Mark Costello – Bugging Out

Q.  Can you tell us the recent projects that you are working on?

A.  I just recently returned from New Orleans after having completed the filming of the upcoming CBS thriller, “Locusts.”

Q.  What made you want to be a part of the project “Locusts”?

A.  The two compelling aspects of this project which made it so appealing, was the opportunity to work on location in New Orleans, as well as having the good fortune to work with Doug Prochilo’s well written script. 

Q.  What was it like getting to work with such amazing actors such as Lucy Lawless, John Heard and Mike Farrell?

A.  It was great working with Lucy Lawless.  She was very professional, and her talent and hard work made my job that much easier. 

Q.  Can you tell us a bit about the character of William Rusk, who you play in the film?

A.  I played the role of “William Rusk,” the Director of Homeland Security.  It was a challenge to play such a high profile figure who made such important decisions.  He had to be strong and in command, and yet I had to convey a sense of vulnerability due to the sheer terror and unpredictability of the situation.

Q.  You’ve done a lot of work with CBS, what makes working for the network so appealing?

A.  I have truly enjoyed working with CBS.  They have been very generous and supportive, and they have played a significant role in the development of my career. 

Q.  Which show that you’ve guest starred on has been your favorite and why?

A.  My favorite guest starring role occurred on “JAG” several years ago, when I played an unsuspecting Marine General who finds his wife abducted and later returned by a rogue Navy Seal who is attempting to test the level of security on my base.  I had to get a very short haircut for that.  “High and tight” as they say.  I mean, they practically shaved my head.  That’s why I liked doing it.  As an actor, only enhances the level of truth in your performance. 

Q.  What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

A.  During my spare time, I enjoy playing tennis, traveling and taking care of my floating home, (houseboat), up in Sausalito, California.  I also work as a Commercial Fisherman every summer up in Alaska, gillnetting for Sockeye Salmon up in the Bristol Bay.  I’ve been fishing for over twenty-seven years now.  It’s very difficult but exciting work, and it’s proven throughout the years to be a great catharsis from the pace and grind of LA.

Q.  How did you originally become involved in acting?

A.  I first got started with acting when I was cast in an eighth grade production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s “Yeoman of the Guard.”  I was cast as one of the principals, “Colonel Fairfax,” and got to kiss the leading lady.  Well, that was it for me.  After graduating from the University of Washington in 1976, I drove to Los Angeles, lived in a cockroach infested apartment in Hollywood, and waited tables for a year before finally finding the courage to take an acting class.  Eventually I ended up doing quite a bit of theatre, met an agent, and booked a job on my very first audition when I was cast in the film “Hot Dog…The Movie” back in 1983.  That was quite a while ago.  But, it’s been a thrilling, rewarding experience. 

Q.  Is there anything that you’d like to say to fans and supporters of your career?

A.  For all of you “Hollywood Hopefuls” out there, if you listen to your heart, work hard, and trusts your instincts, sometimes your dreams do come true.  Please feel free to visit my website at: markcostello.com.  “Locusts” will air on Sunday, April 24th as the CBS Movie of the Week.  I hope you enjoy it.