Meet Bryson Robinson: A young star on the rise
The young stars in Hollywood can really surprise you. Bryson Robinson has blazed an enviable path through the industry. His talents have taken him from improv to hit shows to feature films. He’s had roles in Fresh Off the Boat, Last Kids on Earth, and Fast and Furious Spy Racers. Robinson can pull off comedy, drama, and even television hosting like it’s nothing.
Bryson Robinson is currently reprising the starring role of Chris in the sixth season of BratTV’s Mani. Robinson has been part of the show since the beginning, and his personality has informed his character and the show’s overall success. We had the good fortune of speaking with Robinson about the show, his booming career, and what life is like as a young actor in the business.
What shows or movies first made you want to go into acting?
Well I started when I was four years old, so then I always liked watching Goonies and The Sandlot.
Tell us about your history in acting. How did you start your journey?
I started in NYC filming commercials and print work. I worked for Kohls and Party City. Then I started booking more theatrical work. We moved to Los Angeles and the rest is history! I booked my own talk show when I was 8!
Who are some of your acting influences?
I have been influenced most by Robin Williams, Leonardo Dicaprio, Joaquin Phoenix and Heath Ledger.
You’ve been a part of Mani, which is entering its sixth season, for over five years now. What have you learned from working on the show?
Wow I have literally grown up on the set of Mani! I have made life long friends with the cast. I have had the opportunity to grow with my character, Chris, and add a lot of my personality influences to him.
What’s your favorite part about working on an ongoing series?
I love that we are able to develop our characters and storylines over the years. Fans of the show really get invested in what the characters will do from season to season. I love knowing all the cast and returning from a break from filming feels like going back home.
There’s been some improv in your past. How does improv help an actor to grow?
I think improv is a vital tool to any performance. Being able to think on your feet and being able to lean in to changes on set is a great skill to have.
Who have been some of your mentors throughout your career?
Lawrence Curry the creator of Mani has been someone that I have taken a lot of influence from. He’s hilarious! My acting teachers Cynthia Bain and Shawn Young have also been great influences.
Would you talk us through your creative process when taking on a new role?
When taking on a new role I always do some background research about the character. I always live a day in the life to really get into the right headspace.
What’s been the biggest success of your career so far?
Wow, I have been so lucky to have had many successes. I think seeing myself on the big screen in movie theatres has been one of the greatest ones. That never gets old!!
What’s been the biggest challenge of your career so far?
Biggest challenge has been balancing schedules between school, acting and sports.
Is there a part of acting you geek out about the most?
Diving into different characters! I love creating.
Do you have any tips for young actors looking to get their start?
Keep training. You will hear a lot of nos but just keep remaining positive and doing what you love.
If you could only watch one movie for the rest of your life, what would it be?
The Lord of the Rings Trilogy
Outside of acting, what are some of your biggest interests?
Watching college football and going to theme parks. I love rollercoasters!
What music inspires you to create?
Queen, Elton John and the Beatles
What are five shows that you’d recommend to anyone?
Stranger Things, Wonder Years, Spongebob, Outer Banks and Breaking Bad
What’s your five year plan?
In five years I see myself acting in major motion pictures.
Can you tell us about some of your upcoming projects?
Mani releases every Thursday on BratTV. I just wrapped a cool film that will release sometime in 2022.
