We met LukeBenward as Bo in Netflix Original’s “Dumplin’” a coming-of-age comedy with a wonderful soundtrack by Dolly Parton whose presence is felt throughout the film even though she does not make an appearance.
In our interview, Luke told us about the chemistry on set with actress Danielle Macdonald, his next indie projects and the movie he has in a constant loop, which is…read on to find out!
You have been acting since you were a kid, what is the first memory you have of acting?
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Honestly, I was so little, but I remember being able to go through the bootcamp course of the Military base we were shooting on.
On “Dumplin’,” what made you want to say yes to the project? What has been the best reaction you have seen of someone after watching the film?
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The script was beautiful and honest, I was in as soon as I read it. A friend of mine posted a story on IG where she was balling crying lol.
How would you describe your character, Bo, in 3 words?
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Honest,
brave,
passionate.
Music is a big part of both the film and your life, how was working on a Dolly Parton project?
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Well, unfortunately, I didn’t work very closely with her, haven’t even met her, haha. Knowing she was involved immediately gave clout to the project. I was stoked.
You favorite Country song?
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I love everything by Chris Stapleton.
On working with Melissa McCarthy in “Life of the Party,” how was the mood on set? In what way has she inspired you?
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It was amazing. By far the most harmonious and creative set I’ve ever been on. She is a queen in every sense of the word. An incredible person, professional and an artist.
What’s your must-have on set?
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Gotta have headphones. Didn’t always, but music has become an escape for me to get centered again.
Your Superpower or the one you would like to have?
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I’d love to be able to fly for sure. No more traffic. Could get out of situations. Could easily find a way to be alone. It’d be killer.
Who you’d rather be?
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Phantom of the Opera
An epic fail on the job?
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One time when I was touring, as a kid, I forgot the lyrics to the first song right when I came on stage.
What’s your guilty-pleasure movie?
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I have “The Big Lebowski” on a loop.
What can you tell us about your upcoming projects?
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I have three more cool Indies coming together right now. A couple are almost picture locked and they’re gonna be fun to talk about 🙂
The most beautiful thing while filming… “Dumplin’”?
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The chemistry between Danielle Macdonald and I created some incredible moments during the filming.
Photo credit: Heidi Hartwig
Styling: Allison Rae Marsh
Grooming: Erik Torppe