I'm Still HAVING FUN

The veteran actor talks about his life, latest film, Thelma, and TV series Son of a Critch

- Susan Hornik

Whether he’s playing a villain or a hero, you can bet that scene stealing British actor Malcolm McDowell is having a good time. His more than 275 film, stage and screen credits include the iconic A Clockwork Orange, H.G. Wells in the adventure romance Time After Time, and the man who finally bested James T. Kirk in Star Trek: Generations. Malcolm recently co-starred in the comedy Thelma and plays Pop on the CW’s family comedy Son of a Critch — which is scheduled to return for a fourth season in 2025. “I love the work. I will do it as long as I am having fun,” Malcolm, 81, tells Closer. “When the fun goes out of it, then I won’t be doing it. But right at the moment, I am in good shape! I just love it!”

Tell us a little bit about your most recent film, Thelma.

It’s a very charming story that uniquely stars a 95-year-old actress [June Squibb]. How many times do you see that? It’s her first leading role. She’s a lovely lady and a rocksolid professional. I am so very proud of the fact that I am in it. It’s a brilliant movie.

You’ve been starring on the CW’s Son of a Critch. What drew you to it?

When I read the scripts, I just knew that it was something really special. I’d been playing too many serial killers and, you know, I’m really just a comedian at heart. I love doing a more family kind of show. And I just absolutely loved the writing.

You play the main character’s grandfather.