Can you tell us about your role in Nickelodeon’s Side Hustle?
On Side Hustle, my character “Fisher” is a science and technology genius who has a not-so-secret crush on “Lex” (played by Jules Leblanc). “Fisher” is always helping his sister “Presley” (played by Jayden Bartels) and friends (Isaiah Crews and Jacques Chevelle) out with their side hustles by inventing solutions. One time, he invented an indestructible bubble suit so the kids could save the town bird and safely get down a mountain despite their fear of heights. “Fisher” is so obsessed with science that his dad (played by Kurt Ela) and friends often try helping him tap into other aspects of himself.
What are some similarities and differences between your role as “Fisher” and “Lil Dynomite?”
On Nickelodeon’s Henry Danger, “Lil’ Dynomite” started as the super polite and friendly potential superhero sidekick to “Kid Danger” (played by Jace Norman). When “Lil’ Dynomite” appeared again in season one of Danger Force, the Henry Danger spinoff, “Captain Man” treated him poorly. When “Lil’ D” eventually got powers, he ended up using them on “Captain Man”, making “Lil Dynomite a villain”! Both “Fisher” and “Lil’ D” play the keytar, and they both use inventions and science to stay relevant. “Lil D”, for example, gets all his powers through a special suit that saved him after he almost died saving Swellview from a nuclear reactor explosion. As for differences, Lil’ D is extremely polite, even as a villain. Surprisingly, “Fisher” has a lot more attitude and way less humility.
What can fans expect from the final episode of season 1 of Side Hustle?
Fans can expect the many aspects of every character to show up in one explosively funny storyline. The episode is called, “The Presley Slide.” “Presley”, “Lex”, and “Munchy ” landed a gig to be a part of musical artist ZooZoo’s (played by Ashlee Füss) live performance. “Presley” is her competitive self and all sorts of hijinks ensue! “Fisher” has to work some serious tech magic to help her out. Everyone will love it.
How did you break into the entertainment industry? Was this something you always wanted to do with your life?
I started out playing sports like baseball, but once I experienced live theatre I became super interested in entertaining. I began my training in acting, singing, and dancing so I could make my performances the best they could be. Soon after I started going for auditions, I was hooked. I’m very fortunate that Nickelodeon gave me my big break. I love acting, and maybe one day I’ll even direct and produce. I just turned 14, so I have a little time to figure it out, but whatever I do, I want to be creative.
What do you love most about acting in comedy?
I love making people laugh, not just with funny words but with body language. It’s so
cool to communicate through facial expressions and movement, and by delivering the
line at just the right time.
What are the biggest lessons you’ve learned being a part of this industry?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to stay positive. Some of my biggest
disappointments turned into my biggest opportunities. You never know what’s ahead.
Also, helping others succeed is super important. There is a huge team behind the camera working to bring a project to life and we all need to work together.
Who or what inspires you to continue in your career?
I’m really inspired by the fans who love watching what we create on set. It is so
awesome when they get to see the final product after everyone pours their heart and
creativity into an episode. They share what they like on social media, and it makes me want to keep improving for them. I’m also so inspired by those who coach me and
encourage me every day on set, and who create such funny characters for me to work
with. I’m so fortunate that they trust me to help bring their vision to life every week.
If you could work beside any actor/actress who would it be and why?
I’d love to work with Kevin Hart and experience his creative process! He has a tremendous amount of energy and vision, and he is building an all-encompassing career rather than staying inside one box. I really admire that and would love to learn alongside him.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Will you still be a comedic actor or do you see yourself in other types of roles?
My dream is that in five years I will be a comedic actor and have the opportunity to utilize more of my talents in dramatic roles where comedic timing and talent is also required. I hope to continue working in television, expand into movies and maybe even on Broadway. I can’t wait to see where this road takes me, and I am willing to put in the work to keep evolving and create amazing entertainment.
Eternally Nineteen Speed Round
Guilty pleasure TV show?
Big Brother
Guilty pleasure movie?
I don’t know if it’s a guilty pleasure, but I’m obsessed with Back to the Future.
Favorite book?
Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper. Go read it!
Favorite play or musical?
That’s a tie between Dear Evan Hansen and Beetlejuice: The Musical.
A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Weezer
Last Show you binge-watched?
Outer Banks
Hidden talent?
I can solve a Rubik’s Cube in under a minute.
