Q&A.(Around the Mall)(Tom Cavanagh)(Interview)

Actor TOM CAVANAGH, 45, is host of the Smithsonian Channel's award-winning series "Stories From the Vaults." Cavanagh, best known for his role in the TV comedy series "Ed," spoke to Beth Py-Lieberman.

HOW DOES IT FEEL TO GET ACCESS TO PARTS OF THE SMITHSONIAN THAT MOST PEOPLE DON'T?

I take that responsibility very seriously because it's not just a pleasure jaunt. I want to bring a unique experience to viewers and track down artifacts that they would find especially interesting.

YOU HAVE DEGREES IN ENGLISH, BIOLOGY AND EDUCATION. DO YOU DRAW ON THIS EXPERTISE IN THE SHOW?

Funny guys can be smart. At least, sometimes. I can hold my own when we're …