The former star of 800 Words, 33, has joined the cast of Wentworth (continues Tue., Jun. 18 at 8.30pm; Fox Showcase) as senior officer Sean Brody. Watch the Season 7 trailer below.
Were you sad to say goodbye to your 800 Words character, Woody?
I loved Woody, but even when we were shooting that show, I would shut the door, because you never know if a show is going to go again. Sometimes they come back and sometimes it’s just one season and you just have to get used to that as an actor.
How did the Wentworth role come about?
I have been cast quite a lot in funny or comedic roles. But [series producer] Pino [Amenta], who I got along with really well [on 800 Words], obviously could see I could do something a bit different. So, I was incredibly grateful to Pino for seeing me in that light and having the faith to offer me the role. I would probably say it was the best role I’ve been able to play yet. I got to stretch my acting skills in ways I haven’t had a chance before.
Were you daunted to join Wentworth?
A little bit. But they were the most welcoming, loving kind of ensemble. Very much a family. That’s largely because of Robbie [Magasiva, who plays Will Jackson], who’s the most loving human being and he sets the tone on set.
Sean, who has a background with Bernard Curry’s Jake Stewart, is not squeaky clean, is he?
Jake’s turning over a new leaf and Sean doesn’t really have a moral compass; he doesn’t believe in consequences. He’s got a bit of bad blood in him, I think, and he’s not afraid to try and get some cash on the side if he needs to.