We at Survived The Shows had the pleasure of chatting with Dan Jeannotte, about ‘ The Bold Type ‘, his favourite role and much more.
What can you share about your experience filming Hallmark’s The Royal Nanny?
I’ve been so lucky with the films that I’ve done with Hallmark. For The Royal Nanny, I got to work with my old friend and castmate from Reign, Rachel Skarsten. We were on that show together, years ago, but our characters never crossed paths, so we had never actually acted together before. But she’s such a kind and funny soul, I knew it would be wonderful working with her — and it was! Plus, the filming took place in Belgium, which I had never visited before, and I was able to bring my wife and son with me, so we made a lovely family trip out of it. On top of that, I worked with a fantastic Belgian crew and got to speak French for three weeks. Not to mention the Belgian fries, beers, waffles, and chocolates… Why is Hallmark stuffing me full of chocolate?!
What can you share about your experience as Ryan “Pinstripe” Decker on ‘The Bold Type‘?
Although I only had a supporting role, I’m very proud of The Bold Type. I thought it was so smart and big-hearted, and obviously fun and sexy. I was really happy to be a part of a show that centers female friendship and support, and that tries to approach social issues in an interesting and hopeful way. Mark my words: the world needs more shows like The Bold Type! And of course I made wonderful friends on that show. And we filmed in my hometown of Montreal, which is a dream. Mark these other words: I need to get more jobs in Montreal!
Throwing back to the origins of your career, how did the passion for acting come about in your life?
Since I was a kid, I’ve been in love with stories. It started with books. As a child, I dictated stories and my mother wrote them down. I thought I would grow up to be an author. As I got older, my love of stories expanded to include film. I thought maybe I would be a director. And then in college, on a friend’s encouragement, I tried out for a play, and for an improv comedy group. I made it into both, and the trajectory of my life changed. I could be a part of telling stories from the inside, inhabiting the world of the story myself. It was magic. I’m amazed that 20 years later I still get to be a part of that magic.
Among all the roles you’ve had the chance to play throughout your career, is there any particular role you’re most fond of?
At the moment, I think the part I’m most excited about is one that’s still ongoing — I play Sam Kirk in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. Season 1 has already aired, and it got wonderful reviews. We’ve filmed season 2, and we’re waiting to hear about an air date. The fact that I am now a part of an iconic franchise like Star Trek is just mind-blowing to me. To get to play in a sci-fi world is so much fun. And beyond all that, this show is just really good. It’s well-written and fun and dramatic and it looks amazing.
I play Sam Kirk, who is the older brother of James T. Kirk, famous captain of the Enterprise — but our series takes place before James Kirk has become captain. Sam is a science officer, and he’s dedicated and loves his job and wants to do his best — but he’s kind of just a regular guy, so he can’t compare with his daring and brilliant and successful little brother. I get to do some sci-fi action, sometimes a bit of comic relief. The role is different from other parts I’ve had before, I’m really enjoying it, and I hope I get to keep doing it for a while.
If you had to give some advice to people who want to pursue an acting career, which kind of advice would you give them?
You have to really want it, because an acting career won’t happen for you if you’re only half-committed. If you know that this is what you want, then there a few things to start with. Find yourself an agent — do the research, see who the agents are in your city, start getting in touch with them. Get yourself some decent headshots — it’ll cost money but it’s necessary. And start taking classes. You always have more to learn. And try to always remember why you love doing this, try to bring that enjoyment and pleasure to every step along the way.
Sweeter than Chocolate with Dan Jeannote will premiere on February 4 on Hallmark.
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Desirèe
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