The Actor's Instrument with Hassiem Muhammad

How to Book 20 Co-Stars with Criminal Mind's McKenna Kerrigan

Hassiem Season 3 Episode 25

Less than 1% of aspiring actors will ever land a speaking role on television—and today’s guest is in that elite club 20 times over. Actress and educator McKenna Kerrigan joins host Hassiem Muhammad to share her hard-won insights into building a sustainable, fulfilling TV career—without losing the joy.

From the challenges of crafting compelling self-tapes to embracing the “short film” mindset, McKenna breaks down her audition prep process step by step. She opens up about her time in New York, LA, and now Philly, and explains why staying grounded, finding community, and keeping the work fun is just as important as booking the job.

This conversation is a must-listen for any actor navigating the early stages of a TV career—or anyone wondering how to stay creative in a career full of uncertainty.

🎧 Plus: prop acting, late-night taping, the “glasses moment,” and why co-star roles deserve way more respect.