Max Greenfield Says It’s ‘Really Scary’ How Easily All of His “New Girl” Costars Slip ‘Right Back’ into Old Dynamics (Exclusive)

Max Greenfield, well-known for his role as Schmidt in the hit series *New Girl*, has revealed that he remains closely connected with his former co-stars long after the show concluded over a decade ago. Speaking to PEOPLE, Greenfield shared insights into the lasting friendships forged during the sitcom’s seven seasons, highlighting how these bonds allow them to easily slip back into their character dynamics when reunited.

Greenfield, now 46, described the instant chemistry that returns when he and his fellow cast members come together. “If you put us together in any circumstance, we go right back,” he noted, adding that the experience is both comforting and somewhat eerie. The camaraderie extends beyond casual meet-ups; he’s been in regular contact with key members of the cast, including Jake Johnson and Zooey Deschanel. “We all keep in touch in a really beautiful way,” Greenfield said, revealing that he had been texting Johnson just that morning.

While the friendships thrive among the cast, Greenfield humorously noted the contrast between the reception of Schmidt by his children and the show’s broader audience. His kids, who have caught glimpses of *New Girl*, do not share the same enthusiasm for Schmidt’s antics. “I don’t think they think it’s as funny as America, because they live with it,” Greenfield remarked, describing their playful exasperation with their father’s character. “They’re like, ‘Ugh, I know.’”

The actor also shared a humorous anecdote about his tendency to embody Schmidt’s meticulous nature in real life, even during mundane activities like flying. Reflecting on a recent flight with Johnson, he recalled the moment he instinctively began to manage their meal arrangements, leading to Johnson’s light-hearted reminder that their roles were in the past.

Recently, Greenfield had a chance to revisit Schmidt’s iconic quirks while participating in a campaign, which reminded him of the close ties between his own personality and the character he portrayed. This experience reignited his appreciation for both Schmidt and the series that propelled his career. “It’s so connected to the character and who that character was,” he reflected.

Greenfield shared that, if given the opportunity, he would be keen to revive the character of Schmidt, provided that the original creative team was involved. Rather than envisioning Schmidt’s future on his own, he expressed a desire to collaborate with the writers who originally shaped the character. “For sure, it would always be fun to jump back in,” he noted, expressing anticipation for what the writers might envision for Schmidt’s next chapter.

As for Greenfield’s favourite episode of *New Girl*, he has no doubt: it is season one’s “Control.” This episode, which delved into Schmidt’s struggles with control and order, resonated deeply with him, both during filming and in his personal life. “It really, truly was my favourite episode — the one we submitted for the Emmys,” he explained, highlighting its exploration of the importance of small certainties in daily life.

Now, Greenfield maintains that the themes of control and organisation continue to be relevant. “As long as I know the leftovers are stored safely and stacked neatly, then I can go to sleep at night and I’m okay,” he admitted with a chuckle.

In fact, his interest in organisation has recently led him to team up with Rubbermaid for their “Neat Freaks” campaign, promoting the brand’s EasyStore containers, now available on Amazon. Through this partnership, Greenfield hopes to encourage others to embrace the idea of orderliness in their lives, drawing on his own experiences as a parent and actor.

As fans continue to celebrate the legacy of *New Girl*, the enduring connection between Greenfield and his co-stars reminds us that the impact of their work extends far beyond the screen, highlighting the lasting friendships forged in the world of television.