Corey Reynolds – Resident Alien

By starrymag | February 10, 2021

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) Please tell us the premise for “Resident Alien.”

 

A) An alien, on a mission to kill all humans, accidentally crash lands on Earth, commits a murder and assumes the identity of a doctor as he seeks to fulfill his mission.

 

Q) We’ve recently seen you in a lot of dramatic roles. What made you want to be a part of this sci-fi/comedy series?

 

A) The pilot. It was honestly one of the best pilots I had ever read. It had everything and left me dying to know more. Sheriff Mike jumped off the page to me as well. I hadn’t seen many other black characters like him.

 

Q) How was your character “Big Black” originally described to you?

 

A) I think the original breakdown described him as kinda no nonsense, tough as nails-type lawman. He also had “burly muscles” in the pilot, which I do not possess. A draft of the script I got after being cast had that part removed. So, let that be a lesson to any aspiring talents out there; when you’re the right person, they may just change the script, so just be your best you.

 

Q) Was there something you added to the role that wasn’t in the initial breakdown?

 

A) I gave him a swagger and an attitude. I saw Big Black as the type who saw himself as the baddest MFer in the room, no matter who else was in the room. So, I played that. I see him as like a mash up between Richard Pryor and John Wayne, with a dash of Bernie Mac in there as well.

 

Q) Is Big Black skeptical of Harry because of a gut feeling or has something in his past taught him to be cautious?

 

A) Gut. But his gut tells him that about everyone who’s not him. He’s a highly suspicious person in general, so Harry (Alan Tudyk) sets off all sorts of red flags.

 

Q) Was there much room to improv when it came to filming?

 

A) Chris [Sheridan] and our directors give us a lot of space to play. I’ve never worked on any show (Broadway, film or television) where my own creativity and ideas regarding my character have been so welcomed. It’s my favorite job ever.

 

Q) We loved your beatboxing skills in the premiere! First, how easy was it to keep a straight face while filming? 

 

A) It quite hard at times for Liz [Bowen] and I both. Especially, doing scenes with Alan. Alan is funny as fuck.

 

Q) Second, was that a skill you possessed that was incorporated or one you had to pick up? 

 

A) I grew up listening to Doug E. Fresh and the Fat Boys… so… yeah, I had that one in the toolbox.

 

Q) What were some of your favorite episodes that fans should be on the lookout for?

 

A) All of them. The whole season is fantastic. I’m really proud of our entire cast and crew. It took us over two years to get from the pilot to the premiere, so it feels good to finally share what we’ve been working on. I feel like we’re the little show that could.

 

Q) You are a part of social media. What kind of feedback have you been receiving to the series so far?

 

A) It’s been overwhelmingly positive for the most part. But you gotta be careful how much stock you put in social media and looking at feedback. Twitter giveth and Twitter taketh away. It’s fun engaging with the fans though.

 

Q) What do you think it is about “Resident Alien” that will make it a fast fan favorite series?

 

A) Alan. His “Harry” is irresistible and grabs you immediately. Following him through this small town of misfits is a fun, funny ride. But I think our show offers many heartfelt moments as well. I think we’ve found a unique (and dare I say, successful) way to be a show about many things.

 

Q) We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the incredible work you did on “The Closer.” What did you personally take away from your time working on this series?

 

A) “The Closer” always brings back fond memories. I learned virtually everything I know about making television from that experience. I’ll always be grateful for that. I feel like Gabriel and Sheriff Mike are cousins. They may speak to each other at the annual family cookout, but neither ever follows up with the other when they say, “…we should talk more than once a year.”

 

Q) Did you take home any special mementos from your time working on the show?

 

A) Checks. Hahahaha! No, I’m kidding, there were many little knick-knacks over the years. I have a framed closer marquee hanging on a wall in my home, so I’m reminded of it every day.

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who are fans and supporters of the work you do?

A) “Thank you.” I’d simply say, “thank you.” So, “thank you” everyone!