Interview with Actor Jordan Lawson

Actor: Jordan Lawson Harris
Date of Birth & Location: November 25, 1982 in Charlotte, North Carolina, USA

This month, we also had the opportunity to interview Actor Jordan Lawson. Here is what he had to tell us:

How did you get involved in acting?

I got involved in the acting world right around 14 or so. I started in New York. The theatre scene in 2001 was a wonderful time for me. Being involved with a company that gave me the opportunity to branch out emotionally and physically when it came to a performance was thrilling as a teenager. I found myself surrounded by many young and old actors from all over the world. I learned so much…that time in my life. I must have done about 30 stage plays before I was encouraged by friends to explore the film side of the industry in LA.

Did you perform in any horror movies? Which ones?

I have been in a few horror flicks over the past couple years. Someone’s Knocking At The Door, Wasteland, Silent Night, Zombie Night, The Rage: Carrie 2, and Sanctity to name a few. I love the horror genre. It gives an actor the chance to be able really express themselves and have fun while they’re doing it. I think many people give horror actors a bad rep though, but so many great artists have come from horror and are household names today.

Are you working on any current projects?

I am currently working on a film called Delusional in Sacramento. The film stars Tuesday Knight, Kim Kopf, Tracy Brooks Swope, Perry King, Augie Duke and yours truly. It has been a wonderful experience working with so many talented people and I have made some good friends in the process. I believe the film is set for release this October. A great horror/thriller to watch out for.

I recently wrapped on a film called Coast Mafia and it’s currently in post-production at this time. There is no release date as of yet. I have been in talks with some folks about a new project to start early next year as well. A favorite of mine since grade school, Winona Ryder may be involved. I have always wanted to work with actors that I spent my childhood watching on the big screen. I find myself rubbing shoulders with many of them today. I have 2 other feature films that I will begin working on by the end of this year. I can’t say much about them at the moment, but am looking forward to it.

What is acting for you?

Acting for me is therapy.

Why is acting considered therapy to you?

I’ve been asked this questions many times. It’s a ventilation. A way of getting out all my demons. The good and the bad. I need it. Without this art I would go insane. I mean you have to be a little crazy to be a good actor I think. A little odd, different, unique. I admire those things in a person. Someone who has the balls to let themselves go and roll with it. I still find it hard to bounce back after any performance. I get so into the character that I almost forget who Jordan is until they wrap me. It can be a beautiful thing or quite disturbing at times, but that’s just how it works for me I guess. Some people might call it method, but I’m just in the moment and then try to snap back into reality or whatever you want to call it. It’s my life.

Which was your favorite character that you performed?

I don’t have a favorite character that I have played. They are so different from one another. I have a hard enough time watching myself perform. I am like many other performers I suppose…Critical of yourself and always trying to go a little further with any role put in front of you. I am never satisfied and will never be when it comes to my performance or career. It keeps me going. Being ‘satisfied’ is the death of an actor I think.

What kind of roles do you prefer?

I love playing the odd ball type characters. The monster, the drug dealer, the murderer, the bad boy, the weirdo, the guy who always leaves so many questions unanswered for the audience. I ask myself ‘will I ever play the good guy role?’…but I’m just rolling with it. I am very grateful for the work I have gotten and continue to get in my career. Every film and every character seems to be more and more out there.

Who is your favorite actor?

I can’t say I have a favorite actor or film because there are so many actors that I love. Some dead, some still living. I am a huge fan of films from before my time though. I love the whole Hollywood scene back in the 40’s and 50’s. it’s changed quite a bit since then. Wow! So many actors I would have loved to work with that are no longer around, but in many ways I think they are still living in Hollywood.

Anything else you would like to say?

Thanks again for the interview and for thinking of me. You are very kind. I look forward to talking with you again. Until then, you all know where to find me.