Young Adult: When did you first get into acting?YA: Was your family supportive?
JR: Well, we moved from Houston to Los Angeles for my career. My Dad now works part-time and he drives me all over Los Angeles and my Mom always runs my lines with me.
YA: What has been your favorite part of the job?
JR: Well of course getting the part. Right now I am really enjoying doing the publicity events.
YA: How did you manage to get the gig on Parental Guidance?
JR: About a year before auditions I got to do a table read with Billy Crystal for this movie. Once I did the read felt in my heart this was my part and character.
YA: What was it like working with a cast of talented actors, one that includes Marisa Tomei, Billy Crystal, and Bette Midler?
JR: It was a great experience. I learn a lot watching them.
YA: Was there something specific that you learned from them, that you could use for future projects?
JR: I always had to be on my A-game, know my lines and have fun at the same time.
YA: Who is Turner?
JR: Turner is an incredible kid. He loves science and math and he is a little nerdy like me. But he is hidden behind a stutter and during the movie, Turner comes out of his shell.
YA: Is there any Joshua in Turner?
JR: I am a science guy as well as Turner. In the movie Turner is bullied and I have also been bullied.
YA: What other projects do you have coming up?
JR: I just did voice work for two movies: Mr. Peabody & Sherman and Escape from Planet Earth. I will also be guest staring in an episode of See Dad Run the first part of 2013.
YA: How do you manage school and work at the same time?
JR: Whenever I am on set, there is always a set teacher and I do my school work then. I also do my homework because it is important, sometimes in the car or while waiting for an audition.
YA: What can you tell others pursuing the same career?
JR: It’s not easy. You have to have thick skin and be willing to work hard.
YA: What’s your favorite book, or what book are you currently reading?
JR: I read a lot. I am working with RIF (Reading is Fundamental). Right now I am reading a couple books: “Little Women”, “Supernatural” and “Graceling”.