Tom Choi – Chicago Med

By: Dana Jacoviello

Q) You will be venturing into the season premiere of Season Six of “Chicago Med.” What can you share about your character and who you will be playing?

A) I will be playing the character of Martin Lieu.  Without getting into details, he is the father of a patient who has had health troubles in the past. Introduce COVID and a host of other issues and this father must make some serious decisions all the while dealing with the world of COVID.

Q) What’s one thing we can expect in the premiere of Season Six that you can share or tease about the episode?  

A) Well, it’s an incredibly powerful episode and rightfully so considering it is the season premiere and also deals with the world of the pandemic we live in.  I couldn’t believe how well detailed and sensitive the storylines were.  I almost felt that it was one of the best representations of reality and how a hospital and its staff and patients must deal with the pandemic and all the problems that may arise from them. This includes personal issues and political and definitely the emotional toll that it takes on everyone.

Q) What was it like coming on a as a newbie to a popular seasoned show?  

A) I’m always a little nervous about coming onto a show that has seasoned crew and actors on it.  The positive is that they are a well-oiled machine that understands how to make a guest star comfortable.  And as a prepared actor, it is very easy to roll with the efficient layout of the day’s schedule.  The downside is that the speed of production can be overwhelming. Usually changes can be made on the fly to accommodate others and schedule changes.  Normally, these changes take time, but in a well-oiled production they can be done in a snap of a finger.  The best example is working on a soap opera.  As a new actor, it is incredibly hard to keep up with the pacing. Actors on soap operas know exactly where the cameras are and the angles and blocking styles and acting styles. Also, know where pickups and self-starts are okay and the same can be said about hour long dramas that are in later seasons.

Q) Is there anything specific that drew you to this character you will be playing?  

A) It is an incredibly realistic portrayal of someone who is dealing with illness in the time of a pandemic and politically charged climate.  I thoroughly enjoyed the emotional journey of the character.  As an actor, many times the guest starring role is limited to furthering story only but in this case, it was definitely one that tugged at the heartstrings.

Q) Will there be major conflict with this character on Season Six or can you tease how long this character will be around?

A) I don’t think this character will return, but who knows. Maybe they can bring him back to further show the developments of the pandemic world.

Q) Was there anybody you were particularly looking forward to working with on the set?

A) To be honest, I wasn’t too familiar with the body of work of the other actors.  But I did know they came from a very long and diverse set of roles. So, I knew I would be working with some great actors.

Q) What was your experience filming with the cast and how was the camaraderie amongst the cast?  

A) The one true goal of any actor is to become a series regular on a television show.  And to see actors who have been on show for five seasons, it is really nice to observe their ease and the fluidity in which they speak and socialize with each other. Also, the way that the regulars interact with the director and really know how their performances were taped and if they could add more in doing one more take. A lot of perfectionists and that is important.

Q) What were some of your favorite moments from filming the show?

A) The monologue and emotional crescendo of my character was very enjoyable and fulfilling as an actor.

Q) What did you personally take away from your time working on “Chicago Med?”

A) I took away that the production was top notch and incredibly topical. I learned that Chicago is an amazing city to be able to be on a show.  No pressures or chaos of Hollywood and Los Angeles, but a thriving and diverse community of people and professions.

Q) You are a part of social media. Are you looking forward to the fan feedback you’ll receive to your character?

A) I always enjoy the feedback from fans, which is normally wonderful.  I learned from my experience on “Teen Wolf” that fans make the show.  To say that the fans on “Teen Wolf” were rabid, pun intended, would be an understatement.  I mean, overnight my followers on Twitter went from under five hundred to over twenty-seven thousand.  That’s insane.  I know “Chicago Med” also has a great fan base and I especially look forward to the memes and fan made clips and montages.

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

A) I would like to give my extreme thanks for reminding me of why I became an actor.  Whenever I feel at doubt, I get a message or a link to a fan created art piece and it really humbles me and motivates me to do more work.  And just like Starry Constellation Magazine is connecting fans with performers, I will try and acknowledge every one of you!  Thank you!