Shawn Hatosy on Dr. Jack Abbot’s Vulnerability & Wit
Image courtesy of HBO Max.
I had the opportunity to sit down with Shawn Hatosy, the Emmy winning actor behind the character Dr. Jack Abbot in HBO Max’s The Pitt. He was recently nominated for his work in the show’s second season in the Supporting Actor in Drama Series category. Our conversation was both enlightening and entertaining, filled with insights into his preparation process, the dynamics of the show, and the journey of portraying such a layered character.
To kick things off, I asked Hatosy about his preparation for the role and how his theater background has influenced his approach. He shared that being off-book before rehearsals is essential for him, especially given the fast-paced nature of episodic television. “The speed at which we shoot doesn't allow for mistakes," he explained. "I have to know my lines so well that they’re second nature, especially with all the medical jargon we encounter.” It was fascinating to hear how his dedication to the craft shapes his performance, and how he believes that familiarity with the text grounds him in his role.
Image courtesy of HBO Max.
As our conversation deepened, we naturally transitioned to discussing the balance of humor amidst the intense scenarios depicted in The Pitt . I was curious about how Dr. Abbot manages to infuse levity into such a serious environment. Hatosy pointed out that the writing plays a crucial role in accomplishing this balance. “If someone’s going to die in one scene, it’s nice to follow up with some levity in the next,” he said. His enthusiasm for the character was infectious, as he described Abbot’s experiences that allow him to respond with wit in the face of chaos.
Hatosy described how the pressure of being a medical professional impacts both Abbot and Dr. Michael "Robby" Robinavitch’s mental health, creating a tension that is reflected in their relationship. “They both have the answers when it comes to medicine, but when it comes to their emotional well-being, they are completely lost,” he said. Hatosy also noted that this dynamic within their relationship would be Abbot’s biggest ongoing struggle.
It’s clear that Hatosy’s approach goes beyond the lines; he emphasizes the emotional truth behind the character's actions. His passion for storytelling and dedication to portraying rich, complex characters makes him a standout in The Pitt. You can watch the full interview at the link below.
Image courtesy of HBO Max.
