Casey Dunn
She played in Spencer Sherry‘s The Monkey Dollar Baby film as Terry Shelburn.
SKSM: Could you start with telling me a little bit about yourself? Who are you and what do you do?
Casey Dunn: I’m Casey Dunn. I’m a comedic actor, writer, and director currently living in upstate NY. I’m also a real life mama to my son, Maxwell, and very pregnant with my daughter, Maya, who will be arriving at the end of the summer.
SKSM: When did you know you wanted to become an actress?
Casey Dunn: It was something I wanted to do my whole life but I had terrible stage fright. After graduating college with a pre-med degree, I decided to forgo medical school and follow my true passion, comedy. I started taking groundlings-based improv classes at Improvolution in NYC and that’s how I conquered my fear. The rest is history.
SKSM: How did you become involved in The Monkey Dollar Baby film?
Casey Dunn: My family and I decided to leave LA and move to upstate NY back in 2021. My real estate agent knew I was an actress and continued to send me notifications about any local film productions. He sent me the casting for The Monkey, so I reached out to Spencer and sent in my audition.
SKSM: What do you think it is about the story that attracts people so much?
Casey Dunn: There’s nothing like a deranged killer Monkey to lure a crowd! And Stephen King is obviously legendary and brilliant. He really knows how to tap into subconscious fears. There’s nothing more terrifying than an innocence gone awry. The idea of giving your child a toy that ends up being a killing machine… it’s pretty safe to say that’s up there with every parent’s worst nightmare. Spencer did a great job of showcasing the Monkey’s creepiness and bringing the story to life in a way that’s relatable.
SKSM: Did you have to audition for the part or was it written directly for you?
Casey Dunn: I actually auditioned for another role, but throughout the casting process Spencer and I became friends and he couldn’t help but pick up on my mom-vibe. He thought I was a great fit for Terry, so he asked if I’d be willing to play her and I happily accepted.
SKSM: You worked with Spencer Sherry on this film, how was that?
Casey Dunn: FUN! Spencer is extremely easy to work with as was the entire crew. Thankfully he’s decisive and had a solid vision for each shot, so in between all the laughing and joking around, we were somehow able to get what we needed done.
SKSM: Was there any funny or special moment when they made the movie that you would like to tell me about?
Casey Dunn: Really the entire shoot. Seriously, it was a blast! Seeing all of Spencer and the crew’s hard work come together at the premier was definitely a special moment.
SKSM: Do you still have any contact with the crew/cast from that time? If so with who?
Casey Dunn: Yeah, with pretty much everyone I shot with and most of the cast in general. Spencer really put together an amazing group of people and we all bonded.
SKSM: What are you working on nowadays?
Casey Dunn: I have several pilots that I’m currently writing. My most recent pilot, Match Masters, just made the Screencraft Comedy Competition quarter-finalist round, so I’m hoping it will advance to the next round. Fingers crossed!
SKSM: Are you a fan of Stephen King’s work?
Casey Dunn: 1000%. I grew up watching and reading a TON of Stephen King, at probably way too young of an age.
SKSM: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
Casey Dunn: I have an incredibly sick sense of humor. I think people are always surprised by that once they get to know me because everything about my appearance screams soccer mom.
SKSM: Thanks for taking the time to answer my questions. Is there anything you want to say to the fans that read this interview?
Casey Dunn: Thank you immensely for your interest in the film and for your appreciation of Spencer and the cast/crew’s work. We’re extremely grateful for your support!
SKSM: Do you like to add anything else?
Casey Dunn: I think that covers it. Thank you again for your interest in the film!
