Former ‘Jaws’ Child Star Jay Mello Embraces Off-Grid Living in Vermont
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Jay Mello, the former child star known for his role as young Sean Brody in the iconic 1975 film ‘Jaws’, now leads a quiet life embracing off-grid living in the serene surroundings of Vermont. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Mello shared insights into his unique journey since his memorable role in the blockbuster hit directed by Steven Spielberg.
At the mere age of 6, Mello found himself unexpectedly catapulted into the world of Hollywood when his mother took him along with his brothers to an audition for a movie about a shark. Despite not being the initial focus of the audition, Mello’s habit of mimicking people caught Spielberg’s attention, leading to his casting as Sean Brody, the youngest son of Chief Martin Brody portrayed by Roy Scheider.
Reflecting on his time filming on location in Martha’s Vineyard in 1974, Mello vividly recalls encounters with the animatronic sharks that became a pivotal element of the film. His character, Sean, resonated with audiences for embodying the tender connection between father and son, a dynamic that was even improvised during filming and left a lasting impact on viewers.
The young actor fondly reminisces about the camaraderie on set, highlighting how veteran actors like Scheider, Richard Dreyfuss, and Robert Shaw embraced him and made him feel like part of a big family. Little did Mello know that ‘Jaws’ would become a monumental success, solidifying its place in cinematic history and propelling Spielberg to stardom.
While the film’s terrifying portrayal of a man-eating shark left a lasting impression on Mello, he cherishes the experience and even continues to watch the movie annually with his children and grandchildren. Despite the initial anticipation of reprising his role in subsequent ‘Jaws’ sequels, Mello eventually stepped away from the entertainment industry, finding solace in a simpler life working at a maple syrup company in Vermont.
In the years following his breakout role, Mello has maintained connections with co-stars such as Scheider and Jeffrey Voorhees, while also expressing a desire to reconnect with Dreyfuss and Spielberg. As ‘Jaws’ celebrates its 50th anniversary, Mello remains a proud part of its enduring legacy, sharing his anecdotes with a new generation of fans who continue to be captivated by the timeless thriller.
From navigating the unpredictable waters of Hollywood as a child star to embracing a tranquil existence off the grid in Vermont, Jay Mello’s journey exemplifies a unique blend of nostalgia, resilience, and a deep-rooted connection to a cinematic masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.