The Vision of an Artist
ACTOR DANIEL SHARMAN OF “TEEN WOLF” AND “FEAR THE WALKING DEAD” FAME TALKS ABOUT HIS PASSION FOR CREATING ART
Actor Daniel Sharman of “Teen Wolf” and “Fear the Walking Dead” fame discloses his ambitions for creating art and his style of directing.
english actor Daniel Sharman has had quite a few memorable roles, from Ares, the god of war, in “Immortals” to the defiant Isaac Lahey in MTV’s hit TV show “Teen Wolf.” This year, he joins the main cast of “Fear the Walking Dead,” the popular spin-off (and prequel) to “The Walking Dead.” His passion in acting, however, appears to be second to his passion for directing. Or perhaps “creating” better describes what Sharman aspires to do. Either way, his work in front and behind the camera are definitely not to be missed in the years to come. DA mAn: hi, Daniel; great to have you with us. So, we’ll soon see you on season three of “fear the Walking Dead.” how did you end up joining the show? Daniel Sharman: I did it the old fashioned, very unexciting way. Auditioned in November then met the producers, auditioned again and was down in Mexico in December. I had to do dummy sides, so I had no idea what the part was until I was there with a spoon in my eye. DA: is there anything you can tell us about your character and his role in the season’s story? DS: I really have a gift of a part. The creators and writers have formed this very complex and intricate character, Troy. He’s a cross between Iago and Tybalt, a dynamic hot head who suits the world that he now inhabits more than most. But not only have they written a survivor and hunter, but also someone who is deeply emotional and flawed. Like I said, it really is a gift to get to play those parts. So, I’m hugely in debt to the writers and creators of the show. DA: What was it that really drew you to “fear the Walking Dead” in the first place? DS: I loved the first season. I thought it was shot beautifully and acted impeccably. I’m not much of a gore and horror fan, so the details of the characters and events really drew me into it. DA: the first season of the show received positive reviews, but the second floundered a bit. Do you think that season three has what it takes to make “fear the Walking Dead” great again? DS: From what I’ve heard, they’re very excited by this season. To me, it has a great plot and some interesting turning points. We are really into what has happened after the collapse. What rises from the ashes. Which feels strangely current and relevant now... DA: What is it that you like the most about “fear the Walking Dead”? especially since you’re now actually part of the show... DS: I love the human exploration and breakdown of social norms. Any return to a more primal huntergatherer society. Anthropology has long been an obsession of mine. “Fear The Walking Dead” dumps mankind back to pre-civilization.
There are endless stories you can tell in that world. DA: many people see “fear the Walking Dead” as being a commentary about immigration issues faced by the u.S. today. What do you think about this? DS: There are some very relevant issues thrown up by this season. Some of them make for uneasy viewing due to their truth. But I don’t think any of it as being intended to be a commentary on current events. I don’t see it drumming home a point but more using observations of trends and human nature to build a plausible outcome of the collapse of civilization. DA: moving on, late last year, we learned that you were chosen as a candidate to play hardin Scott in “After.” can you tell us the story behind your involvement with the project and whether it will still be going forward?
DS: You know, this has been a project I thought long and hard about. And in the end I decided it wasn’t something I wanted to do. I know that whoever takes that part and runs with it will be hugely loved and famous. I just don’t feel that’s what I want to sign up for. I’d probably lose myself in it all. Having said that, being offered the role was hugely flattering. I spoke with the writers and producers and met the studio representatives. They’re going to make it, I’m sure. I just think someone who can handle the madness of such a popular book and film will grab that with both hands. That’s not me.