Jordan Peele’s new “The Twilight Zone” is proving to be worth all of the hype, and actor Ryan Robbins played the role of David in the first episode called ‘The Comedian.’ Born in Victoria, BC audiences have seen this talented actor in recent shows such as “Arrow,” “The Deadly Class,” “Sacred Lies” and the list goes on. We caught a few minutes with Ryan to chat about latest projects such as the upcoming TV series “Pure” and the film “Daughter.”
Colleen Bement: Thanks so much for taking time out to chat with us. The new “The Twilight Zone” has been all the talk lately. What was the experience like on set playing David in the episode ‘The Comedian?’
Ryan Robbins: I had a great time. The cast and crew were fantastic. We had a lot of fun. I’m a fan of Kumail’s and I really enjoyed working with him. He’s a wonderful and insightful guy on and off set.
CB: Your filmography is off the hook long! What projects do you have coming up next?
RR: Haha…I suppose it’s getting there. There are a few projects in the works, among them are a wonderful and important film called “Daughter” and, of course, the show I’m very passionate about, “Pure” will be airing season 2 beginning May 28th on WGNA. I’m very proud of that project and all involved.
CB: “Arrow” fans are grateful for the amazing run the series has had. You played Conklin in season 4. I just have to ask: Were there any shenanigans on set, or was it mostly serious?
RR: Not too many I can talk about. It was interesting because all of my scenes were flashbacks on the island, so it was a much smaller cast than I think everyone is used to. There were some fun days because we could really focus on the story in front of us without having to be overly concerned with all the other storylines that the show is known for. Stephen and I worked well together and had a lot of fun. I had just done a film in Budapest with Jimmy, so we already had a great relationship. And Bam Bam (James Bamford) and I go way back, so we always have a good time when we’re around each other. The whipping scenes were particularly memorable, LOL.
CB: I could go on and on about all the great roles that you’ve had, so let me ask you two questions:
1.) Was there a role that you played that was super-challenging?
RR: Oh, definitely, there have been a few. Noah Funk on Pure is full of challenges and complexities. There’s a different language involved, the unique accent, the physicality he carries. But these are all fun challenges. I enjoy it very much. I also played Charles Manson in a film. You can imagine the challenges that come with that character.
2.) Was there a role that was crazy fun to play?
RR: They’re all fun. I love my job so much. But, if I had to pick one, probably Henry Foss from Sanctuary. He’ll always have a place in my heart. And playing Raiden in Mortal Kombat was pretty awesome.
CB: It’s baseball season and I’m a huge Dodgers fan. If you had a walk-up song, what would it be? Is there a song that really pumps you up and inspires you?
RR: I’ve thought about this a lot, but pertaining to a fighter’s walkout song. It’s a tough one because it changes often for me…Disturbed’s version of Sound of Silence. I’d walk into battle with that song playing.