Emmy Nominated Fil-Am producer of ‘The Talk’ keeps aiming higher

Nicolas makes sure the cue cards for the hosts are correct.  MARC ANTHONY NICOLAS/CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

LOS ANGELES—Marc Anthony Nicolas, a young Filipino American producer received a Daytime Emmy nomination for outstanding work on the CBS show, “The Talk.” He will host his own show, “On Your Marc,” soon.

The 41st Annual Daytime Emmy Awards will be held at the prestigious Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California on Sunday.

Sheryl Underwood, comedian and co-host of “The Talk” said of Nicolas, “Marc is fabulous, innovative, and priceless!”

A lot of work goes into the production of a talk show. A producer writes the script, so the hosts have interesting and effortless stories to tell.

Meanwhile, Co-Executive Producer Heather Gray described Nicolas as someone destined for stardom. “He has always been so creative, dynamic and driven. He has a light that always shines and touches those around him. He is truly one of a kind and that is meant in the best way.”

Gray added, “I would tell Marc to never let the word ‘no’ stop him, to always be true to himself and to continue to be a source of inspiration, not only for the Filipino community but to everyone. Marc brings excitement to “The Talk” and I’m thrilled to think of millions now getting to share in the joy of what is Marc Anthony Nicolas on his new show “On Your Marc!”

INQUIRER.net interviewed Marc Anthony Nicolas after he received his nomination.

What is your ultimate career goal?

One of the joys in my life is to create television shows that are positive and entertaining to viewers at home. I am motivated to work harder to represent our community on the show and the industry as a whole, being the only Filipino producer on “The Talk” with a dream to make it to the top of the entertainment industry.

What led you to producing?

I was born in the Philippines and I come from humble beginnings. Since I was 16 years old, I have worked at various places such as a pharmacy, restaurants and retail stores.  But I knew I wanted to be a producer since I was a kid.  I got a job as a production assistant on a TV show, worked 12-hour days (six days a week). Eventually, I paid my dues and moved up the ladder quickly to become one of the youngest producers in mainstream TV.

Tell us one fact or quirk about you that no one knows.

I meditate every morning. As soon as I wake up, I give praise for another day. I ask for positive thoughts throughout the day and aspire to be the best person I can be…To celebrate every minute and be grateful for the simple things in life, celebrating with family and kababayans.

How did you land this role with ‘The Talk’?

After working on “The Tyra Banks Show” as a producer, which ended in New York in 2009, I moved back to LA to look for work.  I applied for “The Talk” and interviewed with the executive producer and Sara Gilbert (creator of “The Talk”) who played “Darlene” on “Roseanne.” I got hired as a producer and I’ve been working on the show for seasons.

What is one quality you like about each cast member?

Nicolas getting the stage ready for musical guest Train in New Orleans, Louisiana, during Super Bowl week.

Sharon Osbourne taught me that family is very important. Being married to Ozzy and having children and grandchildren of her own, she makes it a priority to be there for her family no matter how busy she is.

Julie Chen taught me how to work hard and find a job that I love. She is not only the co-host of “The Talk” but she is the host of “Big Brother” and she takes pride in both shows and you can see that reflected on TV.

Sara Gilbert taught me that kindness is important, especially in the industry. To me, being mean, bitter and possessing a negative attitude will not get you anywhere in life.  You have to project what you want in life because what you put out there in the universe will come back ten-fold.  If I’m nice to others, others will be nice to me.

Sheryl Underwood taught me to find time to laugh. Working can be stressful, but I manage to find time to have fun at my job, too. We all have to have laughter and enjoy what we have in life.

Aisha Tyler taught me that I could do anything. Besides being the co-host of “The Talk,” she’s an actress, an author and much more. This woman is doing it all… Kudos to her.”

As a producer, what do you want the audience to grasp from “The Talk?”

I want them to laugh, and if viewers do that, I’ve done my job. I want viewers at home to be able to escape from their everyday problems, sit down, and just enjoy “The Talk.” As a producer, my goal is to make memorable television. I can see myself working on “The Talk” for many, many years.

This is not the first Emmy nomination in your career.

I’m grateful to be nominated for another Emmy.  It’s an honor and a great feeling to be acknowledged, to be in the company of other amazing talk show producers. I got a text message from my co-worker at 6 a.m. the day it was announced. “We’re nominated for an Emmy!” I screamed so loud and jumped up and down. I’m looking forward to the Daytime Emmys on June 22, 2014.

What does it take for a producer to make a show like “The Talk” stand out?

People always say, “You sacrificed so much in your life.” It’s not so much sacrificing… It’s more believing in yourself and moving one step closer to your dream. There are a handful of producers on “The Talk” and each one of us possesses a unique creativity. We’re all different producers and we bring so much to the table. That’s what makes our show stand out.

Describe the most important lesson you have learned so far as a producer?

The talented cast and crew of “The Talk” on CBS.

Quitting is not an option in my career. If my work is challenging, I know it’s making me a better and stronger producer.  In order to succeed in my life, I need to have persistence and dedication. I say to myself, “You can do it!”

Do you collaborate with fellow Fil-Am’s in the entertainment industry?

I genuinely want the best for the Fil-Am community and its members. A very well known Filipino-American photographer, Graphics Metropolis, needed support for the Palm Springs Photo Festival. I believed in his talent so much that I offered to help him in my own little way. Nothing is more satisfying than fulfilling someone’s dreams. We collaborated and worked on my personal headshots and photos for my new talk show on Lifestyle Network titled “On Your Marc!” Despite my busy schedule, I always find the time to attend and support Fil-Am events and endeavors.

How would you encourage fellow Fil-Ams who are in your industry and are also dreaming of an Emmy recognition?

Being in the spotlight in the Filipino community has many rewards and I stand here as the voice of a person who never gave up.  I’m living proof that anything can happen and that dreams can become a reality with hard work and determination.  I’m all about paying it forward too.  I do what I can to help other people’s dreams come true too! If I can do it, you can do it.