Michael Mando opens up about homelessness and early acting struggles

Michael Mando has spoken about being homeless at the start of his acting career, saying he relied on friends for places to stay and used YMCA facilities before auditions.

Speaking on the I've Never Said This Before podcast, the Better Call Saul actor recalled travelling overnight by bus from Montreal to Toronto, showering at the YMCA, attending auditions, and returning home the same day. He also described moving between friends' apartments and later renting a tiny room in a rough part of Toronto.

Mando said he often felt "small", "unwanted", "untalented" and "hopeless", but continued acting because he loved it. He encouraged others facing hardship, saying many successful people have experienced similar struggles.

The actor also reflected on his role as Mac Gargan in Spider-Man: Homecoming. He revealed that a larger scene featuring his character was cut before the film's release, something he only discovered while watching the premiere with his father. Mando said the experience taught him to accept setbacks and trust that "what's meant to be is meant to be."

Mando will reprise his role as Scorpion in Spider-Man: Brand New Day, which is scheduled to open in cinemas on Friday.