Have you ever found yourself laughing at a character on TV, only to realize that the person behind the role is quite the opposite of their on-screen persona? This is certainly the case with Margaret McPoyle from the beloved show It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. Known for her quirky traits, such as compulsive lip-licking and an unfortunate unibrow, McPoyle is a character that has made an indelible mark on fans since her introduction in 2006. While many viewers see her as a comedic oddity, the actress who portrays her, Thesy Surface, is anything but ordinary.
Thesy Surface, the talented actress behind the infamous McPoyle, has a fascinating background that contrasts sharply with the character she plays. Originally from Chicago, she relocated to Los Angeles to chase her dreams in acting. Despite the bizarre and often grotesque nature of her role, Thesy brings an undeniable charm and depth to the character that many may not recognize at first glance. It’s time to explore the alluring reality of Thesy Surface, a woman who embodies beauty and talent, even when disguised as a character that many would consider unattractive.
As we dive deeper into Thesy Surface's journey, we will uncover how she landed the role of Margaret McPoyle, the transformative makeup process she undergoes, and surprising insights into her life and career. Get ready to be astonished by the stunning contrast between the character of Margaret McPoyle and the actress who brings her to life!
Biography of Thesy Surface
| Personal Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Thesy Surface |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois |
| Career Start | 2006 |
| Notable Role | Margaret McPoyle on It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia |
| Current Focus | Screenwriting |
Table of Contents
- How She Landed the Gig
- The Unibrow Journey
- Allegations of Stalking
- Fearless of Typecasting
- Directorial Approach
- The Lip Lick Phenomenon
- The Kiss with Glenn Howerton
- Advice for Aspiring Actors
- Her Writing Aspirations
How She Landed the Gig
Thesy Surface's journey to becoming Margaret McPoyle is nothing short of remarkable. Fresh from Chicago and new to Los Angeles, she landed the role that would define her early career. A friend from her university tipped her off about casting for a tiny but memorable part in It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, and she seized the opportunity.
Despite her initial doubt about fitting into the role—after all, she thought she was "too attractive" for such a sleazy character—she was determined to make her mark. Within just two days of auditioning, she found herself on set, transforming into the peculiar McPoyle. This role not only showcased her acting skills but also opened the doors to a unique and unforgettable character that fans would come to love (or at least laugh at).
The Unibrow Journey
Transforming into the character of Margaret McPoyle requires a rigorous and lengthy process. Thesy undergoes an "uglification" transformation that can take up to two hours, ensuring that every detail is perfect, including the character's signature unibrow. In fact, the makeup team has gone so far as to say that the unibrow has gone "HD" in recent seasons, utilizing individual hairs for a more realistic look.
Thesy has noted that the process is not just about looking unattractive; it’s about encapsulating the essence of her character. Each detail, from the pigtails to the greasy skin, is crafted to make Margaret memorable. As she humorously puts it, “I’m like, Margaret McPoyle looks better this season.” This level of commitment to character shows the dedication Thesy brings to her craft.
Allegations of Stalking
Fame can come with its challenges, and for Thesy Surface, this was no exception. She reported experiencing harassment from an online stalker, which prompted her to seek police assistance. The disturbing nature of the messages she received was not just unsettling; it highlighted the darker side of online fame.
This experience serves as a stark reminder of the risks that public figures face in the digital age. Despite the challenges, Thesy has remained resilient and focused on her career, navigating the complexities of fame with grace.
Fearless of Typecasting
When asked about her fears of being typecast, Thesy responded with confidence. She embraces her role as Margaret McPoyle and the buzz it has generated. While the character may not have any lines, she believes that memorable roles can create opportunities in unexpected ways.
Thesy is drawn to unconventional characters, regardless of their appearance or personality traits. She enjoys exploring the extremes of human nature, which not only enriches her acting experience but also challenges societal norms about beauty and character.
Directorial Approach
Thesy’s approach to playing Margaret was largely self-directed. On her first day, she felt minimal guidance from the crew, which allowed her to interpret the character in her own style. The advice she received—“Don’t do too much”—left her feeling empowered to explore the character's quirks organically.
She found that channeling a childlike fascination with the world helped her portray Margaret authentically. This unique perspective made the character relatable, despite her oddities. It’s a testament to Thesy's talent that she could find depth in a character that many might dismiss at first glance.
The Lip Lick Phenomenon
The "Lip Lick," Margaret's signature move, has become iconic in its own right. Thesy recalls the process of perfecting this physical comedy bit, experimenting with different styles until she landed on what she calls "The Lizard Lick." This moment showcases her willingness to dive deep into her character and create memorable moments that resonate with viewers.
Directors, including Fred Savage, were particularly invested in getting this detail just right, emphasizing its importance in defining the character. Thesy reflects on how unexpected elements like the Lip Lick can become defining traits, elevating a character beyond the script.
The Kiss with Glenn Howerton
Thesy recalls a memorable moment from filming when she had to kiss Glenn Howerton's character, Dennis Reynolds. Initially, she felt pity for him, having to kiss "Margaret McPoyle," but later discovered that Howerton had co-written the episode. This revelation added an interesting dynamic to their on-screen chemistry.
Thesy’s interactions with the cast, including Danny DeVito, further enriched her experience. She humorously describes her first day on set, where she was treated to ice cream by DeVito, showcasing the fun and camaraderie behind the scenes. These interactions helped her feel welcomed and solidified her role in the ensemble.
Advice for Aspiring Actors
For those looking to break into acting, Thesy offers sage advice: "You just never know what's going to happen." She encourages aspiring actors to attend every audition and be open to opportunities. This philosophy reflects her own journey to success and emphasizes the importance of persistence.
She acknowledges that many actors find success by simply being in the right place at the right time. Her story serves as an inspiring reminder that determination and a willingness to show up can lead to unexpected and exciting opportunities.
Her Writing Aspirations
As Thesy reflects on her career, it becomes clear that she is shifting her focus towards writing. She aspires to develop
