Exclusive Interview: Gary Anthony Williams Talks Improv, Guest Stars, and a Possible Rap Battle in ‘Night Court’

With over 200 credits to his name, Gary Anthony Williams is nothing short of a legend in the industry. A multifaceted storyteller, he has made his mark not only as an actor and comedian but also as a writer, producer, and director. His versatility has cemented him as a powerhouse across film, television, and animation. From his unforgettable turn as Uncle Ruckus in The Boondocks to his scene-stealing performances in Malcolm in the Middle, Boston Legal, Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows, Gary has continuously proven that no role is beyond his reach. His impeccable comedic timing and unmatched improvisational skills have solidified his place as one of the most dynamic and sought-after performers working today.

Now, Williams brings his signature comedic energy to the hit revival of Night Court, stepping into the role of the eccentric and ever-unpredictable Judge Flobert. The series follows Abby Stone (Melissa Rauch), an eternally optimistic judge who follows in the footsteps of her late father, Judge Harry Stone, as she takes on the challenge of overseeing the night shift of a Manhattan arraignment court. Determined to restore order while embracing the quirks of her courtroom’s lively cast of characters, Abby enlists former night court district attorney Dan Fielding (John Larroquette) as the court’s public defender. Alongside a new team—including Julianne Walters (Wendie Malick), a reformed convict-turned-prosecutor; Donna “Gurgs” Gurganous (Lacretta), the fiercely protective and sharp-witted bailiff; and Wyatt Shaw (Nyambi Nyambi), the devoted single dad balancing law school and his role as court clerk—Abby navigates the unpredictable world of night court.

Pop Culturalist was lucky enough to speak with Gary about his journey with Night Court, the joy of playing a character with no rules, and why he’s hoping Flobert’s hinted-at rap skills get their moment in the spotlight.

PC: You’re a multifaceted storyteller who has done it all throughout your career. When a project like Night Court comes across your desk, what is the first thing that catches your eye about Flobert and this project?
Gary: First of all, I was such a huge fan of the original Night Court. My brother Jeff and I would watch it nonstop. I became a crazy fan of Harry Anderson, who played Judge Harry Stone. They originally offered me a one-time role as Judge Flobert, but then they kept bringing the character back. It felt like I was stepping onto the set of the show I grew up watching because they kept everything the same.

And then we have John Larroquette. I actually worked with him on Boston Legal many years ago. Once we got to the first table read, the scripts were so much fun. I thought, “I’ve got to do this a lot more.” I didn’t want it to just be a one-time thing like it was originally planned to be. Fortunately, they created a role for me. It’s been the most fun because my character doesn’t have any rules—I can do anything on that show. One episode, I’m selling real estate; the next, I’m a lawyer, a judge, or a clerk. There are no rules. It’s just stupid fun for me.

PC: That’s the perfect segue to this next question. On Night Court, you never know what to expect from the cases or storylines. You’re one of the greatest improvisers in this industry. How much of what we see in the final cut is scripted versus improvised? How helpful has your background in improv been when it comes to the unpredictability of this character and show?
Gary: Being an improv actor is always a strength, no matter what show you’re on, because it keeps your mind loose—you’re ready for anything. We do a bit of improvising on this show, especially during rehearsals. That’s when we might throw something in. Sometimes it sticks, sometimes it doesn’t.

The writers on this show are great. The more they get to know the actors, the more they write things that we probably would have improvised in the first place. [laughs] But I always have the comfort of knowing I can throw in a joke. If we do three or four takes, I’ll toss one in just for the heck of it. They might keep it, they might not, but it’s all about having fun and making the audience laugh.

That said, I haven’t had to rely on improv too much on this show because the writers have really honed in on all the facets of Flobert. I’m always surprised by what he’s done and what he’s capable of.

PC: One of the benefits of this medium is the opportunity to grow with a character over an extended period of time. What’s been the biggest discovery you’ve made about him this season?
Gary: It’s actually a one-liner this season—he tells Dan, “You speak like a man who’s never been involved in a rap battle.” And I was like, “Wait a minute, is Flobert some sort of street rapper too?” I’m definitely interested to see if they go anywhere with that.

So often, they’ll mention something, and then it’ll show up in episodes later. I’m hoping they explore that. We did get to do a musical episode this year, and Lacretta is an amazing Broadway singer. Trying to keep up with her was ridiculous. But I would love to explore a rap battle.

PC: You’re also a great singer! There have been so many fantastic guest stars who have come and gone. Who is someone you’ve worked with in the past that you’d love to see make an appearance on Night Court and why?
Gary: Since John and I were both on Boston Legal together, it would be great to get the other lawyers on the show. It would be so much fun to have William Shatner or James Spader make an appearance. That would be ridiculously fun for me.

PC: We know you can’t say too much, but what can you tease about what audiences can expect from Flobert in the back half of Season 3? And if we’re lucky enough to get a Season 4, is there an aspect of him that you’re most excited to explore?
Gary: Flobert is going to continue being himself—that does not slow down at all. In almost every episode, we learn something new about his life, some facet we haven’t heard before.

As for what I’d love to explore if we get a fourth season—and I’m crossing my fingers because this show is an absolute joy—he’s mentioned his wife before. I’d love to meet his family and his wife. I can’t even imagine who he’s married to, but that would be fun.

To keep up with Gary, follow him on X and Instagram. Catch new episodes of Night Court every Tuesday at 8:30/7:30c on NBC and on Peacock the next day!

Photo Credit: Greg Crowder

About the Pop Culturalist Contributor, Ivan
Ivan Leung is a Los Angeles-based writer, actor, and journalist with an affinity for comedy and offbeat storytelling. Whether crafting sharp narratives or uncovering unique perspectives, he thrives in the space where humor meets insight.