As of late, 360 Magazine sat down with actor, Michael Evans Behling, to discuss his story on becoming a series regular on the hit CW tv-show “All American.”
Behling was born in Columbus, OH but raised in Columbus, IN. Growing up, he played football, volleyball and ran track & field. Before pursuing college for track, Behling’s mother pushed him to try his hand at modeling. Flash forward one year, the biracial newcomer shot for notable brands like Nike, Finish Line and White Castle. Discovering a passion for comedic shorts via social media, Behling paved a career path that created an escape from negativity and depression. His personal life in a funk, acting molded that release and in return, made himself and others feel better. A bold move to LA quickly proceeded and transformed his life.
What do you think been your favorite part of shooting All American?
An outstanding cast. People-wise, we are a family that clicked from the beginning. There’s such a nice atmosphere including the production! Whether in the morning or night, I’m smiling going in.
Being relatively new to working the industry, what is one thing you would work on more?
To continue working even more and getting out on stage. Whether it means taking more classes and working as much I can to get even more comfortable doing my job.
One thing you’d work on less:
Before going into work. Whenever you get to set, you make something fun. The challenging part is when you get home at 3AM after a sixteen hour day and you have to prep for the next day. During the past 8 months, I didn’t sleep but it’s worth it. Being on stage, I’m still new and have a lot to learn. There are still moments where I felt like I could have done something better but it’s this feeling of “unsure” where I hesitate.
Describe your role and thoughts on your character Jordan:
Jordan is a cocky, confused, angsty high schooler who is the Beverly Hills High School quarterback. He’s dealing with some major identity issues, especially when Spencer comes to town and sees how his father and him connect – I think he’s got a really good heart and a lot of love for his sister and mom, but wants to connect with his Dad and fill his shoes. He’s slightly a jock with underlying actions and a lot of pain I have to hit while on set. Jordan’s a mixed kid who’s struggling to find himself but vicariously living through his dad. We’re both mixed so there’s a strong connection.
What advice to you have for minorities and kids of color breaking into the industry?
Right now we have an advantage – use this time now to get your training, get headshots and get whatever you need to get into the room. What’s the number one thing you could do before you get in? Ask yourself why you want to be in the industry. Do you know why you want to get into the industry for the right reasons? It’s because you want to make a change and love the craft. You love entertainment and make a positive change in somebody’s life.
One you get into the room, and you perform it’s out of your control. The door is going to open at some point. Stay positive and don’t get discouraged.
