Jay Mello, Child Actor from 'Jaws,' Opens Up About His Quiet Life Making Maple Syrup

Published: June 20, 2025

Virginia Chamlee, a Politics Writer at PEOPLE, recently sat down with Jay Mello, the child actor who played Sean Brody in the 1975 blockbuster film "Jaws." In an exclusive interview, Mello shared his experiences on set, his life after the film, and his quiet life making maple syrup in Vermont.

Jay Mello in 1975's 'Jaws' — Credit: Pamela Schall/WWD/Penske Media via Getty

Mello was only 6 years old when he auditioned for the role, along with his brothers. He caught the attention of director Steven Spielberg, who was impressed by his ability to mimic him during the audition.

Mello remembers every moment of filming on location in Martha's Vineyard in 1974. He also shared his experiences working with the older actors, including Roy Scheider, Richard Dreyfuss, and Robert Shaw, who made him feel at home during filming.

One of his most prominent memories is of the shark itself, which was an animatronic shark designed by production designer Joe Alves. Mello also shared a poignant scene where he mimicked his dad, played by Roy Scheider, which wasn't even written in the script.

Mello had no idea that the film would go on to become a box office juggernaut and propel Spielberg to household name status. He also shared that he didn't go back into the water for two years after the movie was made due to the terrifying experience.

In the years since, Mello has stayed out of show business, working at a maple syrup company in Vermont and occasionally telling tales of his brush with the most famous shark in entertainment history.

Fifty years after the film first premiered, Mello is still a fan and makes it a point to watch the original movie every year with his family.

Read more about Jay Mello's experience on set and his life after "Jaws" here.

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