IN CONVERSATION WITH MAXWELL SIMKINS
interview by JANA LETONJA
photography by KIM NEWMONEY
At just 19, Maxwell Simkins has already built a career that most actors spend decades chasing. The Philadelphia-born performer, known for his quick wit, emotional range, and easy screen presence, currently stars in Hulu’s hit comedy ‘Shifting Gears’, holding his own opposite comedy icons Tim Allen, Kat Dennings, and Seann William Scott. As Carter, Allen’s wisecracking grandson and Dennings’ sharp-tongued son, Maxwell brings a mix of humor and heart that’s earned praise from critics and fans alike. Now starring in the show’s highly anticipated second season), he’s continuing to prove himself as one of Hollywood’s most exciting young talents.
‘Shifting Gears’ has been such a breakout for you. What has the experience been like stepping into a show alongside comedy legends like Tim Allen, Kat Dennings, and Seann William Scott?
It’s been great, to be able to learn from such icons in their field and work alongside them every day is truly an honor and a privilege.
What’s the biggest thing you’ve learned about comedy timing or performance from working with actors who’ve been doing this for decades?
From Kat Dennings, I’ve learned to always be as professional as possible. She’s always on time, always knows her lines well in advance, and writes down every note given to her. From Tim, I’ve learned to take my time, not to rush through the scenes, and really hit the jokes where they need to be hit.
Carter has such a fun, rebellious energy on the show. How much of him is you, and how much is pure character?
I’d say it’s about fifty-fifty. Carter’s a lot more nerdy and geeky than me. I’d like to think I am at least a little cooler than Carter. But he has moments where he’s childish and youthful at heart, and I’m definitely the same way. He’s sixteen, I’m nineteen, so there’s a little bit of a maturity gap, but at the end of the day, we share a lot of similarities.
Season 2 promises bigger laughs and deeper storylines. What can you tease about what’s next for Carter?
This season really dives deeper into who Carter is. Last season was about setting the groundwork and getting to know him, but now you actually learn more about what he likes, who he is around different people, and how he changes.
You’ve worked across family comedy, adventure, and now more mature projects. How has your approach to acting evolved as you’ve grown up in the industry?
It’s been great to be able to say my childhood was spent working. I’m so blessed to have so much to show for it. Working on shows while I was younger was a dream come true, especially being on Disney Channel. And as I’ve grown up, my projects have grown with me, which is such a blessing. Getting to explore different ranges and new ways to express myself has been really important.
Do you feel like you’re in a transition moment right now, from child actor to adult performer?
I’d say kind of. Since I still look so young, I still play more of the younger roles, but I think in the next few years I’ll start transitioning into more adult characters.
You have a natural comedic rhythm. Do you ever think about writing or directing comedy yourself down the line?
One hundred percent. I love writing. Directing feels like a lot of responsibility, but maybe one day I’ll give it a try. I definitely want to create more projects. Some things I’m working on right now are more drama-based, but I’d love to create something like what Seth Rogen did with The Studio, or like ‘South Park’ or ‘Family Guy’. Doing an animated series one day would be incredible.
Who are your biggest comedic inspirations, actors or creators whose work you study or admire?
I think a lot of my timing comes from stand-up. Some of my inspirations are Shane Gillis, Dave Chappelle, Kevin Hart. I am a big Shane Gillis fan, and Sebastian Maniscalco, who I just saw live and was incredible. I love those old souls of comedy. On-screen, I’d say Adam Sandler, Jim Belushi, and Chris Farley, all incredible talents I really look up to.
You’ve mentioned writing short stories and screenplays. What kind of stories are you drawn to tell?
I’m always drawn to stories based on true events, things that feel real and relatable. I love projects like ‘Adolescence’, stories rooted in reality that people can connect to and learn from.
You started acting at six. What keeps you inspired to keep pushing yourself creatively after more than a decade in the business?
Wow, a decade, that sounds crazy to hear. Honestly, it’s about trying new things and taking new approaches each step of the way. I always want to challenge myself and keep things fresh creatively.
You’re entering adulthood in an industry that’s changing fast. How do you stay grounded through all of it?
I don’t really think there’s much to stay grounded from. I am so grateful. I’m blessed to do what I love and to have done it consistently for so long, so I really just count my blessings every day.
As you look ahead, what kind of roles or projects do you hope to take on next?
I’d love to take on more dramatic, character-driven roles, something like Joaquin Phoenix’s ‘Joker’ or Brendan Fraser in ‘The Whale’. On the comedy side, I’d love to host ‘SNL’ or even be a cast member someday. I’d also love to create and produce projects like Adam Sandler does with Happy Madison or Seth Rogen with The Studio. And honestly, doing something really fun and different, like a finance movie. Something like ‘The Big Short’, that would be super exciting and new.
