BSCkids recently got to speak with Shawn Carter Peterson. He spoke with us about his role in the upcoming film, The Host as well as his other projects and working with Miley Cyrus and Faye Dunaway.
Since moving to Los Angeles, this talented actor has made a name for himself with numerous television and film appearances. Shawn’s appearances on television have varied from 1 hour dramas like HBO’s “Six Feet Under,” F/X’s “The Shield” and “House” to half hour sitcoms like CBS’ “How I Met Your Mother” and FOX’s “Til Death.” Shawn has also appeared on “United States of Tara,” ” Franklin & Bash” and “$#*! My DAD SAYS.” His acting can be seen in several films including Midnight Bayou and Hannah Montana – The Movie. His most recent project is The Host, a film based on the popular novel from Twilight author Stephanie Meyer. The film surely will thrust him even further into the spotlight. The Host will hit theaters on March 29, 2013.
BSCkids: Shawn Carter Peterson
When did you first decide you wanted to be an actor?
I’ve always been a performer. I knew I wanted to be an actor when I got hit with the acting bug after my first role starring in my Middle School Dinner Theatre Production as Peter Pan.
Your upcoming film, The Host, comes from famed writer Stephenie Meyer. Were you nervous signing on to a project that has the potential to be as big as her previous project, Twilight?
I was a little nervous signing on. But the nerves were more from excitement! I didn’t really think too hard about it, I just knew that it was gonna be a great project to be a part of and couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen when I got to work.
Tell us about your character, Wes, in the film.
Wes is one of those people who always has your back. He’s protective of his family and is very open and intrigued by new experiences.
Do you share any similarities with him in real life that helped you get into character?
We’re very similar! I’m very protective of the people in my life and I have their backs 100%!
What do you think is the driving motivation of Wes in the story?
The preservation of his community drives everything that Wes does and thinks.
Did you know of your characters fate when you auditioned for the film?
I did not.
Have you read the book, “The Host?”
Yes.
Do you have any interesting stories from the set of The Host?
We had a great time shooting and lots of interesting things happened…but I can’t really tell you too much… One of the most fun as well as most challenging scenes involved a man-made underground river. Jake Abel (Ian) and myself had to help rescue Boyd Holbrook (Kyle) from the raging waters…. to say it was difficult is an understatement….but afterwards…we all, including Saoirse Ronan jumped in afterwards and had a little post rescue splash party… lol
You have actually been in a ton of projects, what has been your favorite so far?
Aside from The Host, so far, my favorite has been an episode of CASTLE. I had a great time working with Nathan Fillion & Stana Katic!! It was an interrogation scene….and it was so much fun working with them!
Do you prefer working on movies or television shows more?
Each one has it’s perks. It’s great to work on a film and to live in this imaginary world for a longer period of time. Television projects, unless you’re on multiple episodes are a much quicker process…which can be rewarding..you get in and get out. I don’t have a preference at this point. I just love the work.
After working with several actors and actresses are there any that stand out in your mind as being truly amazing?
I worked with Faye Dunaway on Midnight Bayou…and it was the first time I got to watch an Oscar winner really do her thing. I learned so much just by watching her. I learned to take my time…and to ask for what you need, little things that you take for granted as a new actor in this business, I also learned to have fun while you’re working by watching Miley Cyrus on Hannah Montana, The Movie!
Facebook
Twitter
Google+
YouTube
RSS