Farid, thanks for taking the time to speak with Occhi Magazine. Firstly, please share how you were introduced to the film and TV industry. What inspired you to pursue a career in acting?
Thanks for having me! Ever since grade school – I’ve always been a bit of a class clown and entertainer. I’m pretty lucky to have had great guidance and mentors during my youth. I was a graduate at Cawthra Park S.S, an arts school, and went to Humber’s: Acting for Film & television program. Essentially, it’s always been a path I followed, even when young.
What was the inspiration behind creating “Day Players”? How did the idea for this absurdist comedy come about?
I’ve always believed it’s best to create your opportunities, rather than chase them. My co-star and long-time friend, Brock Morgan, who plays Blake, suggested we take the ideas we had in Improv class and turn them into a show. I then approached my cousin Aref, who was pursuing directing, with the idea and we then met with Chris, our writer. The rest you can say was history.
How much of your personal experience as a struggling actor is reflected in the show? Are there any specific moments or stories from your own life that made it into the script?
The struggling actor is real. Every character on our show is an exaggerated representation of the people who I’ve met throughout my career. I’d say the absurdity of it all is a representation of our career paths. Being an actor, if described to the average person, is a recipe for disaster. Them: “So, what’s an actor day to day like?” Me: “Well, imagine you have to reinterview for the job you’ve done countless times, only to be rejected about 90% of the time without any reason or feedback….” Them: -_-
Can you tell us about your character in the series and how you prepared for this role? What aspects of the character do you relate to the most?
The character of Naveen was meant to be a representation of my personal frustration with the industry itself. The gatekeeping, the lack of opportunity, and the nepotism are the core of Naveen’s bitter persona. Deep down inside he loves the industry, but like an ex, it has hurt him over and over again to the point where he almost gave up. The acting class is a church. His last place to reconnect with his faith…in the industry.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced during the production of Day Players? How did you and the team overcome them?
MONEYYYY!! Without money, we can’t make a series. Luckily we had some help from some wonderful investors and sponsors. Our entire cast and crew took a lower rate than they deserved. It was their love for the project and willingness to work with one another that I was able to put together an amazing cast and crew. Most of the crew were doing multiple jobs, so a huge shoutout to them.
The show features a stellar cast, including Patrick McKenna and Ashley Leggat. What was it like working with such a talented group of actors?
It obviously makes our job that much easier and more fulfilling. Ashley, Brock an I had worked on the previous iteration of Day Players (the short film). So we had a head start with chemistry and understanding of our characters. Nicolette, Aisha, Alex, and Patrick joined and it was as if we had all worked together for years. I was extremely lucky to have talented actors with no egos.
What can audiences expect? Are there any particular themes or messages you hope viewers take away from the series?
Even though the series is about actors – the show is more focused on the relationships of people and the desire to be loved and wanted. Actors tend to show this desire on their sleeve more often, therefore it’s more evident. The relationship and friendship between the group of 6 is the crux of the series – and even though each episode is only 10-15 minutes long, we think the audience will develop a love for them and will be rooting for them to succeed.
Do you have a favorite episode or scene from the series? What makes it stand out for you?
“Episode 4: 48 Hour Film Challenge” is my favorite. The writing is wacky, the cinematography is beautiful and I get to wear a dress. There are two stories taking place and our director did an amazing job transitioning between the two. That’s the episode we submitted to get into Seriesfest in Denver. I can’t wait for you guys to see it.
Future Projects: Are there any upcoming projects or roles you’re excited about that you can share with us?
I haven’t started on a new passion project as yet, but once this is released I will for sure be working on a new idea. I was a series regular on three seasons of CBC/The CW’s Moonshine and all three seasons can be seen on CBC Gem. I’m known for my role on Suits, of course, and I’ve also done a few “Day Player” spots on Amazon Prime’s Cross and Hudson and Rex.
Advice for Aspiring Actors: What advice would you give aspiring actors just starting out in the industry, especially those who might relate to the struggles depicted in Day Players?
MAKE. YOUR. OWN. STUFF. Don’t wait for your agent to pick up the phone and call you. Start writing, start creating, take classes, fail, get back up, and succeed.
Where can our readers find out more about you?
Instagram: @Faridyazdani is where I’m the most active. I have a TikTok – but I haven’t fallen into that tra- I mean world as of yet.
Check out Day Players from February 7th on YouTube.
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