BECAUSE EVERY MAN NEEDS ONE ISSUE 9 |2018

WINGMANMAGAZINE

JON HUERTAS From “,” MARTHA HIGAREDA From “ALTERED CARBON,” + RICK GONZALEZ From “” Prove The Importance Of Latin Visibility And Live... THE AMERICAN DREAM! MORE STARS! ROBERT PATRICK REBECCA DE MORNAY JAMES DEVELINSHAMARKO THOMAS ALEX RUSSELL LILY JI PLUS! - KELSEY ASBILLE Helps Pay Tribute To Iconic Director PLUS MORE! JOEL SCHUMACHER! www.wingmanmagazine.com

WINGMAN MAGAZINE EDITOR’S WINGMAN ISSUE 9 / 2018 NOTE

Being in my 30’s I have grown up in a time where “The Goonies” were able to run around like explorers, Zack and Slater were best friends and the coolest guys at Bayside High, Cory and Topanga were the couple that everyone wanted to be like, MTV actu- ally played music videos, and unfortunately endured one of the worst attacks on American soil on 9/11. The 80’s and 90’s were the time that shaped my generation and made them into hardworking, respectful men and women. What can we expect from the generations to come?

The older generations lined up to defend their countries, work in INDEX factories, scrounge to pay bills and live without a lot so their kids 4- Editor’s Note 5- Table Of Contents didn’t have to. So many of us grew up in single parent homes and still do and saw our parents struggle to make ends meet. They would take 8- Winter Wardrobe Update! every bit of overtime to make sure the mortgage was paid, food was ICON SECTION on the table and we got what we needed. I saw my own mother put 10- ROBERT PATRICK things back on the shelves that she would want so that we could have 20- REBECCA DE MORNAY COVER STORY that one special dinner or go to the movies that week. I look back at 30- LATIN-AMERICAN POWER! it now and realize just how much respect I have for her and what she 36- RICK GONZALEZ from “A r r o w ” had to live through to support my sister and I. 44- MARTHA HIGAREDA from “Altered Carbon” EDITORIAL BOARD 52- from “This Is Us” The future generations are to be determined on how they act but LIFESTYLE 64- Hotspots + Getaways! CEO and Editor-In-Chief if eating Tide Pods is an indication of the future than I am scared. DIRECTOR’S SPOTLIGHT + TRIBUTE Michael McCarthy I know it’s a small population that did it, but still it happened and 70- Director of “The Lost Boys,” JOEL SCHUMACHER Head Wingman one thing I was always taught; don’t drink or eat anything that came 76- “Yellowstone” Star KELSEY ASBILLE Andrew Cristi from under the sink or used for cleaning. A simple idea and rule, I Helps Pay Tribute To JOEL SCHUMACHER! would think. We live in a world where it’s scary to be outside due to COMEDY Head Of Photography NY 84- “” Star Michael Fishman! Ron Contarsy the amount of violence that occurs on a daily basis. When I was a kid OUT WORLD! (not to sound old) we walked the streets at night alone, didn’t have a 94- ALEX RUSSELL From “S.W.A.T.” Head Of Photography LA Rowan Daly lot of supervision after school because our parents worked and our 100- LILY JI From “Pacific Rim Uprising” worst fear was if there was something good on TV after school. My SPORTS + FITNESS NY Wingmen and Wingwomen hope is that the current generation learns from what their parents 108- Patriots Fullback JAMES DEVELIN Sarkis Delimelkon 114- Buffalo Bills Safety SHAMARKO THOMAS! Vanessa Figueroa and grandparents were taught and turn that into their mantra for the EXTRAS future. That is what I want for the generation that is coming up now a 120- Movie Previews 121- Game Previews Boston Wingmen safe place to live but also to take what your grandparents and parents Brett Marden say to heart, they have been through it.

Head of Podcast SINCERELY, Warren Oberman MICHAEL J. MCCARTHY Cover Photograph Taken by Rowan Daly at The Aka Beverly Hills. For Fashion Credits, See Story On Page 32. Editor-In-Chief/CEO

4 5

WINGMAN WINGMAN MAGAZINE MAGAZINE

pring has sprung! Ready for long strolls outdoors afterwork and picnics SPRING in the Spark? Let’s be real- probably not. But, you are probably ready for more happy hours, pre-summer barbecues, rooftop parties, and awesome outdoor sports and ad- ventures- all of which requires looking your very best in the perfect outfit. So, what are the must-have items that could kick up your wardrobe this spring? Read on and, as STYLE always, let Wingman be your guide! ESSENTIAL MUST-HAVES! STEPHEN F GOLA Retro never looked this good! With Steve Harrington quickly Of course, there is no season that calls for disregarding becoming a major hero and style icon, “” fans every- sophistication, and, as a gentleman, it’s important to remember that where are soon going to be seeking out some gear that recalls those the warmer weather doesn’t mean throwing class out the window. early 80’s vibes! These Gola are easily perfectly on-point That said, there’s no better place to shop than Stephen F. Other for the trend! than the flagship store’s super-cool location right in the heart of Soho, the trendy designer also offers a wide variety of eclectic dap- Gola; Classic Men’s Harrier 50 Leather Trainer in White/Red, $95, www.golausa.com per goods that can up any stylish man- just like this eye-catch- ing bomber. Without ever being garish, the electric manages to steal any scene it’s in, transcending genres of style and offering something both new and timeless. And, if the Joker wears purple, PRPS then we know that’s the go-to color of cool! A perfect match to those Gola sneakers, these PRPS Stephen F; Suede Bomber in Deep Purple (Other Colors Available), Prices are not just the perfect Available For Each Upon Request, www.stephen-f.com wash and fit, but they are also as current as can be! And, going with our cover theme of DOCKERS celebrating our United States, The return of the sun in the sky means one thing, fellas- time to DIPLOMACY the red, white, and blue color show them legs! With in the workplace becoming more accept- combination isn’t just stylish- ed, it’s always best to keep it as classic and classy as possible, and Not warm enough to go sleeve- it’s patriotic, and that’s a trend a timeless brand like Dockers will ensure you’re looking good for the less, and not cold enough to bundle up, that will never go out of style! office, but even more perfectly suited for meeting the guys after work city-dwellers find themselves in the usual Also, see all three stars rocking to toss around a football. And remember, just because you have to be spring predicament of finding what to PRPS Jeans on our cover! appropriate, doesn’t mean you have to play it too safe- try a pattern wear outdoors. Well, look no further! With it’s lightweight texture, unique color, and PRPS; Windsor Jean in Light/Lit, like these and stand-out while still fitting in. No wonder they call these $198, www.prpsjeans.com “The Perfect Shorts.” super-flattering style, the coach jacket by Diplomacy works for every man! Dockers; The Perfect Shorts, Price Available Upon Request, www.dockers.com Diplomacy; Coach Jacket,Price Available Upon Request, www.diplomacyworldwide.com 8 9 WINGMAN ICON: CLASSIC WINGMAN HERO MAGAZINE

Photographed at The AKA Beverly Hills; 155 N Crescent Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 (310) 385-1924 Photos by Rowan Daly THE Assisted by Hunter Sloan Grooming by Fabiola for Tracy Mattingly Styling and Story by Andrew Cristi

Shirt by Allen Young; The Harrison; $149, www.allenyoung.com by Stephen-F; $1,700, available at www.stephen-f.com by Stephen-F; $450, available at www.stephen-f.com Vest: Scully Black Lambskin Vest, $135, pintoranch.com : Pinto Ranch Cinco Peso Engraved Bolo Tie, $195, pintoranch.com WILD by Allen Edmonds; Price Available Upon Request, www.allenedmonds.com Watch by Woodie Specs; 2020 Collection Inlaid with 100% Natural Wood, Price; $299, ONE Available at www.WoodieSpecs.com

After Decades Of Iconic Performances, Prolific Actor And King Bad-Ass ROBERT PATRICK Rules The Roost On “SCORPION” WINGMAN MAGAZINE

Photographed by Rowan Daly at The AKA Beverly Hills by Allen Young; The Harrison; $149, www.allenyoung.com here are some actors that are character actors and can magically transform them- Blazer by Stephen-F; $1,700, available at www.stephen-f.com selves into anyT role, and then there are actors that somehow manage to always bring their own identifiable flair Trousers by Stephen-F; $450, available at www.stephen-f. com to any character, making them just as beloved as the star that plays them. And then, there are the very few Vest: Scully Black Lambskin Vest, $135, pintoranch.com actors that can do both. The esteemed Robert Patrick is one of those outstanding rare actors that seems to Bolo Tie: Pinto Ranch Cinco Peso Engraved Bolo Tie, $195, pintoranch.com always do the impossible; act as a chameleon as he shape-shifts into different roles, while always managing to Shoes by Allen Edmonds; Price Available Upon Request, leave his own identifiable mark on every character he plays- he is truly every director’s dream. www.allenedmonds.com Watch by Woodie Specs; 2020 Collection Inlaid with 100% As he begins to talk about “Scorpion,” the CBS thrill-ride created by “” writer Nick Santo- Natural Wood, Price; $299, Available at www.WoodieSpecs. com ra, Patrick gladly begins to say how happy he is that the show has given him more comedy to work with- some- thing the actor feels he’s not as known for. However, any fan of the revered star would quickly look back at his stellar career that spans three decades and jump to say otherwise as they remember not only Patrick’s work in films like “Wayne’s World,” but also the off-beat humor he’s managed to bring to every role- including sleeper cult hits like “The Faculty.” With his instantly recognizable raspy voice, and stoic pensive eyes that tells a mil- lion stories with one stare, the thought-provoking talent can make viewers both shiver in fear and double over in laughter all at the same time. He’s a gift to every genre, and particularly useful in projects that craftily blend genres together- which “Scorpion” is known to do as it mixes comedy, drama, and action so well- all of which the beloved performer is quite skilled at.

When it comes to action, there were never any doubts that Robert Patrick is a bad-ass. After all, this is the man that is probably best known for playing the T-1000 in “Terminator 2.” Still strong as ever and in terrific shape, the motorcycle loving thrill-seeker not only kicks some serious ass on screen, he also even does a lot of his own stunts- when it calls for them. And, when it doesn’t, the film vet has no ego with stepping aside for the professional stunt men- who he can’t speak more highly of.

And that’s another reason why Robert Patrick is any filmmaker’s dream; outside of his phenomenal tal- ent, he is also a joy to work with. Humble as can be and kind to everyone on set, the performer comes not just with a friendly disposition, but also a tremendously incomparable work-ethic where he treats every job like it’s his most important one to date. With a resume that spans over fifty credits between film and television, and a mentality that is devoted to providing for his family, feeling blessed to just get a chance to work in the business that he dreamed of being a part of, Patrick is a hero both on screen and off- and he even pays it back by doing a lot to pay tribute to our Veterans who have fought to protect our country, yet again proving just how right fans are to admire him.

But his honorable off-screen behavior, ability to master fight choreography, and all around cool demean- or aren’t the only reasons that this iconic actor should be appreciated- he is also a master at his craft, putting in the work necessary to bring the gravitas to any hard-hitting performance- even if that means playing a real person. In order to pull together the research needed to transform to Ray Cash for “Walk The Line,” the devot- ed actor traveled all the way to Arkansas and spent a day on the Cash family porch- just to get a feel of how the man would have lived. It is exactly this kind of dedication that raises the bar in the work of every project he is attached to, and precisely the reason why so many of Hollywood’s greatest talents are eager to work with him again and again- from directors, to crew members, to stunt choreographers, to even actors who take on directing- such as Alex Pettyfer, who is now directing Patrick in “Back Roads,” after having worked with him on “Endless Love.”

And that’s not the only film on the horizon that fans can expect to see the famed “Terminator 2” star in, they can also look forward to movies like “Will Gardner” and “Edge Of Fear,” and currently check out “Last Rampage: The Escape Of Gary Tison” on Netflix! As mentioned, this is a guy who never stops working! To find out more about what Patrick has coming up, and learn about who his awesome famous brother is, read on! You won’t be disappointed!

13 WINGMAN: So, let’s start with “Scor- Jim Vickers, and I trust them with my excited and alive. WINGMAN pion.” Cabe has gone through a lot- life. They are the best. They’re the most MAGAZINE he’s no longer a part of homeland se- thorough and we really talk everything WINGMAN: In general, you have a curity, and he’s been on trial. Where out. There’s certain things I don’t like to tremendous work-ethic- you never is this character headed, and where rehearse and I do on my own- the more stop working! would you like to see him wind up? takes I do the worse I get at it, so, we’ve got a great flow. I’ve got a great stunt PATRICK: It’s partly due to the fact ROBERT PATRICK: Wow, well, I’ve double; Craig Branham, and he’s been that I was unknown when I came found it so interesting to see what my guy for over a decade. He looks like to Hollywood, and partly due to my they’ve done with this character and see me. So, that’s my thing- some of these upbringing. I’ve been working since I how far he’s evolved. He’s not such a stunts will just wear me out and I don’t was thirteen years old- I started doing stick up his ass, stick in the mud kind need to be doin’ them, but stick me in rough carpentry and I worked in fac- of guy anymore. They actually really there when you need me. And I think tories, and my father was a child born made the character a lot more lovable. that’s the smart way to go. You have to during the depression, and my grand- He’s still a grumpy, old, son of a gun, be honest with yourself, know your lim- father was a career soldier- so, there’s but he cares for these kids. He’s quite itations, know what you’re good at- and just this work-ethic instilled in me that you’ve got to work hard. You have to the paternal influence, and the humor is I’m really confident in that. really coming out. I’m really happy with set your sights on what you want and the way Nick Santora has fleshed Cabe go after it. When you apply that to out and given me the opportunity to do this industry where you got to go out more. What I’m really enjoying is the “You have to set and make a name for yourself, get comedy and learning about the timing of your brand going, you have to feed the comedy- that seems to be the focus your sights on that. Sometimes, I think I take jobs I of where the writers are taking me, and shouldn’t take- and I do regret that to I’m getting to have so much fun being what you want a degree, but on the other hand I do the guy to give the great one-liner here provide for my family. I have to look at and there. The rest of the job is sort of it like it’s just a job. There’s a give and my wheelhouse- I can do the drama, and go after it!” take and duality; this is a craft, but it’s and I can do action. I can do driving, I a job. You apply your craft at all times- can do all the stunts. So, the fact that even if you take a job that’s perhaps they’re giving me something new that beneath you, you work and work hard. WINGMAN: What initially drew you I’m not quite as known for is really great. You have to approach every job as to “Scorpion,” and what do you love if it’s a special job, and if you do that WINGMAN: Now, you do a lot of your about playing Cabe? then you won’t become complacent- own stunts on this show- you’re a you won’t phone it in. Even if I know PATRICK: Well, there’s many different a project is not a big deal, I still have bad-ass. You’re a motorcycle enthu- reasons why you take jobs. I’ve been a to get myself geared up for it as if it’s siast and you love a good thrill. Talk professional actor for over thirty years, a big game. I think that’s been my about taking on your own stunts. and sometimes I take jobs because I attitude, so maybe that’s why I’ve had need money, sometimes I take them PATRICK: Here’s my philosophy with longevity- I just keep working. If I am because they are artistically interesting stunts; I like doing stunts when it’s going to do something, I want to do it to me- and I always felt that your artistic real important that I do it. I like doing the best I can within the limitations I integrity is solely based upon your the dangerous stuff- they’ve hung me am given. off a wire that was 275 feet in the air financial integrity. So, I’ve got a wife Photographed by Rowan Daly at The AKA Beverly Hills on a dam in Pasadena- I was just a and two kids, and I support my family. WINGMAN: Talk about your great I’m the sole income of the household, Shirt: Pinto Ranch Ink Linear Shirt, speck. That was probably one of the cast a little bit- Elyes Gabel, Katha- $125, pintoranch.com and I’m putting my kids through college, most gnarly stunts I’ve ever done in rine McPhee, Eddie Kaye Thomas, Oval Trophy Buckle , $43, pinto- my career. Now, it was important for and I was looking for a television show Ari Stidham, Jadyn Wong, and your ranch.com me to do it because it was important to do. I wanted something that would creator, Nick Santora. Shoes by Allen Edmonds; Price Avail- keep me at home where I wouldn’t have able Upon Request, www.allened- to see me in that situation. So, I like to monds.com to run around and do movies and be a do everything where it’s important for PATRICK: Nick Santora is a fantastic Watch by Woodie Specs; 2020 me to be a part of- but, I’m the first guy gun for hire- I wanted steady work, so guy- his first writing gig was on “The Collection Inlaid with 100% Natural “Scorpion” is a dream come true for me Sopranos.” He’s a New Yorker, and he Wood, Price; $299, Available at www. to say that if it doesn’t need me, then WoodieSpecs.com my ego is in check where I don’t have as far as jobs go. It’s shot in Los Ange- has a really interesting outlook on life- to do everything to prove anything to les, I work ten months out of the year he has a lot of humor, and he came up anybody. I’m at that stage in my career here, and I get to go home and sleep in with a great idea with these charac- where it’s not important that I do all the my house and be my with family. So, it’s ters with making them all have some falls and all the fights. I like that my exactly what I was looking for and I’m idiosyncrasies of some sort. They are really grateful I have this job and feel stunt coordinators are the best in the these gifted people with incredibly very blessed to be on CBS where I have business- I’ve got Henry Kingi Jr. and genius IQ’s, but they are socially inept something that creatively keeps me and they’re outcasts- they don’t fit 14 into “normal” society. I think CBS has and “Will Gardner,” and you have up to the image I have of him in my life. done a great job of putting together a “Last Rampage: The Escape of Gary Because of him I’ve gotten the chance very different cast of varied actors. Ari Tison” currently out now. What can to play many military roles. When I was Stidham is fantastic as Sylvester, and you tell us about these films? doing “The Unit,” got Jadyn Wong is wonderful as Happy. Ely- me involved with the U.S.O, and I’ve es is the genius Walter O’Brien and he PATRICK: I’m really excited about “Last done quite a few tours to Afghanistan does a fantastic job, and I have nothing Rampage.” It’s trending on Netflix and and Iraq to see the troops. This is really but wonderful things to say about the it’s the film I did two summers ago- my my way of honoring my grandfather, and amazing Kat McPhee- she’s phenome- brother actually did the soundtrack! My also honoring the men and women of nal. She’s such an uber-talented young brother was the guitarist of Nine Inch the armed forces. The fact that they are lady with her singing career, and she’s Nails and then he went on to have his willing to put their lives on the line for us just so pleasing- I think the audience own band called Filter. It’s the first time to be free and do what we do is some- really loves her. And then there’s Eddie my brother and I worked together and thing that is very important and we need Kaye Thomas, who is a lot like me. He’s he did the soundtrack for the film- it’s to support them. So, I do a lot with my worked his ass off his whole life- he’s a gritty film set in 1978, and it’s the motorcycle club, I ride with the Vietnam been in the business for many decades true story of the prison break of Gary vets and I’ve gone to the hospital with and started as a youngster, he comes Tison- a man who escaped prison to them, and I really just do it because I from Broadway, and he has this in- help these three teenage boys. It’s just didn’t serve. I don’t know what that’s credible ability to handle large, copious a really dark movie. I did it specifically like, so, this is my way of serving, and amounts of dialogue. He’s terrific- I call on my hiatus from “Scorpion” because because I’ve played so many people in him “Steady Eddie.” He’s a lot of fun to it was so different- not that “Scorpion” the military I think it’s really important work with. We’re really blessed to have is lighter fare, we have our profound to know the people I’m portraying and the mix we do. Each of us has our short- moments for sure, but the character is make sure I accurately shed light on comings, but as a group we overcome just much darker than Cabe. “Edge Of their situations. that- as actors and as characters. I think Fear” is a thriller co-starring Rockmond that’s why the show has a unique chem- Dunbar, Jodi Lyn O’Keefe, Robert Knep- WINGMAN: Speaking of being in istry. It’s been good, and I think that the per, Amaury Nolasco, and Andy Mack- everything, you were in one of my all audience really has found each of our enzie- it’s a good cast, and it’s directed time favorite movies- “The Faculty,” characters relatable in some way. by Bobby Roth who is also very good, directed by the amazing Robert Ro- so I’m excited for that. Then there’s driguez. The film is having a 20 year WINGMAN: You have a movie coming “Will Gardner” which was directed by anniversary this year. If they were to out directed by Alex Pettyfer, “Back Max Martini who was on “The Unit” do a sequel, or expand on that story Roads.” How was it to work with Alex with me. That’s a film about a soldier for a miniseries, would you be on as a director? coming home from the Iraqi war- and board? it’s a great piece, I’m proud of that. So, PATRICK: Oh, it’s terrific. I’ve worked I just try and stay busy. I am a human PATRICK: Well, I would do anything with him before as an actor where we being- I do get tired, I do get grumpy with Robert Rodriguez- I’ve worked with did a movie called “Endless Love” and I and sometimes I think; “Wait! Why am him about four or five times now and he played his dad, and we had a great time I doing this? Oh, yeah- I’m the idiot is obviously someone I enjoy working working together, so he thought of me that said yes!” [Laughs] But, I just ride with. I’ve done the series of “From Dusk for this role. Alex is terrific- very smart. around and think about how lucky I am. Till Dawn,” as well as the sequel to the I think he’s got a real artistic sense and I remember that I used to sleep in my film; “From Dusk Till Dawn: Texas Blood I like his taste. I like the way he has put car and now I have a house in Holly- Money.” I’ve done “The Faculty,” and together this movie- my scenes basical- wood Hills. I sort of give myself a pat on “Spy Kids,” so, it would be an absolutely ly bookend the film, it starts and ends the back and say; “Atta boy!” resounding YES- I would be involved. with me. I don’t want to give away too If Robert would want to work with me much, but it’s a very dark story and I’m WINGMAN: You’re also very sup- again, I’m there. We get along really, looking forward to it. Alex gave me a portive of our Veterans- a cause we really well- I do enjoy working with him. whole night to do my scene with him- really support here at Wingman! Can And that was a great movie! It was a lot just he and I, and he’s a really generous you talk about your involvement in fun, a great film, and a great cast- so, actor and a generous director. He gave supporting the troops a little? sure, I would be on board with anything! me full reign to do what I wanted to do, and filled the gaps. It was a lot of PATRICK: That stems really from my WINGMAN: And speaking of great fun and he was very respectful, and I grandfather being a Lieutenant Colonel movies directed by great directors, really enjoyed working with him. I hope in the United States Army. He served you were in “Walk The Line,” direct- to work with him again as a director WWI and WWII, as well as Korea. He ed by James Mangold- which eas- because I really believe he will continue was active duty in Vietnam, and he died ily should have won The Academy in that capacity- he’s great. in 1963 of stomach cancer. He was a Award for that year. Talk about work- big influence of my life. He died when ing on that film, and how you get WINGMAN: You also have more mov- I was five years old, but he was a big into character playing a real person- ies on the way, like “Edge Of Fear,” man- and I think I’m always trying to live which you’ve done quite a few times! 16 Right, I just did it again WINGMAN PATRICK: most love to work with, or work with MAGAZINE recently with “Last Rampage.” I really again? LIGHTNING try and get an idea of where they were raised and the situation they were PATRICK: I don’t really have specifics, brought up in, the environment, the but, you know I’d like to work with Jim ROUND! relationship with their parents- whatev- Cameron again- don’t know if he would er information you can get that sheds be interested in hiring me, but I’d like 1. Military unit you would rath- light on why they do what they did or to work with him again. I’d love to work er be a part of: “The Unit” or act how they acted. With Ray Cash, I with James Mangold again- I worked “Flags Of Our Fathers”? researched by reading Johnny Cash’s with him twice. And I’ve worked with book about his life and the references so many great actors; Clint Eastwood, [Sighs] “The Unit.” about his father seemed very respectful, Sylvester Stallone, Bobby Duvall, and yet not filled with the most warm and I’ve worked with Billy Bob Thornton a 2. Spies you would fear more; loving admiration. There was more fear bunch of times. I’ve been really blessed the Spy Kids or Charlie’s An- there, a lot of bitterness and resent- with working with some of the greatest gels? ment- because his father kind of let people. I love Liotta, I think Ray and him know that he wished he had died I team up well and “Cop Land” was Charlie’s Angels. instead of Jack, his older brother. And great- I’d love to work with him again. when I was in “Elvis” and played Vernon is a friend of mine and I’d 3. Better secret agent: Scully or Presley, I played a much softer guy. like to work with Gary, I haven’t had the Mulder? Ray had a certain upbringing from his opportunity to work with him yet. childhood that made him the way he Scully! [Chuckles] was- he was a no-nonsense, no-bullshit WINGMAN: And of course, so many kind of guy. He needed his kids to go people know and love you as T-1000. 4. Scarier Robert Rodriguez sit- out and pick cotton because he’s des- Tell us a “Terminator 2” story most uation: aliens like in “The Fac- perately trying to support for his family. people don’t know. ulty” or vampires like in “From He had a drinking problem and thought PATRICK: What don’t people know? Dusk Till Dawn”? music was bullshit- something that [Laughs] I have talked about the couldn’t lead to making money. He was Aliens in “The Faculty.” T-1000 so many times that I really think more practical and trying to get through at this point in my career that I have every day. Vernon Presley was more of 5. You were in a Meat Loaf him covered! Did you stump me? Well, a dandy, or Charlatan- he’d rather just I recently found out that Steve “Spaz” video, and played Ray Cash in pass a bad check. He would try and get Williams and Mark Dippé from Industrial “Walk The Line,” and Vernon Photographed by Rowan Daly at by on his wits and charm, and it really Light & Magic basically invented motion Presley in “Elvis.” Who is the The AKA Beverly Hills seemed as though Gladys was the one capture while they were doing the digi- best musician? Shirt by Allen Young; The Smith; who was willing to put in the hard work talizing of me and putting my physicality $149, www.allenyoung.com in that family. So, you try and find out as Jeans; 34 Heritage Charisma Dark in their computer software! That was the [Cracks up] Wow! That one hurts! much as you can about their history and Jeans, $165, pintoranch.com birth of motion capture- they were the [Sighs] Well, I love Meatloaf, but ; Lucchese Classics Chocolate background that made them the way guys behind it, and it didn’t exist before I’m going to have to go with John- Oiled Ranch Hand Roper Boots, they were. When I decided to do “Walk that. According to them, I was the first $700, pintoranch.com The Line,” I drove all the way to Dyess, ny Cash. ; Stetson 3X Oakridge Felt Hat, motion capture actor. Arkensas and I found the house where $95, pintoranch.com 6. Which character would you Watch by Woodie Specs; 2020 Ray raised Johnny- it was a share-crop- Collection Inlaid with 100% Natural pers house and they lived out in the So, not only has Pat- most like to revisit and see Wood, Price; $299, Available at www. middle of these cotton fields. I sat there where he is now? WoodieSpecs.com and smoked a cigar with the guy who rick been part of countless was living in the house- and it was the modern classics, the man Hmm. I might have to go all the house, I found it in photographs, and way back to “Fire In The Sky”- a so, I really tried to just soak up the vibe also has a cemented place movie I did about alien abduction. of what it was like there in Arkansas. I in film history as the first I’d like to find out what happened watched the sunset there and I really to Mike Rogers. got an essence of the life that it must actor to be utilized with have been to live there. That’s the kind 7. What real person would you of work I think it takes. motion capture! As if the most like to play? actor needed any other WINGMAN: You’ve worked with Wow! John. Fucking. Wayne! some of the best in the business on reasons to be seen as a total some of the greatest modern clas- sics. What kind of role would you legend! most like to play, and who would you

19 WINGMAN MAGAZINE THAT OLD TIME ROCK ‘N ROLL Quintessential Screen Siren REBECCA DE MORNAY is Back To On Marvel’s “”

Photographed at The Sanctuary Hotel 132 W 47th St, New York, NY 10036 (212) 234-7000 Photos by Ron Contarsy for Highmark Studios Assisted by Sarkis Delimelkon Hair and Make-up by Crystal Carrero for Honey Artists Styling and Story by Andrew Cristi

Shirt by Allen Young; The Stewart; $129, www.allenyoung.com Jewels by Crown Of Light; VLink bracelet; $65,000, Unity ring; $41,000, www.crownoflight.com WINGMAN: So, Marvel couldn’t except for the more obvious stories- WINGMAN: This show is also have found a better addition to it’s not really my world, but, I under- created and written by Melissa the universe than you! You were stand that it excites everyone on a Rosenberg- that must be really t’s hard to believe that it’s been thirty-five years since Paul Brickman blessed the world with “Risky really excited to join “Jessica really deep level. So, when Melissa awesome to be part of a narrative Business.” Now a bona-fide classic, the film premiered August 3rd, 1983 and raised the bar while redefining Jones” because it features a fe- approached me and said there was with more female storytellers I a female superhero who exists and what a “teen movie” should be, launching its two leads to superstardom. One of those stars was none other than male superhero as the lead. Want behind it. “ Gun” himself, the king of Hollywood; . The other? A magnetic blond bombshell that instantly to discuss that? that I would play her evil adopted made the entire world fall in love with her; Rebecca De Mornay. mother, as well as the mother of DE MORNAY: Oh my God, you REBECCA DE MORNAY: Right! her best friend, and that she would have no idea! First of all- the fact De Mornay didn’t just steal scenes from the always charismatic Cruise- she downright hypnotized audi- So, I have always been a feminist, be a narcissistic, sometimes abu- that Melissa is the creator and the ences (including Cruise himself, who lived with the actress for two and a half years after filming.) Unlike other and it’s been really important to sive, and a flawed character? I show-runner, and that she ap- blond actresses that had been touted and praised, the mesmerizing beauty was never simply “pretty”- she was me starting from the beginning of said “Great!” The story was about proached me directly? I was just so far from conventional. She always carried both a startling strength and an air of mystery about her that could my career with “Risky Business.” a female in power and what I came so excited to be approached by a electrify the viewer. Her striking features from her crystal eyes to exquisite bone structure could leave anyone It was just this intuitive feeling I to realize about the series is that woman who saw me in this role. breath-taken, and it was no surprise why Brickman’s muse quickly became hailed as a cross between Marilyn had that I wanted to always be in it features all different archetypes And then she did something so Monroe and Bridget Bardot- it even made her the perfect choice to take on Bardot’s role in “And God Created stories where the female lead or of female power that are illuminat- spectacular in this second season- Woman”- Amen to that. the female narrative was shown to ed from light to dark, and Jessica what people said couldn’t be done have strength. Even if it wasn’t the Jones is really both. My character because they didn’t think they exist; No one can ever deny that the “Risky Business” enchantress is one of the great iconic beauties of cine- heroine, or in “Risky Business,” the seems to be more dark, but you’ll she cast only female directors for ma- and in a world where we are at a loss for Monroe’s and Bardot’s, the appreciation for someone like De Mor- anti-heroine, I wanted her to come see as the second season unfolds the entire season. People have nay is greater than ever. But, as beautiful as the stunning star might be- and she is- she is still so much more from a position of strength. The that there is light within her dark said; “Well, we would give women than merely a bombshell, and that is because she is really quite a fantastically gifted actress. Trained in New choices she made weren’t moral- also. There’s just many different ar- more chances to direct but there ar- York at the Lee Strasburg institute, the talented artist has more than the chops to back up her good looks- and ly ideal choices, but you came to chetypes of female power within the en’t any!” Well, guess what? There then some, and she has shown them time and time again in a smorgasbord of diverse roles- particularly when understand through the context of show and what it costs the women are- and every single episode here she took a major risk in her career as she took on her first villain role in “The Hand That Rocks The Cradle.” the movie what made her make said to have it- and that’s what attracted is directed by a woman! choices. The woman as victim is too In preparing for that film the devoted actress did more than her required homework as she sat for hours me. often overdone in Hollywood, and I WINGMAN: You’re joining an with criminal psychiatrists in order to help find out what might make her now famed character Peyton Flanders don’t see it getting better- it’s actual- amazing cast: Krysten Ritter, tick. Many times, actresses have had to tone down their beauty in order to be taken seriously for their craft, and ly gotten worse. Rachael Taylor, Eka Darville, J.R. yet even though De Mornay let her flawless face be on display for the film, it quickly becomes easy to forget how “Women as Ramirez, and Carrie-Ann Moss. gorgeous she is as the only thing the audience can focus on is how talented she is- the same occurrence that WINGMAN: And the show is Talk about the great company happens when she takes on comedy (a genre she is equally good at) as she steals scenes in other contempo- topical! victims in you’re in. rary classic films like “Wedding Crashers.” No matter what the role calls for, the diligent star delivers in spades- and it’s no surprise why cast her himself for the television miniseries of “.” DE MORNAY: Absolutely. The Me media just DE MORNAY: They are fantastic. Too and Time’s Up movements When I first came to Hollywood, I These days, De Mornay can be seen still shining bright on one of our favorite shows; “Jessica Jones.” A couldn’t be appearing at a better was always the youngest person proud feminist, the strong-willed star immediately states that she is glad to be on a show that features a wom- time- this is something that has perpetuates in the room- somehow or another, an superhero, as well as a series that is run by someone like Melissa Rosenberg, who is helping to change the been going on for far too long. that’s been reversed, and many of game for women behind the scenes in television. Sick of watching females victimized on screen and always in- Women as victims in media just women as these really talented people could terested in joining projects that showcase women finding power within themselves, the adored California native perpetuates women as victims in be my actual children! It’s amazing, recognizes that there aren’t many superhero shows or films that feature a female lead- and she’s thrilled to be a the world- we all feel influenced victims in and special to me because I really part of one that does. Because at the end of the day, beyond being an iconic beauty and a true talent, De Mor- by moving images in movies. If I am a mother- I have two daughters. nay is also smart as a whip and a great person- completely down to earth and humble as can be, attributes that have to see or hear about one more the world- It’s really nice to be in this posi- can be lost in today’s society and especially in Hollywood. When asked if the message of fighting back against woman that has to get graphically tion where I can encourage these capitalistic greed in “Risky Business” helped her stay so grounded, De Mornay took the question to heart and tortured on screen to get victimized, we all feel younger actors. I feel as protective answered that the message was always one that her, Tom Cruise, and Paul Brickman deeply shared- and that’s or even to then become a heroine, toward Rachael and Krysten as what really made the movie a classic. And we have to say- we loved recreating one of its famous moments for I just think I’m going to throw up. I do toward my own daughters. our magazine! They don’t do that to male charac- influenced They’re a really great cast, and I’m ters. Having said that, when Me- so pleased to be working with all of Read on to find out more of what De Mornay had to say! lissa Rosenberg approached me by moving them. and said they were doing a female superhero? I was thrilled. Now, I’m images in WINGMAN: Let’s talk about “The not a superhero connoisseur, I don’t Hand That Rocks The Cradle.” read comics [laughs] I didn’t know movies.” This movie really got to give you about any of the Marvel universe the opportunity to shine as an 22 23 WINGMAN MAGAZINE actress in a whole new light and when she kills the girl in the green band’s descent into madness. But, take on darker characters. Can house that she is so removed from I have to say that I still really like you talk about making that de- it emotionally that she sets it in ’s vision. cision to take the role of Peyton action, and to her it’s almost like and the process of becoming a movie- so when she it WINGMAN: You had another her? happen it’s as if she’s an audience movie that’s become a very big member eating popcorn.” He loved cult classic; “Lords Of Dogtown.” DE MORNAY: Peyton was actually the idea and that’s where we had That movie featured some great my very first villain I played. That her eating the apple- and that’s talent; Nikki Reed, Emile Hirsch, was about ten years into my career one of my favorite moments. It’s so Eldon Henson, and . and for some reason before that I creepy. Did you ever imagine that movie had never gotten offered an actual would take on such a powerful villain. I was a little intimidated by afterlife? that, and I was a little confused as to whether or not this would DE MORNAY: You know, I kind of even be a good film- shows how “I would like did because I understood that the much I know! [Laughs] As a funny to see fairy tales surfer culture is so strong. It’s not anecdote- I have some ideas that quite motorcycle culture, but it’s are totally worthwhile, and some that promote a definitely wild and it has morphed that are so ridiculous. When we into snowboard culture and skater finished the film, I called the studio positive story culture- there’s something free- and told them; “It’s a really bad for the female ing and edgy about this lifestyle. idea to name this movie ‘The Hand There’s an athleticism in this coun- That Rocks The Cradle.’ It’s too narrative.” terculture that is very appealing. long of a title. I know this is not my So, I did know that this would be business, but I’m in it and I really an important movie. And it was a female director; Catherine Hard- want it to do well.” [Cracks up] WINGMAN: You have a tremen- wicke. I loved working with her and Meanwhile it went on to gross so dous knack for thrillers, and you she went on to do “Twilight.” I had much at the box office with that ti- also starred in a very highly rat- Emile Hirsch playing my son- and tle! So, take my advice with a grain ed miniseries of “The Shining” if I ever had a son, if only he could of salt! But- some of my instincts that is known for being much be like Emile Hirsch! He was just are right; in that film I did tons of more like the novel- particularly an absolute doll. Everyone was, research and spent tons of time for your character. How much but I particularly had to interact with a criminal psychiatrist. This did you study the book before with him- who I loved. And then, of was a person who spent their ca- taking on the role? reer analyzing criminal women for course, Heath Ledger. I spent quite court cases, and they gave me a DE MORNAY: So, I loved “The a bit of time with him on the mov- lot of pointers as to what might be Shining” by Stanley Kubrick- but ie. We didn’t have scenes, but we going on inside of this woman that Stephen King did not because it did get to know each other. When would be capable of murdering. I deviated too much from his novel, Heath Ledger died was one of the just figured that as angry as I’ve so, I dutifully read the novel and few times that I literally cried for two ever gotten in my life, I just believe Stephen King himself cast me in weeks- he was a very special star. there is an invisible line that some the miniseries. Again, like Marvel, It was outrageous that he died at people are able to cross and some it’s not really my vein of gold- I twenty-eight. Very sad. people are not- and killing anoth- don’t usually read Stephen King WINGMAN: The year before er human being is one of them. novels, but I understood that there the “Lords Of Dogtown,” Emile Photo by Ron Contarsy Not necessarily in a war zone, was something more for that char- Hirsch made “The Girl Next for Highmark Studios at but just out of anger- I needed to acter that he wanted. He wasn’t Door,” which was of course strik- The Sanctuary Hotel New understand what created that. So, happy with the Stanley Kubrick York ingly similar to “Risky Business”- once I spoke with this psychiatrist version that Shelley Duvall was Shirt by Allen Young; it even had the same composer! The Stewart; $129, www. for a long time I then started to made to play as the wife; whimper- allenyoung.com ing- he didn’t want that. So, I was really understand, and one of the DE MORNAY: Well, as Emile Hirsh Jewels by Crown Of Light; good ideas that I had was where all behind the idea that he wanted said...it was a rip-off. VLink bracelet; $65,000, a strong wife countering the hus- Unity ring; $41,000, I said to Curtis [Hanson]; “I think www.crownoflight.com 25 WINGMAN: It was a rip-off. Let’s off. He was concerned about it for WINGMAN: And as you know, WINGMAN Photo by Ron Contarsy for call it what it was. [Laughs] the country, and that kind of made I’m a huge fan of Shelley Du- MAGAZINE Highmark Studios At The Sanc- its way into this simple coming of vall’s “Faerie Tale Theatre” and Those are Emile’s tuary Hotel NY DE MORNAY: age story with a boy who meets “Tall Tales And Legends,” and , and top by Manfredo- words, so I feel comfortable saying a high-class call-girl. But those you also did a version of “Beau- nia; Zipper Diagonal Top and it! were just pawns to tell a greater ty And The Beast.” If you could Mid-Calf Zipper Skirt; Prices story- the philosophy, the kindness, be in any fairy tale today, which Available Upon Request, www. WINGMAN: But it was also very manfredonia.us and the humility of Paul Brickman would you choose? good! Other Jewels by Crown Of Light; did influence me, but it was also Crown Regal Earrings; $14,000, DE MORNAY: You know, I can’t DE MORNAY: I actually never saw very much a meeting of the minds. Crown Brilliant Ring; $86,000, think of a fairy tale- and that’s a www.crownoflight.com it. [Laughs] But, hey, if it was trying It was already who I was. I felt sad thing. Fairy Tales are usual- to imitate “Risky Business,” then what he felt. I always felt that my ly about girls spending the story “Risky Business” is pretty amazing- character Lana was part of Paul’s being asleep, rescued, kissed alive it’s a classic. I’m not saying that to soul- the same way Joel was. They by a man, walking through the toot my own horn; Paul Brickman, say every character you write is a woods and hurt by a man or an evil who wrote and directed that movie, part of you, and I think Tom and I narcissistic woman- they don’t do did an amazing job. I’ve been in a were very much a part of him and much for women. I would like to lot of movies, but it’s very hard to the message he was trying to get see fairy tales that promote a pos- create what I call a perfect pyramid; across. We all knew the cost of itive story for the female narrative. it’s this perfect structure that can’t capitalism and really believed in The fact that I really can’t think of tip, it’s invincible. To create a film the message of this film. So, the one off-hand and I’m pretty well- that has the right structure within the film did have an effect on me, but read is pretty sad. And women past writing, DP, the cast, directing, and it didn’t change me- I was already the ingénue stage either become the scoring is exactly right? That’s this person and Paul captured it, a villain or a nothing- and it’s not really hard to obtain, and Paul Brick- so I felt incredibly lucky in that way. so dissimilar in Hollywood. How- man did it with his first film. And I was also incredibly spoiled because since it was my first movie ever, having said that, the tragic WINGMAN: The main point of I just had this feeling that every story of “The Little Match Girl” is a “Risky Business”- and Tom film I would do would be like that! sad but beautiful story. It shows an Cruise has verified this- is ques- [Laughs] What a rude awakening! innocent girl wishing for something tioning a capitalistic society and better before she dies. “Do the means justify the ends?” WINGMAN: You sang in “Beauty As someone who has reached And The Beast,” as well as “And such astronomical success in a “I think Tom God Created Woman” and “The town like Hollywood where every- Winner.” Did you do your own 27 one somewhat loses their morals, and I were very singing? you’ve managed to stay a very much a part of humble person- did starting out DE MORNAY: Yes. I actually went with this movie and message help him and the to a high school in the Austrian you? Alps, and I first thought I wanted message he was to become a psychiatrist and then DE MORNAY: I want to say yes, swapped that out with dreams of but, not really answering yes to your trying to get becoming a pop star! So, I went to question. Starting out with that mov- across. We all London and joined a band, then ie and working with Paul Brickman- Spain, and after about nine months whom I’m still close with, was a well knew the cost I decided against singing. But I did of good fortune that is so incredibly write songs and I could play the rare. He was not just an incredibly of capitalism guitar, I recorded a demo when I talented commercial writer and di- and really be- was sixteen and I can sing, it’s just rector- which he is, he knows how to that I don’t have the chops to be a do that in a way that really appeals lieved in the great singer- but I can sing on key. to a large audience, but he has this I’m okay, and I love singing. core of compassion and anxiety message of this about what the early 80’s was about; film.” WINGMAN: You have a few mov- this culture of greed that had taken WINGMAN ies on the way, including “She-

MAGAZINE Ball” directed by Nick Cannon... Hopefully, De Mornay’s des-

DE MORNAY: Yes, Nick wrote tiny will be to team up once and directed “She-Ball.” It’s a very cool idea. He kind of wanted it to again with Brickman and Tom be like “Do The Right Thing,” the Cruise for some more “Risky Spike Lee film. There’s a lot of interracial relations, and it involves Business.” Until then, at least a community basketball team in Los Angeles that’s all black girls we here at Wingman got the except for my daughter who gets in because she’s a really great bas- iconic actress rockin’ out to ketball player. So, I play another disturbed mother in that scenario. some Bob Seger for us in the There’s a lot of fun back and forth in that movie, and it really tackles meantime! the anxieties of racism within each race in America today- it’s a very smart movie. Nick Cannon exem- LIGHTNInG ROUND! plifies this with a lot of humor. 1. What would be the scarier situation to be in; “The Hand That WINGMAN: You’ve worked with Rocks The Cradle,” or “The Shining”? everyone from Tom Cruise, to and , “The Shining”! to , and you’ve been in some of the biggest and 2. You’ve guest starred on plenty of amazing shows including best modern classics of our “The Practice” and “ER.” What current show would you love to time. What other roles would you guest star on? love to play, and who else would Several- but I think they are all off or ending; “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” you love to work with or work “New Girl,” and “The Americans.” with again? 3. Which of your films would you most like to see have a sequel? DE MORNAY: I’ve been asking Paul Brickman to write something “Risky Business.” else- if only he would. He’s not writing anything. I’m really inter- 4. Which of your characters did you most relate to? ested in roles of power for young women to look at. I’m interested in Every single one. feminists of the past showing how 5. Name a young actress that you think is fantastic. Photo by Ron Contarsy for they came about. I’m researching Highmark Studios At The Sanctuary Hotel NY a few different stories. It’s always is amazing! Bracelet by Illuminated Me and been close to my heart that women Manfredonia; Three Of A Kind globally are still subjugated and 6. Which comedy cameo do you prefer; “” or Bracelet; $174, treated like second class citizens- “Wedding Crashers”? www.manfredonia.us even in America. There’s gross pay Skirt, and top by Manfredo- “Wedding Crashers”! nia; Zipper Diagonal Top and inequality, and too much violence Mid-Calf Zipper Skirt; Prices against women that should be 7. Who do you most admire? Available Upon Request, www. tolerated in a civil western society. manfredonia.us So, without wanting to be preachy, Other Jewels by Crown Of Light; Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Crown Regal Earrings; $14,000, I’d like to take on stories that show Crown Brilliant Ring; $86,000, women standing up to men and www.crownoflight.com going after their own destinies. Shoes by Prada; Price Available Upon Request; www.prada.com

29

WINGMAN MAGAZINE THE POWER OF On Jon- Shirt by Diplomacy; White Logo Shirt; Price Available Upon Request; www. diplomacyworldwide.com LATIN- Jeans by Prps Jeans; Demon in Dark wash, $228, www.prpsjeans.com Belt by Allen Edmonds; Price Avail- able upon Request, www.allened- monds.com Shoes by Allen Edmonds; Higgins AMERICANS! Mill ; $395, www.allenedmonds. com

JON HUERTAS From “THIS IS US,” MARTHA HIGAREDA On Martha- Top by Manfredonia; Gold Shield From “ALTERED CARBON,” + RICK GONZALEZ From Bustier; Price Available Upon Request, “ARROW” Prove The Importance Of Latin Visibility www.manfredonia.us Jeans by Prps Jeans; El Camino in In American Media! Maaco, $278, www.prpsjeans.com Belt: Black Classic Longhorn Belt, $49, Photographed at The AKA Beverly Hills; pintoranch.com Shoes by James Chan; Anika, $245, 155 N Crescent Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 www.jameschancollection.com (310) 385-1924 On Rick- Photos by Rowan Daly Jeans by Prps Jeans; Demon in Medial, Assisted by Hunter Sloan $238, www.prpsjeans.com by Happy Socks; Aztec Grooming + Glam by Madison Blue Madison Blue Socks; Prices Available Upon Request; using American English Hair products, Enzo Milano www.happysocks.com Shirt by Nanamica; Crew Neck Shirt; Tools, and Skin Care by Dior, Anas and IT Cosmetics $135, www.nanamica.com Styling and Story by Andrew Cristi Sneakes by Brandblack; Vesta Sneakers (Black/White); $100, www. brandblack.com Plaid Shirt: Ryan Michael Red Barn Double Face Plaid Snap Shirt, $165, pintoranch.com WINGMAN MAGAZINE Photographed by Rowan Daly At The AKA Beverly Hills A s “Black Panther” rules the box office, and “Black Lightning” dominates the small screen, it’s certainly no mystery that new heroes are taking the lead and the world is finally ready to see more diversity in the fandom universe. But, as more doors open and ceilings continue to shatter, it’s important to keep in mind that there are still plenty of other people that have felt disenfranchised by Hollywood- and they are waiting for their turn to see themselves center stage and saving the world.

In truth, “Black Panther” and “Black Lightning” may be game-changing in their own right, but, these successes are not the first time the world has witnessed black actors leading superhero projects, or watched them take on major roles in the fandom universe. From “Hancock,” to, the “Blade” trilogy, to “Luke Cage,” to “Meteor Man,” “Catwoman,” “Spawn,” and “Steel,” there have actually been several movies and shows in the genre to feature African-American leads, and plenty within the fandom universe in general, such as “Men In Black,” “Book Of Eli,” and “Event Horizon.” And, let’s not discount the countless important African-American actors that have been engrained in our culture, taking on important roles, if not leading, such as as Morpheus in “The Matrix,” Samuel L. Jackson, John Boyega, , and in “Star Wars,” Whoopi Goldberg and plenty others in “Star Trek,” not to mention plenty more where that came from. When it comes to Asians, there have also been a few heroes for kids to look up to as well with Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, , and now Daniel Wu on “Into The Badlands” and in “Tomb Raider,” although, granted, many Asians would like to see themselves used outside of Martial Arts as well. But, with all that said, there still has yet to be a single superhero film that features a Latin-American lead, and very few fandom universes that even incorporate Latinos, let alone put them center-stage.

And, why is this? According to the MPAA, Latinos continue to over-represent in the population of re- cent moviegoers, more than any other minority group, and even almost coming close to Caucasian moviego- ers as a whole- a number which is constantly going down. Latinos are constantly growing in size, money, and power- and they are strongly represented in three continents, making for even greater international box-office success! They are fans of movies, and want to see themselves, and as seen with juggernaut franchises like “The Fast And The Furious,” films that are diverse in showing America for the melting pot that it is, particularly focusing on the Latin-American population, are in fact the most successful. And furthermore, a Latino director and immediately bonded as they became fast friends, lifting one another up and celebrating the cause as ev- has won the Academy Award for Best Director for four out of five of the past ; recent winner eryone threw out other names that paved the way before them including Rita Moreno, Lorenzo Lamas, Salma Guillermo Del Toro, Alfonso Cuarón, and Alejandro González Iñárritu- who won in both 2014 and 2015. So, Hayek, Selena Quintanilla, John Leguizamo, Rosie Perez, and Robert Rodriguez! Shot at the beautiful AKA with Latinos making such colossal strides in film, both as fans and filmmakers, and the superhero genre being Beverly Hills, right in the heart of the 90210, the famous zip code known by all to be the ritziest in the world, without a doubt the biggest box office draw right now, how is it possible that there is still not one movie or the actors who are also a representation of America’s finest; a Veteran, an immigrant, and a superhero, smiled television show that features a Latin-American lead, and more importantly; why is nobody talking about it? from ear to ear as they got to show the world that Latinos are also more than worthy of succeeding in achiev- ing The American Dream. It was time to start the conversation. For our cover, we assembled three incredible talents who are currently acting as tremendous agents of change within the industry as they help give visibility to Latinos everywhere who have felt marginalized, forgotten, and want to see themselves in powerful roles on screen as well. While it’s strange enough to think of the fact that there are no Latin-Americans leading any superhe- ro film or television show, there are barely any that are even featured, and that’s what made fan-favorite star Rick Gonzalez from the ultra-beloved “Arrow” downright essential for our cover. The Dominican/Puerto Rican- American actor is one of the very few faces to ever be part of the superhero universe that helps Latin-Ameri- How is it possible that there cans feel recognized, and when he’s not helping raise visibility on The CW hit, he’s a philanthropist that does as much work as he can for Puerto Rico! Then, there’s the super-talented Jon Huertas, a man who has been is still not one movie or television a part of two of television’s biggest hits of the past ten years; “,” and “This Is Us.” Not only is the recent Screen Actors Guild award winner dedicated to helping Latin-American men develop deeper storylines on television and in film, but, the Puerto Rican-American actor and U.S. eteranV is also working hard at trying to show that features a latin-American finally get a Latino leading Superhero for Marvel! And then, there’s Martha Higareda- a brilliant talent that just exploded to superstardom with the hot new Netflix series “Altered Carbon.” Having just spent a few weeks as lead, and more importantly; Why is number one at the top of IMDb’s star-meter, the enchanting actress is on cloud nine and in high demand- and thrilled that we are bringing attention to a cause she is so passionate about! nobody talking about it?

Born in Mexico and now acting here in the United States, Higareda knows what it’s like to have a dream and have it fulfilled past her wildest imaginations- and she can only hope she inspires others that look and sound like her to do the same! All three of our powerful cover stars felt that passion about our cover topic,

34 35 WINGMAN MAGAZINE Photographd by Rowan Daly at The AKA Beverly Hills Jacket, Vest, Shirt, and Tie by Allen Young; Shirt- The Thompson; $149, Vest; $175, Jacket; $625, Tie; $65, www.allenyoung.com WILD’N Pants by Asos; Skinny Suit Trousers In Navy; Price Avail- able Upon Request; www.asos.com Socks by Happy Socks; Dress Aztec Socks; Prices Available Upon Request; www.happysocks.com Belt by Allen Edmonds; Manistee Dress Belt; $125, www.allenedmonds.com Shoes by Allen Edmonds; La Scala Italian Oxford; $425, www.allenedmonds.com OUT! As Wild Dog On The CW’s Smash Hit“ARROW,” Game-Changer RICK GONZALEZ Finds A Role That Hits Close To Home

Photographed at The AKA Beverly Hills; A s previously pointed out, there are very few Latinos that come to mind 155 N Crescent Dr, when it comes to the superhero genre of film and television- and sadly, it’s actually Beverly Hills, CA 90210 quite new to see any featured at all. Luckily, for Latin-American youths everywhere, as (310) 385-1924 well as Latino actors all across the world, the talented Rick Gonzalez is here paving Photos by Rowan Daly the way. He is currently starring as Rene Ramirez, aka “Wild Dog” on “Arrow”- which is Assisted by Hunter Sloan not only one of the most popular shows to ever exist in the superhero genre, but also Grooming by Madison Blue using one of the most popular shows currently on television! The fan-favorite hero is not just American English Hair products, making tremendous strides for Latinos in genre TV, he is making enormous leaps and Enzo Milano Tools, and Skin bounds for Latinos in Hollywood in general. In fact, when Gonzalez auditioned for his Care by Dior, Anastasia part on “Arrow,” he thought it was going to be a short arc as a court-martialed soldier, and IT Cosmetics only to find out instead of being kicked out of the military that he would be kicking-ass Styling by Andrew Cristi alongside the rest of Team Arrow on the streets of Star City! But, that just seems to be Story By Michael McCarthy par for the course for an actor who always seems to stand out from the crowd. Everyone knows the gifted talent from his memorable role as Timo Cruz in the contemporary classic “Coach Car- ter”- and as well they should. With an iconic monologue performed with such rich nuance from the skilled star, fans still recall the performance to this day. In reciting the poem by Marianne Williamson, the thoughtful artist channels the fear people have of the future, and as a kid growing up on the streets of , collecting comics, and with hopes of being an actor, Gonzalez is grateful that he chased down his dreams and eagerly seeks to motivate other kids to do the same, working both here in America and as much as he can for a currently devastated Puerto Rico to try and not only inspire their youths, but also help clean up and restore their land, helping to provide water for their citizens and a roof over their heads.

You see, when it comes to Latin-Empowerment, Gonzalez is always one of the first actors in Hollywood you can count on to sign up to help raise visibility and awareness because he is what they call the real deal. He lives and breathes this cause and has made it one of the main purposes of his ever-growing platform. While Gonzalez may not have had the same upbringing as his famous character in “Coach Carter,” he knew plenty of kids that did, and he eagerly seeks to show that they should not be judged by their exterior, and that many of them are screaming for help- and deserve to get the help they need. The motivational actor has been a hero to so many on screen between all of his roles and he has developed such a large fan-base, and he is intent on using it in the right way to show kids everywhere that look like him that they are worthy of greatness and being seen.

And that passion that Gonzalez puts into his philanthropy is the same passion and love that the diligent actor puts into each of his roles shown on screen as he embodies every character with this effortless relatable persona that makes fans love him even more. With every role he takes, the versatile performer gives it 110% and makes sure that the world knows what it really means to understand that character, their objectives, and what they feel- something that has shown through all his roles from “Boston Public,” to “Reaper,” to “Rush,” to “Mr. Robot.” In fact, the carefully crafted expressions that Gonzalez displays on screen are so incredible that you find yourself cheering for his character even when he is portraying the villain. But, of course, it’s “Arrow” that has truly made the star a household name. With his character being

37 so obscure, it gave the New York native the ability to make him his own, and he definitely made Rene likeable, a bad-ass, action figure, they all work so hard and so ing to see certain characters their just Brooklyn. In the beginning I and compelling. The Dominican and Puerto-Rican star is not only paving the way for other actors in the genre, he is also much dedication. I don’t spend that much due. When young people see these would go to newsstands in the giving so many kids a hero that looks like them to finally look up to- and Gonzalez was the perfect person to help shatter time in the gym but will normally spend characters and identify with them and neighborhood and buying “Wol- this glass ceiling, and it was a brilliant move making him a series regular. around 45 to 90 minutes. Most days I can enjoy them and say “I can do that too.” verine” and “X-Men” issues. In get a really good work out in about a half That’s something that I love about my high school years I got into And this is far from the actor’s first time at the rodeo. Between films such as “Old School,” “War of the Worlds,” hour. It’s mostly consistency and I have playing Wild Dog and being Latino and the independent comics like and “The Rookie,” and shows like “NCIS,” “,” and “,” Gonzalez has been all over so much respect for everyone in our cast playing this character, it’s just being. Valiant and Image. I was into screens for quite some time, and, now that he is conquering the DC universe? He will only continue to be there. So, and we all think it’s very important to look It’s getting the opportunity to do it and different companies out there that what’s next for the hero that’s making strides in entertainment? Whatever he damn well wants- the world is now at his the part on screen. If you look at some- I hope people are enjoying it and I can had interesting characters as well feet! And you can bet that whatever it is, Gonzalez will give it his all. Read on to see what he had to say! one like Michael B. Jordan in “Creed” and continue to do it. as where I now in “Black Panther”, he looks the part. needed the issue of “Wolverine” When you think of a comic book charac- WINGMAN: Are you an avid comic where Magneto rips his adamantium ter, you think about how formidable they book reader? Who are your favor- skeleton out of his body. I was a fan look, so that is definitely the work part of ites, besides Wild Dog? of Jim Lee when he used to do art “If You Aren’t Learning Something, Then Why our job. and I collected the cover art issue GONZALEZ: There was a comic of “Spider-Man” that Todd Mcfarlane do We Do It, Right?” WINGMAN: At all of the comic conven- book shop in my neighborhood in tions we have been to, the cast of the WINGMAN show always seems so close knit and WINGMAN MAGAZINE: You are it was for someone with a completely The costume that Maya put together MAGAZINE starring on one of the comic book different name and wasn’t told who I and the props that were given to me love each other. Can you talk about shows that started this boom in the was auditioning for. When I booked was like an exact replica and it looks in- that a little bit. Do you do everything genre. Can you talk a little bit about the job, the costume designer told me credible. What I love about playing Wild together off set as well? what that has been like for you? I would be playing a character named Dog is that I can make him my own. We don’t hang out ev- Wild Dog. I had told this to Marc The main goal with Wild Dog when we GONZALEZ: eryday together. It is a healthy working RICK GONZALEZ: It’s been a posi- Guggenheim, the show-runner and he entered the season was that they were relationship on set which I think is great. tive experience for me. I love playing apologized since he had no idea that interested in making a character that We do some comic-cons together, but not Wild Dog, and the energy that we I learned from our costume designer showed the universe of DC in compar- all of them due to schedules and every- all have on set, and there is still an Maya Mani when she was fitting me ison to our world. We always need to thing. But for the most part it is a healthy excitement about every script that we for a costume. She told me that I was see different cultures and races and relationship between everyone. We do get. Even after six seasons, there is being fitted for a costume and I was they are hungry to show that. I think in hang out sometimes, but we all have our still a great hunger to put out a great confused since I auditioned for the role the world of “Arrow”, Rene represented own lives off set. It’s the same for any product for the show, and I think for of a soldier who was being cour-mar- a different lifestyle than what they were job, obviously because even in an office me I really enjoy being around an tialed, so I figured I was being fit for used to because he was an inner city job, you aren’t going to go home with energy that is hungry to deliver time prison clothes. When she told me that kid from Star City, just like I was a kid people from work every day, right? in and time out for the show. To me, I was playing Wild Dog I was jump- from Brooklyn and not having a great it’s all you can ask for that when you ing for joy. I had no idea who I was upbringing, so I was able to take that WINGMAN : You are one of the first, if walk into a machine as big as this that playing but I knew that I was going to and infuse it into Rene. That’s what I not THE first Latino to be cast as part there is still a hunger in terms of the be playing someone cool. So when I love about playing the character. I get of the comic book genre. Can you talk directors, actors, writers to put out the did the research, I looked him up and to take things that I know very well about what that has meant for you to best product out there. I am enjoying he had his own comic but they could and put them into Rene` and allow this lead the way for others to crash the the camaraderie we have, the care never get him off the ground and noth- world to mirror the world of “Arrow.” party a little bit? that we put into all of our characters, ing materialized. While I was learning specifically too with all of the new ac- about the character, I learned who he WINGMAN: With everyone on “Ar- GONZALEZ: I don’t know if I was the tors that came aboard last season and was in the universe and to me a kid row” in the best shapes of their first, but I think the timing now with every- this season that fused this new energy growing up collecting comic books, his lives, how many hours a day are you thing going on and we see the success Photographd by Rowan Daly at into the show. It’s been nice to come disposition was a lot closer to Wolver- all in the gym, and can everyone of “Black Panther”, seeing people of color in with a new crop of actors to bring The AKA Beverly Hills ine or Punisher- which are the charac- keep up with Stephen Amell? part of the comic book world which didn’t Jacket, Vest, Shirt, and Tie by Al- a new energy to the show which has ters that I loved as a kid. That made include many before is really exciting. len Young; Shirt- The Thompson; GONZALEZ: I think the person in the been a lot of fun to be a part of. me excited to play because I like the Identity is very important to people of col- $149, Vest; $175, Jacket; $625, Tie; best shape is Emily Bett Rickards. I $65, www.allenyoung.com characters that are the anti-hero. or in identifying and seeing themselves. WINGMAN: Wild Dog is still a newer have worked out with her and she is Pants by Asos; Skinny Suit What I do love about the show is that What I mean by that, simply put, some- Trousers In Navy; Price Available character to comics, which is funny just a beast! I will say that Stephen they have had the liberty of taking a one like becoming the Upon Request; www.asos.com to say since he’s been around for doing “American Ninja Warrior” was character and making them their own President of the United States, it shows Socks by Happy Socks; Dress Az- 30 years. What was your back- incredible. When Stephen gets his mind tec Socks; Prices Available Upon for the show. They weren’t gonna take people of color who see themselves in ground with the character before- on something, forget about it, he will Request; www.happysocks.com the character from the comics and Barack Obama and think “Wow, he is Belt by Allen Edmonds; Manistee hand, and how deep into his back make it happen. If David Ramsey want- regurgitate it into screen. What we did running the most powerful country in the Dress Belt; $125, story did you personally go? ed to wrestle for WWE, he definitely in season five was give you the exact world and he looks like me, my dad, my www.allenedmonds.com could. Juliana Harkavy is so strong and Shoes by Allen Edmonds; La model, the costume from the comic uncle and it can be done.” And I think the GONZALEZ: I had no idea he existed! learned the bow staff so quickly, it’s just Scala Italian Oxford; $425, book and bring it to life, which was same thing while playing Wild Dog and a www.allenedmonds.com When I auditioned for the character crazy. Everyone around me is like an great since it doesn’t usually happen. superhero character, we are finally start- 38 drew. I loved the Joe Quesada issues mind when you were reading that WINGMAN: Your monologue in WINGMAN of “X-Men” that I wanted. There was script? “Coach Carter” by Marianne William- MAGAZINE definitely some specific artists that I son is on my office wall because of would keep my eyes and ears out for your reading. How does that quote and pick up those issues when they resonate with you not only as a would draw or write. I was on an avid person, but as a Latino in the world reader level but not a Wild Dog level, “I am always of Hollywood and the world in gen- since that is an out of this world level. eral? We all fear something and the He was someone that was definitely not humbled that amount of people that monologue on my radar. But I am excited that he touched has to be exponentially big- exists out there and that’s what I think people con- ger than it was before you read it. is cool about the show is that they take obscure characters and give them their nected with GONZALEZ: I have met a lot of own life. I haven’t collected since I was people that have really connected with seventeen or eighteen but I believe my that charac- Marianne’s poem and the interesting mom still has my collection somewhere part is that we all do have a fear. I think in her house. ter” why her poem is so powerful is that it’s not about the fear that you can’t WINGMAN: You have starred in attain something, but the fear that some of our all time favorite films- you will attain something. If you think GONZALEZ: I was excited and “Old School”, “The Rookie,” “Coach about it, how hard would you work to thought it was a fantastic script and I Carter, ” and our favorite show, achieve your goals, it’s scary. I found couldn’t wait to work with Samuel L. “Arrow.” You have the ability to play my purpose at five years old, wanting to Jackson. What ran through my mind the good guy and the bad guy and be an actor so there was no hesitation was how important it was to show everything in between. What role in going after my goals. But later in life how important playing Timo Cruz that you achieved meant the most to I always thought it was about staying was because I was going to show an you and why? focused on my purpose. Her poem is a inner city character in turmoil. I had great reminder of how you shouldn’t be seen that done on screen so many GONZALEZ: I love them all and I afraid of purpose and to not be afraid times before that weren’t represented learned a lot when I did “Reaper”. I’ve of moving on in life. You have to stay correctly. He is a stereotype to me, always fancied myself as someone focused on it. I am always humbled that the Timo Cruz is a real person, I know who could do comedy, but that was a people connected with that character. kids that way and grew up with them different style of comedy. I am more I met a guy who had it tattooed on his and my heart goes out to them. It into the physical comedy and that was arm. He played basketball as well and was a pain that he was dealing with more subtle and I just had to spend it became his mantra in life and need- and I wanted to organically show the the time to find the nuances. In the first ed to know it every day. Movies and world that it’s a larger issue at work season I had to spend the time to learn moments in films can resonate with you here which is why it’s broken this way. it a little more about who Ben Gonzalez and it’s a great feeling. was on the show, where does Ben land Instead of judging them because they between [Tyler Labine] and Sam are dealing drugs, wearing certain [Bret Harrison]? I was trying to learn clothes, like hip hop, they are still who this character was and as an actor a human being with feelings. They Gonzalez fi- find my comedy in the show. I tip my have a cry for help that isn’t being hat to the show-runners because they expressed and I wanted to express it allowed that process to come to me. It’s for me and for those kids. I needed to nally giving the that experience that I treasure the most show the world that he is just crying and if you aren’t learning something, for help and instead of judging the ex- Photographed by Rowan Daly At terior, let’s look beneath and see what The AKA Beverly Hills than why we do it right? That’s what I world a Latino Vintage Jacket With Hand Painted Cus- hold dear to me. we can do to help someone like him. I tom Couture Art by think that’s what Coach Carter saw in Robert Anderson; Price Available Upon WINGMAN: Let’s go back a little bit him and that basketball was a tool to Request; 917.515.0020 or help. That’s what matters to me, that superhero? Now Instagram @Robbanderson to “Coach Carter,” which is still one Shirt and Pants by Ben Copperwheat; of my favorite films. One of the most society judges inner city kids by the Prices diverse and incredible films of the way they dress and that they love hip THAT’S a great Available Upon Request, 2000’s with Samuel L. Jackson, Rob hop and talk they way they talk. They www.bencopperwheat.com Brown, yourself, Channing Tatum all are human beings and I don’t judge leading the way in this film. It was other people by what they look like. feeling! not about basketball, but survival, I wanted to show the beauty in Timo especially for your character, Timo as well as the pain that was inside of Cruz. What was going through your him. That was all I cared about when bringing him to life. 41 HOTEL Superbly-located furnished residences RESIDENCES with spacious living rooms; full kitchens; and spectacular BY THE WEEK business and lifestyle amenities; available for OR MONTH short and long stays. LOS ANGELES NEW YORK PHILADELPHIA WASHINGTON DC LONDON

STAYAKA.COM 888.276.9062 WINGMAN MAGAZINE BEING HERSELF How “ALTERED CARBON” Superstar MARTHA HIGAREDA Landed Her Dream Role By Giving Up Denying Her Heritage

Photographed at The AKA Beverly Hills; 155 N Crescent Dr, For a star to become beloved by one continent is hard enough, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 but, any celebrity to gain international appeal and grow a fan-base that (310) 385-1924 spans across multiple continents? Now that makes for a phenomenon! And Photos by Rowan Daly that is precisely what audiences get when it comes to Netflix’s new leading Assisted by Hunter Sloan lady; Martha Higareda, an actress so adored that she has legions of fans Grooming by Madison Blue using that worship her all over the world. And, that fame is only growing! Now, American English Hair products, thanks to her splashy new juggernaut hit “Altered Carbon,” the sky-rocketing Enzo Milano Tools, and Skin star is in high-demand, topping IMDb’s powerful star-meter for weeks as she Care by Dior, Anastasia and IT Cosmetics becomes Tinsel Town’s most buzzed about actress- not too bad for a girl Styling and Story by Andrew Cristi who came over from Mexico with a dream. Of course, Higareda is not the first raving beauty to migrate to La La Land with stars in her eyes and hopes to be the next big thing- at this point, that’s very much part of the American dream. But, very few actors achieve this level of success, and with tons of dreamers all over the world hoping to one day prevail as well and get a piece of the pie while finding success onAmerican soil, the perseverant starlet serves as a strong and beautiful inspiration to many as she proves that the American dream is still alive and well- and that is a story that the actress couldn’t be happier to tell. Unable to wipe her magnetic smile off her face on our set, the humble actress was nothing short of a delight as she reveled in raising visibility for this cause and starting this conversation- more than glad to let Latinos all over the Wworld know that if she could do it, that they could do it too. And, keep in mind, the driven performer’s road to fame did not come without obstacles!

From the lack of roles offered, right down to the way Hollywood viewed her, Higareda was faced with non-stop challenges of proving her worth to an industry that was desperate to fit her into a box. Naturally, one of the biggest obstacles came from her accent. Brilliant as can be and even a writer herself, the dedicated ac- tress tried hard as she learned English to rid herself of her natural dialect, the same way she tried to add height to her naturally small frame with extra-high heels. But, as time wore on, the insightful artist grew tired of trying to please executives by diminishing who she was and whiting out her heritage, and she decided that if she was going to be on screen, she wanted to give audiences someone they could relate to- and that is when the ac- tress began walking into auditions as herself. Cleverly realizing that there’s an entire world out there made up of different colors, voices, and beliefs, Higareda knew that soon enough someone out there was going to want her for her, and that more than anything, fans were going to be glad to see her represented that way- and that was the day she landed this year’s biggest new hit; “Altered Carbon.”

And while the new Netflix series created by Laeta Kalogridas might offer up a slightly frightening dysto- Photographed by Rowan Daly At pian future, one thing about the potential reality that the show demonstrates is the melting pot that we already The AKA Beverly Hills live in- only magnified, and Higareda couldn’t be prouder of it. Highly intuitive, the astute actress gushes as she Top and Pants by Nancy Tran; Bernadette; $1,515, www.nancy- praises the show for its brilliance and how it smartly sends messages about social class, the economy, religion, transtudio.com and so much more, all while letting characters from every background relate to one another in human ways and Earring by Motif; Angular Hoops; Price Available Upon Request, understand one another, all while never failing to entertain the audience. And while the bedazzling talent also remains just as amazed as the rest of the world by the phenomenal world “Altered Carbon” has created, she www.motif.me

45 can’t help but thank Kalogridas for putting such a dynamic Latina female in the forefront of the show and giving smart the show is and some of the you know? [Chuckles] He’s joking people we work with and we actually her the opportunity to play her. As Kristin Ortega, Higareda defies all stereotypes of what a Latina on screen topics it addresses; social classes, and friendly. And Laeta is the same really created a real family, and every should be, possessing so many traits from unyielding strength, to an incomparable heart, and the devoted religion, the prison system. Can way! I remember the first day I arrived Saturday we went out to eat every- performer is glad to hit every note the part requires- particularly because it helps give both a face and a voice to you talk about these issues a bit? in Vancouver, she gave me an entire thing we couldn’t eat during the week Latina women who have felt left behind by the media for so long. tour of the set and I looked at her and because we were on such a hard diet! HIGAREDA: Yes, I think the show is she looked like a little girl in a candy [Laughs] very intelligent in what it talks about By now, fans have probably already binge-watched the spectacular “Altered Carbon” twice and more shop- she was so excited! And I feel because in a way it’s giving us a warn- like we really all share that same vibe. WINGMAN: Let’s talk about our than fallen in love with the enchanting star, but, for those who have never read an interview with Higareda, ing- and I think that is very much what James Purefoy is such a gentleman cover topic- Latin Empowerment and get ready to have those feelings triple! The new queen of sci-fi is not only super-cool, extremely talented, and science-fiction and dystopian futures and so funny! He doesn’t get to show bringing more visibility for Latinos, beyond gorgeous, she’s also smart as a whip, sweet as can be, and utterly dedicated toward showing the world are set-up to do. “Altered Carbon” is it, but he is! And I’m such a huge fan of not just in media, but particularly in that if she can achieve her dreams, so can they! Read on for the stunning star’s advice! a message that says; “Be careful be- Chris Conner’s work. I adore him. I feel fan universes. This role is actually cause we may be headed in this direc- the same about every single one of the really groundbreaking because there tion, and there’s still a point at which “There are Russian characters, Latina characters, we can stop that.” In our world rather WINGMAN than “Altered Carbon,” the social and Photographed by Rowan MAGAZINE Vietnamese characters, African-Americans- everyone is in- economical difference is so huge, Daly At The AKA Beverly the rich are richer and the poor are Hills cluded in the show in the way that we know the future Dress by Nancy Tran; Ella; poorer, and hopefully we can change $2,575, should be” our impending future, but it does feel www.nancytranstudio.com as though we sadly may be heading WINGMAN: Let’s talk about “Al- female and what it means to you to watch the show? Are you stunned that way. And, also when the show tered Carbon”- everyone has been show that kind of strength. by what you see? talks about the inequality between touting the show as the biggest rich and poor it embraces diversity in series of 2018. Can you talk a little HIGAREDA: Oh, I really fell in love HIGAREDA: With this particular show the way we should embrace it today! bit about taking this role and how with Kristin. One of the biggest ele- we actually didn’t do a lot of green So, we have very beautiful scenes it’s changed your life? ments of this show that is truly appeal- screen! We were very lucky to have between people of different ethnicities ing is that it’s a female show-runner. an amazing production value. I think who speak different languages that MARTHA HIGAREDA: It’s funny, So, Laeta Kalogridas took Richard K. when Netflix took the show they said are talking to one another, and under- you talk about choosing this role, but Morgan’s concept and delved deeper they just had to give it a go and show standing one another, and loving one really, I feel as though this role chose into Ortega- she wanted to find out how the book is portrayed, and it had another. There are Russian charac- me. I was very lucky! [Giggles] I was more about who the character is and to be well done- and they did it. So, ters, Latina characters, Vietnamese shooting a movie in Mexico and they build her world. So, by doing that she we showed up on sets that some- characters, African-Americans- every- were asking people from different created this beautiful character with times were the size of football fields one is included in the show in the way countries to put themselves on tape- so many deep layers for me to play- a with hundreds of extras- there was that we know the future should be, so I people from Colombia, Mexico, Spain- character that at the beginning of the rain inside and everything! As soon think it’s very smart. I think Laeta was because the character was meant to show is very upset by everything that as I stepped inside the set I was in so thoughtful in the way she chose the be Latina, her name is Kristin Ortega. is going on, and as you begin to watch the world. So, of course, I took every entire cast because of the message So, I sent in my tape and didn’t hear it you really see her beautiful heart opportunity to fly my entire Mexican she wanted to communicate. anything for about two months as they and how deeply she cares for her family over and give them a tour of the were filtering out the auditions, and so, family. It was very important for us to whole set! [Cracks up] It was really WINGMAN: You’ve got a great cast then they called me and I flew to LA create a Latina character that pulled fun! That’s how we do it- we travel in here; Joel Kinnaman, James Pure- and I had a chemistry read with Joel away from the cliché of Latina wom- packs! [Laughs] But, it was incredi- foy, Bryon Mann, Kristin Lehman, Kinnaman in front of Laeta Kalogri- en. We are strong women, we have ble- and there were really only a few Chris Conner, and your amazing das- and it was so funny because right positions that are empowered, but she scenes we did with green screens. show creator Laeta Kalogridas. talk before I showed up to the meeting I has a wonderful heart and she is emo- That was pretty new for me, because about the excellent company you’re was thinking that Joel was so tall and I tional- and it was truly important to me I had never done anything like that. in. remember searching through my clos- to represent us in a well-rounded way. But, you just use your imagination and et and looking for the highest shoes! I didn’t want to be the typical tomboy pretend like you’re seeing all these HIGAREDA: It was just fantastic! [Laughs] But, then I thought it over that curses all the time, or some vixen. amazing palaces. And when I saw the There’s a saying in acting that how and said; “No, this is who I am. This I like playing a Latina woman who is show on television? I was just blown number one’s personality is will per- is what I bring to the table. I’m going strong, opinionated, but has a beau- away. They really did a fantastic job. If meate throughout the whole cast and to be myself.” And something magical tiful heart that sometimes can even there was any show I could have ever crew, and that couldn’t be more the happened in that room and they called lead to self-sabotage due to the many dreamed of being in, it would be this case in this situation. I couldn’t speak me back and I got the part. That’s why things she does for love. one. I’m a sci-fi fan, so, honestly, I was more highly about Joel Kinnaman. It’s I say the role picked me. crying with happy tears to see how big so interesting because he’s such a WINGMAN: The world that is creat- this show is! talented actor and he played this role WINGMAN: Your character, Kristin ed on the series is so spectacular. so masterfully, deep, and with such Ortega, definitely kicks ass! Talk How different is it from what you’re WINGMAN: While shooting the cov- intensity- and then he goes back to about playing such an empowered filming, and when you actually er, you were so excited about how being Joel, who is almost like a kid, 46 WINGMAN are so few roles out there for Lati- real world? That’s what Hollywood is as well get some studying in! So, I MAGAZINE nos, especially specifically written supposed to do! So, the more that this went to UCLA and took screenwriting is our reality, the more we will see it in workshops because it was something Photographed by Rowan Daly At The for Latinos. Can you talk about how AKA Beverly Hills happy you are to bring more visi- media. Again, I now feel very honored I always wanted to do, and I wanted Skirt by Bernhard Willhelm; Acid bility to Latinos in this genre and to have an accent and feel like a voice to be good at choosing projects- and Dyed Cotton Skirt by Bernhard Will- show that they can be heroes also? for those who feel underrepresented then it became a big passion of mine. helm ; $926, on-screen. When I first came to Holly- So, when I came back to Mexico, I www.bernhardwillhelm.com/shop Shirt: Scully Skull and Roses Snap HIGAREDA: Yes! I’m so excited to be wood, I went to many auditions where returned with three different scripts, Shirt, $95, pintoranch.com part of this moment in the world right they would say; “She’s great, but she and I shot them, and they turned out Boots: Old Gringo Rust Diego Boots, now where Latinos have a voice- and has an accent!” And, I fought against it to be hits in my country! You know, $399, pintoranch.com when you have a voice, you use it! for the longest time and tried to change my mom said something to me; Earrings by Yun Yun Sun; Bianca Ear- rings, $130.00, www.yun-yun-sun.com Right now, we’re at a powerful mo- myself and finally I said; “You know, this “Someone throws you a lemon? Make Necklace by Motif; Star Black ; ment in history where we are strong, is who I am- and I don’t have to change limoncello!” [Laughs] $46, www.motif.me many, [Laughs, but then grows for them, I just have to be ME and know Bracelet by Motif; Malibu Barbie serious] and we have so many deep that somewhere out there someone WINGMAN: You are now officially Chokeer; Price Available Upon Re- values that while doing the show needs someone that looks the way I the most in-demand actress in Hol- quest, www.motif.me Laeta and I talked a lot about how look and speaks the way I do, and I’m lywood. Who else would you love beautifully we embrace our families just going to give it my all.” And that’s to work with, and what other roles and our elders. At dinners, we give our how “Altered Carbon” happened. It hap- would you love to play? grandmothers and grandfathers the pened the day I decided to give them best seat at the table because they myself and show what I had to offer. HIGAREDA: Wow, you know, there give the best advice. We are giving, are so many things I would love to we are heartfelt, and we are genuinely do! I would love to work with Jennifer good people. I’m just one more person Lawrence one day- I admire her so that came into this country looking for “You know, this much, and of course, I deeply admire an opportunity- and now I’m given the . And, I’d be honored opportunity to represent the voice of is who I am- and I to be in a movie. I female Latinas- and I couldn’t be more don’t have to change think there’s no shame in shooting for honored. the stars and saying; “Hey, how about for them, I just have having a Latina superhero?” Why WINGMAN: In an interview on to be ME and know not, right?! “Inside The Actor’s Studio,” Salma that somewhere out Hayek spoke on this topic and said that originally- and still- finding there someone needs Sounds roles for herself was almost im- someone that looks possible, especially since she has an accent. She said; “According to the way I look and like Higareda Hollywood, in the future, or if any- speaks the way I do, has it right one goes into space, all Mexicans and I’m just going to are dead!” What are your thoughts on this? You must be so proud that give it my all.” and it’s more you’ve really helped paved the way in this sci-fi genre for Latinas! than time!

HIGAREDA: Yes- and I want to say WINGMAN: You are also a writer as But, lucky for that Salma Hayek was a huge inspi- well! How did you start writing, and ration for me. When I first came to is writing more quality roles for other us, the awe- the U.S., I remember that my English Latinas something that is important was so bad- which is not dissimilar to you? some actress to many Latinos that come here. But, HIGAREDA: It is very important to me. with discipline, hard work, and prac- will continue It’s funny how you can take an obsta- tice, you continue going for it, and you cle and turn it into an opportunity. The get better. And I feel today that we kicking-ass on first time I came to L.A., it was at the are living in a world- especially in the end of 2008 and I booked a television United States where it’s so diverse- “Altered Car- show and it got canceled because there that when you enter a coffee shop was a huge writer’s strike. Many of my that you hear so many people with so bon” for years actor friends were unemployed- a lot many different accents and dialects, of people were not working. So, I had so, why wouldn’t Hollywood reflect to come! already paid for my apartment and I what is happening out there in the was stuck here, so I figured I might

49 WINGMAN WINGMAN WINGMAN MAGAZINE MAGAZINE MAGAZINE

WINGMAN WINGMAN MAGAZINE MAGAZINE WINGMAN MAGAZINE KING JON Leaving “CASTLE” Behind, The Talented JON HUERTAS Scores Another Mega-Hit With “THIS IS US” And Starts Building His Own Kingdom Photographed at The AKA Beverly Hills; Photographed By Rowan Daly At The AKA Beverly Hills 155 N Crescent Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 Suit and Handkerchief by Allen Young; Suit- (310) 385-1924 Blue Windowpane Suit; $995, Handkerchief; $25, Photos by Rowan Daly www.allenyoung.com Assisted by Hunter Sloan Shirt by Diplomacy; White Logo Shirt; Price Available Upon Request; Grooming by Madison Blue using American English Hair www.diplomacyworldwide.com products, Enzo Milano Tools, and Skin Care by Dior, Shoes by Allen Edmonds; St. John’s Double Monk Strap; $425, Anastasia and IT Cosmetics www.allenedmonds.com Styling and Story by Andrew Cristi Belt by Allen Edmonds; Price Available upon Request, www.allenedmonds.com as a series regular for the second season. What’s most amazing is that not only is “This Is Us” worlds apart from “Castle,” but Huertas’ roles are also night and day as Miguel is nothing like Esposito, not only proving the A star landing a part on a series that becomes one of the highest rated shows on television is actor’s versatility and talent, but also proving his point that Latino adult male actors are worthy of fully-fleshed the kind of good fortune that usually happens only once in an actor’s career- if even that, forever identifying out three-dimensional characters. that performer with their character. But, any actor to strike lightning twice and become part of two of televi- sion’s biggest hits while taking on very different roles? Now that’s more than luck- that’s sheer skill, especially And that is precisely why fans would be lucky to see the clever creative get his big wish in bringing when said actor had to constantly prove to the world that they were more than worth their place at the table “The White Tiger” to the Marvel universe- a pitch he made last year that the studio has to pick up! Well-aware both times- and that is precisely the story of what happened with television’s ratings king; Jon Huertas. of the Latino media gap and seeing now as a great moment to try and bring change, the skilled actor has moved into writing, directing, and producing, and would love to incorporate the famous Latino superhero into For the Puerto-Rican American star, becoming more than just a body to fill a quota has been an uphill the world of “The Defenders” in order to help give Latin-American youths everywhere someone they can relate battle for a long time in his career- and a battle he constantly keeps winning, as he is glad to open doors for to on screen and help make them feel like they can be a hero also. And while Huertas states that he would be other Latin-American men that seek better roles in film and television. ellW researched in the area, the mag- happy just to see any Latino leading a superhero film or TV show, fans everywhere would definitely be excited netic actor is quick to point out that studies done at Columbia University show that the adult male Latino is the to watch the super-talented star with such a knack for action and comedy suit up as The White Tiger!

WINGMAN least developed character in me- But, beyond just helping to make tremendous changes in the entertainment industry, the entrepreneur- MAGAZINE dia, and usually actors are offered ial star is also living the American dream in spades as he builds quite the empire. The utter embodiment of only roles that suggest stereotypes the American dream, Huertas is a Veteran who served in our U.S. Air Force, and now through hard work has or racial profiling- something that made it big, using his platform to help other Veterans, Latino youths, and community citizens along the way. Huertas is not only dead-set on In fact, his entire motivation behind starting his fantastic restaurant Clutch was to help clean up his neighbor- changing, but something he has of Venice Beach and make it a friendlier, nicer place! A guy who served for our country, wants to help already begun to change with our Veterans, inspire our youths, put food in our bellies, and clean up our neighborhoods- as well as provide the roles he has already made us with the greatest of entertainment? Now that’s a superhero- and we couldn’t be happier that Jon Huertas is famous. Previously known for living The American Dream- and taking an interview with Wingman Magazine! Read on to see what he had to playing Javier Esposito, one of the say! beloved core four on the action hit “Castle,” the fan-favorite actor played the only main character “You know, I think that we have been looking who went for many seasons with- out ever getting his own storyline. at the diversity and inclusion picture in this busi- But, as time went on the talent’s ness for many years- inclusion is not a new thing, chops shown through as he man- aged to develop his part all on but I feel there’s definitely still some shortcom- his own, making the role relatable and lovable, and soon enough all ings” racial barriers were thrown away as Huertas persevered in making WINGMAN: So, you are now a ously really want to see Miguel WINGMAN: While this show al- Esposito one of the most memo- SAG winner! That must have and Rebecca’s romance on how ways makes fans cry, You men- rable adult male Latino characters been extremely exciting to have they got together. Will they show tioned that you loved playing on television. the whole cast recognized for it, and is that something you’re the comedic elements of “Cas- your work? Talk about that mo- excited to play? tle” and wish that “This Is Us” Cut to present day as the ment. had some more laughs. Would Photographed By Rowan Daly At strong-willed performer found HUERTAS: I’m super-excited about you like to do a comedy? The AKA Beverly Hills a new home for himself on yet JON HUERTAS: That was given to that. I know the plan was to focus Suit and Handkerchief by Allen us by our peers- by other actors, and spend a lot of time on that in HUERTAS: I like doing comedies Young; Suit- Blue Windowpane Suit; another one of television’s biggest $995, Handkerchief; $25, hits, this time in the form of the so that was immensely meaning- the third season. I don’t know if in general. I think if I were doing www.allenyoung.com critically-acclaimed drama “This Is ful. It was also unexpected! We things have changed, but what’s some film work then I’d love to Shirt by Diplomacy; White Logo Shirt; Price Available Upon Request; Us,” a series that has swept the had so many amazing other casts cool about the show is that no mat- lean toward an action-comedy. I www.diplomacyworldwide.com nation as TV’s biggest tear-jerk- in our category, and to be nominat- ter what they plan on, sometimes lean towards action and comedy, Shoes by Allen Edmonds; St. John’s er. On it, Huertas landed the role ed in a category with those other they change it. That could be based that’s been my background for a Double Monk Strap; $425, www.allenedmonds.com of Miguel Rivas- a character that categories, let alone win, was the on audience reaction, or how the while. “This Is Us” doesn’t offer Belt by Allen Edmonds; Price Avail- only seemed to be recurring in the biggest gift we could have been story is planned out. But, Mandy a ton of comedy, but we do have able upon Request, first season. But, once again the given- so we were a very happy and I are both really excited for us what I think to be some very heart- www.allenedmonds.com compelling artist’s charm won out group. to really understand this story- be- felt laughs. The laughs come from and audiences demanded more cause we don’t even know how it people recognizing situations our of his character, bringing him in WINGMAN: So, what fans obvi- happened! characters have been in- we can

55 laugh about that. Toby and Kevin day. Do you ever watch it? Do talking about here; we need to play The White Tiger, but now it and Beckett had life events, but was always in front of the camera, are both very funny- they are two you have a favorite episode? more Latino heroes in the doesn’t have to be me- it just has Esposito never really had any- they but I think people change over of the funniest characters on the superhero genre. Can you talk to be someone who is Hispanic. danced lightly around a relationship time and I think that the same show. We’ve played with Toby and HUERTAS: I haven’t watched about this and your inspiration But, Hector Ayala- he’s The White between him and Lanie, but we feeling I had before I moved to Miguel, but not everything always “Castle” in a while. I did watch one behind the pitch? Tiger- he’s Puerto Rican and from never delved into that too deeply. California to become an actor, ends up in the episode. We really of the DVD special features re- New York. I hope they stay true to They were the core four; Castle, I am having now about writing, try to get the comedy in there as cently that we did; HUERTAS: It was actually a su- that. Beckett, Esposito, and Ryan, and directing, and producing content. much as possible, but the tears and I let the audience in on how per-hero series. The series specif- my character still didn’t get much It means something to me- having come first sometimes I guess! we train to be these super-cops ically was about introducing The WINGMAN: You spoke about development. That happens on a an impact on audiences, wheth- that we played. Sometimes I’ll White Tiger on Netflix- he would not really having a lot of Lati- lot of shows to Latino males, and er that be for entertainment or WINGMAN: You have a really see the show on in a restaurant fit into their Defenders world. The nos in media to admire when Latina females are usually over- social change. So, I’m excited great cast here filled with talent; or bar. Working on that show White Tiger was very prominent in you were growing up. Do you ly sexualized in their roles. We for that transition. The projects Sterling K. Brown, Milo Ventigi- was amazing. It was rare for me the 70’s and 80’s. I was inspired feel we are doing well to change have these amazing women, and that we are developing deal with milia, , Chrissy before “Castle” to really be in a to pitch it because Marvel has that? the industry sexualizes them- the overcoming things- we lean in Metz, , as well as a collaborative relationship with the been doing movies since the first way they talk or carry themselves. that direction. My partner, Kenny HUERTAS: You know, I think that phenomenal creator; Dan Fo- writers and show-runner, so devel- X-Men movie, and now they’ve We’re pushed in a certain direc- Stevenson and I look to tell stories we have been looking at the di- gelman. It must be a joy to go to oping my character and creating branched out into television- and tion to portray what Hollywood’s about overcoming obstacles with versity and inclusion picture in this work every day! bits and scenes was something this has been going on for twenty idea of Latin-American’s should a sense of comedy and sentiment business for many years- inclu- I had never experienced and it years- and there still hasn’t been be. It’s up to actors like me, and that are perfectly married. “Austin HUERTAS: Wow, well first of all, I sion is not a new thing, but I feel was really great. I loved it for that a leading man who is Latino in a amazing directors like Guillermo In Texas” is about someone with a think I can talk about Dan being the there’s definitely still some short- reason mostly. I also got to do a superhero role. And it’s not just Del Torro, or producers and writers disability, but he is very successful best boss probably any of us have comings. Something that always lot of really fun things on “Castle.” the Marvel universe, it’s also the to hopefully push against that and in his professional life- just not his ever had- and I think that rings true struck me was that according to I was the action guy- I got to run DC universe- neither one has. say; “No, this is who we are. We’ve love life. So, we find the charac- not just for the cast, but for the writ- the Latino Media Gap according around and chase people and use And, of course, “Black Panther”- experienced the same stories that ter finding to rely on himself and ers, directors, the crew- he is the to studies by Columbia University my martial arts and fighting skills, which I hear is just amazing- has whites, blacks, Asians, and every- not other people in order to find most humble, greatest, friendliest basically discovered that the least weapon skills- all that stuff was so a black lead, but we’ve had that. one else has- we share a lot more true love. “4 Days In Mexico” is guy any of us have ever worked developed character in television much fun. I just got to work with We had in “Blade,” in than what Hollywood about three guys going through a for. In the position that he’s in, is the adult male Latino. Most great people, and the gorgeous and Shaquille O’Neal in “Steel.” can deliver.” And if we don’t, it just mid-life crisis and so they decide everything rests on his shoulders adult male Latinos play a cop, a . But, we haven’t had any Latino perpetuates racial profiling, ethnic to ride their motorcycles across and he’s been able to carry that drug-dealer, or gangbanger, or superheroes. As an actor who profiling, and behavior and social Mexico, leading them to then get with incredible kindness. As far as a menial job like a gardener, or has been in this business and profiling. We are the media in in trouble with the wrong guy. everyone else, this is just an amaz- valet- these are the roles they now as a creative who is starting people’s lives, and it’s our respon- One thing I’m trying to do with this ing cast to be around. Even though found to be most prevalent, and to produce, write, and direct, I sibility to break that cycle, and movie is break stereotypes- you the show doesn’t have a ton of these are the type of roles that “I feel a feel a responsibility to try and get that’s what I’m really trying to do as think that if you’re in trouble with laughs on it, behind the scenes we are out there. There’s not a lot of one of these characters on to the I move into writing and producing- I someone in Mexico than they are probably laughing all the time. responsi- character development in these screen- whether the big or small want to give younger Latino actors must be cartel, and we find out Mandy probably has one of the big- roles. You don’t get to see a lot screen- so that young impres- the chance to help me change that the bad guy has nothing to gest laughs- it’s just beautiful when bility to of life experience there. Even sionable Latino youths can look to things. We will see how the indus- do with the drug trade- he’s just she laughs. Milo has a great laugh on “Castle” I had an amazing these characters, see themselves, try reacts. a brat with a lot of money. People we can all impersonate! [Chuck- try and get time and it was a great job, but, and hopefully say; “This character have this preconceived notion that les] The great thing about this cast it wasn’t until season eight you looks like me and has some of WINGMAN: You have tons of every bad guy from a Latin-Ameri- is that no one holds themselves in one of these found out that I had a fiancé prior the same experiences I have, and movies on the way, some of can country must be involved with higher regard than anyone else; to meeting my partner! We found I can relate. I can now say this which you are writing and di- drugs and it leads to more profil- we have some amazingly talented characters out that I had a family in season superhero character is a mentor recting like “4 days in Mexico,” ing in media- and we are trying to actors who have been nominated eight- before that, I never had any on to the of mine.” A character they can say “Santeria,” and “Austin in Tex- prove that wrong. As for “Santar- or won several different awards life events. I can compare that to “This character looks similar to as.” Has stepping behind the ia,” that’s a thriller that I can’t say for different categories, and yet, my partner, Seamus Dever, and screen” me, talks similar to me, and I can camera always been something too much about right now. We’re everyone is still the same humble, he had life events- we saw him be like them.” That was my inspi- you wanted to do? Tell us about supposed to shoot that one this gracious, generous people that get engaged and it was a big deal ration behind pitching it to Mar- your upcoming projects. year. they started out as. as a B storyline. We saw his wife WINGMAN: This cover is ded- vel- and we’ll see what happens. They kind of left it open, they get pregnant, and we saw his wife HUERTAS: When I was a kid, I WINGMAN: And you’re also a WINGMAN: Speaking of being on icated to Latin-American em- didn’t say no and they didn’t say have that baby. We saw her preg- remember taking a cinematogra- former U.S. Air Force Veteran- beloved shows, of course, fans powerment, and you pitched a yes, but it’s been a year. I hope nant with the second baby! He phy class. We made a Vietnam something we deeply respect know and love you from “Cas- superhero movie to Marvel to they revisit it. Back then, I wanted got to have life events, and Castle movie, and it was fun. My passion here at Wingman! tle”- which is on all day, every try and show just what we’re 56 57 WINGMAN HUERTAS: I was in the Air Force WINGMAN: And you are also nice, help people in need- and MAGAZINE a long time ago before the last quite the entrepreneur. You that’s what inspired me to open couple of conflicts, so I don’t have an amazing restaurant; a restaurant. I want Venice to be really like to talk about my past in Clutch. Tell fans about it. that kind of town. the military when so many of our military brothers and sisters have WINGMAN: You’ve already been been in harm’s way for so long. part of two of the highest rated Afghanistan is one of the longest “Once you shows on television! What oth- wars our country has been a part er kinds of roles would you love of. To compare my service to served, there’s to play, and who else would you anyone else’s right now- I could kind of this sense love to work with? never, and that doesn’t sit well HUERTAS: Right now, I would with me. But, what I can say about of alumni that like to play the antagonist in a film being an Air Force Veteran is that you have with ev- that is not only funny, but also has it’s a rite of passage, it was some- a point to it. It’s so much fun to thing I needed to do, it helped ery military mem- play the bad guy- you have more me become an actor, it gave me ber that there is” leeway in your choices. They discipline and initiative, it gave me allow you to be brave enough the education I needed to pursue to make brazen choices, so I’d my dreams, and it also provided HUERTAS: I started Clutch in love to do that. I lean toward the me with some lifelong friends. my neighborhood of Venice with independent world. Unless I’m And once you served, there’s kind my partner Oscar Hermosillo and playing a Marvel superhero, the of this sense of alumni that you his wife Norma, his parents, and studio world is not as attractive have with every military member my wife. It’s a family business, as the independent world- I think that there is- whether they are really. We are inspired by Cali- the stories they tell are really active duty, retired, or what-not. fornia Mexican and Barbeque, so clever and deeper. They almost You have to support each other, it’s wood-fired food. We have a seem like they’re told in a different the same way fraternities and smoker and there are recipes that language with a different meaning sororities do. You always have Photographed By Rowan Daly At Oscar’s mom has been making at the core. I’d love to work with The AKA Beverly Hills that alumni to go back to. So, for years. We serve great wines- John Leguizamo again, and I’d Vest: Scully Shrunken Lamb Vest, there’s an organization that I’m $185, pintoranch.com one of our partner businesses is love to work with Tom Hanks- as on the alumni for here in Los Pants by Dockers; Smart 360 Flex Venice Beach Wines. Clutch is a a director or an actor. He’s one Alpha, Slim Tapered in Bayberry; Angeles called Veterans In Media roadhouse, and you don’t think of the most amazing filmmakers $72.00, And Entertainment, and that is a www.dockers.com about a roadhouse having some and actors around. The level of professional alumni association Shirt by Diplomacy; White Logo of the best tasting wines in the honesty he carries with him is Shirt; Price Available Upon Request; for Veterans that work in the en- www.diplomacyworldwide.com world, but we have a really eclec- incredible and a lot of people don’t tertainment industry- whether it be Belt by Allen Edmonds; Price Avail- tic wine collection. The restaurant carry that- I’d love to share that able upon Request, www.allened- actors, editors, writers, account- was inspired by people driving on screen. So, all that would be monds.com ing- whatever. It gives Veterans in Shoes by Allen Edmonds; Higgins their classic cars and riding their pretty cool. Mill Boot; $395, this industry an alumni association motorcycles from southern Cali- for the support they need. And www.allenedmonds.com fornia to northern California on the within SAG-AFTRA I’m on the US1 freeway- which is where our board of membership where we restaurant sits. We have a great And let’s not have a committee for members patio, and you can sit and watch that happen to be Veterans, and these classic cars and bikes all forget that Huer- we’re always trying to figure out day. People stop in, have their fill tas now has to be how our union can support those of food and keep going. And it’s actors. I also work with a walk Venice, I’ve lived there for fifteen The White Tiger. where we are dedicated to finding years, and it can help to inspire C’mon Marvel- homeless Veterans and we try change for the greater good. If and get them off the streets and people are eating and love where make it happen! find them work and housing. So, I they are, they’ll be happy- they do try and stay supportive. will want to keep the neighbor- hood cleaner. They want to be 59 WINGMAN MAGAZINE

Photographed by Rowan Daly At The AKA Beverly Hills

Because They Gave It All… We Are Giving It Back!

The S o, again, with four of the past five Director Award Academy Awards going to Latinos, and Latin-Americans making up some of the most devoted moviegoers at the box office, it’s more than time to see more Latinos take the lead in roles of power- and we have shown you three great actors that can do so. So, Mission consider the conversation started, Hollywood. Now, it’s your move. To empower and motivate combat wounded veterans to experience therapeutic outdoor adventures after a life altering injury.  The time is NOW, to prove to these heroic men and women

FASHION CREDITS FOR PAGE 50-51 that they can live out their passions and goals. They have On Jon- Blazer by Mr.Turk; Doheny 2 Tux Blazer, $498, www.mrturk.com Pants by Mr.Turk; Clyde Slim Trouser, $288, www.mrturk.com had our back, now it’s time to have theirs. Shirt by Diplomacy; Black Logo Shirt; Price Available Upon Request; www.diplomacyworldwide.com Belt by Allen Edmonds; Wide Basic Dress; $98, www.allenedmonds.com Join us in the mission. Shoes by Allen Edmonds; La Scala Italian Oxford; $425, www.allenedmonds.com On Martha- Dress by Nancy Tran; Ella; $2,575, www.nancytranstudio.com Shoes by James Chan; Adele, $425, www.jameschancollection.com www.Wishes4Warriors.org On Rick- www.Wishes4Warriors.org Jacket and Pants by Asos; Grey Textured Blazer and Black Velvet Smartpants; Prices Available Upon Request; www.asos.com Shirt by Bernhard Willhelm; Hand Sprayed Acid Sunset T-Shirt by Bernhard Willhelm; $307, www.bernhardwillhelm.com/shop Text “W4W” to 71777 to change a life now! Shoes by Allen Edmonds; La Scala Italian Oxford; $425, www.allenedmonds.com 60 Beyond Expectations

132 West 47th Street New York, NY 10036 | (212) 234-7000 | www.sanctuaryhotelnyc.com WINGMAN MAGAZINE

And since we’ve established that Cali is the go-to destination this Spring, you’re going to want some good eats, right? Chow down at Komodo for some dangerously good food! And we mean dangerous- The ADVENTURE’S KOMODOAWAY!Komodo name draws inspiration from Chef Erwin Tjahyadi’s Indonesian background, as well as the fact that the Komodo dragon relies on its Pico - 8809 West Pico Blvd, LA, Whether you’re skipping town to get away with your main powerful sense of taste to survive! Originally founded as a food truck in CA 90035, (310) 246-5153 2009, the hip eatery now has two locations- one in Pico-Robertson, and squeeze, your best friends, or a work trip, everyone knows that the other in Venice California, with food that incorporates a modern blend By Andrew Cristi Venice - 235 Main St, Venice, of primarily Asian and Latin flavors with an elevated twist. Here, you can there’s no time for a getaway quite like Spring! CA 90291, (310) 255-6742 expect delicious gourmet fast-casual cuisine that includes tacos, burritos, plates of steak, salmon, and chicken, salads, and sides! www.komodofood.com And in addition to serving their dine-in and take-out customers daily at AKA BEVERLY HILLS both their restaurants, Komodo offers catering as well! They cater for 155 N Crescent Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 private parties, corporate events, film studios, office luncheons, and more- and you can bet Wingman had them right on set! They are known (310) 385- 1924 for their bright and flavorful tacos and burritos, as well as their limit- ed-time/seasonal specials such as the original Phorrito (Pho Burrito) and www.stayaka.com/BeverlyHills/LosAngeles Mie Goreng Ramen Burrito, both which have become fan favorites. AND So, admittedly, something we really wanted to channel with our cover shoot was currently on Tuesdays from 2-9 PM, Komodo now has a “Taco Tuesday” a time all millennials are longing for- the 90’s, and when we thought of living the ultimate special where all of our tacos are just $2.22! Make sure to follow them on dream, we thought of “Beverly Hills, 90210”- so, what better place to set our shoot rather social media @komodofood on Facebook/Instagram/Twitter to find out than right in the heart of the famous zip code? The Aka Beverly Hills offers what is truly the more info regarding menu specials and offerings! best and most luxurious of what La La Land has to offer, and best of all- it is truly a home away from home as it’s not just a hotel, but also an apartment complex offering endless perks and amenities! Quite frankly; this is about as close to paradise as it gets- and there’s a reason why all the biggest and brightest stars seek to stay here when filming, or during tHE SANCTUARY HOTEL NEW YORK award season! 132 W 47th St, New York, NY Some of the incredible luxuries that the Aka Beverly Hills has to offer are; Option of 10036 private access townhomes and spacious private luxury residences, complimentary Mer- cedes car service to and from the Beverly Hills shops/stores- which comes in very handy at (212) 234-7000 a moment’s notice, and customized welcome offering with a full fridge upon arrival- and you can count on that welcome coming from some of the nicest staff in the world. At the AKA www.sanctuaryhotelnyc.com Beverly Hills, you will feel like home because the establishment doesn’t settle for anything less than the best from their employees- and guests can expect to be treated like royalty during their stay. They can also expect in-suite dining from the world-famous Spago restau- rant- something that renowned chef Wolfgang Puck hasn’t allowed at any other property, the most beautiful scenery imaginable complete with Spacious landscaped terrace with And, of course, we can’t praise the West Coast, without giving some love to the East.

fire pits, lounging areas and spectacular views of the Hollywood hills, and even complimentary state-of-the-art screening Want to experience the best of what The Big Apple has to offer? Do so in the heart of it all, right near Times rooms to binge-watch your favorite shows in utter style. And best of all of course is location, location, location! The Aka Square in an amazing location at the incredible Sanctuary Hotel New York, an award-winning boutique hotel that is jam- Beverly Hills is located right in the heart of the Golden Triangle of the ritziest area in the world, and the AKA properties packed with amenities and in walking distance from the theatre district! So, catch a show and then head on back and operate in plenty of other amazing locations including London, WWall Street, NYC, Philly, D.C, and they even just opened enjoy outstanding customer service, superior accommodations, a variety of world-class dining options, a convenient loca- their second LA property in West Hollywood. tion, affordable room rates, and a standard of excellence in hospitality. The staff at the Sanctuary are literally award-win- ning, including their specialized S.T.A.R. Concierge service, and they are there to cater to your every need 24 hours a AND- there’s even a private helicopter to Napa- AKA’s new LiveIT! package! Book this exclusive experience for AKA resi- day. There’s a reason they have been awarded a certificate of excellence as well as the International Hotel of the year – dents only in the most picturesque setting for the perfect proposal, or taking mom to see all the views of LA! AKA Beverly their dedicated and knowledgeable staff takes your vacation personally as they know best restaurants, attractions, tours, Hills LIVE IT! Napa Helicopter Experience will whisk you away via private helicopter to Napa, California for a day of sipping bars, clubs, and off-the-beaten-path places to visit! and savoring fine wines and treats from one of the world’s great wine capitals. Once in Napa, the afternoon begins with a 90-minute guided tour and tasting experience at the Far Niente Estate, which includes an intimate walk through the And great service isn’t the only thing that Sanctuary Hotel guests can expect! They can also count on compli- Estate’s historic tri-level winery and wine caves, which are built into the surrounding hillside. AKA Residents can indulge in mentary continental breakfast, complimentary High speed WIFI Internet access, complimentary morning newspaper in a tasting of current release wines followed by a taste of the sumptuous and celebrated late harvest wine produced by Far breakfast lounge, Access to Equinox Luxury Health Club at Rockefeller Center, Spa inspired guest bathrooms, and some Niente’s sister winery, Dolce. off the evening in a stunning Napa Valley setting at Bottega restaurant, from culinary of the best eats of New York- right there in your hotel; world-class restaurants Tender Steak & Sushi and Haven Rooftop, icon Michael Chiarello, then be returned right to your hotel! which can be catered right to your room! 64 65 WINGMAN EMILIA ROMAGNA BIKE TOURS RED REFLET RANCH MAGAZINE WITH BRAVO’S “TOP CHEFS” 10 Lodge Road, Ten Sleep, WY 82442 (857) 997-0051 (307) 366-2340

www.tourissimo.travel/chef-bike-tours www.red-reflet-ranch.net

Red Reflet in Ten Sleep, yomingW is a ranch for the senses. It’s where a few hardworking individuals have mastered the art of hospitality to showcase some of America’s most breathtaking scenery and recreational offerings. Year-round, guests can wake up in well-appoint- ed luxury cabins surrounded by million dollar views of the coral-colored Chugwater formation sandstone cliffs and the contrasting blue and white snow-capped peaks of the Bighorn National Forest. Handpicked by the on-site ranch owners, Bob and Laurence Kaplan, each staff member is among the best in their respective fields--whether it’s horseback riding, range shooting, fly-fishing, aerial sight-seeing or the art of preparing world-class cuisine. Regardless of group size, ages or length of stay, the Red Reflet experience is a vivid, once-in-a-lifetime ranch vaca- Tourissimo, an expert in Italian soft adventure tourism, is thrilled to announce two June 2018 culinary biking tion guests keep coming back for year after year. vacations in the Emilia Romagna region of Italy co-hosted by top American chefs and food critics, including contestants and winners of “Top Chef,” Bravo’s Emmy-winning culinary competition. Active adventurers and food lovers of all cy- Rates include all of the following: accommoda- cling abilities will experience specially crafted itineraries showcasing the region’s history, culture, landscape, and iconic tions, unlimited activities, Chef prepared meals, bev- cuisine. Rates start at US$3,995 per person double occupancy. Bianchi carbon road bikes with GPS navigation are erages including over 100 wines selected from around included as well as all tour transfers. E-bikes are available at an additional cost. the world, over 20 brands of beer, and a premium spirits › bar. The price also includes use of the ranch facilities The “Emilia Edition” happening June 4-10, 2018 visits production areas for some of Italy s most iconic foods: including heated pool, indoor and outdoor riding arenas, tortellini, Prosciutto di Parma, balsamic vinegar, and Parmigiano-Reggiano. The itinerary starts at the castle of Tabiano complete gym, 12 seat HD theater, lighted tennis court, Terme, and continues onto the Po river flat plane to the world-famousAlma Cooking School. Guests will stop at a dairy basketball court, rifle range, adult and youth climbing farm from the 1800’s to learn more about the process of making Parmigiano-Reggiano and the thermal village of Por- walls, beach volleyball, their new Cowboy Water Park retta Terme on the Apennine mountain range before making it to charming Bologna. Tourissimo is co-hosting this tour with two Swing Ropes, Zip Line and slide, skeet and pistol with Brooke Williamson and Nick Roberts, spouses, chefs and business partners. They co-own several culinary venues shooting, and many miles of trails. ATVs, dirt bikes, moun- that include restaurants, a culinary-focused retail store, and a small-batch ice cream shop. Chef Williamson is also a tain bikes are included as well as four Canyon Zip Lines sommelier and the winner of Bravo’s “Top Chef” season 14. and a Climbing Wall. 3 nights/4 days starts at $2,250 per

person! On the “Romagna Edition” happening June 12-18, 2018 guests will sample local delicacies, including lesser- known wines, venture through the waterways and wetlands of the Po Delta, cycle to the stunning historical town of Ravenna, and attend a grand finale event that pays homage to Federico Fellini, Italy’s most famous film director and screenwriter. This trip departs from Ferrara (UNESCO site) and ends in Rimini, a resort town on the Adriatic Sea. The tour includes a hands-on cooking class at Casa Artusi, visits to several winemakers, and attending “Al Meni”, a street food festival that brings together Chef Massimo Bottura with the best chefs from the region. Tourissimo is co-hosting this tour with food/travel writer Larry Olmsted who published the best-selling book, “Real Food Fake Food” and talented Chef Claudette Zepeda Wilkins, Executive Chefof El Jardín in San Diego and contestant on - vo’s “Top Chef» season 15.

Founded in 2015 by Beppe Salerno and Heather Dowd, Tourissimo designs and leads active vacations in Italy, providing turnkey, fully-supported programs primarily serving small (8-14pp) private groups through outbound tour operators, travel agents, and private organizations. All tours are designed to provide extraordinary educational hiking and bicycling experiences in regions where Tourissimo has outstanding expertise. These carefully crafted programs are active immersions into the local culture and cuisine for energetic, highly curious, young-at-heart travelers of all abilities that love the outdoors and seek fun, educational experiences with like-minded individuals. In 2018 they will run four Chef Bike Tours in Emilia Romagna, Piedmont, and Sicily.

66 67

WINGMAN MAGAZINE “The Lost Boys,” Schumacher has created, capitalized on, and spread many trends through his work, making him not just a visionary with an impeccable eye that enhances storytelling, but also someone whose influence has seeped out into our culture- and that’s not just the clothes. The characters, conversations, and ideologies represented in many of the filmmakers classics have shaped and re-shaped entire generations. No matter what his age, the intuitive auteur always had a way of knowing exactly what any generation would be wearing or wanting- most times even before they did. But, dressing his characters in iconic costumes isn’t the only attribute that makes the multi-talented director a success. On all of his films, he constantly fully-fleshes out a perfect picture where every element of filmmaking plays an essential part- the dialogue, the setting, the cast, and even the music is routinely on point, creating movies that are to be remembered and ultimately part of the zeitgeist, rather than one of the money-making franchise installments of the moment, or a forgettable “gritty indie film.”

One of the last of his kind, Joel Schumacher is the kind of director for which movies are made, put- ting a signature stamp on each picture and creating an immediately identifiable world for fans to fall in love with. There’s a certain romance to every Joel Schumacher film- no matter which genre he tackles. There’s a gothic darkness that is always met with an exciting, almost neo-noir Technicolor undercurrent. He tells stories in anamorphic scope, with captivating beauty shots on what the world is really missing right now- real movie stars. Actors who channel greats like and Vivien Leigh, both in beauty and in talent. He has never been pigeonholed to one genre, and has managed to make a classic in all of them. When it comes to “gritty” movies, Schumacher manages to reign supreme while never bothering with any pretense or snobbery, calling them “Dirt under the fingernail movies,” and turning in some of his best films as dramatic thrillers, such as “A Time To Kill,” and “The Client”- which even earned an Academy Award nomination. He has also tackled the war film genre with “Tigerland,” introduced the world to the talented Emmy Rossum with the musical “The Phantom Of The Opera,” mesmerized audiences with “The Lost Boys”- a film that transcends through comedy and drama, and stole hearts with “St. Elmo’s Fire,” a movie that served as a game-changer for the entire industry as it was one of the first high quality movies ever made aimed toward a young demo- graphic- and is still appreciated to this day showing that even when the director is completely of the moment, his work manages to continue to resonate and endure. When it comes to turning in fantastic and memorable films that both stand alone and stand the test of time, Schumacher has done so repeatedly and beautifully.

DIRECTOR’S SPOTLIGHT And, of course, for all the fan-boys out there that want to immediately jump in as naysayers over “Batman & Robin,” well, it’s about time to shut that one down. Let’s finally address why “Batman & Robin” has such a bad reputation. First off, it came out in 1997- which would be just about the hardest year ever for JOEL SCHUMACHER, FOREVER a blockbuster superhero movie to flourish. The 1998 Academy Awards were the most watched Oscar’s of all time, and 1997 was jam-packed with truly epic films that were both rich in content and box-office juggernauts- Why Our Fire Will Never Burn Out For The the way movies should be made. There was “Titanic,” “As Good As It Gets,” “The Fifth Element,” “Good Will Hunting,” “L.A. Confidential,” and plenty of other films that are now modern classics. Film was at a new high, Legendary Filmmaker and Schumacher was called in to make a movie that was mainly designed for families and to sell toys- and he Story By Andrew Cristi did so. This is a director that really does not like sequels in general and can make incredible standalone films, and yet, here he was making a sequel superhero film in the year of “Titanic.” That said, it’s twenty years later, and everyone is still talking about “Batman & Robin.” Schumacher’s previous installment, “Batman Forev- Modern classics are a dying breed in cinema these days. It seems as though show business er,” was the biggest film of that year. As much as people love to hop on a band-wagon and spread hate, the has developed two ideals of what makes a good film; a major blockbuster franchise popcorn movie, or a “grit- truth is, Schumacher’s Gotham was stunning. Directorially, the setting, the costumes, the cast, the music, as ty indie movie”- the latter being the most popular and generic way anyone in the business seeks to describe usual was all on point. Who can really forget Poison Ivy’s dance? In fact, what’s funny is that the gripe most any film that is not a superhero movie at this point. This also means that the film’s success will go one of fan-boys have with the film is the dialogue, which Schumacher didn’t write! The very talented- and Academy two ways; widely seen and immediately duplicated, or completely ignored and easily forgotten. Gone are the Award winning- Akiva Goldsman wrote both “Batman Forever,” and “Batman & Robin,” and is even now invited days where standalone films are made for mass audiences to fall in love with and appreciate- and even most back into the D.C. world with the new series “Titans.” And, while the humor of the film might not have resonat- directors have shunned making these kinds of movies, favoring leaning toward blockbuster entertainment or ed with all audiences, the goal was to bring families into theaters, and it also seemed to tip it’s hat to the 60’s pretentious art films. The more this truth is brought out, it easily makes any cinephile grow more desperate series. In a world where “Deadpool” shows that funny superheroes can rule, does every movie in the genre for filmmakers that can do both- and that’s precisely why Wingman has chosen the legendary Joel Schum- have to be so dark and “gritty” for fans to appreciate it? acher to honor in this issue. But, Schumacher admits he’s definitely one of the people that are more than tired with talking about Having started off in the world of fashion, studying at both Parsons and The Fashion Institute of Batman- and would hope that after twenty years, considering the world we live in, that there are more pressing Technology, the New York native’s first job on a movie set was actually as a costume designer- which could things to discuss. And while world affairs might be slightly heavier fare than people care to get into, one topic very well be why the wardrobe plays such an integral role in all his films. From “St. Elmo’s Fire,” to of course definitely worth dwelling on when it comes to pop culture is the decline of the movie industry and why it’s time

70 71 WINGMAN to start celebrating directors who can turn in these standalone modern classics that last the test of time. So Lauren Schuler-Donner had produced he really as handsome as Rob is? I MAGAZINE with that, in complete celebration and unyielding appreciation, we give you...Joel Schumacher; my second TV movie and that got me wasn’t going to put Rob in the movie! my first feature, and we were talking He was the youngest. But, his agent about how films targeted toward a was a good friend of mine and kept young audience had no production calling me up to say “See Rob again! value. They would always say; “Oh, He wants this so badly!” I remember “If you don’t develop a thick skin, then they’re kids- they don’t care.” So, they it was a Saturday and Bruce Spring- were shot a certain way, and while steen’s album “Born In The U.S.A” you should not be in the world where you many were great hits, they didn’t offer had just come out and I was blasting much as movies. We decided early it in my office at the studio, and Rob are putting out films for mass audiences. Ev- on that we would make a movie with came in for what must have been the young people that was an A movie. third or fourth time, and I just really eryone who sees films are entitled to their We did it in anamorphic scope, and took him in because he was such a Susan Becker did the clothes, and sweetheart and the agent was such opinion” they were very aspirational, but very a close friend of mine. I was sitting of the time. We got fantastic mu- there just knowing I wouldn’t hire him, sic- David Foster had never written and yet, he was so passionate- and WINGMAN: So, how you got into deserves a shout out. But, the movie out awards. I’ve run into Emilio, and a score before, and we got so many this is our third or fourth meeting, and film is very interesting... turned out to really be the message of; Andrew rides his bike around New great groups on the album. There I remember thinking to myself; “No “Whether you hang out on a corner, York- so, I’ve run into Andrew quite were a lot of brilliant people involved. one is ever going to be as passionate JOEL SCHUMACHER: My first film, or no matter who your posse is, you a few times. Whenever I see Andrew Stephen H. Burum did an amazing as Rob is about this role.” And, also, I “Play It As It Lays,” they needed a think you’ll all remain friends forever... act, he is amazing, always. I think his job filming the movie. We didn’t know think young women and some young WINGMAN: Of course, on the topic really cheap costume designer and I but then life comes in.” As we made part in “St. Elmo’s Fire” in many ways how it would do. It was supposed to men would be very happy to see him of stylish films,“The Lost Boys” is said I could do it- so, I went out there it, that’s what I really realized the plot was so complex, and I think he did come out in the fall for back to school, in this role. [Laughs] But, really it was probably one of the most epically for two weeks. I really got very lucky. was. [Laughs] Self-created drama is such a fabulous job with it. They all but there was a huge document from his unstoppable passion and the way stylish films of all time. You shot My dream ever since I was a kid was too broad a concept. did, and I truly can’t imagine another Columbia Pictures about how we can’t he understood the character better this film in three weeks? How is to be a director, and I got my dream- cast. The studio wouldn’t let me hire open a movie called “St. Elmo’s Fire” than anyone. Rob was quite wild in that possible? and I got it greater than I could have WINGMAN: Would you ever do a Andie MacDowell, and I just pushed because people wouldn’t know if it those days. I mean, who wasn’t? But, ever imagined! sequel to see where these charac- through- and look where she’s gone! was about a fire or a saint. So, there he was great. For me, it was just the SCHUMACHER: That’s incorrect- we ters are now? She’s amazing! And I think the studio were lists of suggested titles, but their perfect cast. didn’t shoot in three weeks. I’m sure WINGMAN: Let’s start with “St. and a lot of Hollywood thought she blockbusters for that summer had very we didn’t have a luxurious schedule, No! They’ve want- Elmo’s Fire”- which was really a SCHUMACHER: would be the girl least likely of that bad research screenings. We did “St. but it wasn’t three weeks. I actually ed to do many sequels to see where spectacular film for both writing cast, but she’s terrific! Elmo’s Fire” and it had such a huge shot “Phone Booth” in two weeks! But, they are now, and I’m not interested. and directing. It’s both completely response that they told us we had to “The Lost Boys” was a decent sched- It would have to feature divorces, of the moment, and timeless. The WINGMAN: One thing you have finish the movie in three weeks and ule, but we managed to make it for kids, and going through alimony- no. “Isn’t it idea behind- it that people in their is an impeccable eye for fashion get it out there. So, we opened the not a lot of money. But we went into And I also think that was then, this is 20’s create their own problems- was and trends, and that shows in all summer of 1985 against plan, and you both “The Lost Boys” and “Flatliners” now. And, it was a world without cell quite brilliant, and really, millennials your work. You come from a fash- get lucky sometimes- but, it was too wonder- with the same school of thought; “Why phones- there was a certain allure to with social media seem to do that ion background. Talk about how late to change the title and there was not make a movie for young people that. Today they would have to be on even more today! involved you are in the fashion of nothing they could come up with. So, it ful that in anamorphic scope, the way God their phones and computers all day your films considering you’ve really all came together. meant for movies to be seen, and of SCHUMACHER: Well, I also have to and night, as would their kids- it would set so many major trends through A plus quality.” Susan Becker did the give credit to Carl Kurlander. He was be a technology festival, and there’s your work. WINGMAN: I don’t know if you have times were clothes for both those films, and she’s my assistant and had just come out of nothing wrong with that, but it wouldn’t seen “Stranger Things,” but the incredible. It takes a village. Duke, so it was perfect timing. I lived have the same nostalgia. SCHUMACHER: In “St. Elmo’s Fire” new character Billy is clearly a total so peaceful in Georgetown and it was a Saturday it was particularly important- it was homage to your Billy in “St. Elmo’s WINGMAN: Let’s talk your experi- morning and I saw these young peo- WINGMAN: So many actors that really part of what it was all about. Fire”- from the fashion to the face- ence working with the “Batman” ple, and it really felt that in Reagan- you have worked with, particularly then that There was a period and Ralph Lauren Dacre Montgomery even looks like films. The mea culpa fan-boys have omics that you’re supposed to have from that film like called it “Dressing Rich.” During this ! Have you seen it? putting you up to over “Batman a twenty-five year plan and straight and Andrew McCarthy, have now time of Reagan and Reaganomics, everyone & Robin” is ridiculous. It was an from college- or even high school- that gone behind the lens as directors the idols were Donald Trump, Liona SCHUMACHER: Rob?! Wait, who extraordinarily memorable film, you were supposed to be an auto- themselves. Have you seen their Helmsley, Ivan Boesky, Mike Milk- plays him?! can get out- you had insanely talented actors, it matic adult. And I felt such empathy work? en- and they all went to jail except for was a great film for families- which because I saw so many young people Donald Trump! I’m not proclaiming he WINGMAN: Dacre Montgomery- he was the intention, and visually, it SCHUMACHER: Of course! And I who haven’t experienced life yet, so, I deserves to be idolized, but that’s the looks exactly like Rob Lowe. From raged over was stunning. Your Gotham was actually adore both those actors. started to write a script about self-cre- kind of thinking that was going on, and the outfit, to the face. stunning. Poison Ivy’s dance was All of them. I’ve seen Demi [Moore] ated drama. Then Carl came to work when Ralph Lauren said “Dressing Batman?” captivating. and his experiences were so right on many, many times over the years, Rich,” it was perfect for the time. So, SCHUMACHER: Well, we’re hon- the skin, so we did a lot of it together and I saw Ally [Sheedy] at an LGBTQ each person in “St. Elmo’s Fire” really ored if it’s an homage, but maybe SCHUMACHER: Well, thank you very and his name is on it as a co-writer, he event where we were both giving has their own style- and that was fun. they came up with their own idea? Is much, but, to be honest with you, 72 73 WINGMAN films took place in the woods, and he SCHUMACHER: I didn’t know Emmy can sing, but not like that. Everyone in contact for a while and eventually MAGAZINE used ancient Japanese instruments. Rossum was out there. What a talent. else did their own singing, Emmy, Pat- lost touch at a certain point. And, I So our composer had found some I had seen Patrick Wilson in “The Full rick, Gerry, Miranda Richardson- they knew Diana before I did the movie. I of these elegant elderly Asian men Monty,” but he was playing an older were all gorgeous and all wonderful. didn’t know we were going to do an playing in the subway station, and that guy- I didn’t know he was that young. I was working for the first time with adult Dorothy, so the concept had to really inspired us. It’s an homage for I was in Texas for SXSW, and Patrick British musical theater people who be somewhat rethought. But, I don’t sure, or stealing. [Laughs] was there for “The Alamo,” and he they call “The Loveys” in , and love musicals- I’m not one of those came in and had a gorgeous singing they were fabulous. They were helpful, people. “The Phantom Of The Opera” WINGMAN: Speaking of musicals, voice, he’s a gorgeous man, fun, hilar- charming, and loving. It was nice to is really a very dark story. I know there “The Phantom Of The Opera” was ious, and that was a -in. Like- just go from “Phone Booth” and “Veronica are many women who want Christine pure perfection from start to fin- go, show up for costumes and we’ll Guerin”- dirt under the finger nails kind to stay with the phantom, but...he has ish- from the music, to the sets, to be fine. Then there was the phantom, of movies- to this. killed about four people before the end the performances, to as usual- the and I remembered that Gerard Butler of the movie. [Laughs] I like “Chica- costumes. It was an epic the way told me he sang with the band in high WINGMAN: You also know how to go,” and I like “Cabaret”- not just the movies really aren’t made anymore. school- and I just thought he would be create a gripping drama with a sus- movie, but the whole concept of them. great. So, I called him up and asked if penseful pace that keeps audiences I liked that it was about real people, SCHUMACHER: Well, after Andrew he could sing. He said yes, and I said; on the edge of their seat- capturing and Bob Fosse did a genius job. But, Lloyd Webber saw “The Lost Boys,” “Well, could you sing for Andrew Lloyd John Grisham’s works with “The I don’t love musicals. I don’t leave the he loved everything about it and loved Webber for ‘The Phantom of The Client” or “A Time To Kill,” or, other theater humming. the way music was used in the film. Opera’?” And he was very sweet and movies like “Phone Booth,” “8mm,” So, he wanted me to do a movie said; “Well, I can try.” [Laughs] So, I “The Number 23”- you have a long WINGMAN: You’ve had quite the with the original cast including Sarah sent Gerard to our musical director, line of contemporary classic sus- amazing career and you’ve worked Brightman, who at the time he was Simon Lee, and Simon called me and pense thrillers on your resume. Talk with a long line of great talent. Who married to, as well as Michael Craw- said he thought he could do it. So, about finding that perfect pace that else would you love to work with, or Joel Schumacher on the set of “House Of Cards,” Pictured with , ford, and we were going to do it. But, he came in and sang “Music Of The keeps audiences riveted. work with again? Photographed by Patrick Harbon the film got tied up in their divorce and Night” for Andrew, and Andrew jumped it went into laying duck world. But, I up and shook Gerry’s hand- and I SCHUMACHER: I would love to work I’m so tired of talking about it. Isn’t it and it’s just the right time with the right was always in touch with Andrew and thought it went awful. I felt so bad for with Susan [Sarandon] again. I’ve wonderful that times were so peaceful movie. And, is just inspired over the years he had tried to get me him. He had never met Andrew and worked with the great Colleen De- then that everyone can get outraged in it. You get lucky. When “Batman & to do it again, but I had felt the ship he had to come in during the day and “I don’t love whurst who we lost, as well as Michael over Batman? Actually, sadly, it seems Robin” came along, I had just done had sailed. Then, I happened to be just sing. And when he left, Andrew Gough who was Alfred in our two as though now there are more hat- “A Time To Kill,” and “The Client,” and in England editing “Veronica Guer- said; “I ALWAYS thought of Phantom musicals. I Batman films. I’ve worked with great ers than ever. You know what I say? then “Batman Forever,” so, I think it in”- which was shot in Ireland, and I as a rock opera! I love that his voice people- Anthony Hopkins, Miranda “Thanks for watching.” If you don’t was really expected of us to turn out a had dinner with Andrew and his wife is rough! I always wanted it to be don’t leave Richardson. There are so many great develop a thick skin, then you should hit, and I don’t think we had the same Madeleine, as well as my friend Jeff that way!” And then Emmy. I didn’t people. not be in the world where you are inspiration we did with the first film. Sharp who knows them very well, and know her, and there were so many the theater putting out films for mass audiences. But, it seems so silly to talk about it to Jeff alerted me that Andrew was going actresses that wanted to play Chris- Everyone who sees films are entitled tell you the truth. to offer me “Phantom” again. So, we tine, and many that could sing- but not went to dinner and Andrew brought it humming.” to their opinion. like Sarah Brightman, and that was And hopeful- WINGMAN: As far as actual writing up during dinner, and I thought about a problem. How many people can? WINGMAN: What’s strange is that goes- you’re a brilliant writer also. it and said “Yes.” So, he told me; But, Emmy has been singing at The ly Schumacher “Look me directly in the eyes Joel and what people didn’t like was the Beyond “St. Elmo’s Fire,” you have Metropolitan Opera since she was SCHUMACHER: I do love dark films. tell me you will do it.” And I told him; writing- and you did not write the also written musicals- “Sparkle,” seven. And, so her agent Alexandra “Car Wash” is about serious issues will continue “I’m going to do it, but...,” and then, movie- Akiva Goldsman wrote it! Car Wash,” and “The Wiz”! When Trustman called me and said; “There’s that are overshadowed by some fun, I’m sure his eyes rolled back in his making more writing, are you more attracted to a sixteen year old girl and she can and the director, Michael Schultz, SCHUMACHER: Akiva came in and head but I continued; “It has to be a writing musicals? Even in your really sing. I think you might want to really got it- the ending came great. re-wrote “Batman Forever”- and he did very young cast. I don’t care if they great films so he non-musical work, the music is its meet her.” She came in and I talked to “The Wiz” came because after “Spar- a fabulous job. We were all so excit- are stars- it doesn’t matter. Christine own integral character to the story... her, and she was just a breath of fresh kle” and “Car Wash” I was seen as a can team up yet ed. The studio wanted a whole new has to be a virgin and she has to be air. I asked her; “Why didn’t you come “black writer.” [Rolls his eyes with “Batman.” The cast was fantastic, and SCHUMACHER: I don’t think I am a a teenager, or else the story doesn’t in for this part before?” And she said; a laugh] I liked “The Wiz” better again with these everyone was thrilled. For Akiva and brilliant writer, but thank you! Without work.” I mean, she thinks her father “Well, my mother and I thought I was on stage because Geoffrey Holder I, we were just so happy to make a music, movies are pretty empty. The is singing to her in the opera house! too young!” And instead she was right directed it and he was so inventive. fantastic tal- Batman movie. So, we got lucky and it problem was on “Tigerland” because [Laughs] She’s mad! She’s insane! on the money. So, I asked her to sing But, it was fun working on it. It was the really worked. We had no idea it would we shot it without any hairdresser- the So, Andrew said “Alright, but they ents! for Andrew Lloyd Webber, and we did most expensive African-American film be the biggest movie of that year- you boys all had buzz cuts, and the only have to do their own singing!” And I a screen test with her and three other that had ever been made, and I know never know. It was very inexpensive make-up we had was blood, and no agreed that was fair. young ladies- and the rest is history. it’s beloved- so, that’s wonderful. And for a Batman movie. It was risky be- music worked. But, then I remembered And she’s just gorgeous as well. The also, working with wonderful people cause we had changed Michael Kea- those great old Kurosawa films- and WINGMAN: And you got a great only person who couldn’t sing for her- like and Michael Jack- ton for Val Kilmer, and that was tricky I’m not comparing myself to Kurosa- cast! self was , because she son. He was so brilliant even then- with fans. But, success hits sometimes wa, but a lot of his early Japanese really has to sing opera- and Minnie shy, beautiful manners. We stayed 74 75 WINGMAN MAGAZINE IS A STAR BORN The Enchanting KELSEY ASBILLE Jacket by Christian Benner; “Christian Helps Us Pay Tribute To Benner Custom” by Christian Benner, $5,000, www.christianbennercustom. com JOEL SCHUMACHER Dress by Mimi Prober; “Hand Em- Photographed at The Sanctuary Hotel New York broidered Indigo Dyed Lace ” by Mimi Prober , $10,995, www.mim- 132 W 47th St, New York, NY 10036 iprober.com (212) 234-7000 Choker, earrings, and Necklace by GlamUrBody; Prices Available Upon Photos by Ron Contarsy for Highmark Studios Request; www.glamurbody.com Assisted by Sarkis Delimelkon Other Jewels by Crown Of Light; Stack Rings; $1,500 each, Berry Ring; Hair by Crystal Carrero for Honey Artists $3,000, Berry Bangles; $7,900 each, Make up by Azra Red for Honey Artists Blossom ring; $96,000, Scarlett Ring and Eliana Ring; Prices Available Styling and Story by Andrew Cristi Upon Request, www.crownoflight.com Assisted by Vanessa Figueroa WINGMAN MAGAZINE

hen it comes to choosing a leading lady for his films, legendary director Joel SchumacherW is well known for choosing only the best of the best of the actresses Hollywood has to offer. From finding women who possess undisputable talent, to tremendous charisma, to ravishing beauty, the auteur behind hits such as “The Lost Boys” and “Tigerland” has not only been known to give his actresses iconic and identifiable roles- with killer fashion choices, but he has also even man- aged to direct them toward career-changing and critically hailed performances; like Susan Sarandon, who was nominated for an Academy Award for her work in his film, “The Client.” So, when Wingman sought to present an actress to the director for our tribute, we knew we needed to find someone special- a performer that represented the traits he looked for when casting; a stunning ingénue that could be perhaps effortlessly timeless and perfectly contemporary all at the same time. Someone whose look could easily transcend a gothic period piece or a modern rock music video. A skilled talent that can be both strong and vulnerable at a moment’s notice while never losing her femininity. A breath of fresh air that captivated audiences hearts just as much as she did the lens. A doe-eyed sensation who could stand next to other greats from Schumacher’s films such as Demi Moore, Andie MacDowell, Jami Gertz, Emmy Rossum, and all the rest, both in appearance and performance. Lucki- ly, we found all that and more in the incredible Kelsey Asbille. No stranger to being a muse for directors, the exotic beauty has become an inspiration for highly-acclaimed filmmaker Taylor Sheridan, who previously utilizedAsbille in his last critically touted big screen project, “Wind River.” Now, the writer and director has set his sights on the small screen, teaming up with the hot new Paramount network to offer an epic series that looks like it may very well bring grand-scale cinema right to television. The series is called “Yellowstone,” and the juicy drama is jam-packed with everything the world is calling for right now; a modern western that seems to combine “Dallas” with “Legends Of The Fall” while assembling an amazing cast to do so including Dave Annable, Kelly Reilly, Jill Hennessy, , , , Luke Grimes, the incomparable , and, of course, Kelsey Asbille- who was Sheridan’s first and only choice for the role. And it’s not just the Hollywood big-wigs that have fallen in love with the enchanting starlet, the mesmerizing performer has also scored herself an extremely devoted fan-base as well! Getting her start on shows like “Pair Of Kings,” and the cult phenomenon that is “Teen Wolf,” the actress has Photo Taken By Ron Contarsy For Highmark Stu- managed to swiftly make a name for herself as a star who can bring in audiences- stealing every dios At The Sanctuary Hotel NY scene she’s in. But, it wasn’t until her pivotal performance in Sheridan’s touching hit that Asbille truly Blazer- Stylist’s Own got the opportunity to show the world what she can do- and now, she is downright unstoppable. Dress by Manfredonia; Purple Le Poof Dress; Price With an intriguing heritage of being half Chinese, part Cherokee, and part English, the quickly Available Upon Request, www.manfredonia.us rising star is also very excited to help make Hollywood a more diverse place- something she hopes by Eugenia Kim; Misty Headband; trickles down to the world in general. Now a student at Columbia University, Asbille is studying human Price Available Upon Request; www.eugeniakim. rights and showing that she is not just an actress, but also an activist, and she’s ready to use her plat- com form for plenty of good- something fans can rest assured that she will do as the kind-hearted star is Shoes by James Chan; Anika, $240, www.james- seriously an utter pleasure, treating everyone around her with the greatest respect- which, of course, chancollection.com it just one more reason why any director would love to work with the inspiring actress. We look for- Earrings and by GlamUrBody; Prices ward to seeing Asbille on “Yellowstone,” checking out what she does next, and, of course, hopefully, Available Upon Request; www.glamurbody.com one day seeing her in a film...directed by Joel Schumacher! Other Jewels by Crown Of Light; Stack Rings $1,500 each, Berry Ring $3,000, Berry Bangles $7,900 each, Blossom Necklace $36,000, www.crownoflight.com 78 WINGMAN WINGMAN MAGAZINE MAGAZINE

Photo Taken By Ron Contarsy for Highmark Studios At The Sanctuary Hotel New York Batman Cowl by Spectral Design Stu- dio for Asher Levine; Price Available Upon Request, www.asherlevine.com Dress by Manfredonia; Chained Leather Dress; Price Available Upon Request, www.manfredonia.us Jewels by Crown Of Light; Crown Seraphina Pendant; $20,000, Crown Seraphina Bangle; $15,000, Crown De Soleil Earrings; $5,600, Crown Ophedian Ring; $7,600, Crochet Ring; $7,400, www.crownoflight.com

Photo Taken By Ron Contarsy For Highmark Studios At The Sanctuary Hotel Nw York Batman Cowl by Spectral Design Studio for Asher Levine; Price Available Upon Request, www.asherlevine.com Dress by Manfredonia; Chained Leather Dress; Price Available Upon Request, www.manfredonia.us Jewels by Crown Of Light; Crown Seraphina Pendant; $20,000, Crown Seraphina Bangle; $15,000, Crown De Soleil Earrings; $5,600, Crown Ophedian Ring; $7,600, Crochet Ring; $7,400, www.crownoflight.com

WINGMAN THE FUNNY SECTION MAGAZINE IT REAL Whether Dressed Up Or Dressed Down, KEEPIN’ Iconic Funny-Man MICHAEL FISHMAN From “ROSEANNE” Is The Epitome Of Both Blue-Collar And Class Photographed at The Aka Beverly Hills; 155 N Crescent Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 (310) 385-1924 Photos by Rowan Daly Assisted by Hunter Sloan Grooming by Madison Blue Madison Blue using American English Hair products, Enzo Milano Tools, and Skin Care by Dior, Anastasia and IT Cosmetics Styling and Story by Andrew Cristi

Shirt by Life After Denim; Allegheny Shirt; $138; www.lifeafterdenim.com Jeans: 34 Heritage Charisma Smoke Jeans, $165, pintoranch.com Belt by Allen Edmonds; Wide Basic Dress in Walnut; $98, www.allenedmonds.com Shoes by Allen Edmonds; Dalton Wingtip ; $495, www.allenedmonds.com otism.” We are living in divisive times, from our country, right to our own homes and families, and the show is eager to discuss that and help people come together- and Fishman couldn’t be more thrilled to be a part of that. One thing that always impressed the beloved star was how much the adored series stood as a place of comfort It’s a common tale and everyone’s worst nightmare; the talentless, entitled child star that grows into for fans- and he can’t wait to bring that back into their lives and hopefully bring families together, and with plans an adult brat, expecting everyone to cater to their every demand as they mistreat and abuse anyone they come to discuss everything from aging, to healthcare, to prejudice and beyond, Roseanne is poised to once again in contact with. And then there are actors like Michael Fishman; so profoundly the antithesis of the previous unite the world with laughter...and make superstars out of the most relatable blue-collar family on the planet. cautionary description that he almost seems to be like some kind of mythical creature of Hollywood, an anomaly Gentlemen, we present to you your new hero; Michael Fishman; of the entertainment industry; after growing up as one of the stars of television’s most beloved shows of all time, he has actually managed to remain...blue-collar. WINGMAN: So, let’s start with your ask a lot of questions and get a feel today in our country. D.J. will have a bi- Of course, this is actually pretty perfect considering the show he starred on. When “Roseanne” pre- storyline- D.J. is now a veteran, for it. I think sometimes people get racial daughter, and I don’t think there’s miered in 1988, it didn’t just change the scope of television- which it did in spades, but the show also actually which is a story that you particularly a bit too stereotypical and play the enough characters on television that really wanted to tell and one were extreme, and I think the military mem- represent that. There are too many kids in fact served as a game-changer for the entire world, giving a voice to disenfranchised blue-collar American’s really glad you are shining light on. bers and people I know are regular that don’t have examples or families everywhere that felt forgotten by crony-capitalism and a hoity-toity media. The family felt real, the conversations Can you talk about this storyline and people who have had extraordinary that look like them in media, and I think were honest, the situations were often brutal, and the show paved the way for every dramedy ahead of it while why you’re so proud of telling it? jobs and are now trying to transition “Roseanne” always did a good job of still always serving up the greatest laughs in entertainment. Fishman was only a child at the time, but like the into what seems to be a “normal” life showing everyone, and I love that my other young stars on the show such as Sara Gilbert, , , and the MICHAEL FISHMAN: First of all, I’m while dealing with every day pres- character in particular is positioned to late, great Glenn Quinn, they all always not only held their own amongst the master senior actors, but provided very proud of our military. I don’t think sures. But, they also usually have sort of bring some of those examples to shockingly worthy scene-support for the esteemed talents like , Laurie Metcalf and John Good- they get enough coverage or respect for a very worldly approach to what is life. man- who were by far and away the best in the business. Now, it’s thirty years later and “Roseanne” is back on what they do. Regardless of anyone’s going on because they’ve seen things political beliefs, we have to respect WINGMAN: And as we all remember, ABC, ready to once again give a voice to the forgotten blue-collar Americans that feel more tossed aside than that they can’t even fully express with that people put their lives on the line to the rest of us. D.J. wouldn’t even kiss a black girl in ever, and this time, It’s Fishman’s turn to step up to the plate and help really tell the stories of the marginalized defend freedom in this country, and I a play he was in... working-class- and he couldn’t be happier to do so! don’t think we see enough really good portrayals both of what it is to be in ser- FISHMAN: My hope is what people will A fan of the show himself, the humble and jovial star can’t stop celebrating the return of the fan-favorite vice as well as what it means to come “First of all, see for D.J. is that his experience there series, as well as all his amazing co-stars, praising them for their talent and kindness, as well as recognizing home. We don’t see enough quality was eye-opening both for D.J. and the Barr’s brilliance and how much she really helped change the world. Any fan of the series would be overjoyed to portrayals of soldiers returning to their I’m very proud of audience, and I would love for fans talk to the charming actor, a man so nice, humble, and sincere that it’s almost easy to forget that he is on one families and civilian life afterwards. So, to see how he has evolved and pro- of TV’s biggest hits. He’s the kind of guy that seeks to direct, and learned from experience by doing every job I’m really excited that my character gets our military. I gressed the way hopefully many other on set- getting to know his crew. After growing up a child star, Fishman gladly took jobs in construction because to tell this story, and I think we definitely people have and will. he wanted to build. Even on our set while shooting him, he was moving chairs and offering to help clean up! touch on things that go on in his life, but it’s also set up to show what I believe to don’t think they WINGMAN: What is going on with Genuine to a fault, the actor declares that he doesn’t want to just be seen as blue-collar on television, he sees Jerry and Andy- Jackie and Rose- blue-collar as the greatest compliment anyone can ever receive, and he wants to embody that in his actual life be a very honest and positive portrayal going forward. anne’s children who were babies? as well. get enough cover- Are they now fully grown? WINGMAN: What kind of research In the world we live in today, hearing those words from the “Roseanne” star is nothing short of inspira- did you do to tap into this evolved age or respect for FISHMAN: There are references to tional. THIS, right here, is the hero that the world has been waiting for- the same way as Dan role for D.J.? While the show is a them. We really tried to reintroduce all Conner was our hero growing up, the torch has now been passed, and Fishman fills the flannel perfectly. He is comedy, it’s always had dramatic what they do” the characters people know and focus honorable and filled with integrity, and while like Goodman, he might be an unconventional leading man, he is elements and playing a veteran with on where they are now- not really go exactly the leading man we’ve been hungry for- real, honest, and relatable. In a world where stars are hard to PTSD definitely requires some gravi- back in time, but go forward. So, those kids exist, they’re out there, but you come by as the media and social media is so over-saturated by everybody trying to be a somebody, Fishman tas- we know “Roseanne” won’t shy won’t see too much of them in this short has been a real somebody for his entire life- and he’s wonderfully utilized his platform to show everyone that away from that. WINGMAN: When we last left off, D.J. wanted to become a direc- run. In order to really expand on who he’s just a regular guy; exactly like the rest of us. And best of all, the clever artist is vehemently passionate and FISHMAN: Well, in my case I kind of tor and he was seeing Heather they would be it would take so long for dedicated to telling the real stories of other blue-collar guys out there- particularly the stories of those who have am uniquely positioned. I’ve always had Matarazzo’s character Heather. fans to really get a feel for them that it served for our country. family that served, and I’ve always had What happened to those dreams, wouldn’t do those characters justice. close connection to the military and I’ve and will we see Heather again? That’s not to say fans won’t know what’s With both his father and brother being veterans and having extremely strong appreciation for our mili- always been really active as a support- going on with them, but they won’t get a tary, Fishman fought for his character D.J. to help shed light on the lives of soldiers who are coming home from er. My father was in the army, and my FISHMAN: Well, I think that D.J. still full scope of them just yet. war and the struggles they face rejoining civilization. The talented actor knows that our veterans aren’t always brother just got out, so, for me it’s very has some of those same passions. thrilled with the way they are depicted on screen, and he took extra effort trying to be as accurate as possible in personal because to have that connec- He’s now married- not to Heather’s WINGMAN: You learned from and tribute to authenticity. The actor is also glad that his character is helping to show the evolution of families in this tion within your own family it means a character, but there is definitely a worked with the most master class country as D.J. is now in an interracial marriage and has a biracial daughter- something he is very proud of. One lot. But, I’ve always listened to fans that connection to the past. D.J. is in an of actors here- surrounded by utter brilliance at every corner; Laurie of Fishman’s favorite attributes about “Roseanne” is that the ground-breaking show was never scared to have send me their stories, and I’m always interracial marriage- and that’s import- ant to me. I think it’s a really excel- Metcalf, John Goodman, Sara Gilbert, the serious conversations, or shied away from what others didn’t want to talk about. especially sensitive toward veterans whom have talked about transitioning lent way to showcase the changing Lecy Goranson, Sarah Chalke, John- ny Galecki, Glenn Quinn, Martin Mull, One controversial topic the show will approach this year is, as Barr has brilliantly put it; “Ending Hate-ri- back into civilian life. I’ve always tried to landscapes of what families look like 86 87 WINGMAN James Pickens Jr., Estelle Parsons, WINGMAN: Roseanne had a bad FISHMAN: It’s really important for me have come to a place, partially due to with every day and how each character MAGAZINE Sandra Bernhard, George Clooney, reputation when the show first aired to be seen as a television character social media, where you have instant uniquely deals with it and how they Shelley Winters, and of course, the for being “difficult”- but she isbril- who is blue-collar- which is a major access to what we might not have collectively come together. incomparable and brilliant Rose- liant. And if Roseanne were a man, departure from most of the charac- had access to before. I think what it’s anne. Let’s talk about the massive she would get that credit. She creat- ters on television. I don’t come from a caused people to do is have knee-jerk WINGMAN: Post “Roseanne,” you amount of talent that you grew up ed the dramedy as we know it. Hollywood family. I come from a family reactions to things, and unfortunately went on to work in so many differ- surrounded by and get to work with where everyone had three jobs. My love and kindness takes more time and ent areas of television production; again. FISHMAN: I really think it’s really mother was a nurse and a community hate is kind of an easy reaction for peo- props, sets, producing, writing, and important as we progress forward to college teacher, my dad was a small ple. I think our goal in all of our conver- it’s really lead to you having such FISHMAN: Well, I think I have been so establish that Roseanne really laid the business owner. Even after acting sations is to entertain people and make amazing respect for your crew. Do unbelievably blessed to be standing foundation for the success that a lot when I was taking a step back from this them laugh, but also to bring people to- you have a favorite part of the TV among true legends. Even in the guest of people are having now. I don’t think business I’ve done a lot of construction gether. With “Roseanne,” it’s our under- making process? cast- it’s been legend after legend, and people remember the fights. You can and blue-collar work as my kids were lying, constant goal that we are trying to this season is no different. Even the say people are difficult, but keep in younger, and I was really focusing on help families not just debate politics in FISHMAN: I always knew I wanted to people that come in for single episodes mind- we have a majority of the peo- being a dad- and I think that helped me. a healthy way, but also debate real life write, direct, and produce. I love acting, are so amazingly talented. The show ple on this show, both cast and crew, When you’re around blue-collar people, situations. Our goal was always to give it’s always going to be my primary has always attracted these really gifted returning. That says something. Rose- there’s something really special about people a voice and be as authentic as passion, but you’re always limited as performers. So, for me, it’s always anne has said that she’s mellowed as people who just roll up their sleeves, possible- to never take the easy road. an actor based on type. The beauty been about trying to learn from these she’s gotten older- which I think we all get dirty, and jump in. There’s some- We always wanted to talk about what’s of being on the creative side is that people. I find myself in awe at times. do, but I believe that most of her battles thing admirable about people who are really going on. What you see most with you can make projects that speak for Working with them growing up was one were fighting for her show, for the qual- looking for a way to do the right thing to “Roseanne,” and what I’m most proud others, or speak for times in your life. thing, but then as you get older and ity, for her voice- and to most impor- the best of their ability every single day. of, is that it’s not just funny- it’s heartfelt, I’ve always been drawn to that. And I you realize quite how legendary they tantly give voice to those that have felt So, if my character can embody that it’s serious, it’s everything altogether. It’s always knew that if I wanted to direct are you can’t help but be greedy as an forgotten and silenced in a large way by and give people an outlet and make like real life, and at the end of the day and produce that it was important to actor and hope to pair up with them. My our country and our media. And I think them feel comfortable, special, and it’s a bunch of people who do fight with know what every department did and to favorite scene of the entire run this time it’s really important that she had those normal, then it’s just such an amazing one another but they always love each have some experience in them- I think around was probably a scene between battles because it provided an outlet for honor and I’m humbled by it- and it is a other, and that love is the underlying it makes you look at people differently. John and I. I always hoped that I would people currently that may not have had responsibility and I take it very seri- glue that keeps them together. If you want to lead at some point, you get another chance to go one on one that. ously. It’s one of the reasons why you have to follow at some point and learn with John, so, having D.J. and Dan should train hard, and you should work WINGMAN: The show will also why people do what they do. This goes share those moments is really special hard. I’m a show up early, go home late strongly tackle healthcare this sea- right back to being blue-collar a bit; both for the show and as an actor. And “I think being kind of guy, and I really hope that the son. This is again an important topic, when I was looking for the right thing Laurie is an icon in so many ways that people who meet me along the way and again- “Roseanne” is first in to do, I knew I loved this business and I think the world is just now starting to believe that I embody that blue-collar tackling the issues that matter. I never really wanted to leave it, but at fully appreciate. Her humility makes called blue-collar work-ethic. I don’t want to just embody the same time I wanted to build things. it easy to let her quietly be amazing it on screen- I want that to be who I am FISHMAN: There are so many ways I wanted to roll my sleeves up, I wanted because she’s just so humble as a per- is one of the best in reality. I want people to know me as that this issue matters to everyone. My to just go to work every day and ex- son, but for me watching her has been a hard-working guy who is professional. wife has a rib disease, so, in my person- perience all sides of this business and incredible. Everyone in the cast, really. It doesn’t mean that I don’t have other al life I’ve been around the medical field make sure it was really what I wanted. Sometimes, you read a script and you compliments you interests and can’t do anything else- I’m for a long time. We deal with specialists So many people talk about having think “Okay, this is a decent script,” and lucky to have a great education and and trying to get the insurance running- negative experiences growing up in then you go and do a table read and can get” have been blessed to work in other all the things that drain a family, and the industry, and I’ve had an amazing you laugh so hard that you go back fields, but I think being called blue-col- you’ll see pieces of that in the show. experience. I love almost everything and think to yourself how lucky you lar is one of the best compliments you But, also, we are going to see what about it. It’s work. There are challeng- are to be surrounded by such a great can get. it’s like to get older in America, and es, and there are dark moments- and group. I think that’s part of the way we WINGMAN: One thing this show has how it feels to navigate the things you the reality is that there are good and all feel about each other- we really like always done is give disenfranchised WINGMAN: One thing that Rose- need as you age in a society where our bad people in every business every- working together. That’s part of why blue-collar America a voice- and anne has been quoted saying is healthcare system has struggled and is where. But, I’ve had a truly wonderful we all signed on so fast. We love being they’re really starving for that more that she hopes the reboot “ends undergoing a dynamic shift, and I think experience- largely based on the peo- together, and you know that the talent than ever right now. As Dan is now hate-riotism”- which is just genius. the individual people are lagging behind ple I work with. I try really hard to get is there, so, everyone wants to support a little older, your character is now You mentioned during our shoot that and carrying the burden of that right close to my cast crew. It’s important to the team, do their job, be part of the the true ambassador for the young everyone was pissed off the first now. We try and really highlight that and me that people come and are collabo- group. It’s really selfless because ev- blue-collar guy on television- and time around with the show being too share those issues. We never shied rative. It’s important that the set has the eryone wants to come and be great for there really isn’t many representa- liberal, and now they’re pissed off away from issues- we are fine with right environment- even down to having everyone else so that everybody shines tions of that. Can you talk about that with it being too conservative before having the ugly, honest conversations, these kids on the show this time. The and nobody wants to be the person that responsibility? I also want to say it even hit airwaves- it’s hilarious, and healthcare is a big one. Between first time around, everyone took such lets anyone else down. No one wants on behalf of Wingman, that we are isn’t it? Talk about “ending hate-rio- healthcare, aging, multigenerational great care of me and had such great to let the air out of the balloon- we all consistently looking to celebrate tism.” households, a little bit of race, a little interest in me and it enriched my life. want to keep it up the blue-collar man, and we cannot bit of prejudice, a little bit of changing It’s my job to give that back to other thank you enough for doing this FISHMAN: I loved that she said she demographics in suburban areas, I think people. feature. 88 wanted to end hate-riotim. I think we what you’ll see is what America deals 89 WINGMAN: Any chance of a second WINGMAN season? MAGAZINE FISHMAN: I think there’s definitely a Photo by Rowan Daly at The chance to continue with “Roseanne.” LIGHTNING ROUND! AKA Beverly Hills This is the perfect job. I get to work 1. Favorite episode of “Roseanne”? Pants, Shirt, Tie, and Handker- with my friends, the best writers, cast Too many! The Halloween episodes all stick chief by Allen Young; Shirt- The and crew in the business, and we get Thompson; $149, Pants; 195, Tie; out, the one where Roseanne’s dad dies, $65, Handkerchief; $25, to tell amazing stories. I think Rose- www.allenyoung.com anne has lots more to say, and there’s and “Crime And Punishment”- the two-parter Jacket by Asos; Navy more stories to tell. The characters are dealing with domestic violence are really With Black Lapel; Price Available beautifully positioned. I think there’s Presents Upon Request; www.asos.com strong. And the masturbation episode- even Shoes by Allen Edmonds; Sulli- a lot of growing to still happen. Sara though it was horribly embarrassing! van Street; $495, Gilbert is tremendous- I think people will Fall 2017 www.allenedmonds.com really see her show a different range 2. Who was the most fun famous guest and show all that she’s able to do. Her star to work with? character has a lot left to say as a par- Oyster Festival George Clooney- and probably the most fun Saturday, November 18th ent. Lecy Goranson has this wonderful 1230 - 330 pm strength and quirkiness that she utilizes guy in the world to work with! fantastically. And for me? I’d really like 3. You grew up during the same time this show to continue because, again, of a lot of our favorite TV stars- Lacey I’d really like to see more and show Chabert, The Savage brothers, Candace more of what it’s like for veterans com- ing home. I really want us to touch on Cameron-Bure. Who remains your clos- the impacts of this life, being in an inter- est friend from the time? Join us as we celebrate racial marriage, having biracial kids, and I have to say, I talk to Lacey quite a bit. She Oyster Festival + our 30th Anniversary! so on. We are honest enough to have is the sweetest, kindest person, and a terrific the discussions other people don’t, and Featuring a variety of seafood I think that’s really exciting as an actor- mom. She’s a good choice! from local vendors including: to be able to take risks and be daring. 4. Who has worst taste in men; Nancy or Assorted Raw Oysters What means so much to me is how fans New England Clam Chowder Jackie? Creole Oyster Chowder come up to me and tell me how much [Laughs] Well, Nancy, but she gave up on Fritters + Po Boys the show was a place of comfort for them during tough times, or it gave them men- so, Jackie! Enjoy select beer, wine + vodka drinks with a voice they didn’t feel they had- and for 5. Name a storyline that you couldn’t get good food + live music! me? I want to be that. There’s nothing past the censors? TICKETS INCLUDE UNLIMITED FOOD + DRINKS more exciting than to help people find Roseanne pushed them all through. She Stay tuned for information on humor in the tough times, feel good ticket prices + how to purchase about themselves, and feel recognized, always won. Halloween was originally a no, so, this is really the perfect job! and now everyone does Halloween. Every- (212) 986-8080 633 Third Ave, NY, NY 10017 thing she fought for changed the landscape of television. 6. If D.J. did become a director, what And thanks to would you have liked his first movie to Fishman, there are be about? Maybe it would fit perfectly for him to make tons of disenfran- a documentary and be the voice of young men and women that have served this coun- chised blue-collar guys try and don’t have an outlet. everywhere that are 7. If you could donate $108 million dollars to any charity, where would you celebrating that once donate it? their voices will be I’d split it between the military and environ- mental causes, but I also do a lot of work heard! reviving Baseball in inner-cities and helping youth sports! LSL NY Wingman Ad v01.pdf 1 2017-11-21 1:36 PM

C M AN UNRIVALED Y

CM CHOICE FOR

MY

CY A NEW YORK CMY SUITE LUXURY K BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Special Rate Code: 'WINGMAN'

A vibrant prime location in the Fashion District and steps to the heart of 's business and shopping districts and constructed in 2015, Executive Hotel LeSoleil is a classic contemporary luxury boutique hotel that gives you a grandeur feeling of old world elegance and charm coupled with impeccable service.

The Executive Hotel Le Soleil is within steps to Herald Square, Times Square, Empire State Building and 5th Ave shopping. The best shopping, dining and entertainment of Midtown are right at our doorstep!

HotelLesoleilny.com | Tel: 212.695.0003 | Toll Free: 1.844.876.5345 38 W 36th St, New York, NY 10018, USA RISING STAR: SPREADING HIS WINGS WINGMAN MAGAZINE THURSDAY NIGHT'S NEW SUPERSTAR With CBS’ New Blockbuster Hit Photographed at The AKA Beverly Hills; 155 N Crescent Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 “S.W.A.T,” (310) 385-1924 Photos by Rowan Daly The World Warmly Assisted by Hunter Sloan Welcomes Bankable Grooming by Madison Blue using American English Hair products, Enzo Milano Tools, and Skin Care by Actor; Dior, Anastasia and IT Cosmetics Styling by Andrew Cristi ALEX RUSSELL Story by Michael McCarthy

Jacket by Manfredonia; Red Sunset Bomber Jacket; Price Available Upon Request, www.manfredonia.us by Eyevan 7285; Style 761; $480, www.eyevan7285.com Pants by Nanamica; Alphadry Pants (Black); $230,, www.nanamica.com my career level to Tom Cruise’s soon work and he is as great as can be. He Whether it’s a cop or a firefighter, so I am able to hang from planes and works harder than most people you do you like playing the hero? helicopters like he does and write it meet in your life, he doesn’t sleep RUSSELL: I look up to first re- When you think of the role of Jim Street from “S.W.A.T.” you used to think of Colin Farrell into my contract. It is such an ex- and does so much PR for the show. sponders. The more films and from the 2003 film version of the same name. But now that role belongs to Alex Russell- the hero that all guys want to look tremely physical show and we have He is an incredible leader. Everyone television shows that I have done up to- and the guy that is swiftly proving to be one of Hollywood’s most bankable new actors. And not only has the gifted explosives, gunfire, and quarter loads brings their own background to the that show the first responders, the performer proven that everything he touches turns to gold with both box office success and huge ratings, but also because going off all the time. We have fight show. Look at Kenny Johnson’s body more I respect the work they do. two of Russell’s biggest roles thus far that brought fans in are “Only the Brave,” where he was a wildlands firefighter, and scenes and car chases constantly and of work, he and several others have If you don’t take a real look at the now “S.W.A.T.” as an elite police officer. And not only does he show immense talent, the skilled actor also shows incredible respect for first responders- which is not just shown on the screen when he is portraying these roles, but also in his real life. I can’t do everything, but this week had many very challenging roles and world today, then you live in a so- When Alex walked onto the set of “S.W.A.T.” he wasn’t sure what to expect from everyone, but all he got was love, alone I am shooting blanks, driving incredible range of roles. With their ciety where if your house is on fire support and some good ole fashioned shit-talking from his cast-mates. That is no surprise because just by talking to Russell, erratically in the streets when in outside of the box casting, they have or gets broken into, there are people you can tell how much he loves what he does and that working with an incredible cast and crew is what means the most to reality I am not driving, someone put together an amazing cast for a that will come and do their best to him- as well as wanting to do all of his own stunts! That’s right- he’s not just a kick-ass actor- this guy also kicks major ass! on top of the car is, ducking under show that is about entertainment but stop all of the bad from happening. He fearlessly conquers handling heavy weaponry, to dodging explosives, to navigating pretty massive car chases, so, what’s a shattered glass, it’s all pretty fun and also sparks real life discussions. It’s easy to take that for granted. In little hanging from a helicopter on top of that? exciting. order to have that, there has to be But, as much as the new hot commodity of Hollywood is gearing up to quickly become one of our favorite action human beings out there just like you stars, the genre of the project Russell works on doesn’t matter half as much to him as the story. With aspirations to be a di- WINGMAN: You have been a fan- “I look up and me that say that they want to rector, the pensive performer loves to be able to tell a story no matter if it’s a action, horror, drama or anything else that may tastic addition to the show, as well do that for their career and I admire come his way. When an actor believes in a project like the way that the “S.W.A.T” star believes in everything that he works as Shemar Moore. Can you talk to first re- it. Since I started on “S.W.A.T.” and on, it shows- and when Russell is on screen audiences can’t help but be captivated by his work and want to see more of it. The benevolent actor had nothing but amazing things to say about his fellow castmates, especially Shemar Moore, about the cast a little bit, and what have gotten to know what they do stating that he is nothing but fun and professional. The team they have created on screen is real- and that’s why their chem- it’s like to work with them? sponders. and learned about S.W.A.T. officers istry is so fantastic; on set, they all work hard together to turn in the best product, and off camera they work out in a huge RUSSELL: It is literally like you the more I admired them. This was gym trailer to make sure they are in tip top shape for those close ups! A trailer with a gym? Just one more reason to love this wipe the sweat off your forehead, The more exactly the same way that I felt after hot new show! Read on to find out more, and make sure to check out Alex Russell Thursday nights on CBS on the hit show look up at the sky and thank God I learned about wildland firefighting. “S.W.A.T.” for everyone on set. Everyone is just films and The world of wildland firefighters so chill and down to earth. We have has been overlooked by Hollywood WINGMAN: While starring in the ple you work with. In that way I am sion. I am very happy to report that such an amazing team on and off television and not many people outside of the hot new show “S.W.A.T.”, what’s it blessed and it is just such a cool show. we do approach challenging topics screen. Shemar started a text chain world of wildland firefighters could been like for you so far being front It’s like an action movie in every hour and deal with the topics of wom- with all of us since the show started shows that tell you what they actually do. They and center? long episode. en in the workplace. We deal with and we all inspire each other, we en- are the ultimate badasses in my ALEX RUSSELL: I absolutely love topics that encourage discussion in courage all the right conversations in I have done opinion. If I can teach people about getting to work on something that WINGMAN: This is the third ren- some episodes and some episodes how to make things better and how their bad-assery and show them is exciting, challenging- especially dition of the original show. What are just about the characters and do we get what we need out of each that show what they do and give a small look physically, something that is artisti- are your thoughts on the differences a good story and blowing stuff up. other. Our technical advisor used to into what they do with this film, cally fulfilling and having so many between this one and the other two? We are in the world of entertain- be part of San Diego S.W.A.T and he the first re- than I am glad to do it. That is a very incredibly talented people involved. RUSSELL: I still have not seen either ment and this definitely feels like teaches us on a daily basis how we rewarding job to take on. That is not always all the case. Most of the other two versions of the show “S.W.A.T.” of 2018 as opposed to need to be doing things properly like sponders, of the time I have a brilliant time on [Laughs.] It’s not that I am not cu- trying to recreate the story of Colin breaching houses and so on and so WINGMAN: Going back, you were set, but sometimes when you sign rious as to what they looked like or Farrell playing Jim Street. forth. He’s on that text chain as well. the more I also in “Chronicle,” which is close up for a TV show, you just don’t anything, I didn’t feel a need to watch We of course will give each other to a comic book film- which your know if you are going to have good them. From the get-go, the way that WINGMAN: Are you able to do shit, make fun of everyone and have respect the co-stars have both starred in. Is people and you could either love go- the show-runners pitched the show your own stunts, or are you kept fun along the way. Everyone bring that something you’ve ever been ing to work or dread it and you may to the actors, producers and every- under wraps? their own personality to the table, work they interested in? not even like one of the people you one else, we were taking “S.W.A.T.”, RUSSELL: [Laughs] I will do as which is incredible. On the surface, RUSSELL: I feel the same way about are working with. In this case, I love the characters and the idea of it and much as they will let me. It’s a bit Shemar is outlandish, and a huge do.” that as I would if you asked me about going to work every day because applying it to a totally new world. In different for Tom Cruise on set of character and persona that is full of a drama, comedy, or action film; all of the people are good human the , it deals with something that whatever “Mission: Impossible” film humor, play, dance and silliness. But WINGMAN: You were also just in If the screenplay has an amazing beings and it’s just so nice to have a is very current with the black versus he is doing than it is for me. Insur- once you get to know him, he is all “Only the Brave” with , story that holds its own and doesn’t job that is tiring, demanding, time blue mentality, the neighborhoods ance will not allow me to do certain of those things and more. He is real- Taylor Kitsch, and Jennifer Con- lazily rely on the tropes of the genre, consuming and you love the peo- versus the cops, the feeling of oppres- things, so I guess I need to upgrade ly fun but also very serious about the nelly. The film looks incredible. doesn’t seek to be one of next ge- 96 97 WINGMAN neric versions of the genre and has friends. You have to have cheat days or you will go nuts. I am going re- MAGAZINE substance from the beginning to the ally hard right now because I have to have my shirt off in an upcoming end that is specific on what is trying scene and that is a whole other level! [Laughs] And I am not Shemar to do, than I would die to be a part Moore! of it. Many comic book movies are generic, and some are incred- ible- like “Deadpool.” It’s not great because it’s a comic book film, but it Luckily for Rus- was just a great film. sell- he offers WINGMAN: How do you keep yourself in such great shape? What does your diet and workout his own brand of regimen look like? RUSSELL: It’s in Shemar’s contract that he has a gym on set, which awesome- and it he shares with us. So we have a gym trailer and inside is a mobile gym. I’m there almost every day at is quickly turn- work if I hadn’t already worked out beforehand. If we didn’t have that, it ing him into one of would be very difficult to workout due to our schedules. I say no to a lot of stuff like bread, but I defi- our favorite ac- nitely enjoy my cheat days. I love to go out for nice dinners with my girlfriend or enjoy a nice lunch with tion stars!

Photographed by Rowan Daly at The AKA Beverly Hills Hooded Jacket by Nanamica; Packable Anorak (Orange); $370, www.nanamica.com Pants by Original Penguin; Cassette Tape Chino; Price Available Upon Request; www.originalpenguin.com WINGMAN RISING STAR: BAE WATCH MAGAZINE LILY JI RISING The “PACIFIC RIM UPRISING” Actress Gets Ready To Shine

Photos by Luky Chen Story by Michael McCarthy JI: When I was in “Transformers: Had you seen the original before- something that I went through in the Color us excited! “Pacific Rim Uprising” is coming out on March 23rd while we always can’t wait Age of Extinction” it was a very hand and what was your feeling five years I lived in Australia with all to see Scott Eastwood and John Boyega, we are most looking forward to seeing talented newcomer Lily Ji! small part that I got right after I when you got cast in the sequel? of the multicultural backgrounds that Yeah the guys are great action heroes and all, but this exciting new superstar is going to be kicking ass all over graduated NIDA (National Institute people had there. JI: Yeah, I definitely saw the first of Dramatic Art) in Australia. But that big screen come this Spring. Being from China, Ji grew up watching the cartoons and films that inspired one when I was doing research for in “Pacific Rim Uprising” this is an her new blockbuster and could not be happier to be a part of this film. Even when we talked to her, she was my audition. I was totally amazed “It has been ab- actual full character for me which grinning ear to ear just wanting to tell us more, but held back since no one has seen the movie yet. by the original and I wanted to learn has been amazing. It’s only a tiny more about the world I was get- solutely fantastic The promising talent hasn’t been in a lot of English speaking films, but with her first break and a bit part arc [laughs] but it’s at least a com- ting into and what it would be like in “Transformers” Age of Extinction” she killed it enough that when she auditioned for “Pacific Rim Uprising” plete role and I finally got to act in working with such for Mei. Funny enough when they the director saw her audition tape twice and said “that’s all he needed to see,” and gave her the role without English and the whole world gets were looking for girls to play Mei having to see her audition in person. Ji may be in some serious blockbusters but she was also in the comedy to see it, which is great. There is a diverse cast from Lin, they were only really looking at “Skiptrace” alongside Jackie Chan and Johnny Knoxville and stole the film with her joke.Are we gonna tell you another movie that I was in called actual eighteen year old actresses all different back- what the joke is? Absolutely not, go watch the film and find out for yourself! “Skiptrace” with Jackie Chan and and I was a little down on it thinking Johnny Knoxville and that one I Lily loves all genres, but is working on some action films right now that we can’t wait to see and talk that i wouldn’t get cast. One of my grounds and parts did in English but the part was very about them when they are released in the coming year. When she isn’t on film, Ji is busy doing everything friends told me that I should just go small. With it being a comedy, the under the sun and being amazing at all of it. No matter if it’s riding horses, playing piano, or any other skill out and audition with no expectation but of the world for there- the multi-talented performer’s got it covered. So, make sure to check out Lily Ji in “Pacific Rim Upris- joke I told only works in English, Steven [Deknight] is my hero and but in the Chinese version my part me.” ing” on March 23rd and be captivated! he casted me, just from my audition was cut because the joke doesn’t tape and didn’t have to go in and in her background, was always work. So finally, the world gets to WINGMAN MAGAZINE: You are in them. She didn’t just study one do a live read. I was supposed to head of the class and she grew up see me in an English speaking film. WINGMAN: Your cast is so phe- the upcoming blockbuster “Pa- martial art, she studied multiple go back to Beijing and meet him in a single parent family. She had to It has been about ten years since nomenal with Scott Eastwood, cific Rim Uprising” which should techniques so that she could pro- but after a second look at my tape, work super hard to get where she is. I started learning English when I John Boyega, Adria Arjona, Tian be a smash hit. Talk a little about tect her mom. From what I could he decided that it wasn’t necessary Mei Lin graduated from this Chinese moved to Australia where I could Jing to name a few. Talk about your character, Mei Lin and what determine from the script, Mei has and offered me the part. [Laughs] high school and then got into the speak zero English. It has been them a little bit. we can expect from you in the never met her dad but always had Yeah I was pretty excited. I loved program at the top of her class. Mei absolutely fantastic working with film. her mother in her corner. the first one and Guillermo Del Toro JI: I mostly worked with Scott and is very driven and when she sets such a diverse cast from all differ- was great and this one is going to John which was just so fun. John LILY JI: [Laughs] We still need to a target she always hits her mark. WINGMAN: This is definitely a ent backgrounds and parts of the be just good as the original. I love would sometimes just start dancing keep it a secret for a little bit longer, big change, budget wise to some Her sense of humor is pretty awe- world for me. on set, which would get everyone but Mei Lin is from China and I com- the type of films where everyone some and she is definitely not afraid of your other films. What was it excited and laughing. Everyone was pare her to how I grew up; working WINGMAN: The first movie was has to come together no matter to take on the guys in any type of like for you to be a part of this very professional and great to work extremely hard without any English fantastic and loved by so many. where you are from, who your par- competition and will most likely beat project? with. Scott and John are known by ents are or anything like that. It was 103 102 WINGMAN everyone in the world, especially formers” films and tv shows, so it time with the muscle memory and MAGAZINE John coming from “Star Wars” but was an absolute dream come true learning other techniques, but it’s they treated everyone the same no to be in the film, even if it was for a all been really good. When I am in matter if they were a star of the film small time. Beijing I will train three days a week or an extra. They were always will- “I can also with other actors that are learning to ing to talk about a scene and open draw, do Chinese fight for screen. to changing something if someone calligraphy, ride WINGMAN: You were born in felt it didn’t come out right. I always southwest China, studied dramat- worked out with Adria and went horses and I love to ic art in Australia, studied multi- to the gym together. I didn’t get to cook!” ple martial arts and now starring work much with Tian Jing because in blockbusters. If you tell me her role doesn’t really have much to WINGMAN: You are quite the badass when it comes to martial you can play the piano I will just do with mine. We shared the same arts. Talk a little about how study- ing multiple techniques prepared cry. What is a hidden talent that makeup room so we got to chat and you for film work. you do have that not many know she was really nice. She has a lot JI: We did some studying back about. of lines to remember and I respect in NIDA that was all about stage JI: I actually can play the piano so the fact that she didn’t get years you can start crying now. I studied fighting for screen and that’s how I dancing for eleven years, which I of training like I did ahead of time got into it. When I returned back to mentioned before and studied sing- in English, so definitely have great ing for eight years. I went to a high China I just thought it was the per- school for the arts so I learned a lot respect for her. there. I can also draw, do Chinese fect place to learn martial arts. I was calligraphy, ride horses and I love to cook. I am not very good at cooking doing some casting for an American WINGMAN: With this being a big but I do love to try. I had to learn to sci-fi robots versus monsters TV series and that’s when I start- cook before I moved to Australia because I was definitely spoiled be- film… would this have been ed MMA and just fell in love with fore I left. I never knew how to cook or use a washing machine until I something that you would watch it. I figured since I had to work out moved to Australia. as a child? everyday anyway, why not do that and learn and get my work out in. JI: Oh yeah! This is something that Traditional Chinese kung fu was very And now, Ji I definitely would’ve loved. I was not important for future roles so I start- can do it all. Looks a girly-girl or liked the color pink, ed taking that. My eleven years of like our favorite I was always a tomboy. Watching dancing definitely made things a little new actress has sci-fi films, robots, martial arts films, easier for training and get the body come quite a long those were what I really liked when Photo by Luky Chen movements. Of course it all takes way! I was younger. I loved the “Trans- 105 Today's top fitness & wellness expert, Don Saladino

Don’s Website: DriveClubs.com BLOG, INSIGHTS, TRAINING & CRYOTHERAPY

Don’s App: Fitner

DON'S WEEKLY SUITUP SUPERHERO WORKOUTS

DRIVECLUBS LOCATIONS • 495 BROADWAY, FL. 2 NEW YORK • 443 PARK AVENUE SOUTH NEW YORK WINGMAN MAGAZINE A thletes have to keep themselves in the SPORTS best shape possible at all times, and New England Pa- + triot James Develin is no different. As a two-time Super PATRIOT Bowl champion with the Patriots, James knows that FITNESS anything less than tip-top shape is unacceptable. This is not what the coaches and trainers want, this is what GAMES James and his teammates expect out of each other when they hit the field on Sundays in the Fall. Staying New England Patriots Fullback in shape in the off-season could be a difficult thing, but JAMES DEVELIN Talks About His Workout and Balancing His to James, it’s just another reason to work his butt off to Home Life make sure he stays on the field and helps his team get those wins. Story by Michael McCarthy

When an athlete commits themselves to a sport for a career, the world of fitness is not something that escapes them. James has made himself into the athlete he is today by taking the bull by the horns and training day in and day out, year round. He balances his work- outs with a solid diet but has his cheat day, like anyone does and loves himself some pancakes.

Whether or not you are a fan of the NFL, it is smart to be a fan of James Develin. He loves his teammates, coaches, and fans, but most of all, he loves his family. He puts his family above everything else and without his wife holding down the fort at home, he would be a little lost. You don’t see too many profes- sional football players coming out Ivy League schools, but James went into the NFL Draft out of Brown Univer- sity and hasn’t looked back. Read on if you want to see how James keeps himself in such amazing shape!

108 love to do but my body hates me pasta and everything in between. I WINGMAN MAGAZINE: How me with a really unhealthy Ital- a lot of our guys take some serious bers. If someone is going for a re- hard is it to stay in shape in the for doing it. love to eat what she makes in the offseason? ian dish, something with a lot of pride in their abilities. We have a cord, the guys will stop and cheer him off-season. So by those standards JAMES DEVELIN: I pride myself cheese. I don’t have a particular board in the back of the weight on, it’s just fun. I compete against the on the fact that I workout hard all I am definitely treating myself a year long. Statistically I am in bet- cheat meal that I always fall back room with all of the weightlifting tight ends and not the running backs. little more during the off-season. In ter shape in the off season than I on for dinner but pancakes in the records, 40 times, 20 yard split Dion Lewis may have looked small am during the season. I put myself “We are a team regards to working out, I have so through two-a-days, run in the morning is my biggest cheat. times and all of that combine style but that dude could put up serious morning and lift in the afternoon much more time and energy during when my kids are napping. I work that definitely maxes training records on the board by weight. off-season since there isn’t any WINGMAN: When you are with it all around my family’s schedule position. The guys try to get their so that I can spend as much time out and a lot of our football but you will still find me in the team, are the competitions in WINGMAN: The life of an athlete as possible with them. I really do numbers up on the board if possi- believe that I am in better shape the gym and on the field working the weight room between team- can be difficult balancing work and in the off-season since I am work- guys take some seri- ble and I always love that kind of on my conditioning and preparing mates to see who can lift more? family. Talk about how you make ing out constantly and find time to competition since it breeds hard hit up the gym in my basement in for the next season. During the that work during the season. between as well. ous pride in their abili- DEVELIN: Absolutely! We are a work and team camaraderie when season the priority is playing. We team that definitely maxes out and guys are trying to put up big num- DEVELIN: During the season there WINGMAN: What is one of the ties.” will train 3-4 days a week during exercises that you absolute- the season but it’s more working on WINGMAN ly hate to do even though you injury prevention and maintaining MAGAZINE know it’s detrimental to your WINGMAN: How does your our overall fitness. workout? workout and diet differ when you are in season and when you are WINGMAN: Every athlete loves DEVELIN: Oh man! Recently I off season? a cheat day or cheat meal. What would have to say that it’s dead- is yours and why? lifting. I have always loved the DEVELIN: Diet-wise I absolutely bench squat, power clean, Olym- eat better during the season be- DEVELIN: It is definitely a cheat pic lift and stuff like that, but just cause you really have to maximize day! [laughs] It usually starts at recently I got back into dead-lifting. your energy then. When we are in breakfast on a Saturday and we I was into it a few years back with the facility we have access to really will go out to eat with the family. I my teammate at the time, Matt Mul- good, clean food and can con- will get a couple of pancakes on ligan and I got pretty good at it. He stantly go in there and get exactly the side of my omelet which isn’t taught me some of the ins and outs what you need and it’s all good for super-bad. In the off-season I live of doing it and it’s a full body work- you. In the off-season, my wife is down in the Philadelphia area so out. There is no cheating the lift… a great cook and sometimes she lunch is cheese-steaks and hoa- you either lift it up or you don’t. The doesn’t cook the healthiest shit. gies and mix in a soft pretzel from dead-lift is definitely a love/hate She is an Italian cook so she is WaWa for a snack afterwards. The relationship, it’s something I really all about making chicken cutlets, weekends are definitely good for 110 isn’t a lot of time outside of foot- growing practice for me. I played a Belichick and all of the coaches for ball but I definitely prioritize my little bit of fullback in high school but giving me this opportunity to be able family as number one so any time mostly tight end. One game in col- to play there because it is special. I get away from the facility I am lege, we were on the goal line and It has been really fun spending my spending with my two young boys they put me in to block for a guy but career there, playing as long as I and my wife. I soak in that time as I didn’t have a whole lot of experi- can, bonding with my teammates much as possible. I really rely a ence doing it. With my size and skill and enjoying all of the success that lot on my wife during the season, set, my agent and I thought it would we have had there. It is just such a whether it’s the daily routine of be a good idea to go into the draft great environment for football there practice, meetings etc., or it’s the as a fullback and it seemed to work and it’s really how I think football

away games when I leave on Fri- out in the end for me. should be played. Coach expects day or Saturday for the weekends. a lot of us and we know that and WINGMAN: You are obviously She picks up the slack and has we try to really get the most out of part of one of the greatest dynas- www.bigalicebrewing.com been a soldier for me taking care of ourselves which makes for a real- ties in sports history as part of the daily grind of raising two boys ly great team environment and an the New England Patriots. Talk so I take my hat off to her because even better place to play. a little bit about how you have she does a phenomenal job at blended in with the team from the keeping our family together. coach to the team and everyone WINGMAN: You went from hit- else. And an even bet- ting people as a defensive end at DEVELIN: From day one you really Brown and transitioned to a full- see the culture in New England and ter team environment back coming out of college. How know they are all about business did you go from hitting people to and have respect for the game, the is having Develin as getting hit? coaches and each other as team- a teammate- and it DEVELIN: Fortunately for me as mates. That just translates into a lot a fullback I am doing a lot of the of hard work and hours being put in makes for a great fan hitting so I can open up a hole for no matter if it’s playing, coaching or our running backs. I don’t get the training. It’s a blessing to be a part environment! ball all that often, so I am always of an organization like New England the one that is trying to blow open and I am incredibly proud to be part a hole by hitting a linebacker to get of something so special. I really our ‘backs free. It was definitely a have to thank Mr. Kraft, Coach 112 WINGMAN MAGAZINE SPORTS Every kid out there is looking for a sports star that he can call his hero- someone whose + footsteps he can seek to follow in and one day be SAFE just like, and these days, it seems like heroes might FITNESS just be hard to come by. We’ve learned to celebrate the arrogant and self-centered, applauding peo- ple for who can be the biggest narcissist on social media- that’s why it’s extremely refreshing to see a sports star like Shamarko Thomas come into fame- a guy who proclaims that he puts God first, family & second, fans third, and praises his team- not himself.

This benevolent, modest and responsible attitude probably comes from his humble upbring- ings. Not given everything handed to him on a silver platter, Thomas had to take care of his siblings from a young age, and suffered the tragic loss of his SOUND mother from Wolff-Parkinson’s-White-Syndrome. But, the hard-working star has taken her advice with him wherever he goes, making him that much more Super Safety dedicated to the game as he brings his strength to every team he joins, giving everything 110% percent Shamarko Thomas and more. Of The Buffallo And when it comes to training for the football season, Thomas is certainly an unstoppable beast. Bills Stays In Tip- Not only does he follow a very strict diet, but he also focuses on hardcore strength training. On top of that, Top Shape he understands that recovery is the most important part of training for an athlete and goes through an STORY BY ANDREW CRISTI intense recuperation routine to keep his body a well- oiled machine for game-time. And when it comes to cheat meals, the dedicated sport star barely goes near them- unless it means indulging with his kids, because again, family makes the calories worth it! For more pearls of wisdom from this kind-hearted hero, read on!

WINGMAN: So, you’re in off-season right now. Do you find yourself cheating a little more in between seasons, and what’s your favorite cheat meal?

SHAMARKO THOMAS: Not really. In between sea- sons is a very crucial time to get better and get ready for next season, so I try not to cheat at all. Every once and awhile, I’ll have a cheat meal with my kids

114 though. I enjoy spending time with You’re not just leaving your team- WINGMAN: I’m sorry to hear WINGMAN them, so the calories are worth it. mates, but also the staff you’ve built about your mother, who passed MAGAZINE relationships with and so on and so away from Wolff-Parkinson’s- WINGMAN: What’s your strategy forth, and you have to start all over white- syndrome. What can you to start training hard again when again. My time at the Steelers was tell us about the disease and the going into season, and what do great though because I learned advice your mom has given you? you try and avoid? how to become a professional and handle the business side of the NFL. THOMAS: The disease is a fairly THOMAS: Currently I’m training I will say once I left the Jets and rare one, but it’s when you have in Arizona with my former team- arrived at Buffalo, it really felt like an issue with the electrical sys- mate James Harrison and have home. So when we played the Jets tem of your heart and it causes a been mainly focused on getting after that I was really excited to get rapid heartbeat, which can lead to stronger. We’re also on a very strict out there and perform. We lost that heart complications. Some advice diet; no carbs, no candy, no soda, game but we fought hard, and I’m my mother had given me is to work etc. As we get closer to training looking forward to playing them this hard, be a leader, and always follow camp I will start to focus on more year. my dreams. Her favorite line was speed and agility work, as well as “work had until your hands and mental sharpness by watching a ton feet fall off,” that has stuck with a films. The only thing I try to avoid “I would tell me for life. She would also say to at this time is distractions, because always put God first and your family I want to make sure I’m focused them don’t try and second. I live by that. and ready for next season. Many guys take this time to party, but I fit into my shoes, WINGMAN: What advice would want to get better and make sure you give kids out there who look I’m physically in the best shape wear your own to up to you and so desperately come training camp. want to be in your shoes?

WINGMAN: You take recovery the best of your THOMAS: I would tell them don’t seriously, right? How important try and fit into my shoes, wear your is recovery and recuperation for ability.” own to the best of your ability. You an athlete, and what are some of can achieve anything you want in your practices? life through hard work, believing WINGMAN: You have had a long in yourself, never giving up, and THOMAS: Recovery is the most road to get to the NFL growing always following through on what important thing for an athlete. up. You very much raised your you say. Life is about action- dream Luckily for me, during my time with siblings. Does that lend to a very big and go make it happen! the Steelers I got to learn how to paternal mentality when dealing take care of my body from guys like with a team? Are you usually one Troy Polamalu, James Harrison, of the responsible ones? and Ryan Clark; Your body is the engine that drives your career, so THOMAS: Most definitely; I had to And while that I make sure to take care of it. That grow up faster than others my age includes daily massages, acupunc- because I had a family depending is some great ad- ture, cryotherapy, and hot and cold on me. When guys would be getting tub every day. I also stretch 3-4 ready to go out, I would make sure I vice, it’s impossi- times a day, which has helped me was home to watch my siblings and a ton. children. When you’re given that re- ble not to look up to sponsibility at a young age, you tend WINGMAN: You’ve been a mem- to realize much faster that your fami- Thomas even more ber of The Jets, The Steelers, and ly is who you’re playing for, so you’re The Buffalo Bills. How is it com- much more aware of everything you because of it! ing into a new team, and what is do. My siblings and children look up it like playing your former team to me so I always want to be a great role model for them; As long as I THOMAS: Going from one organi- can do that, I’ll be a happy man. zation to the next is always tough. 117

BLOCKBUSTER’S ABLOOM PLAY UNTIL YOUR HEARTMETER IS Summer May Be Known For Blockbusters, But It Seems As Though This Spring Is Taking That Title! GONE! By Michael McCarthy By Michael McCarthy Every summer we wait for the biggest movies of the year to be released, but it seems as though the Throughout the year new video games come out that we all love to play. In the fall we anticipate the big Hollywood Groundhog didn’t see his shadow since every movie fan or geek will have something to watch this spring, whether it be sci-fi, action, the comic book genre- and more. eW have picked our four favorite upcoming games of the year, which gear up towards the holiday season. There are few games that capture our attention films that you will want to see and included our own sneak peek.All of these could extend into summer, but all through the rest of the year, but this year we have a few games that we are really excited for and it’s a great of them will make some fantastic waves- and one may even set a new box office record! time to be a gamer. The games that come out this spring are not the regular games you pick up every year. Pacific Rim Uprising These take time to come up with the concept and whether it’s for XBOX, Playstation or Switch, these games This sequel to the blockbuster from a few years back is just as out of this will be pretty amazing. world as the last film. Replacing Charlie Hunnam and Idris Elba are John Boyega and Scott Eastwood as the team of pilots that will take on the monster hoard that SEA OF THIEVES is threatening earth. This film is even bigger and more action packed than the first film, and who doesn’t love a good old fashioned monster movie?ell, W some A Microsoft project that is all about the pirate life. If you love to sail the seven seas, shoot amazing special effects, and a $200 million dollar budget certainly helps! Check it cannonballs at incoming boats and plunder ships, you need to check out “Sea of Thieves.” out on March 23rd and check out our interview with another star of the film, Lily Ji in this issue! There is no single player mode in this game, but there is some serious multiplayer that you READY PLAYER ONE will want to get in on. The more friends you have that play this game, the better. So swab the deck men and get to work. “Sea of Thieves” releases March 20th. Based on the worldwide phenomenon of a book by Ernest Cline that is set in 2045 where the world is overpopulated and to escape it, you go into a virtual world known as the Oasis. This film follows Wade attsW played by Tye Sheridan GOD OF WAR (“X-Men Apocalypse”, “Mud”) as he tries to find digital Easter eggs to where a key For all of you Playstation lovers out there, “God of War” has been the is to unfathomable riches inside of the Oasis. The best parts of this movie are all of the generational hints at the ‘80’s and we can’t wait to see it. “Ready Player One” mainstay for one of the best series of the past few generations of the console. releases March 30th. Now with the PS4 getting its own story of Kratos and adding in his son, this AVENGERS: INFINITY WAR game is going to be off the chain. We don’t know the storyline of this game but just anticipate killing mythical monsters and creatures and meeting some Gods This is the film that will break every box office record out there. Back in Janu- ary when the pre-sale tickets for “Black Panther” became available it was the fastest throughout the game. “God of War” releases April 20th. selling pre-sale of all time. Avengers beat that record in six hours! Thanos is attacking earth and it’s up to the Avengers and a lot of their friends to stop him. I have been wait- ing for this film since Thanos (Josh Brolin) was shown back when the MCU started. So many incredible characters are coming back for this one and some aren’t going to FAR CRY 5 make it out alive. Check it out April 27th at every theater in the world. This is the game that I will be dropping serious hours into whether it be alone or co-op. If you are a fan of first person shooters with a story that isALSO open-world… you DEADPOOL 2 need to pick up “Far Cry 5” I will just say this about the game…..you get to take out a cult in The follow up film to the smash hit from 2016. Deadpool saved the girl, showed his powers and Montana. That is all I need to say to get you enthralled. The trailer is absolutely unreal and talked to the camera way too much (which we loved,) and he’s back to kick some more ass and you need to pick this game up. “Far Cry 5” releases on March 27th. even more raunchy comedy on top of it. Ryan Reynolds is returning as Deadpool, because who

else could play him after this. As if Josh Brolin being in one Marvel movie wasn’t enough, let’s

throw him in as Cable in this film as well so he can rule the box office this year. “Deadpool 2”

releases May 18th. 120