have thought about this. I’ve thought of the Howard spinoff. He would live in Europe, using his library science degree to solve murders. He would have his cap in tow, maybe in a larger menagerie of animals, but he would be bopping around Europe solving crimes.

HB: What’s the energy like on set when you have legends like Meryl Streep and new additions like Eugene Levy, and Eva Longoria join along with Selena Gomez, Steve Martin, and Martin Short?

MCC: It is an embarrassment of riches. Every day I come to the set, there’s a new incredible star to act with or watch them act. But the thing that’s so special about this particular show is that it’s a very kind environment, and that comes from the top. So, Steve, Marty, and Selena treat everybody with grace and kindness. Be it a Meryl Streep or a day player with two lines. So, it’s unlike any set I’ve been on, as far as the feeling of kindness, that sort of permeates the whole vibe. It’s pretty great. 

HB: Are there any particular scenes from this latest season that had the cast in splits, and it got difficult to shoot?

MCC: Oh yeah, there’s a scene this season where the trio is met by their doppelganger trio, and they’re all in the same outfit. And it was a day when there were even more people in the same outfit, and you would stand and there were mirrors everywhere. You wouldn’t know where to look, and you’d think you were looking at Selena, but you’re looking at Eva. You would think you were talking to Marty, but you’re talking to Zach. It was very confusing, very fun. And it’s really fun to watch your favourite actors act with their favourite actors. 

HB: Being a theatre actor, you have a rich background in performing arts. What would you say has been the most useful learning about having a solid foundation in theatre?

MCC: Well, the thing about theatre is you have a sort of the luxury of creating a family over a rehearsal process. And in theatre, it becomes a very tight unit because of the amount of time you spend with each other. Having that basis and learning how to work that way makes it a lot easier to jump on a set and truncate that feeling, sort of becoming a family very quickly. Because sometimes you’re on set just for a day or two. But I would say the top lessons I’ve learned, and these lessons come from Marty, treat everyone with kindness, always be on time, and know your lines.

HB: Who is the funniest out of the lead trio?

MCC: They’re all so funny. I would say Marty tickles me the most. He is very effervescent, very quick, always making great impressions, and telling great stories. But I can’t say that one is funnier than the other. Steve, Selena, and Marty all make me laugh every day.

HB: Have you had the chance to view any Indian content yet?

MCC: I have not watched much Indian content. My husband has travelled to India quite a bit. And keeps wanting to take me. He works in textiles and has been there quite a bit. And has so much great stuff to say about it. So, I’m hoping to make it there someday. And I can’t wait to devour all the content and the food. 

HB: Anything you want to tell the ardent fans of the show what the latest season has in store?

MCC: I would say if you loved last season, you’re in for a completely different, equally, if not more satisfying ride this season. Last season was so deeply entrenched in the theatre world. This year we go so, so hardcore into the film world. The show has completely reinvented itself. But the core of what the show is is still there. It’s about family. It’s about murder. It’s about community. And it’s cosy. And it’s my favourite show to watch, even though I’m on it, to be honest!

Only Murders in the Building is currently streaming on Disney+ Hotstar. 

All images credit: Getty Images 

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Also read: Selena Gomez on what prompted her to launch Rare Beauty, as the brand made its foray into the Indian beauty industry in June this year