Check out our interview with Parker Wierling. We chat about what he loves about acting, his new film “Greyhound”, and more!
upfrontNY: How did you get your start in acting and what do you love most about it?
Parker Wierling: I started acting when I was 10. I joined a theatre summer camp in Valdosta, Georgia and had a blast! Ever since then, I couldn’t get enough. I’d do school and community theatre plays all year long. I’ve just always loved the idea of getting lost in another character and telling their story.
upfrontNY: Can you tell us about your role in “Greyhound”?
Parker Wierling: I play a messenger in the upcoming Tom Hanks movie, ‘Greyhound’! The job of the messenger of a 1940’s battle ship is to transport messages from neighboring ally ships to the captain.
upfrontNY: What was it like being part of a film with Tom Hanks?
Parker Wierling: It was a total dream come true, honestly. I grew up watching Saving Private Ryan, so being in a World War II movie with Tom was just amazing. I learned so much just by being around him on set.
upfrontNY: What was the best part of filming this movie?
Parker Wierling: As a total history nerd, it was so cool being able to actually film on a real battleship in Baton Rouge, Louisiana! The U.S.S. Kidd has been through so much. I loved being able to explore the whole ship during the filming process!
upfrontNY: Can you tell us about your role as Wade in “Yes, God, Yes”?
Parker Wierling: Wade is just one of those guys who wants to fit in and be cool, even if it means not being completely honest. I loved portraying him because I felt like I could relate to that, especially in high school.
upfrontNY: Do you have a dream role you would like to play?
Parker Wierling: Working with Christopher Guest as some sort of whacky character in one of his mockumentaries would be amazing. He’s done Spinal Tap, Best In Show, A Mighty Wind, etc. I love that style of comedy and being able to do something like that just sounds so fun!
upfrontNY: From all your filming experiences, do you have a favorite?
Parker Wierling: It’s hard to pick a particular filming experience as a favorite. I enjoyed my time on set for everything I’ve done. I’ve been blessed to work with so many nice and hardworking people.
upfrontNY: Aside from acting, you write, record, and produce your own music. Can you tell us about your music and your bands?
Parker Wierling: I started learning guitar when I was 13 years old, then had friends teach me the basics of drums, bass guitar, and keyboards over the next few years. I was in a couple bands in high school, but didn’t start writing, recording, and producing my own music until this year! The project name is Focal Feature and you can check out both singles, “TailorMade” and “DIY” on Spotify, Amazon Music, and Apple Music.
upfrontNY: When you are not working what do you like to do?
Parker Wierling: I’m trying to get better at reading a lot more. I used to read a lot when I was younger and I’ve missed it. I particularly enjoy reading dystopian novels like 1984 and Brave New World.
Favorites:
Favorite Color: Blue
I am so very proud of the wonderful man you have become.
Keep up your good work and I cannot wait to see what comes next for you
Juju