Interviews
Tasos Hernandez – Just Getting Started
By: Lisa Steinberg
Q) What are the recent projects that you are working on?
A) I just got off the set of NBC’s “The Brave” as well as a feature film written and directed by Jordan Horowitz (La La Land) and Julia Hart (The Keeping Room) entitled Fast Color. I have also worked on hit shows “Better Call Saul,” “The Night Shift” and “Midnight Texas.”
Q) Please tell us the premise for the movie Just Getting Started and about your character.
A) Just Getting Started is an action comedy in the vein of Midnight Run about an ex-FBI agent (Tommy Lee Jones) and an ex-mob lawyer in the witness protection program (Morgan Freeman) who have to put aside their petty rivalry on the golf course to fend off a mob hit.
Q) What made you want to be a part of the film?
A) I was thrilled when I heard I was cast for the role and would be working with such legendary actors. I admire the work of Freeman, Jones and Rene Russo and wanted to take advantage of this amazing opportunity to act side by side with them.
Q) What have you found challenging about your role?
A) Aside from the excitement of being on set with these actors? I’d say the most challenging part about the role was being able to control all the coordination that was required. See, many of the scenes are fast-paced and some were improvised so I had to be aware at all times and be in the moment, which is one of the reasons I love being an actor, but it can be challenging. Not knowing what could happen next is what we anticipate as actors, but when it’s Tommy Lee Jones next to you, you don’t want to screw it up.
Q) Was there anything you added to the character that wasn’t originally scripted for you?
A) Actually, I did! I was given the opportunity to improvise some unscripted lines in a scene with Morgan Freeman so we decided to try some dialogue in Spanish. And it seemed to work well.
Q) You got to work with legendary actors Morgan Freeman and Tommy Lee Jones. Did they give you any advice on acting that you took to heart?
A) Yes. They treated me with respect throughout the entire process and at the same time they were very thorough in their craft. They wanted to make sure that they could take advantage of each take and try new things. As an actor it is great to see other actors, especially legends like these two, own themselves and their craft in order to feel free to be creative on set. That passion and approach for work is something I will take with me on each project that I am a part of.
Q) What have been some of your most memorable moments from filming Just Getting Started?
A) The director, Ron Shelton, knew that I was excited to work with Freeman and went out of his way to give us a formal introduction. That’s how my experience started and the conversation is something that I will remember for the rest of my life.
Q) What do you hope viewers take away from watching the film?
A) I know viewers will enjoy the dynamic experience of seeing Jones and Freeman share the silver screen for the first time. Additionally, the story is about finding a common ground and acceptance of others even though you come from different background and cultures – something we all need to practice in light of recent events.
Q) Fans remember you from your time on “The Bachelorette.” What made you want to begin acting?
A) I have always had a passion for acting, but during high school acting wasn’t necessarily the cool thing to do and I received a lot of negative attention from my peers. While I was on “The Bachelorette,” I was removed from everything and was forced to connect back with my creative side. I started writing more songs and lyrics. Then, I found myself writing short stories to help pass the time and really wanted to continue telling stories through acting. As soon as I returned from the show, I decided to follow my passion. I enrolled in acting classes and took a ton of workshops. It’s all grown from there.
Q) You are a part of social media. Are you looking forward to the fan feedback you’ll be receiving to the movie?
A) Absolutely! Feedback is always encouraged. I want to hear how the story affects others and if there is any feedback they want to give me they can reach me on Twitter and Instagram @tasoshernandez
Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?
A) Thank you for everything! Truly, support means a lot. I do this to inspire others to pursue their dreams and desires because that is what my fans have done for me. [smile]
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