Anthony Turpel talks starring in "Love, Victor" - OUT TODAY!!!

The highly awaited series “Love, Victor” is premiering TODAY on Hulu! The show is based off of the hit movie (one of our favorites) “Love, Simon.” (Which was based off of the best-selling novel “Simon Vs. The Homo Sapiens Agenda.”) “Love, Victor” follows the life of Victor who moved to a new neighborhood, is attending a new school and is realizing his sexuality. His journey as part of the LGBT+ community is sure to inspire viewers. In his new town, Victor befriends his neighbor Felix, played by Anthony Turpel. And Anthony gave a peek at what fan’s can expect from the new show!

Young Entertainment Mag: You’re starring in the new Hulu show “Love, Victor,” which is loosely based on the book (Simon vs. The Homo Sapiens Agenda) and movie “Love, Simon.” Were you familiar with “Love, Simon” before joining the show?

Anthony Turpel: Yes, I actually went to the theater to see it and thought it was amazing. I thought the message was wonderful, it was well-written and well-acted. So when I got the audition to the show I was extremely excited because I loved the world it created and it pushed forward a really important message.

YEM: “Love, Victor” exists in the same universe as “Love, Simon.” Will fans see characters or references to “Love, Simon” in this new show?

Anthony: Yes they do! I don’t want to spoil too much but I’ll say that you will see a lot of familiar faces.

YEM: “Love, Victor” tells the story of a member of the LGBT+ community as he navigates high school and grows into his own. How does it feel to be a part of such a groundbreaking show?

Anthony: Oh it feels incredible. I think more representation and stories like this need to be shown. And I’m very thankful that I get to be a part of it. I think this story will help a lot of young kids who are confused and it will be a great place to turn and not feel so alone.

YEM: How would you best describe Felix and how does he relate to someone in high school now?

Anthony: Felix is just a lovable guy who accepts people for who they are. He represents the kid who’s not afraid to be himself.

YEM: What is the dynamic between Felix and Victor? What kind of friend is Felix?

Anthony: I see the dynamic as Felix had no friends and Victor had no friends and for that reason alone Felix took that as an opportunity to establish a relationship between the two. He’s always there for you. He tries to come from a place of understanding and love and that’s exactly what Victor needed.

(Photo by: Eric McCandless/Hulu)

YEM: Were you able to use anything from your personal high school experience?

Anthony: Funny you should say that: I was actually homeschooled. So besides being an awkward mess, no. You could say I’m living my high school experience right now through the show.

YEM: What has the response been so far? Have you heard from fans that are excited for the show to premiere?

Anthony: Yeah, it seems like people are really excited about the show. The response has been so strong because stories like these have been lacking. “Love, Simon” was a powerful coming-of-age story that didn’t have a tragic ending. Especially in a time like this I think the show will resonate with a lot of people.

YEM: What has been one challenge acting in “Love, Victor” that you were able to overcome?

Anthony: I couldn’t say the word “simpatico”. It was so many takes that they didn’t even include it in the episode.

YEM: Did you have any firsts on this project? Something new in your acting that you’re able to bring to your next gig?

Anthony: It was the first time I shot a scene at a giant carnival. I also got to work with Andy Richter and he gave me some pretty unique dating advice. You know, every time you’re on set it’s always a learning experience. So no matter what I’m on I’m always learning more and more things. And this show was no exception.