Malik Elassal, star of the FX sitcom ‘Adults,’ discussed the challenges and joys of filming the show’s second season. He highlighted a particularly difficult scene in the sixth episode, “Pop Girlie,” and praised the comedic timing of his co-star Julian Manjerico.
The second season of ‘Adults’ premiered last week and has quickly gained traction online, with scenes becoming popular memes. Elassal, 30, described the experience of returning for the second season as “exciting,” adding, “It just feels like we’re doing a good thing.” He plays a friend to Lucy Freyer’s Billie, Owen Thiele’s Anton, Amita Rao’s Issa and Jack Innanen’s Paul Baker, and the boyfriend to Rachel Marsh’s Carly.
Elassal found the sixth episode particularly challenging. In “Pop Girlie,” Carly, prompted by advice from Anton, decides to pursue a career as a K-pop star rather than finish dental school. Elassal explained that playing a character who doesn’t support his girlfriend, even while believing he’s right, was “a tough one to play.” He noted the conflicting nature of the situation was “the best thing for a sitcom,” and admitted, “I didn’t know that I felt that way until I just said that.” The song “Hiccups (Body Go Crazy)” from the episode has become a fan favorite.
Elassal emphasized the cast’s dedication to the show, stating there has “never been a ‘phone it in’ day” on set. He specifically praised Julian Manjerico’s performance as Zac Carlos, saying, “I cannot convey to you how hard every single person was laughing on that day.” He recounted watching Jack Innanen struggle to maintain composure during the scene, with “tears…falling from his eyes from trying not to ruin the take.” He also highlighted the introduction of Paul Baker’s “bro” friends as a memorable moment from the season.
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