Jesse Luken is an accomplished actor who is serious about his work, but doesn’t forget the fun part either. Known for his outstanding work in the film 42 as well as the show Justified, the actor sat down with us to discuss his upcoming projects, and cussing in front of children.
YOUNG ADULT: Talk to us about being involved in the popular show Justified. What have been the standout experiences?
Jesse Luken: Justified is simply outstanding. The rich characters, snappy dialogue and first-class acting made it just a tremendous experience. I felt very lucky to be a part of such an acclaimed show for three years. Plus some of the most underrated comedy on television.
YA: Describe your favorite character you’ve played thus far. Who is he? What about him most resembles you?
JL: It might be Eddie Stanky, the Dodgers 2nd baseman in the film 42. It was so fascinating to play a non-fictional person; the research that went into it was just very, very fun. I talked to his kids and a couple of ex-teammates. He seemed like the type of guy I aspire to be. Fiercely loyal, hard-nosed and passionate. His son said “he led the league in getting kicked out of games for fighting, but he never cussed in front of his kids and opened the car door for my mother every day until the day he died.” I thought that was very sweet. (Although I’ll probably cuss in front of my kids…little bastards.)
YA: What was it like working with the cast and crew of The Guest? Any other film projects on the horizon for you?
JL: The Guest was really terrific. Those guys really know their craft, and they’re just running and gunning in the deserts of New Mexico. They all trust each other completely, and it pays off as their movies all play at huge film festivals. I was honored they let me come join in on the fun for a little bit.
YA: What has been the best acting or professional advice you’ve received? Who are you dying to work with?
JL: Success in Hollywood is based on your ability to get 100 doors slammed in your face and still figure out how to open door number 101. I really like that quote. And lord almighty there are so many people I’d love to work with. Off the top of my head I’ll say Daniel Day-Lewis, Marion Cotillard, Bill Murray and Melissa McCarthy.
YA: You have other interesting pursuits, like biology and travel. How do you balance it all out with your acting career?
JL: That’s crucial. You have to be able to have a release. I saw a quote once from Michael Caine, which I totally agree with and love, that goes something like “pursuing acting isn’t a part-time job, pursuing acting isn’t a full-time job…pursuing acting is a full-time obsession.” And it’s true, you have to really, really work hard to make it in this business. It’s a business of rejection though, and you have to have a release. So whatever it is; travel, baseball, gardening, yoga, basket-weaving, whatever you can do to relax your mind and unwind, you gotta do it.
YA: If you could play any role from any film or TV show in history, who would it be and why?
JL: Oh I wouldn’t do that. So much pressure! If it’s one of my favorite roles then I don’t want anyone to touch it, especially me!
YA: What would you say is your favorite YA story, book or film?
JL: Hmmmm. I’m not exactly sure what qualifies as “YA”, but I’ll go with The Hunger Games, The Princess Bride, and Star-Crossed!