We Speak Actors
From Mexico to LA to SA: actor Alonso Grandío on his exciting and varied acting career
Mexican-born Alonso Grandío started acting in 2013 when he moved to Los Angeles. After four years, South Africa was calling – and now Alonso’s career is going from strength to strength. He played characters in South African TV series ‘Rhythm City’, ‘Legacy’ and ‘The Docket’, and landed a breakthrough role in Olivier Megaton’s film ‘The Last Days of American Crime’. Here he talks about his childhood imagination, the people who inspire him, and moving into writing and producing…
What have been your favourite acting experiences?
“I’ve been blessed to be a part of some of the biggest TV series here in South Africa – ‘Rhythm City’, ‘Legacy’ and ‘Binnelanders’. It’s still mind-blowing that people will come and ask me about my characters and what they’re up to; I think that shows it’s been a great project, something that left an impact. Working with the best of the best has been a dream come true.”
What are you currently working on?
“There are a few on the cooking pot right now, but I’ll be making an appearance in the hit TV show ‘Diepe Waters’ as Mr James. We also just finished production on a character arc for the long-running ‘Binnelanders’ as Julio Herrera.”
“A couple of projects are in pre-production as we speak, but the most exciting one has to be ‘Bloody Proposal’: this is the first film I’ve written, alongside the brilliant Ferdinand Gernandt.”
“We’ve received a ‘recommend’ status through coverage in Los Angeles, and we’re currently developing the film.”
Who have you enjoyed working with?
“Wow, so many people come to mind. The Mexican actor Jorge Luis Moreno – we instantly had this brotherly bond when we met, which served us well when we were in the 2015 short film ‘Camarillo St.’ The amazing indie directors Jaime Carbajal and Eduardo Hidalgo. Olivier Megaton, director of ‘The Last Days of American Crime’ for Netflix. And more recently I’ve been blessed to work with masters of their craft here in South Africa: Justin Strydom, Clint Brink, Bianca Amato, Amo Chidi, Jesse Suntele, Jolette Roux, Charl Van Biljon… The list goes on and on, but humility comes to mind. Everybody is at the top of their game, but they are incredibly grounded and kind human beings.”
Any future projects that you’re looking forward to?
“I can’t wait to start production on ‘Bloody Proposal’. I’m hopping into the producer’s chair and learning as much as I can from incredible people. We currently have the acclaimed South African actor Sean Cameron Michael in the project; it has been a dream so far. This fast-paced film will definitely excite audiences. There’s comedy, action and horror elements to send chills down your spine… Honestly, just talking about it makes me want to start production already.”
How did you get started in acting?
“It might sound cheesy, but I’ve always been a bit of a storyteller. Pair that with an over-the-top imagination and I think you get an actor. My mom still tells me the story in which, as a child, I told her that the three wise men visited us, complete with robes and animals. Did it really happen? That’s for you to decide. “
“Professionally speaking, I think my first paid acting job was ‘Furious 7’, as a young actor in LA. I was over the moon.”
Who’s helped you get where you are today?
“In this industry, it takes a village. So I want to thank all the amazing, talented friends and colleagues who are beside me. And of course my beautiful wife Monique Grandio – without her, none of this would be possible. It has been a heck of a ride so far, and it is only the beginning.”
Featured photo credit: Production company Arcade Content, DP Justin Prins
American actor Michael William Freeman has appeared in many hit shows, but is perhaps best known for playing militia member Blake Sarno in ‘Fear The Walking Dead’. Now he’s swapped the zombie apocalypse for a medical procedural, playing the character of Glenn Vogel in the new Netflix series ‘Pulse’, which follows the personal and professional lives of doctors and staff at a busy Miami trauma centre. We talk to Michael about working with his idols, the joys of collaboration, and why ‘Pulse’ feels like it comes from the golden age of TV.
Tell us about your experience working on the new Netflix series ‘Pulse’?
“It was epic. I had such an amazing time on this show, and it was really great to work with Netflix. The very first day I stepped on set, the energy was palpable. Everyone was just so happy and grateful to be part of this project – it really elevated the whole process.”
“Sometimes work can feel like a grind, but this show was a real pleasure. It was such a warm and welcoming environment, and I know that is reflected on screen.”
What was it like working with series creator Zoe Robyn and co-showrunner Carlton Cuse?
“Man, what an absolute dream! Zoe is such a brilliant talent, her writing is so rich and compelling. And Carlton is a master of his craft, an absolute legend in the industry. Yet they both approach the work with zero pretension. It was inspiring and heartening to be around them both. I think it was the most supportive, collaborative environment I’ve ever worked in; it really felt like a family on set. I’d do anything for those two.”
This is Netflix’s first medical drama – did you enjoy working in this genre?
“I’ve done medical procedurals before, which are fun, but this is something different. The heart of this show is the relationships. Don’t get me wrong, there’s plenty of action and excitement, but what really drives the story are the people. It feels like a show from the golden age of television, something like ‘ER’, it’s so thoughtfully crafted and executed.”
“The way all the stories intersect and collide is really special, I’ve never been a part of anything quite like it. I’m really excited for people to see the show, I think they’re going to love it.”
Who will enjoy watching this show?
“There’s something for everyone! There’s romance, action, drama… even a few laughs. It’s stunning work from Zoe, Carlton and the whole cast and crew. Seriously, every department killed it: from hair and makeup, to wardrobe, to camera, everyone really shines. And I know the audience will appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship. Plus it’s such a fun and vivid world to explore.”
You’ve acted in so many hit TV series and films; which projects have been the most pivotal for you?
“‘In Time’ was my first big studio movie and the first time I saw myself on a big screen in a movie theatre. So that was a pivotal job for me and I certainly learned a lot from that experience. ‘Doll & Em’ on HBO was another one. Getting to act with Chloë Sevigny and be directed by Azazel Jacobs was momentous; I was such a big fan of them both and working with them exceeded my expectations. But most people recognise me from ‘Fear The Walking Dead’ – that show definitely raised my visibility and had a lasting impact on my career. I’m really grateful to be a part of that franchise. And now I can add ‘Pulse’ to that list.”
All episodes of ‘Pulse’ are available to stream on Netflix now.\
Featured photo credit: Netflix
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