Jack McBrayer, recognized for his role as Kenneth Parcell on “30 Rock,” is back for the second season of “Zillow Gone Wild,” a reality show that’s gained popularity.
He noted that this season takes viewers through more expensive properties which come with greater risks. “In Season 2, HGTV can show homes where things can swing wildly,” he explained.
The show premiered on July 18th at 9:30 pm and is available for streaming on HGTV and MAX, inspired by the popular Instagram account @zillowgonewild.
Throughout each episode, McBrayer tours unique homes on the market, including a Pennsylvania house shaped like a giant shoe and off-grid properties in New Mexico constructed from old tires and bottles.
McBrayer shared that his reactions on camera are genuine since he’s not briefed about the homes beforehand. “That’s a surprise. Our director insisted on not looking outside during the drive, which made me feel a bit silly,” he said, but he enjoys the unpredictability. “With no prep, it’s pretty cool. I just think, ‘Why argue?'”
His cheerful demeanor on camera reflects the character he played in “30 Rock,” which aired from 2006 to 2013 alongside Tina Fey, Alec Baldwin, and Tracy Morgan. “Yes, that’s just me being myself,” he said about his optimism and trademark smile.
McBrayer feels fortunate to have landed the role back then, jesting that it’s his main calling. “I can’t picture myself in a serious drama,” he quipped.
Despite drama not being his forte, he did guest star on an episode of “Grey’s Anatomy” in October 2024, describing it as a fun experience. “Honestly, I never thought I’d be asked to appear on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ after all these years,” he remarked.
He often has fans approach him, quoting lines from “30 Rock.” “That was really my first big TV gig,” McBrayer recalled.
With a background in improvisation, he felt the pressure of the show’s fast-paced humor. “’30 Rock’ had its jokes packed so tightly; I had to deliver lines quickly,” he said, and even after nearly two decades, he still keeps in touch with his former castmates.
When asked which of his old colleagues would fit well on “Zillow Gone Wild,” he instantly thought of Tracy Morgan. “He would be great on the show,” McBrayer laughed, recalling a time when Morgan had to deal with a leaking shark tank.
On set for “Zillow Gone Wild,” McBrayer’s upbeat attitude has posed a challenge for the crew. “At one point, the editor asked me to find new ways to be surprised,” he said, adding humorously that one homeowner even suggested playing drinking games based on what they said from Season 1. “We ended up quite buzzed!”
