Michael Jonsson – Arrow

By starrymag | October 29, 2018

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) What can you tease is new this season on “Arrow?”

 

A) Other than the Longbow Hunters aren’t to be messed with? Nothing really. The Arrow Production team runs an extremely tight ship and I wouldn’t want to give away any spoilers, even accidentally. They’re very secretive. Once, when filming an early episode, I was grilling a writer as to what’ll happen with the Longbow Hunters and they wouldn’t let ANYTHING slip. But being careful like that is how they continue to surprise the fans like they did with that epic premiere.

 

Q) Were you a fan of the series before joining the show?

 

A) Of course! “Arrow” is an exciting show with so much action and diversity. What’s not to like?

 

Q) How was your character Kodiak originally described to you?

 

A) For the audition, the breakdown was vague. Kodiak was called something different altogether. Until I got the script, I didn’t even know I was a Longbow Hunter, let alone Kodiak. That was three days before filming, so as I said – secretive. When I found out, I ran to my kids and yelled, “Guess who’s playing a super villain!” We all started screaming and jumping with excitement (which wasn’t too super-villainy, I guess).

 

Q) Was there anything you added to him that might not have been in the initial breakdown?

 

A) The “Arrow” writers were great. What he said in the audition was just like how he is in the comics and the script. The usual villain type – maniacal, egotistical… and a total badass. The only thing I’ve added is even more sarcasm.

 

Q) What kind of physical training did you have to do to prepare for this role?

 

A) Training is not so much a “prep” for me but rather a way of life. I work out or exercise four to six times a week whether a role calls for it or not. It makes me feel better and more energized. Since I’ve gotten the role though, I have gone into a bulking phase. I’ve also been hitting the bag more trying to master my kicks, so the stunt guys stop making fun of me.

 

Q) What was it like joining a cast that’s so connected on screen and off?

 

A) I thought it would be intimidating, especially since they are all so cool. Watching them at the SDCC, I could see their connection and I remember thinking “that crew is so tight!” But they were all so welcoming, so it was easy to get along. Plus, they are all so fun to hang out with.

 

Q) Talk about working with Stephen Amell.

A) He’s a great guy and fun to be around. His fans can tell from his tweets how funny and cool he is. How could you not be when you’re the winner of a WWE Slammy award?!

 

Q) What can you tease were some of your most memorable moments from filming?

 

A) This stunt crew is so talented. Some of the scenes with Kodiak and the other hunters were insane. Loved them! Working with fight choreographer Jeff Robinson, stunt coordinator Eli Zagoudakis and Kodiak’s stunt double Nathaniel Shuker, we have put together some pretty sweet action. I’ve also gotten close with the other Hunters, Holly Elissa and Miranda Edwards. They’re funny as hell!

 

Q) What do you think it is about the series that continues to make it such a fan favorite?

 

A) I think it’s a combination of how connected this cast is and how talented and hardworking they are. I know this season will be amazing, between Beth Schwartz’s leadership, the talents of the writers and Stephen and the rest of the crew and cast. To keep the fan’s interest for seven seasons is incredible, especially in the age of constant show turnover.

 

Q) Is there anything else you can tease about your time on “Arrow?”

 

A) It feels like they are amping up the action. Get ready for more fights and explosions. Also, this is speculation, but the flashes forward are going to be off the hook.

 

Q) As Arrowverse is a large social community are you looking forward to the instant fan feedback you’ll receive from the Arrowverse?

 

A) Yes and no. I have that pre-skydive feeling. I’m excited to jump into seeing the reactions, but I’m also fearful that the chute won’t open and I’ll free fall into missed expectations. But with anything in life, I like getting feedback (positive or negative), learning from it and trying consistently improve. Arrowverse fans deserve the best after all.

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and the work you do?

 

A) I will continue to grow and better myself as a person and hopefully, that’ll be reflected in my performances. Hope you stick around for that journey.

 

Q) Do you have any other projects that you are working on that you’d like to share?

A) I also play Barry the Burier in this season three of “Van Helsing.” If you like blood, carnage and vampires, check out SYFY on Friday nights and catch up by watching Season 1 and 2 on Netflix. This upcoming third season is the craziest yet!

 

I also have an app in Google Play and the App Store called “The Actor’s Lines.” I use it to help quickly memorize and solidify lines. I was always bugging my wife to run line, now I run them with my phone.