Paul Scheer Movies and TV Shows Across Three Decades of Comedy

Paul Scheer has carved out a unique space in the entertainment industry as a multi-hyphenate talent whose work defines the modern alternative comedy landscape. From his early days at the Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) to becoming a staple of cable television and a leading voice in film podcasting, Scheer's filmography is a testament to the power of improv-based character work. Known for his high energy, versatility, and the ability to play both the confident buffoon and the neurotic professional, he has appeared in some of the most influential comedies of the 21st century.

The Television Career of Paul Scheer: A Masterclass in Character Comedy

Television has been the primary canvas for Paul Scheer's comedic evolution. While many actors find a single niche, Scheer has successfully navigated sketch comedy, semi-scripted improv series, and high-budget prestige dramedies.

The League: Dr. Andre Nowzick and the Art of the Punchline

From 2009 to 2015, Paul Scheer starred as Dr. Andre Nowzick in the FX/FXX hit series The League. The show, centered around a group of friends in a fantasy football league, became a cultural phenomenon for its raunchy, fast-paced dialogue and semi-improvised format.

Andre, a wealthy but socially inept plastic surgeon, served as the group's perpetual punching bag. Scheer’s performance as Andre was a masterclass in "taking the hit." Whether he was wearing increasingly ridiculous outfits (often referred to as "Andre fashion") or falling victim to the elaborate pranks of his friends, Scheer maintained a level of delusional optimism that made the character both hilarious and oddly sympathetic. Beyond acting, Scheer contributed to the series as a writer, helping shape the "shiv-style" insults that defined the show's linguistic DNA.

Black Monday: Exploring the 1980s with Keith Shankar

In Showtime's Black Monday (2019–2021), Scheer took on a more nuanced role as Keith Shankar. Set in the lead-up to the 1987 stock market crash, the series combined period-accurate satire with intense character drama. Keith, a closeted stockbroker navigating a hyper-masculine and often toxic Wall Street environment, allowed Scheer to show a different side of his range. While the show maintained a high comedic tempo, the vulnerability Scheer brought to Keith’s personal journey added a layer of depth that distinguished the role from his earlier, more broad comedy work.

Human Giant: The MTV Cult Classic

Before his mainstream television success, Scheer co-created and starred in Human Giant (2007–2008) alongside Aziz Ansari and Rob Huebel. Airing on MTV, this sketch series was pivotal in transitioning the alt-comedy energy of New York's UCB theater to a national television audience. The show was known for its cinematic production values and absurdist premises, such as the "Shutterbugs" sketches. Human Giant remains a touchstone for comedy fans, representing a specific era of mid-2000s experimental humor that paved the way for the creator-driven comedy boom.

NTSF:SD:SUV::: A Parody of the Procedural Era

As the creator and star of NTSF:SD:SUV:: (National Terrorism Strike Force: San Diego: Sport Utility Vehicle::), Scheer took aim at the tropes of police procedurals like CSI and 24. Airing on Adult Swim from 2011 to 2013, the 15-minute episodes were packed with rapid-fire jokes, over-the-top action, and a rotating cast of high-profile guest stars. Scheer played Trent Hauser, a gravel-voiced, ultra-serious agent who was oblivious to the absurdity surrounding him. The show demonstrated his ability to lead a production while maintaining a sharp, satirical edge.

Recurring Roles and Memorable Guest Appearances

One of the markers of Paul Scheer’s career is his ubiquity in critically acclaimed sitcoms. He is often the "secret weapon" that showrunners bring in to elevate an episode or a multi-episode arc.

Veep and Political Satire

Scheer joined the cast of HBO’s Veep in its sixth season as Stevie, a high-strung producer for a morning news show. His performance contributed to the show's ensemble cast winning a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series. His ability to fit seamlessly into the fast-talking, insult-heavy world of Selina Meyer’s political circle proved his versatility.

Fresh Off the Boat: Mitch the Restaurant Host

On ABC’s Fresh Off the Boat, Scheer played Mitch, the enthusiastic and somewhat misguided host at Cattleman's Ranch. Appearing in over 25 episodes, Mitch provided a comedic foil to Louis Huang (Randall Park). This role introduced Scheer to a broader network television audience, showcasing his ability to play a more family-friendly, albeit still eccentric, character.

The Good Place, 30 Rock, and Parks and Recreation

Scheer's guest-starring resume reads like a "Best of" list of modern comedy:

• 30 Rock: He played Donny Lawson, the head of the pages at CBS and the rival to Jack McBrayer’s Kenneth Parcell.
• The Good Place: He appeared as Chuck, a member of the Good Place Committee who exemplified the show’s themes of bureaucratic paralysis through overly polite indecisiveness.
• Parks and Recreation: He appeared as Keef Slertner, the leader of a high-end outdoor equipment organization, bringing his signature brand of misplaced confidence to the Pawnee universe.

Paul Scheer Movies: From Indie Gems to Blockbusters

While television is where Scheer often spends his time, his film career includes a wide array of roles that range from supporting characters in Oscar-nominated films to leads in cult horror-comedies.

The Disaster Artist and Modern Cinema

In The Disaster Artist (2017), James Franco’s film about the making of The Room, Scheer played Raphael Smadja, the real-life cinematographer who struggled to manage the chaos of Tommy Wiseau’s set. His performance captured the frustration and disbelief felt by those on the front lines of one of cinema’s most legendary failures.

He also appeared in Long Shot (2019) as a news anchor, alongside Seth Rogen and Charlize Theron, and had a notable role in the 2024 blockbuster Twisters, playing an airport traffic police officer during the film's climactic weather events.

Cult Favorites and Horror Comedy

Scheer has a well-documented love for genre films, which often reflects in his choices.

• Piranha 3D (2010): Scheer played Andrew, a role that embraced the campy, over-the-top horror of the film.
• Archenemy (2020): A grittier, noir-influenced take on the superhero genre, showing Scheer’s willingness to experiment with darker tones.
• Family Switch (2023): A Netflix holiday comedy where he played Steven, demonstrating his continued presence in mainstream family entertainment.

Voice Acting and Animated Excellence

The distinctive timbre and manic energy of Scheer’s voice have made him a sought-after talent in the world of animation.

Star Trek: Lower Decks: Lieutenant Commander Andy Billups

In the critically acclaimed Star Trek: Lower Decks, Scheer voices Andy Billups, the Chief Engineer of the U.S.S. Cerritos. Billups is a fan-favorite character known for his unwavering devotion to the ship’s engines and his hilarious rejection of his royal heritage on his home planet. Scheer’s performance brings a sincere, nerdy passion to the role that perfectly fits the Star Trek ethos while maintaining the show’s comedic pace.

Big City Greens and Disney Animation

Scheer provides the voice for Chip Whistler, the primary antagonist in Disney’s Big City Greens. Playing a corporate villain who is perpetually thwarted by the simple life of the Green family, Scheer utilizes his ability to sound both menacing and pathetic. He has also lent his voice to Big Mouth, Adventure Time, and Krapopolis, solidifying his status as a premiere voice talent.

The Podcasting Powerhouse: Redefining Film Criticism

It is impossible to discuss Paul Scheer’s filmography without mentioning his influence on how audiences consume and discuss movies through podcasting.

How Did This Get Made?

Co-hosted with his wife, June Diane Raphael, and Jason Mantzoukas, How Did This Get Made? is one of the most successful comedy podcasts in history. Each episode features the trio (and guest stars) breaking down a "bad" movie. Scheer acts as the moderator, guiding the chaotic energy of Mantzoukas and the unique perspectives of Raphael. The show has won multiple iHeartRadio and Ambie awards, and its live tours sell out theaters across the country.

Unspooled

In contrast to the mockery of How Did This Get Made?, Scheer co-hosts Unspooled with film critic Amy Nicholson. The show began with a mission to watch every film on the AFI Top 100 list and has since expanded to explore the greatest films of all time. This project highlights Scheer’s genuine expertise and love for the craft of filmmaking, moving beyond simple comedy into insightful analysis.

Creative Direction and Writing: Joyful Recollections of Trauma

In 2024, Paul Scheer released his memoir, Joyful Recollections of Trauma. The book became a New York Times bestseller and received critical acclaim for its honest, humorous, and sometimes heartbreaking look at his upbringing and career. The book adds a new dimension to his "shows and movies" list, providing the "why" behind his drive to create. It explores how his early experiences with improv served as a survival mechanism and eventually a career path.

Furthermore, Scheer’s work as a director—notably on the Marvel 616 documentary series and various high-profile commercial campaigns—shows a creator who is increasingly interested in the visual language of storytelling from behind the camera.

Summary of Major Works

Paul Scheer’s career is characterized by a lack of ego; he is as comfortable playing a background character in a prestige drama as he is leading an absurdist sketch show. His ability to bridge the gap between niche alternative comedy and mainstream success has made him one of the most reliable and beloved figures in modern entertainment. Whether he is dissecting a cult classic on a podcast or getting "shiva-blasted" in a fantasy football league, Scheer continues to innovate across every medium he touches.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Paul Scheer's most famous role?

Paul Scheer is most widely recognized for playing Dr. Andre Nowzick on the FX/FXX comedy series The League. The character became iconic for his terrible fashion sense and for being the comedic foil to the rest of the cast.

Is Paul Scheer still on Star Trek: Lower Decks?

Yes, Paul Scheer voices Lieutenant Commander Andy Billups, the Chief Engineer of the U.S.S. Cerritos. He has been a recurring voice cast member throughout the series' run.

Who is Paul Scheer's wife?

Paul Scheer is married to actress and comedian June Diane Raphael. They frequently collaborate on projects, most notably as co-hosts of the podcast How Did This Get Made? and as co-stars in NTSF:SD:SUV:: and various films.

What book did Paul Scheer write?

Paul Scheer published a memoir in 2024 titled Joyful Recollections of Trauma. The book is a New York Times bestseller and covers his childhood, his start in improv, and his career in Hollywood.

Was Paul Scheer in any Marvel movies?

While he hasn't had a major role in a Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) film, he directed an episode of the documentary series Marvel's 616 and has been a frequent collaborator with Marvel on various digital projects and comic book writing.