In the fall of 2023, after months of picketing for better wages and working conditions, I found myself in a challenging yet exciting position when I received a script for the holiday movie ‘Our Little Secret’, featuring Lindsay Lohan. The role of ‘Leonard’, a man in his sixties, was a tough pill to swallow as I was not ready to play older characters, especially when Hollywood often pushes for younger and slimmer roles. However, with work being scarce, I decided to embrace the challenge. My past experiences included playing husbands in various shows, but this role alongside the talented Kristin Chenoweth felt particularly special.
Despite my initial reservations about the size of the part, I remembered my early days as an actor, filled with hope and gratitude for any opportunity. I reflected on Shonda Rhimes’ wisdom about not losing oneself in a series of ‘no’s and decided to say ‘yes’ to this opportunity.
February found me in Atlanta, surrounded by a wonderful cast including Ian Harding and Tim Meadows. The experience was enriching and fulfilling, allowing me to bond with my co-stars and delve deeper into the character of Leonard. Together with Kristin, we infused our on-screen marriage with genuine chemistry and humor, creating a believable family dynamic.
As filming progressed, Leonard transformed from a minor character to a pivotal part of the story, showcasing a couple with a rich history and secrets to unfold throughout the film. The friendships I forged on set, particularly with Kristin, have become some of the most meaningful of my career. ‘Our Little Secret’ premieres on Netflix on November 27th, reminding us that sometimes, saying ‘yes’ can lead to unexpected and fulfilling experiences in this industry.
