In the fast-paced world of Hollywood, the journey from obscurity to the red carpet is often paved with years of struggle, endless auditions, and the occasional stroke of pure luck. For 28-year-old Los Angeles native Cameron Scott Roberts, that journey took a detour through the dining room of a trendy West Village eatery. While most actors dream of their big break, Roberts is currently living a double life: by night, he is a breakout star in the latest installment of the iconic Scary Movie franchise, and by day, he is a server at Cecchi’s in New York City, balancing trays of steaks and cocktails with the same precision he brings to his comedic timing.
The Reality of the Hollywood Hustle
The contrast between Roberts’ two worlds is nothing short of cinematic. Just this past Sunday, he was navigating the bustling floor of Cecchi’s on West 13th Street, dressed in his signature orange uniform and fielding questions about kitchen wait times. By Tuesday, he was thousands of miles away in California, walking the red carpet alongside comedy legends like Anna Faris, Regina Hall, Cheri Oteri, and the Wayans brothers. Despite the whirlwind of flashbulbs and premieres, Roberts remains remarkably grounded, viewing his service job not as a burden, but as an essential part of his artistic process.
“I’m a huge believer that actors should be waiters,” Roberts shared during a shift. “It’s good for us. It keeps us grounded. And it’s a great way to stay on our feet while we’re auditioning.” For Roberts, the restaurant floor is a masterclass in human behavior, providing him with a constant stream of characters and interactions that inform his craft. He insists that returning to the restaurant to serve pork chops and cocktails after a high-profile premiere is exactly the kind of reality check he needs to keep his ego in check.
Landing the Role of a Lifetime
The story of how Roberts landed his role in the Paramount parody flick is the stuff of industry legend. It began in January 2025 during a “family meal” at the restaurant, a time when staff members gather to eat before the dinner rush. While scrolling through his emails, Roberts came across a casting call that seemed tailor-made for him. The character description was specific: “handsome in a serial killer kind of way.”
His coworkers, who have become his biggest cheerleaders, didn’t hesitate. After he read the description aloud, the entire room erupted in agreement. “They all went, ‘Oh, you’re gonna get it,’” Roberts recalled. Their intuition proved to be spot on. Within two weeks of the initial audition, Roberts was on a plane to Atlanta, where he spent two and a half months filming the movie. In the film, he portrays the boyfriend of the female lead, Sara (played by Olivia Rose Keegan), and the duo finds themselves caught in the middle of the franchise’s signature brand of chaotic, horror-spoofing mayhem.
Why the Service Industry Remains a Training Ground
Roberts is part of a long tradition of actors who have used the service industry to sustain their dreams. While the stereotype of the “starving actor” is well-worn, the reality for many in New York City is a complex balancing act of ambition and necessity. Here is why the service industry continues to be a vital training ground for aspiring performers:
- Observation Skills: Waiters interact with hundreds of people daily, providing an endless supply of personality types to study for future roles.
- Resilience: Handling a difficult dinner rush builds the thick skin necessary to deal with the inevitable rejection of the audition circuit.
- Financial Stability: Having a reliable income allows actors to be more selective about the projects they choose, rather than taking every gig that comes their way.
- Community Support: As seen with Roberts, the camaraderie among restaurant staff can provide a vital support system that celebrates wins and helps navigate the lows of the industry.
What’s Next for the New Face of Comedy?
As Scary Movie hits theaters, audiences are getting their first real look at Roberts’ comedic range. Acting alongside the franchise’s original stars—who defined the genre for a generation—is no small feat, yet Roberts seems to have stepped into the role with ease. While he is currently enjoying the surreal nature of his newfound fame, he isn’t planning on hanging up his apron just yet. For now, the West Village can expect to see their favorite new movie star back on the floor, ready to take orders and serve up a side of Hollywood charm.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long has Cameron Scott Roberts been working at Cecchi’s?
Roberts has been a member of the staff at the West Village restaurant since January 2025.
Who does Cameron Scott Roberts play in the new Scary Movie?
He plays the boyfriend of the film’s female lead, Sara, portrayed by actress Olivia Rose Keegan.
Does Roberts plan to quit his job now that he is in a movie?
No, Roberts has expressed that he values the grounding nature of his service job and intends to keep working there, citing it as an essential part of his life as an actor.
Where was the new Scary Movie filmed?
The production took place in Atlanta, Georgia, over a period of approximately two and a half months.
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