Known for its large, eclectic ensemble, CBS’ Ghosts has become a breakout hit on broadcast television. A remake of the 2019 BBC version, Ghosts follows the living couple Samantha and Jay, and a variety of ghosts that encapsulate American history — ranging from a Boy Scout leader to a Revolutionary War veteran. On April 6, in a panel moderated by Natalie Morales at PaleyFest 2022, the cast of Ghosts and co-showrunner Joe Port discussed the show’s success, dream guest stars and more.
When asked about how his life has changed after Ghosts’ success, Richie Moriarty, who plays Pete, told a heartwarming story about how a little girl who showed up at his door on Halloween dressed as his character when the show was only a few weeks into airing. “I went to the door and this little girl is dressed as Pete, and her jaw is dropped. Her mom is there, and her jaw is dropped. And my jaw is dropped!” he said.
The cast also went on to discuss their relationships with each other before working together on Ghosts. Danielle Pinnock (Alberta) shared that she met Rebecca Wisocky (Hetty) when they both worked a show at the Geffen Playhouse in Los Angeles. Román Zaragoza (Sasappis) noted that his dad, actor Gregory Zaragoza, had also worked with both Rebecca and Sheila Carrasco (Flower). Carrasco stated, “I remember [Gregory] telling me how proud he was of his kid,” earning many “aw’s” from the audience.
Zaragoza also praised the show for its diversity, both in front of and behind the camera. Joe Port agreed, particularly recognizing the writers’ room for bringing diverse ideas and opinions to help flesh out the show’s large ensemble of characters. “The show is about so much history that we have interest in but we’re not experts in…and there [are] so many great writers that have distinct points of view.”
The show frequently brings in special guests, including Enrico Colantoni and Matt Walsh. Morales pointed out that Mark Hamill is one of Ghosts’ biggest fans, having written on Twitter that the show is “smart, witty, whimsical…with a BRILLIANT cast that is beyond perfection.” Pinnock added that Hamill had even “sent everyone individual personalized messages,” and Devan Chandler Long joked that “Mark’s got great taste.” When Morales inquired about future potential guests, Port agreed that he would love a Hamill appearance, to approving cheers from the crowd.
The Ghosts panel at PaleyFest allowed the audience to gain a deeper insight into the up-and-coming show, as well as a newfound appreciation for the hard work of all involved. Ghosts’ season finale will air on April 21 on CBS and Paramount+.