As Season Four of the mega-hit series The Chosen continues to make its way onto our screens, I was given a further opportunity to speak to members of the cast. The series, which tells the story of Jesus and his disciples, is slowly building towards a major moment when Jesus starts to head toward Jerusalem.
The writers have been cautious to stick to the story as it unfolds in the New Testament gospels but have of course had to fill in some blanks. To that end, certain characters, very believable characters have been created. One of these is Gaius, a Roman Officer (pictured left) who was a friend of Matthew, played by Kirk Woller.
Kirk is a classically trained actor and has the distinction of being “a true chameleon”, with over 165 film and television credits, and more than 30 on-stage performances, he is best known for his recurring TV characters of Gaius in The chosen, agent Gene Crane on The X-Files, and the boss of the mysterious cleaners in Charmed, coach Cal Sawyer in Hometown Legend, Chief Officer Reynolds in Poseidon, corrupt detective Frank Shaw in Urban Justice, funny hotel-clerk Jordan in Hollywood, and the cab driver in The Ride where he was nominated for best male performance.
Here’s how our conversation went:
Andy Godfrey (AG): So, tell us a little bit about your character and how he fits into the grand scheme of things?
Kirk Woller (KW): I actually don’t know what the future holds for him, however at this point the character is questioning everything. He’s trying to understand what is going on with Jesus and his group. He is growing very curious about Jesus and his group. In Season Four that questioning comes to a head. His point of view starts to change.
AG: How much research did you do into your respective characters and the world they lived in?
KW: Gaius is a compilation of various characters. I know the Bible and having lived in Europe and walked where the Romans walked, I do know a great deal. My son and I have even made Roman armour. I’ve not been in the military, but I know what it is to be part of a team and I try to bring all that to the character.
AG: You were in one of my favourite TV shows of all time, The X Files, is the truth out there?
KW: The truth is out there and it’s in The Chosen! I think Jesus’ message is profound and truthful. I am so grateful to be doing this, it’s the privilege of a lifetime. I just try to stay present and work hard and we will see what God has in store next. I wish I could predict that stuff.
AG: Amen to that. Just one final question because time is racing. Can I ask if you have a favourite scene that you have filmed up to date?
KW: I don’t even have a favourite colour! What I like the most is the camraderie and the ability to take black ink on white paper and bring it to life. The Chosen is a joy and privilege, and we are bringing what happened to life.
Talking with the cast of The Chosen has been a joy but it has also shown me just how much they love the series and how much they are all deeply committed to it. Do try and catch it, if you can, and enjoy.
For more information please visit The Chosen (thechosentv.co.uk)
Main Photo Credit: Courtesy of The Chosen