‘Jury Duty’ star Alan Barinholtz: From the courtroom to the Emmys

July 27, 2023 Rob Abruzzese

Alan Barinholtz, a veteran attorney and the unexpected star of the Emmy-nominated comedy series 'Jury Duty,' shares his unique journey from the courtroom to the spotlight. Photo courtesy of Freevee

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In the latest episode of the New York State Bar Association’s podcast, “Miranda Warnings,” the star of the Emmy-nominated comedy series “Jury Duty,” Alan Barinholtz, provides a fascinating glimpse into his unusual career path.

Barinholtz, a seasoned attorney of 40 years practicing law in Ohio and Illinois, has found a second career in the acting industry. He plays the character of Judge Alan Rosen in the eight-part series that provides a humorous take on the experience of being sequestered on a jury during a civil liability case. The twist? All cast members are actors, save for one individual who believes the trial and subsequent documentary to be entirely real.

Barinholtz’s return to the spotlight comes after a brief stint in his early years trying to break into the acting and standup comedy scene. Now, at 72, the personal injury litigation attorney seems to be relishing his newfound stardom, a development that’s come as much as a surprise to him as to anyone else.

“In my wildest dreams, I never imagined that it would take off the way it has taken off,” Barinholtz said of the four recent Emmy nominations earlier this month. “For the life of me, I don’t think anyone thought it would catch fire like it did.”

Barinholtz’s entry into “Jury Duty” came about during a visit to his accomplished actor and writer sons, Ike and Jon Barinholtz, in Los Angeles in late 2021. Encouraged by his sons to audition, Barinholtz landed the role a month after submitting a video audition.

In his chat with David Miranda, host of “Miranda Warnings,” Barinholtz offers a behind-the-scenes look at the production process, detailing the blend of script and improv work, long hours of rehearsals, and the challenge of maintaining character during some of the series’ more outlandish moments.

“When Todd, the eccentric inventor, comes in with the chair pants, I started chuckling and did all I could to keep from cracking up,” he recalled.

In the podcast, listeners can gain further insight into the inner workings of “Jury Duty,” as well as Barinholtz’s thoughts on the current SAG-AFTRA strike.