Words by Carol Wright | Photos by Lesley Bryce
We got to speak with Chase about his journey while filming 90 Feet From Home and the heavy topics which came with playing Scott.
Acting is often not looked at as a real career path and you started acting at a young age. When you first started, did anyone try to dissuade you from pursuing acting or was your family supportive from the beginning?
I come from a really creative family. So it’s all about pursuing what you’re passionate about and my parents have supported me and all of my siblings in regards to chasing our dreams. It’s all about loving what you do and hopefully, you can make a great career out of it.
90 Feet From Home grapples with heavy topics. How did you prep for the role?
I feel so fortunate that I was given the opportunity to tackle the role. My father was physically abused as a child and he provided incredible insight in regards to the day to day struggle, his state of mind and how he moved on to become such an amazing man and incredible father. He is a great success story. I also had the real “young Scott” on set – he was able to help guide me through individual scenes, to live in the moment which was amazing. He was so giving with his personal story.
You play the young version of Scott who grew up to be a Major League Baseball player. Did you have a background in baseball or did you have to train for the role?
I did not have a background in baseball. I’ve played numerous sports and currently play football, so I did have to spend some time learning the basics of the sport itself.
This movie is based on a true story. Did you feel pressure while filming because you’re portraying someone real?
I certainly did. However, having the real person on set with me actually bought much comfort to the role in regards to learning more about him personally. His feedback on some of the more difficult scenes provided peace of mind.
Tell us about Mount Liptak. What drew you to the role of Lester Liptak?
I was again fortunate enough to play a real person. Lester Liptak is such a kind man and keeps in contact with me today, following my career. I’m so happy to know him and to portray him in Mount Liptak. The script was so intriguing and fulfilling to bring the story of underage servicemen in WWII to life.
Were you aware of the history behind underage children joining the army before you made the film?
No, I was not aware at all and that is what was so fascinating. It’s hard to believe that so many underaged children enlisted and sacrificed their lives. I remain thankful to this day for their service.
Outside of acting what do you do for fun?
I love to hang out with my friends, play video games, train, and play football!
What advice do you have for aspiring actors?
Perseverance is everything. Don’t give up on your dream. You’ll hear a lot of no’s, but it just takes one yes to make your dream come true.