“Glee” Star Recalls the ‘Ridiculously Strange Story’ of Landing His Role on the Series with a Broken Neck

Stephen Tobolowsky’s Journey to Landing a Role on ‘Glee’ with a Broken Neck

Acclaimed actor Stephen Tobolowsky’s path to securing a role on the popular TV series ‘Glee’ was anything but straightforward. The journey involved a series of extraordinary events and challenges that ultimately led to Tobolowsky’s audition for the role of Sandy Ryerson, a character known for his unique persona as an ousted teacher-turned-local drug dealer at William McKinley High School.

Tobolowsky, now 73, reflected on the tumultuous months preceding his audition on the ‘And That’s What You REALLY Missed’ podcast, a Glee rewatch podcast hosted by former stars Kevin McHale and Jenna Ushkowitz. The actor shared a “ridiculously strange story” that unfolded prior to his audition, highlighting the challenges he faced in the process.

The series of events began when Tobolowsky and his wife, Ann Hearn, were horseback riding on an active volcano in Iceland. Unexpectedly, they encountered intense winds off the Atlantic Ocean that lifted both Tobolowsky and the horse off the ground, resembling a tornado. This harrowing experience resulted in Tobolowsky sustaining a near-fatal neck injury, an incident that could have ended tragically.

Returning to the United States, Tobolowsky consulted a doctor who delivered a shocking revelation – despite the severity of the injury, Tobolowsky had miraculously escaped paralysis. The actor faced a grueling recovery period of three months, during which he was restricted from engaging in any activities.

Remarkably, it was during this challenging period of recuperation that Tobolowsky received a script for ‘Glee’. Despite still nursing a broken neck, Tobolowsky was captivated by the script’s joyful and vibrant nature, sparking his determination to pursue the role with unwavering resolve.

Dependent on his wife for assistance, Tobolowsky made his way to the studio for the audition, facing a pivotal decision upon arrival. Opting to remove his neck brace and conceal it under the casting couch, Tobolowsky embarked on his audition, determined to leave a lasting impression despite the odds stacked against him.

Following a mix-up that led to Tobolowsky arriving a day early for his audition, the actor seized the opportunity to transparently share his remarkable story with producer Ryan Murphy’s assistant. Despite initial embarrassment, Tobolowsky’s honesty ultimately paved the way for a second chance to audition for the coveted role on ‘Glee’.

During the audition, Tobolowsky’s vulnerability and resilience shone through as he delivered his lines and performed with undeniable passion, despite the physical discomfort he endured. The authenticity of his audition, coupled with the extraordinary circumstances surrounding his broken neck, left a lasting impression on the producers, ultimately securing him the role.

Tobolowsky’s unconventional and inspiring journey serves as a testament to his unwavering dedication to his craft and his willingness to overcome formidable challenges in pursuit of his passion for acting. His portrayal of Sandy Ryerson on ‘Glee’ stands as a testament to his tenacity and talent, showcasing the indomitable spirit of a true performer.

In the world of entertainment, stories like Tobolowsky’s remind us of the resilience and determination required to succeed in an industry marked by fierce competition and unpredictable obstacles. His journey serves as a source of inspiration for aspiring actors and fans alike, demonstrating the transformative power of perseverance and passion in the face of adversity.