10 Things John Brotherton
What a fun career you’ve had thus far. Did you always know that you’d be an actor, as a career choice?
Not at all, actually. Raised by a single mom who was an artist and a real film lover, I always had a love for the arts, but never considered it a career choice. I began acting when I was 10, attending drama camps in the summer. But, it was always just a hobby. I would have guessed my career path would end up on Wall Street, long before Hollywood. It wasn’t until the summer before my senior year in college, that something clicked inside of me. I made a 180 turn and never looked back. I moved to Los Angeles in 2003 with nothing but the clothes in my car and blind ambition.
Speaking of fun, you’re currently on Netflix’ Fuller House. How were you first introduced to the project?
It sort of blind-sided me. I had just got back from working on a film in Mississippi and was eager to get back into the grind. My agent called and said “Now this is going to sound crazy but remember Full House??…” The next thing you know, I’m in the Tanner residence. Every moment since then, has sort of been a dream.
Besides the popularity of the show in the 90s, what made you decide to ultimately take this on?
Once I met everyone and had a chance to work with everyone, I knew right away it was somewhere I wanted to be, for as long as possible. It really is a big family. Everyone works as a team to make the best show possible, while having the best time possible. It has been one of the greatest and most gratifying experiences of my life. So, it was never really a decision, more like a blessing I couldn’t refuse.
On the series, you play the role of Dr. Matt Harmon. What more can you tell us about his character?
Matt’s a lover of life and wants to share that joy with the people around him. Having fun is a priority. He’s wicked smart. Matt always wanted to be a doctor but realized at a young age, saving puppies was too important to pass up. So, a veterinarian he became. Now, Matt wants nothing more than to have a family of his own with the lady of his dreams. In fact, he has his eye on someone quite special at the moment…
What do you enjoy about playing him on screen the most?
Honestly, the best part is the people I share that screen with. We have a ball, I love them all.
We’re all dying to know…what is going to happen with Matt and DJ?
I plead the 5th! #TeamMatt
You’re also connected to the Fast & Furious series. You have some big shoes to fill with that of Paul Walker. How were you taking all of this in, as you were shooting the film?
Paul was a truly special individual. I wanted nothing more than to honor him the best I could. The world misses him.
You’re part of a project called Reach Out Worldwide. What can you tell us about the project itself and your involvement?
Reach Out World Wide was founded by Paul Walker. They are a post-disaster relief organization. Helping those in dire need with a variety of aide including: medical care, debris removal, water filtration, etc. When the devastating earthquake hit Haiti, Paul rallied a team of people to go help, funding it himself. This became a trend as disasters continued to pop up all over the world. From there, he founded ROWW. Paul never sought credit, but was truly just inspired to give. Paul’s brother, Cody, is now leading the organization.
When it comes to fashion, who are your favorite designers and styles?
There are so many great designers out there. Something classic with edge. Anything in black, navy or grey. You can find me in that section, with Chucks on.
We look forward to seeing how things develop on Fuller House. What other projects do you have coming up?
I have a holiday movie ‘Girlfriends of Christmas Past’, where all my exes do their best to ruin my holiday season. I also had the honor of portraying Gene Kranz for an upcoming episode of Timeless on NBC. Gene is the legendary NASA flight director for all the Apollo missions.
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Photo Credit: Aaron Meekoms