The CBS sitcom Ghosts is set to air a special Halloween episode titled 'Halloween 5: The Mummy' on Thursday, Oct. 30, at 8:30/7:30c. In the installment, Sam and Jay accidentally unleash an ancient Egyptian mummy ghost with a grudge against those who brought him to New York. Utkarsh Ambudkar, who plays Jay, shares insights on the episode while preparing for his directorial debut later in the season.
Episode Overview
The third episode of Ghosts' fifth season introduces a new spectral character: a mummy ghost from ancient Egypt. As teased by showrunners Joe Port and Joe Wiseman, the mummy has 'an axe to grind' against the people responsible for transporting his remains to New York, with Hetty specifically called out. This storyline builds on a brief mention from last season's 'Halloween 4: The Witch,' where Sam and Jay held a yard sale at Woodstone Manor that referenced the mummy.
Utkarsh Ambudkar praises the episode's high production value, visual effects, story, and comedy, calling it one of the season's best. 'This mummy plays a huge part in our Halloween episode,' he says, highlighting its central role.
Ambudkar's Directorial Debut
Ambudkar, known for his work as Jay, is stepping behind the camera to direct an episode airing in 2026. He shadowed director Pete Chatmon during the filming of the Halloween episode to prepare. Reflecting on the challenge, Ambudkar notes, 'It is a very difficult job. It requires so much prep, so much nuance, some balancing, time management, problem solving.'
He draws inspiration from co-star Rose McIver's directorial debut in Season 4's 'Ghostfellas.' 'I watched Rose do it last season. She was so good. I learned a lot from her,' Ambudkar says, emphasizing her preparation and trust in the actors. 'One thing I love about Rose is she didn't come in trying to direct anyone's performance. She was there to capture what she needed for the edit.'
With five years of experience on the show, Ambudkar feels supported by the crew, which he says fosters a collaborative environment for success.