Joey Vieira and Jeffrey Wahlberg - Dora The Explorer Wrap Party
We had the amazing opportunity to interview Joey Vieira! He’s starring Wiggleton in the live action, feature-length film “Dora The Explorer.” Check out the interview below.
Hi, Joey! Thank you for granting the interview. Congrats on your series regular role as Officer Gentle on Wriggleton filming in Australia. What should the audience expect to see?
Wriggleton is going to be a tonne of fun. Very Australian, down to earth, and enjoyable. It’s a small town comedy that just about everyone can relate to – a series about regular people trying to keep up with this modern world of constant change.
Tell us about Officer Gentle. Who is he? What is his personality like?
Officer Gentle is originally from Houston, Texas but couldn’t keep up with the big city so he made the move Down Under. He’s a simple small-town cop with a big imagination who probably watches a bit too much of both CNN and FOX NEWS. He gets a bit confused, but he’s gentle and dedicated to keeping his region crime free. He loves his job, his small town, and Wriggleton.
What role does Gentle play in the series?
Gentle has an authoritative role in this small town. Change is bound to happen, and he’s right there trying to keep up with it – and keep the peace.
Was it a challenge to play Gentle?
I’ve never played a character like Gentle before! He’s a responsible adult with a serious job… and I’ve never had a real job. I’ve always been an actor, but that’s allowed me to be a character like Gentle; to make a living telling a story. I’m still a kid and don’t want to grow up. Gentle is the opposite. He’s not a challenge, but we’re definitely not alike!
How did you get the role?
I had worked with Joel Fleming the director before on a different project. He reached out to me to see if I was interested and after reading the pilot, I said yes! These relationships are so important. If you’re good and likable, people want to keep working with you.
The subject matter of the series is heartfelt. How would the second season’s production bring something new to this type of series?
I’m working with some brilliant young writers who don’t give away too much. I’m sure the second series will be full of more ups and downs.
What is going to surprise people about Gentle?
The surprising thing about Office Gentle is that behind that badge he’s just a regular guy trying to fit in. He has his pride and insecurities like everyone else.
Without giving anything away, what’s your favorite line of dialogue and why?
I can’t tell you! There is this one line, and you’ll see it in the show. It’s become a running joke with the cast already.
When looking back on the production, what resonated with you the most and why?
The thing that resonates the most is listening to the cast reactions during every table read. We have great chemistry and it is coming together so organically. That’s how you know this story needs to be told.
In your opinion, what scene in the series is going to blow people away and why?
Every episode is different but with one common theme of everyone trying to better themselves. It is art imitating life; day by day most of us want to do better, and Wrigleton explores that.
What do you enjoy most about your character and role?
What’s great about this character and what I love about him is that he is taking charge. He doesn’t back down from any challenge.
Do you have anything else you would like to share about the series?
Like most projects, I’m just thankful to be a part of it. And thankful that I got a chance to work with other very creative storytellers. This team is amazing; the cast and crew are all so dedicated and in love with the story. We all want to be there. We all love being there.
You just wrapped production on the Live Action film, Dora The Explorer, which will release to theaters this August. Joey plays Nico, who is Diego’s father. Tell us about your character and role.
As you know I can’t say too much but being cast as Diego’s Dad (Nico) in Dora The Explorer has been a dream! I’ve been able to work on amazing sets with great locations, cast, and crew. Everyone was so down to earth and we became a little family. There was dinner and Latin dancing after big days. James Bobin the director, Kristin Burr, John Scotti, Tamazin Simmonds the producers were absolutely lovely and a joy to work with. It made me miss Los Angeles! It was also my first time working with Pia Miller, Isabela Moner, Eva Longoria, Madelyn Miranda, Michael Pena, Jeffrey Wahlberg, and Malachi Barton…and they were all awesome! A dream cast! It was an honor to be able to work with them. Everyone was great and we had a great time.
Do you have anything else you would like to share about your career?
I’ve been at this for over 20 years and in this crazy industry, there are no guarantees. Most don’t make it and I consider myself so lucky to have been able to take the opportunities I’ve been given. You’ve really got to push and keep going, but you also need support. It can’t always be business; you have to have people that mean something to you both on and off set. Otherwise, its just another job. If it wasn’t for the love and support from my family and friends I would not be where I am today. You can’t be in this industry for fame and fortune; if that’s why you’re acting, you’re going to be disappointed. Be in it because you love it and you can’t imagine doing anything else.
Featured Image Credit: Joey Vieira and Jeffrey Wahlberg – Dora The Explorer Wrap Party.
About Author
