Imagine staring death in the face, literally bargaining with the devil for your soul, and walking away completely unchanged. That’s Jay from Ghosts for you. But here’s where it gets controversial: Utkarsh Ambudkar, the actor behind Jay, reveals that even after nearly losing everything, Jay isn’t about to reevaluate his life. “Sorry to disappoint you,” Ambudkar quips, “Jay’s not one for learning from his mistakes.” Is this stubbornness, or is it the secret sauce that makes Jay so hilariously relatable? Let’s dive in.
Spoiler alert for the Season 5 premiere of *Ghosts: If you’re hoping Jay’s brush with mortality would spark some personal growth, think again. In a candid interview with *Decider, Ambudkar explains that Jay’s near-death experience, involving the devilish Elias Woodstone (Matt Walsh), hasn’t exactly turned him into a philosopher. Carol’s selfless sacrifice to save Jay? Apparently, not enough to shake him out of his complacency. “That’s not how good comedy is made,” Ambudkar notes, hinting that Jay’s resistance to change is what keeps the laughs coming.
But here’s the twist: Ambudkar argues that Jay’s reluctance to reflect on the past is what makes his relationship with Sam (Rose McIver) so endearing. “They’re just scrambling to get to the next day, like most of us are,” he says. “That’s what makes them special and so lovable.” And this is the part most people miss—their chaotic, unapologetic approach to life might just be the key to their charm.
Speaking of new beginnings, Ambudkar is stepping behind the camera for his directorial debut in Season 5. Inspired by McIver’s success in the director’s chair, he’s determined to create a collaborative, joyful, and efficient set. “I trust my cast mates 100 percent,” he says, emphasizing his goal to foster creativity without pressure. But here’s the question: Can he balance his vision with the show’s signature humor? Only time will tell.
Now, let’s talk about Jay’s antics. In Season 5, he’s prepping for the afterlife in the most Jay way possible—stockpiling cookies and setting up a lounge chair in the ghost trap. “It’s fun to be at the center of the hurricane,” Ambudkar admits, relishing Jay’s manic fear. But if you were in Jay’s shoes, how would you prepare? Would you follow his lead, or take a more sentimental approach?
Controversial take alert: When asked if Jay would sacrifice himself for someone else, Ambudkar hesitates. “Maybe. I’ll give it a soft maybe with a probable no.” Is Jay selfish, or just pragmatic? The debate is sure to spark opinions in the comments.
As for what’s next, Ambudkar teases exciting developments, including a possible possession involving a mummy and new ghosts from different eras. And the Christmas episode? Let’s just say iconic holiday movie themes might collide with the Ghosts universe. “Christmas is going to be really special,” he promises, leaving us eager for more.
Ghosts Season 5 is now streaming on Paramount+, with plans starting at $7.99/month. But here’s the real question: Do you love Jay for his flaws, or despite them? Let us know in the comments—this is one debate that’s bound to haunt us.
