Mike Wazowski is back to charm a new generation of scarer fans with his fearless grin and unflinching spirit. The toothy, one‑eyed green monster may not strike fear into anyone, but he certainly commands attention. In Disney‑Pixar’s Monsters University, he steps into the spotlight as the endearing little character everyone wants to root for. An in‑person Toronto interview captured Billy Crystal talking about bringing Mike to life, with a family twist that keeps his grandkids calling him Grandpa Mike. The following excerpts offer a window into what he shared about the beloved character and the bigger picture behind the film.
How does Crystal identify with Mike?
He’s unabashedly vocal about his affection for the role. “I love this guy. I actually think that this is my most favourite character I’ve ever played in anything, I love his personality. I love that he stands up for himself. I love that he’s forever positive. I love that when something gets in his way he either goes over it, around it or through it and somehow comes out the other side. I love that he’s a leader of monsters.”
Did Mike’s arc of being told he doesn’t have what it takes trigger any flashbacks to Crystal’s own early days? Not far back, he jokes, because the world keeps reminding performers that they’re under scrutiny. “They’re always telling you you’re dumb. Especially now with social media. Now, there are millions of people who can press send… it makes it a bit tougher. Not everything works out perfectly for everybody. But we all have perfect dreams. When that happens and it doesn’t work out, that’s the test of a monster — or a person. [Mike and Sulley] screw up. They cheat, they get kicked out of school, but yet, they land on their claws.”
What do Crystal’s grandchildren think of his roles in Monsters, Inc. and Monsters University?
His daughters are 10 and seven, and their little brother is three and a half — the half really does matter. He explained what he does for a living and showed them Monsters, Inc. He became grandpa Mike and carried that persona wherever he went for about a year. Now, they’ve seen him on large billboards when he appears at events, and while that’s exciting, they’re getting used to it. It’s a source of bragging rights at school, but the family keeps things grounded and downplayed whenever possible.
What frightens him?
Darkness still unsettles him, not just the dark of a room but the unknown that lies beyond. Time itself feels like a threat, the fear of not having enough of it to chase all the goals and moments he wants to reach. Yet fear can be a powerful motivator, pushing him toward what matters most.
How does he convey comedy when the voice does all the work?
Mike is energy more than anything else. On his feet most of the time, the performance can be exhausting by the end, which is why the director matters so much. Dan Scanlon, described as a hip, retro‑inspired creative, would paint scenes with vivid CG illustrations of the dorms, the fraternity, and the cast. Crystal could visualize the space and remember his interactions with his fellow performers before recording a line.
Did he work directly with John Goodman or work apart?
They always collaborated. They insisted on being together. When they share a scene, their chemistry shines through the dialogue. The funny moments crackle with repartee because they were practicing with one another, and the tender moments, like the lakeside scene, carry real emotional weight.
How protective was he of the original film’s legacy while approaching the sequel?
Crystal notes that trust is essential: you’re in good hands when you’re backed by capable collaborators. Executive producer Jon Lasseter is likened by him to Walt Disney itself—a creative force who opened doors for the team and nurtured a world they could all inhabit. He speaks of a level of secrecy surrounding the script that speaks to the care poured into the project. The first film set a high bar, and the team approached Monsters University with the expectation that the follow‑up would honor that standard.
Thank you for the conversation with Billy Crystal. Monsters University is in theatres now, inviting audiences to rejoin Mike and Sulley on another unforgettable misadventure.