We Speak Actors

‘Sugar’ Actor Brian Gilleece Talks Colin Farrell, the Season 2 Finale and His Next Chapter

Published

2 months ago

September 14, 2026

Brian Gilleece is continuing to make his mark across some of television’s most recognisable productions, most recently appearing in a recurring role as Iain in Season 2 of Apple TV’s acclaimed neo-noir drama ‘Sugar’ alongside Colin Farrell and Laura Donnelly. The actor and filmmaker has already built an impressive résumé spanning major networks and streaming platforms, with credits including HBO’s ‘Westworld’, CBS’ ‘Matlock’ opposite Kathy Bates, FX’s ‘Mayans M.C.’, Netflix’s ‘Hollywood’ and the feature film ‘Echo Base’.

Throughout his career, Gilleece has had the opportunity to work alongside an array of celebrated performers including Colin Farrell, Kathy Bates, Aaron Paul, Evan Rachel Wood, Dylan McDermott, Darren Criss and Jim Parsons, while also collaborating with leading filmmakers and creatives across film, television and advertising. Earlier in his career, he worked closely with director Derek Cianfrance while stunt and fitness doubling PGA Tour star Rory McIlroy for Nike’s award-winning ‘Enjoy the Chase’ campaign.

Following the recent Season 2 finale of ‘Sugar’, Gilleece reflects on watching Farrell work at close range, an unexpected connection between Farrell and Kathy Bates, the impact of the show’s original storytelling and what he learned from the experience. He also discusses his passion for hockey, an unscripted project he is currently developing, the type of television role he would love to take on next and the reality of returning to auditions after every major job.

Brian, can you tell us a little about your experience working on Season 2 of Apple TV’s ‘Sugar’?

It was incredible. Also, I’m certainly working my way through Ireland’s finest here, having worked with Rory McIlroy a few times on the commercial side of things and now Colin and Laura. It’s pretty surreal. Obviously, growing up watching these actors who are in some of my favorite films and TV shows, and then getting to watch them play up close is the best “acting class” anyone can have. I honestly am so grateful. There are fewer and fewer opportunities to work on original material that is specifically created for the screen first.

“And the fact that this series not only shot here in LA, but it’s a neo-noir and pays direct homage to the incredible films and filmmakers of that era, is really a dream gig.”

What did you take away from working with Colin Farrell, and do you have a fun story from the set?

My goal is to always leave each job having learned something new about the craft, and this certainly planted some seeds for me in terms of things I’d like to improve in my own performances. To see something like his transformation in ‘The Penguin’, and then to be on set with him embodying a character that is just as distinct and fully formed, is a privilege. I auditioned for the role on ‘Matlock’ opposite Kathy Bates in between episodes of ‘Sugar’. I got the call from my agent and manager while I was on set for ‘Sugar’, and Colin saw my face when I was on the phone and asked what had happened. So I said, “I’m going to do this ‘Matlock’ episode with Kathy,” and he just instantly said, “Oh, I love Kathy, that’s amazing. We worked on a movie together 20 years ago. She’s the best. Please tell her I said hello.” Which definitely helped with my nerves getting to meet her for the first time at the table read later that week. After the read for ‘Matlock’, I went over to Kathy for the first time and said, “I hear you worked with Colin Farrell. I’m actually shooting ‘Sugar’ this week as well.” Kathy instantly said, “Oh, I love Colin. I worked with him on a film 20 years ago! He’s such a sweetheart. Tell him I said hello.” So yeah, it felt pretty cool to be playing telephone for two of my acting heroes.

How did you feel about the finale of the series, and what has the audience response been like?

I just remember being there to shoot that final scene and trying to piece together what was going on and how it would get constructed. But of course, that final sequence in the mansion came out even cooler than it felt on the day to shoot. But that’s sort of par for the course with the show, and that’s sort of why Sam is Sam. He’s so good at what he does, elevating what’s on the page. Also, I have to say — without too much of a spoiler — Laura’s moment at the end there is just another lesson in great acting and not telegraphing anything about your next move. I have rewatched it a couple of times. I know the show as a whole has been very well received.

“I don’t know if folks are quite as shocked as last season’s ending, but I also think some of the themes in this season are exactly why we need more original storytelling.”

Which other projects are you currently working on?

As most people know, I’m a HUGE hockey fan. I still skate 3–4 times a week and absolutely love the game. Recently, there has been such growth in the popularity of the sport itself and also in seeing it on screen. Even having it be the sport that the main character in ‘Inside Out 2’ played was so fun for me to see, knowing how much the sport has grown — especially for women too. I’m developing an unscripted show set in that arena, which I am super excited about. I don’t want to give too much away, but it builds on a concept that a buddy and I explored during the pandemic and really amplifies it in a new way.

What’s a dream role you would love to play?

Honestly, that’s a really challenging question because you don’t know what you don’t know. There could be some fantastic writer out there right now sketching up a character that ends up being perfect for me that I would never have thought about. But if you’re asking in terms of what type of job, I’ve always said it: I think a regular on a network soap is one of the best jobs in Hollywood. Just the frequency — getting to play a character day in and day out, 3–4 days a week consistently? Sign me up! Also, I have a knack for absorbing a lot of material quickly, so frankly, it looks like a lot of fun. So ‘GH’, ‘Days’, ‘Y&R’, I’m here if ya need me. If we’re talking film, anything Tom Cruise is doing looks like a ball to be involved in, and I really loved ‘The Rip’ too. That high-octane storytelling that people like Joe Carnahan, Joseph Kosinski, Gina Prince-Bythewood and David Leitch are carrying the torch for are the kinds of stories that made me want to be an actor in the first place. I mean, who doesn’t watch ‘Con Air’ or ‘Speed’ when it just happens to be on in your hotel room?

What should audiences look out for from you next?

I’m back to auditioning, and as a working actor, that’s the gig. I remember seeing Kevin Bacon talk about that years ago, that after every job you’re now an “out-of-work actor.” It was really crystallizing to hear from someone like him, and a great reminder that getting the next gig is always going to be part of the career. It really helped with my mindset. And this is the part the audience doesn’t see, right? Getting in front of new people who don’t know your work yet, reintroducing yourself to those who do. Finding producers, directors and casting professionals telling the stories you also want to tell, and then showing them what you bring to the table and believing there will eventually be a crossover between what you do well and what they are looking for at any particular time.

Featured photo credit Carina Conti

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Despina Mirou Could Be Exactly What Saturday Night Live Needs: A Fearless Comedian Who Can Become Anyone

Published

2 days ago

October 29, 2026

Jimmy Star

With more than 50 celebrity impersonations, a background in stand-up comedy, acting and original sketch writing, Despina Mirou has the versatility, imagination and larger-than-life personality to become a standout addition to the legendary SNL cast.

Every great comedy show needs someone who can surprise an audience. Someone who can walk onto a stage as one character, disappear into another moments later, and somehow make both completely believable.

For more than five decades, Saturday Night Live has built its reputation on performers with that rare ability. From outrageous celebrity impersonations to unforgettable original characters, the show’s greatest talents have always possessed something beyond the ability to deliver a punchline.

They have the ability to transform.

And that is precisely why actress, comedian, writer and master impressionist Despina Mirou deserves serious consideration for a place in Studio 8H.

Mirou isn’t simply another comedian hoping for a television breakthrough. She’s a performer who has spent years developing the very skills that make Saturday Night Live work: improvisation, physical comedy, celebrity impersonation, original character creation and the confidence to perform live.

Her career has taken her through film, television, theater and comedy clubs, including The Comedy Store, The Laugh Factory and the New York Comedy Club. Along the way, she has developed a remarkable repertoire of more than 50 celebrity impersonations, according to her professional biography.

One Woman, More Than 50 Personalities

Imagine a Saturday Night Live sketch featuring Lucille Ball, Lady Gaga, Judge Judy, Kim Kardashian and Ozzy Osbourne.

Now imagine one actress playing every character.

That’s the kind of creative possibility Despina Mirou brings to the table.

Her impersonation repertoire stretches across generations of entertainment, encompassing Hollywood legends, music superstars, television personalities and pop culture icons.

She has portrayed Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, Joan Crawford, Sophia Loren, Freddie Mercury, Elton John, David Bowie, Eminem, Sofía Vergara, Penélope Cruz, Al Pacino and numerous others.

But Mirou’s greatest strength isn’t simply her ability to resemble a famous personality.

It’s her willingness to find the humor within that personality.

Her Lucille Ball-inspired monologue, Lucy at Halloween, performed at the New York Comedy Club, demonstrated her affection for classic physical comedy. Her Joan Crawford-inspired Kisses From Joan, performed at The Laugh Factory, showed another side of her comedic imagination. BIO+1

Those performances demonstrate something important: Mirou doesn’t just impersonate celebrities. She develops comedy around them.

And that’s exactly what a successful SNL cast member needs to do.

More Than an Impressionist

Celebrity impressions might get Mirou through the door, but her other talents could make her particularly valuable to an ensemble.

She’s an actress with experience in both comedy and drama. She’s a stand-up performer accustomed to working in front of live audiences. She’s also a writer who creates original comedic material rather than relying exclusively on existing scripts.

Her background includes classical theater, with performances in works by Anton Chekhov, Neil Simon and Aeschylus.

That range matters.

Saturday Night Live isn’t simply a showcase for celebrity impersonators. It’s a weekly creative marathon requiring performers to understand character, collaborate with writers, adapt quickly and make even the most ridiculous situations feel entertaining.

Mirou’s experience across multiple performance disciplines could give her a useful advantage.

She understands how to build a character from the ground up, from vocal delivery and facial expressions to physical movement, costume and personality.

And she isn’t afraid to make herself look ridiculous to get a laugh.

That’s a quality worth celebrating.

Imagine Despina Mirou on SNL

The possibilities are almost endless.

Picture Mirou playing an increasingly furious Judge Judy presiding over a courtroom filled with social media influencers.

Or imagine her interpretation of Lucille Ball suddenly finding herself trapped in the world of modern dating apps.

How about a sketch featuring a backstage argument between Lady Gaga, Joan Crawford and Ozzy Osbourne, with Mirou switching between the personalities?

Those are hypothetical sketches, of course, but they illustrate the range of material her abilities could support.

She could bring classic Hollywood characters to younger audiences while offering unexpected interpretations of contemporary celebrities.

And perhaps most importantly, she could introduce original characters that have nothing to do with famous people.

The most memorable Saturday Night Live performers aren’t remembered only for whom they impersonated.

They’re remembered for the characters they invented.

Mirou has spent years developing that creative muscle.

A Performer Who Understands Live Comedy

There’s another reason Mirou could be a natural fit for Saturday Night Live: she knows what it’s like to stand in front of an audience with nowhere to hide.

Live comedy is unforgiving.

A joke either works or it doesn’t. An impression either connects with the audience or falls flat. There are no second takes when you’re standing beneath the lights of a comedy club.

Mirou has embraced that challenge throughout her stand-up career.

In a 2019 interview with Full Access NYC, she discussed her enthusiasm for live performance and the importance of continually studying other comedians to improve her craft. Full Access NYC

That kind of commitment is essential to a show where timing, adaptability and confidence can determine whether a sketch becomes a classic or disappears after one broadcast.

Hollywood Experience Meets Comedic Imagination

Mirou’s professional background extends beyond the stand-up circuit.

Her published credits include appearances associated with television productions such as Show Me a Hero and On My Block, alongside independent film and theatrical work. Actress, writer and comedian

She has also explored directing and screenwriting, bringing a broader understanding of how comedy works both in front of and behind the camera.

Her professional biography lists numerous honors across acting, comedy and writing, reflecting a career built around multiple creative disciplines.

That versatility is especially relevant to Saturday Night Live, where cast members often contribute ideas, develop recurring characters and help shape sketches throughout the production process.

Mirou could potentially contribute on both sides of the creative equation: developing material and bringing it to life.

Why SNL Should Give Despina Mirou a Look

Saturday Night Live has launched or elevated the careers of some of the most recognizable names in American comedy.

What connects many of those performers isn’t a single comedic style. It’s originality.

The ability to bring something unexpected to an established format.

Despina Mirou offers an intriguing combination of old-school showmanship and modern comedic versatility.

She can channel the physical comedy of Hollywood’s golden age, impersonate contemporary pop culture personalities, create original characters and perform in front of a live audience.

She also brings an international perspective shaped by her Greek-American background and experience performing across different entertainment markets.

There is no guarantee that any successful stand-up comedian or impressionist will thrive in Saturday Night Live’s demanding ensemble environment. Chemistry, collaborative writing and the ability to produce fresh material week after week are essential.

But Mirou’s experience makes her an interesting candidate worth auditioning.

And sometimes, discovering the next memorable cast member begins with giving an unconventional performer an opportunity.

Lorne Michaels, Meet Despina Mirou

For decades, SNL creator Lorne Michaels has helped introduce audiences to comedians who would eventually become household names.

Despina Mirou could offer the show something distinctive: a performer whose ability to transform is matched by her enthusiasm for comedy and her willingness to take creative risks.

She isn’t limited to one voice, one character, one generation or one comedic style.

She can be glamorous, outrageous, sophisticated, ridiculous and completely unpredictable.

And in a television landscape where audiences are constantly searching for something fresh, unpredictability can be a tremendous asset.

Saturday Night Live doesn’t necessarily need another celebrity impersonator. It needs performers who can turn an impression into an unforgettable comedic moment.

Despina Mirou has spent years developing the skills to do exactly that.

Perhaps it’s time for Saturday Night Live to see what happens when she gets the opportunity.

Because if there’s one thing Mirou has demonstrated throughout her career, it’s that you never quite know who she’s going to become next.

And that could make Saturday nights a whole lot more interesting.