Jon Bernthal and Ebon Moss-Bachrach Shine in Broadway's Dog Day Afternoon

Jon Bernthal and Ebon Moss-Bachrach are making their Broadway debuts in *Dog Day Afternoon*, a play adapted from the 1975 film starring Al Pacino. The production, which officially opened at the August Wilson Theatre, dramatizes a real-life bank robbery that took place in Brooklyn in 1972. Bernthal portrays Sonny Amato, the ringleader of the heist, while Moss-Bachrach plays his accomplice, Sal De Silva. The play is noted for its energetic performances, heavily reliant on audience interaction, which Moss-Bachrach describes as essential to its visceral nature.

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Interestingly, Bernthal once served as Moss-Bachrach's understudy in an off-Broadway production, a fact that Moss-Bachrach admits he does not remember. Bernthal humorously recounted, “He didn't give me the time of day!” Moss-Bachrach acknowledged his lack of memory regarding Bernthal's role, stating he has “zero memory” of their past interactions. However, their relationship has evolved significantly, with Moss-Bachrach recommending Bernthal for his role in *The Bear*, further solidifying their friendship.

People MagazineDog Day Afternoon Opens on Broadway as Cast Talks Audience Energy and New York Grit

Both actors emphasize the unique chemistry they share on stage, which enhances their performances. Bernthal noted that every show is special due to the unpredictable nature of their interactions, saying, “Each show is sacred. Each moment is sacred.” Moss-Bachrach echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of audience energy in bringing the play to life. He remarked, “You never really know what you have until there's an audience,” underscoring the collaborative nature of theater.

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Bernthal expressed his deep belief in the significance of theater, stating, “I believe in the theater. I believe in it with every bone in my body.” He reflected on the importance of this moment for his family, particularly for his children witnessing his Broadway debut. Jessica Hecht, who plays the bank's head teller, Colleen, described *Dog Day Afternoon* as a reflection of the emotional experiences unique to New York City, emphasizing its relevance to the audience.

Dog Day Afternoon Opens on Broadway as Cast Talks Audience Energy and New York Grit

*Dog Day Afternoon* is scheduled for a limited engagement, running for 16 weeks until July 12. As the production continues, both Bernthal and Moss-Bachrach are committed to delivering performances that resonate with audiences, drawing from their personal experiences and evolving friendship.

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• “He didn't give me the time of day!” — Jon Bernthal, Actor

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• “You never really know what you have until there's an audience.” — Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Actor

Dog Day Afternoon Opens on Broadway as Cast Talks Audience Energy and New York Grit

• “Each show is sacred. Each moment is sacred. And with Ebon, you just never know what you're going to get, and I love that.” — Jon Bernthal, Actor

People Magazine

• “I believe in the theater. I believe in it with every bone in my body,” — Jon Bernthal, Actor

Dog Day Afternoon Opens on Broadway as Cast Talks Audience Energy and New York Grit

• “It is a total love story to how people protect you and will make it okay.” — Jessica Hecht, Actor

Dog Day Afternoon Opens on Broadway as Cast Talks Audience Energy and New York Grit