Exclusive Interview: Semi Anthony Discusses The Butchers, Modern Family and More

There are many sides to actor and producer Semi Anthony – just this month alone he’s played it for laughs on TV hit Modern Family, and now he’s embodying a contemporary serial killer in the horror release The Butchers. We spoke to the versatile thesp and movie-maker about his latest gigs.


BGG After Dark: Semi, have you found your role on Modern Family has opened more doors for you?

Semi Anthony: Yes it has. I feel honored and thankful for the opportunities that have continued to come my way. 

BGG After Dark: And how was the experience of working on the show? Did you get along well with the cast?

Semi Anthony: I know this might sound cheesy but it was breathtaking. The cast and crew were so nice and very professional. Ty Burrell and Julie Bowen welcomed me right away which made the experience even more enjoyable. 

BGG After Dark: Why do you think Modern Family has been as popular as it has been?

Semi Anthony: I think the writers know how to keep the audience laughing. In my audition, writer Elaine Ko and casting director Jeff Greenberg and I had such a great time running lines with me. It's clear these folks love what they do and that's the best part of it. And who doesn't love Sophia Vergara!

BGG After Dark: You’ve done quite a bit of television. How does working on a TV show differ from working on a movie? Do you prefer one over the other?

Semi Anthony: With the movies you spend more time shooting vs. TV where an episode can be shot in just a couple of days. I feel blessed to have either opportunity and as the expression says beggars can't be choosers. 

BGG After Dark: Who do you play in your new film, The Butchers?

Semi Anthony: I play JB a modern-day serial killer who has acquired the book of the dead to resurrect six of the most notorious serial killers of all time to have a one night battle royale to see who is the best of the best.

BGG After Dark: As an executive producer, what did you bring to the table and how much say did you get at it?

Semi Anthony: As an EP I helped raise funds and resources for the Production. And I also had creative input on the character JB. Our team is made up of creative people with one goal in mind to make the best project. There are no egos involved with this team. Everyone had a voice.

BGG After Dark: Is The Butchers envisioned as a franchise or just a one-off?

 Semi Anthony: The Butchers was created to be a franchise. The Butchers 2 will be filming in July 2015.