If you have been following Hallmark and my interviews for any length of time, you probably are well aware of the fact that I adore interviewing the supporting cast of Hallmark movies almost as much and sometimes more than the leads of the movies. I relish the chance to highlight those in the background who are also an integral part of the film, and in this case, that happens to be Garrett Black. If you watched Bottled With Love on April 13th, then you saw him as the waiter. However, you will also be seeing him next week in Easter Under Wraps. In fact, he was also recently seen on Chronicle Mysteries: Vines That Bind. In light of all his recent and upcoming Hallmark works, Garrett was kind enough to grant me a quick interview which I am honored to share with my readers today.
RH: Please tell us about how you got involved with pursuing a career in film/TV.
GB: It started with a love for movies and making people laugh. I think at a young age, I had a desire to perform, and that desire I nurtured quietly. Being somewhat shy and reserved, I sought the opportunities to let my creative, imaginative, storytelling instincts unravel on stage or through music, and as I got older and became more aware of the world around me, acting in film and TV had a somewhat magnetic pull. It was a first love that only after years of lived experience did I awaken to it.
What was your first professional job in the business, and what are your memories of working on that job?
Commercials, I believe were my first entry into the professional world; a grocery store chain, if I remember correctly. It was a blast!
I think that your first Hallmark project was Cedar Cove. What did you know about Hallmark before working on that, and what is like being a part of that?
You’re right and it was an absolute joy! I was familiar with the reputation of Hallmark mainly through my Mom and her love for the movies and series. I had seen several Hallmark films and always responded to the heart coursing through each story.
On Cedar Cove, the role I played was of a radio host who was attempting to renege a prize from a sweet lady. The scene was in the courtroom and I was absolutely blessed to work with some amazing ladies; Andie McDowell presiding on the bench and the singular Debbie Macomber, in a cameo role of sorts as the aforementioned sweet lady deserving of her prize. It was such a welcome introduction into the Hallmark family and I have such fond memories of that experience.
The Town That Came A-Courtin’
You were a part of a movie that is now on Hallmark Movies Now though it was not originally a Hallmark movie–The Town That Came A-Courtin’. What did you enjoy about being a part of that movie?
The character of Deputy Ricky first and foremost was an exceptionally fun role to play. The whole experience of shooting that film was joy and bliss! I met some wonderful people through the making of it. Ronda Rich, the writer of the book the film was based on, was a delight to share words with, as was Valerie Harper and Lauren Holly. For me, making that movie is a highlight, having the space to dig into the heart of a character and creating laughter through my work is a real gift.
Some of the works that you are known for are When We Rise and The X-Files. Any special moments you would like to share from either of those?
When We Rise is an important piece of historical storytelling and one that shines a powerful ray of light on a pivotal time in America for the LGBT and civil rights movements. Just being a part of a project of that scale and scope was a dream. I played a complex, but minor role and had one of the most illuminating experiences working with the director Dee Rees.
On the flip, The X-Files was a different kind of dream job. Not only did I get a chance to play a wild character on a show I have been a fan of for decades, but I also got to dig into some seriously imaginative and wonderfully bizarre material. If you’ve seen the episode, you’d know that the practical effects were of the highest level and made for one of the most immersive sets I’ve ever played on.
Recently, we saw you one of the Chronicle Mysteries films. I think that was your first mystery film for Hallmark. What did you enjoy most about being a part of that project?
I did work on a recent Garage Sale Mystery, so I guess I’ve technically done two Hallmark Mysteries now. But unfortunately, that movie won’t be seen, so we’ll stick with Chronicle. More times than not, what makes these experiences memorable are the people who you are creating the story with. This Chronicle Mystery was no exception and I felt like I made several new friends over the course of shooting this one. The hang-time that actors navigate is unique project to project, but good people and welcoming hearts made this one for me. I hope I cross paths soon with a lot of these great folks both in front and behind the camera.
In the month of April, two of your Hallmark projects will be seen! The first is Bottled With Love. Please tell us about your role and how that relates to the overall story. What was it like working with your co-stars?
It’s always a bit tricky talking about projects that haven’t aired yet, but thankfully this one has. But in the event the fans have not seen the film, speaking to my characters in relation to the overall story is something I’m going to keep mum on. That being said, the premise of the film is that after being stood up, Abbey gets inspired to open her heart in a letter, put it in a bottle and toss it out to sea. Months later, a man fishing discovers it and opts to reach out. As for my time working with the other actors, I had an absolute ball! They were all delightful and open-hearted. I stepped into a bonded group later in the shooting of the film and felt welcomed. We all shared laughs and stories like old friends.
Next week, we will also see you in Easter Under Wraps. Please tell us about your role and the story of that film.
That’s right! I play Trent, a young-gun, entrepreneurial type who is one half of the duo behind an upstart chocolate company. The film is about Erika, who goes undercover at her family’s chocolate plant to see why sales are down when she meets head chocolatier, Bryan, who has new ideas on how to update the Easter product line. It’s one to keep your eyes out for come this Easter and I’d recommend it best enjoyed with family and plenty of good chocolate.
Any other upcoming works you can mention?
I do have another series I have wrapped a lead role on, but I believe it’s a bit early to speak on that. I recommend to those interested, just keep an eye out as I’m sure news will be dropping soon!
How do you celebrate spring/Easter?
Easter is a time to revel in the springtime bloom and share the best chocolate around with family and friends. I’ve always loved a good Easter egg hunt and can’t see a year going by when I won’t be partaking in one of those with my kids. Spring is one of my favourite times of year and it’s always full of celebration.
Thanks so much for the opportunity to answer these questions and speak to you and your readers. I hope this spring brings all the best and brightest to you all!
I cannot tell you how thrilled I am that we are just about to see Garrett in a lead role, and I look forward to getting more information about that once it is released. However, the fact that Hallmark has cast him in three of their films in such a short span of time merely demonstrates the fact that they recognize his obvious talents, his dynamic work ethic, and his genuinely kind persona. His dedication to his craft is readily apparent, and I tend to think he is one of those artists to watch for in the near and distant future. If his recent work is indicative of what is yet to come, the possibilities are absolutely endless for this young man. At least, in my humble opinion.
I hope that everyone in the U.S. and Canada has had the opportunity to watch his most recent works (Chronicle Mysteries on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries or Real Bravo, Bottled With Love on Hallmark Channel or W Network), and I can only hope that everyone will tune in next Saturday night (April 20th) for the first-ever Hallmark Easter movie entitled Easter Under Wraps where we will have the opportunity to view his exceptional gifts on screen yet again (Hallmark Channel in the U.S., W Network in Canada). Additionally, please take a moment to visit his links below so that you can keep up with all of his future news and works. While he may not be overly active on social media, it does appear that he is fairly consistent when it comes to updating his fanbase on his projects. I sincerely believe Garrett has an incredible future ahead of him as long as he remains humble and grateful for every opportunity sent his way. As far as I am concerned, I am perfectly ecstatic to support him every step of his journey, and I anticipate watching his career progress in the days, weeks, months, and years to come!
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