The good, the bad with GarfieldWilson
Born in England to Jamaican parents, actor GarfieldWilson currently resides inVancouver, British Columbia. Known for playing JackbootKaffey in TNT’s “Snowpiercer,” the actor’s latest series is Nickelodeon’s “The Astronauts,” which includes Jonathan Frakes (of the “Star Trek” franchise) as an executive producer.
Though this pandemic has stalledWilson’s usual travel plans, he said he’s ready to takehis family on another trip when it’s safe. His motto? “Toalways expect the unexpected, especially when it comes to travel— good and bad,” saidWilson, 51.
Q: Did your parents try to teach you about your Jamaican roots?
A: I grewupwith amazing parents. The Jamaican culture is so vibrant and beautiful. All I remember growing up is tons of music, amazing food, laughter and loads of family and friends getting together for barbecues, house parties with us kids— my older brother, younger sister andmy cousins— getting into trouble on more than one occasion and getting our behinds slapped. (Laughs)
Q: Can you talk a bit about filming someof your projects?
A: “The Astronauts” and “Snowpiercer” had the distinct challenge of creating aworld that felt palpable and very real for the viewers. I can honestly tell you that the attention to detail on both sets was phenomenal. Every department (from) set design, makeup, wardrobe (to) lighting brought so much passion, talent and integrity that it mademy job as an actor an easier process and a joy. Atestament to the talent on both projects is that filmingwas primarily done on a soundstage and not in different locations, but for me as an actor it felt like Iwas in different locations.
Q: “Snowpiercer” has an international flair. What has your experience on the series been like?
A: Working on “Snowpiercer” for mewas very special, considering the current climate. Casting was very cognizant to have an incredibly diverse cast and howthat diversity can be portrayed on the show as a commentary on our present-day society.
Q: What is your favorite vacation destination?
A: So far it has been Maui, Hawaii. It’s the closest I’ve come to being in paradise. Iwould recommend renting a condo close to the beach, renting a convertible car and then exploring the countryside. Rent kayaks, go snorkeling and check out the beautiful historical culture of the island. It’s absolutely stunning.
Q: Whatwas the first trip you took as a child?
A: Iwas born inEngland, so whenwemoved to Edmonton, Alberta, the only tripwe ever made was on the plane, which wasn’t asmuch exciting as itwas kindof scary. But I do remembermy parents taking us on a road trip in the car to Banff and then to Jasper along the mountains. That tripwas one ofmy favorite memories as a kid traveling withmy family.
Q: If you could only pick one place to eat, whichwould you choose?
A: There’s a pizza restaurant in Vancouver calledNook. I love it there, because the food is amazing, the atmosphere is cool and casual, the service is great and most importantlymy kids love the food.
Q: Where is the most romantic destination?
A: I think it’s the town and most importantly the company, butNewYork was the first destination formy girlfriend and I, whichwas just so romantic and epic. That being said, I’ve traveled to destinations that I’m dying to takemy girlfriend and kids to oncewe’re able to travel again. So, it’s definitely going to change as time evolves.
Q: If you’ve ever gone away for the holidays, whichwas the best trip?
A: I’ve never traveled for any holiday like Christmas. Butwhen the kidswere small, we surprised them with a trip to Disneyland for spring break and that was an unbelievable trip to experience with the kids at that age.
Q: Wherewould you like togothatyouhave never been to before?
A: Africa, France, Italy, Thailand andNewOrleans.