Adam Scott Reveals Near Quit: Losing ‘Six Feet Under’ Role to Michael C. Hall

Everything turned out alright in the end, but there was a time when Adam Scott was on the verge of quitting acting after he missed out on a major role — the part Michael C. Hall played in HBO’s acclaimed series Six Feet Under.

In a recent appearance on Amy Poehler’s podcast Good Hang, the two former Parks and Recreation co-stars discussed their past work together and Scott’s path in the acting world. During their conversation, Poehler inquired about any roles Scott had come close to but ultimately didn’t secure.

“It’s better that I didn’t land it because it wouldn’t have been nearly as good with me in it. He was perfect and amazing,” Scott explained, admitting his unpreparedness at the time as Poehler reacted with surprise.

Poehler probed further into how deep Scott went into the audition process, to which he responded, “He and I both tested for it,” prompting Poehler to acknowledge the disappointment: “That stings.”

“That was the moment I thought about giving up. I felt maybe it was time to read the signs and step away,” Scott concurred, describing the ordeal as “painful” because of how popular and pervasive the show had become.

“Absolutely,” Scott agreed, remembering how the series overshadowed all others during its run from 2001 to 2005. “It was the show to watch.”

Nonetheless, Scott did get to appear on the show eventually, playing a guest role in Season 2 as the boyfriend of the young Fisher brother (played by Hall). He remarked that the experience was “fun” and described Hall as “lovely,” but acknowledged, “Still, it was a tough blow. Yet, such experiences are crucial.”

Created by Oscar-winner Alan Ball, the dark comedy revolves around the Fisher family, who run a funeral home in Los Angeles. The show, rich with irony, delves into themes of mortality as seen through the eyes of Nate (Peter Krause), who reluctantly takes over the family business after his father’s death. Hall received an Emmy nomination for his leading role in the drama category in 2002.

Watch the full interview below: