A Quickie with Actor Todd Stashwick

This versatile actor has played everything from Dracula to a surfer. But did you know this about father of two, Todd Stashwick?

As a young boy, which cartoon or live kids’ TV character did you have a crush on?

First TV personalities I remember crushing on were Kristy McNichol and Leather Tuscadero. I guess I went for the tomboys.

Which Muppet character do you relate to most and why?

Gonzo. He’s the funniest. Kind of masochistic and absurd. He had chickens and a bowtie.

As a comic junkie, which children’s animated show do you find most horrible and which is your guilty pleasure?

Don’t like SpongeBob. Love Adventure Time and The Misadventures of Flapjack.

I’m assuming you like classic TV. So, would you rather have been cast on Cheers, M*A*S*H or Hill Street Blues, and why.

M*A*S*H. Low key, funny as heck with lots to chew on.

When did you first find yourself “in the weeds” as a parent and how did you recover?

Years ago when my son was an infant, he rolled off the bed. I picked him up. He coughed blood on my shirt. I thought I broke him. I wigged and ran, shoeless, to the ER up the block. He’d only cut his gums, which bleed a lot, and then cleared his throat. I recovered by realizing everything is not an emergency.

How has being a well trained improviser helped you as a parent?

We bob, we weave, we say yes, and chase it and try to keep a straight face.

Fill in the blank:

If my kids see the video of the time I had to ___________ they will never stop making fun of me.

Play one of 100 Elvises in a local commercial.

I want to be my wife for one day just so I could ___________________.

Be as naturally athletic.

If you could outsource any aspect of parenting (aspects of pregnancy and childbirth included), what would it be?

Waking up at 7am. Daddy likes to sleep.

What would be your dream role?

George Tilyou, the creator of Steeplechase Park, Coney Island, circa 1897.