Words by Carol Wright | Photos by Shandon Youngclaus
Cooper spoke with us about his character Harold in On Becoming a God in Central Florida.
Was there a specific TV show or movie that sparked your interest in acting?
When I was about 3 years old I saw Phantom of the Opera with my parents and I was hooked. But the movie The Wizard of Oz with Judy Garland singing really made me want to pursue acting.
What about On Becoming a God in Central Florida interested you in the project?
I really loved the fact that my character Harold and I are so similar. We both enjoy music and dance and have a love for theatre. As I was given more scenes, I discovered that we are also very different, which made the role even more exciting!
Harold seems to have multiple secrets, where I am an open book, he has a secret passion for dance, where I like to dance in front of anyone who will watch. We basically love the same things just go about it differently.
What was the audition process like?
I was very fortunate that Ryan Glorioso, the casting director, asked me to read for Harold. In the audition I had to say my lines, do it a couple of different ways, and dance! I then found out I had booked directly from that first audition.
Harold also specifically dances to Paula Abdul’s “Opposites Attract.” How long did it take for you to learn the choreography?
Before the scene I watched the music video a bunch of times. My mom and aunt showed me some dance moves that must have been popular back then. I put it all together during the scene, but to be honest, during the scene I improvised.
You worked with Kirsten Dunst among other great actors in On Becoming a God in Central Florida. What did you learn from them?
The funny thing about this show is that all my scene partners were adults. I feel like we really got to know each other throughout filming the series. I learned a lot including, keep doing what you’re doing, believe in yourself, and keep those curls – I’m happy to say that I have. Oh, and Mr. Levine told me to use the good utensils and have a good lunch.
What advice do you have for aspiring actors?
To everyone who wants to pursue your dreams in acting, please have fun with it, be your best you, don’t give up, keep going, and just know that I support you!
Where can we find you on social media?
You can find me on Instagram at @cooper_rubin