Hey guys! Check out this new interview of Jon by Dago Sanchez (released today but dated of september). It’s all in Spanish at this link, but here is the translation below!
How does Latin America influence your life?
Jon : Being of Latin descent, I have been influenced not only by heredity (Puerto Rico), but for many Latinos with whom I worked and shared in the military, the entertainment industry, as well as socially. I love Latin cultures, they are so complex. I believe that we as American Latinos shouldn’t forget our ancestors, the indigenous native of ourselves that helps us all being so diverse.
How did you get to Hollywood?
Jon : I drove! A large rental truck 24 feet in height with my dog and my car on a trailer (laughs). But what really brought me here was that I always had the desire since the age of 6 years to become an actor. I always knew that someday I would live and work in Hollywood.
What benefit does it give you, to be a membership of the Board of the Screen Actors Guild in Hollywood?
Jon : Being a part of the SAG-AFTRA administration Board is an honor beyond words. One of the highlights of my career, a real dream coming true! And now, to be able to represent my fellow actors means something professionally but more than that, it is emotionally wonderful.
What kind of role do you prefer?
Jon : I like to take roles that represent a positive role model or someone that young people can turn to for inspiration. Young Latinos need a hero type which they can identify. I like to think I’m trying to do this with the roles I choose. Of course it’s very satisfying to challenge myself and take something like a villain where I can have the artistic freedom to be really bad, but what I like best are those of cops, soldiers, fathers, brothers and good lovers (laughs).
Of all the genres, what is the one you like the most?
Jon : I love action comedy!
Tell me about this nomination at the ALMA Awards in Acting Supporting Role category for your role on Castle.
Jon : It really was a surprise, to be honest, I never expected it. But I am especially grateful for the great organization such as the NCLR. It would be great to win, but the nomination is just as rewarding, I’d be nervous to give any kind of speech too. I can be a little shy sometimes, you know.
If you win, what will you do?
Jon : Polish the statue every day, I’m kidding (laughs). Well, maybe, but only if it’s needed. I will give it lots of kisses. (laughs)
You wrote and directed the short “Lone” and also sang a few songs. Would you love doing an album? And if yes, what kind of music?
Jon : Yes, I wrote and directed the film and I have another short I directed called “The Box” that I just finished. I love writing and directing. I would love to continue to explore further this area. And as for the songs, I just finished an entire album which is currently being mixed and mastered, and I would call it Urban Pop!
In the TV show Castle, how did you prepare to play Javier Esposito?
Jon : He is me and I am him, so all I have to do is learn my lines and put myself in his situation.
Your father is Puerto Rican, he lives near us. When will you come to the Dominican Republic?
Jon : I was in the Dominican Republic during Christmas of 2010!Loved it! We stayed at Cap Cana, in the South of Punta Cana.
Have you ever seen a Dominican movie?
Jon : No. But I’m now working with a writer named Carlito Rodriguez, who is Dominican, maybe I’ll ask him and also ask my friend Jessy Terrero to show me something!
And to conclude What would you advise Latino actors who dream of making it to Hollywood?
Jon : It’s all about studying and being prepared as an artist and business person (the part I don’t like very much). You are your personal CEO. So you have to go with your career as a business but also be very good at what you do. It is a very competitive business, so you have to be prepared to fight and win roles.