Michael Willett, you’re one of the rare actors in this business that’s actually from California. Did you always know that you were going to be an actor?
Yes. I have always been creative and always loved to perform in front of people. I began singing at a young age, which then, lead me to do theatre. Eventually, I realized that I wanted to do this professionally and enjoyed the fact that I could share a story with people.
Who and what were your biggest influencers and supporters, for making this your career?
My family have always been my biggest supporters. They have understood my love of the arts (music, TV & film), since I was younger. I look up to actors like Johnny Depp. Robin Williams has always been a huge influence and inspiration for reaching my goals as well. I think it is amazing that one person can play a variety of characters.
What was the first major role you booked and what was your reaction when you did so?
My first major role, was my guest star appearance on “United States of Tara”. I was only supposed to be on, for two episodes. And, before I knew it, I ended up having a two season arc. I wanted to prove that I could hold my own with this caliber of talent. I wanted to be looked at as an equal, or at least pretend to be 🙂
As you mentioned, you had a nice role on Showtime’s United States of Tara where you played alongside Toni Collette, Brie Larson and others. If it were up to you, which other actors would you love to work with and why?
Working with James Franco would be fun! For me, it’s more about working with the people behind the scenes, the Directors, Producers, Writers, etc. These are the people I truly look up to. Working with Quentin Tarantino would be a dream come true. I love his overall style and perspective of film. I think he is fascinating!
Fast forward to now and you’re on MTV’s Faking It. What was your deciding factor for wanting to take on this role?
I loved that this show had a similar tone and style to G.B.F., but the fact that he was a completely different character, pulled me in. I’m someone who craves variety, so I was drawn to Shane’s originality. This show brings up conversations that need to be addressed in the world we live in today and does so in an entertaining, accessible way.
Speaking more on your role as Shane Harvey, who pretty much runs the school. What are the many facets of Shane and what do you enjoy about playing him the most?
Shane is confident, stylish and a “chameleon.” He is a mix of Duckie from “Pretty in Pink” and Ferris from “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.” In a sense, Shane is a super hero. He can stay afloat in any situation and he does it, so effortlessly. It’s admirable and I wish I could be more like that.
As the first part of the season draws to a close, what can you share with us about what will happen with the girls and how will Shane be affected?
Well, there will definitely be secrets revealed and it will definitely effect everyone, in a negative way. Shane is usually the “puppet master,” pulling the strings to benefit himself. However, the fun and games are over. There is about to be a whole lot of drama.
If you were not an actor, what kind of career would you have?
I’m definitely an artist at heart, so, I imagine I would probably pursue something in the creative field. People also fascinate me, so I think being a therapist would be pretty cool. There is a lot of psychology in being an actor. It would be so cool to understand people’s back stories and why they do things they do.
Your character on Faking It, Shane, is a very stylish guy. We have to assume that you’re into fashion, at least a little bit. Who are some of your favorite designers that we would find in your closet?
Bernhard Willhelm and Vivienne Westwood are two designers I admire. Bernhard’s use of color and his combination of art-meets-streetwear. Vivienne Westwood, is always amazing. I love her punk rock roots! I love the Zara men line, but anyone who knows me knows I love sneakers. Right now I’m really into my neon Nikes and Pumas.
Thanks for taking the time to chat with us. We look forward to seeing what happens on MTV’s Faking It. What other projects are you working on for the future?
I recently released my single “Started Over” which is available now on iTunes. I’m also in the process of wrapping up production on the music video for the single. You can definitely be on the look out for more music. We are getting ready to start shooting the second part of Season 2 as well, so look out for more “Faking It!”
Twitter: @MisterWillett
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Photos: Nikko Lamere