Lonny Ross

Prior to "30 Rock," Ross spent a few years toiling away in a variety of production jobs, including as a writer's assistant on series television and as a talent coordinator for a late night talk show. But it was his experience - and contacts - from working production that helped the young actor launch his career and establish himself as a bona fide talent on the rise.

Ross, who grew up in Wantagh, NY, had appeared only a handful of times …