30 Rock’s Local Connection

We’re big fan of Tina Fey’s 30 Rock that airs Thursday nights on NBC. It’s one of the few sitcom-type shows I can stomach watching. I like how Fey doesn’t have a laugh track, writes edgy humor (the runt episode) and let’s Tracy Morgan be himself. Did you know 30 Rock has a local connection to Evansville?

Jack McBrayer, who plays NBC Page Kenneth on the show, is actually a graduate of the University of Evansville’s theater department. McBrayer also had a feature part in Will Ferrell’s Talladega Nights, so next time you see him on screen, remember where he learned his craft. In an interview with Backstage.com, McBrayer says he attended UE to study theatre management, but ended up hating it. After graduating from UE, McBrayer moved to Chicago where he joined up with the world famous Second City. His success with Second City landed him the role of Kenneth in the 30 Rock pilot.

Since the show has been renewed for a second season, you’ll be seeing more of McBrayer on TV in the future. McBrayer isn’t the only local actor finding success on the small screen. Michael Rosenbaum, who plays Lex Luther on the CW’s Smallville, is a graduate from Castle High school.