Galen Gering Interview
From NBC Passions
How did you get the job on Passions?
My agent in Miami, where I was in film school, called on a Friday and asked if I could read for the part on Monday. That weekend I was producing and directing a film so I forgot about the audition…but luckily, they had moved the audition to Wednesday. After that, I went to LA for a screen test. I wasn't really nervous because I was engrossed in preparing for finals. I just went for it. Three days later they said they wanted to see me again. It was another week before I found out I got it. I went to my graduation with all my bags packed and flew out here. I started working the next day.
Are you still working on your writing and filmmaking outside of Passions?
I'm really excited about where I'm at now. I'm kind of a perfectionist so I don't want to spread myself too thin. You've got to find what you love and master it. I love to create and acting is creating. I'll do other projects in the future, but right now this is my focus.
Where do you see yourself ten years from now?
I'm not a real big "long term goal" person. I know there are a lot of things I love to do. I love what I'm doing now. I love writing, editing, and producing. I also love furniture design, which is something totally different. So, in ten years, those are some of the things I'm going to be involved in.
What was it like shooting the very first scenes for Passions?
On the one hand, I was completely excited and trying to be as confident as I could, but on the other hand, it was terrifying because they've put so much faith in you. It was funny because right before we were about to shoot, Jesse (Miguel) got locked in the handcuffs from my police uniform! So they were ready to shoot, and Jesse was locked in the handcuffs!
What kind of relationship do you have with your on-screen family?
I was totally astounded when I met Eva (Pilar) because she's so beautiful and I thought-how is she going to play my mother? But I think it works--she plays the part great. With Jesse, it was amazing because we have so many similar interests. The more we talked we found we liked the same music and have the same hobbies. Lindsay, who plays Theresa, is a total sweetheart. I love working with all of them.
What do you think accounts for the chemistry between you and McKenzie?
She's a joy to work with. Sometimes I think actors have a tendency to keep a certain space or distance between them, but she has a very easy-going attitude. She gives me something to work off of.
What kind of fan mail have you gotten?
All kinds--there's a surprise in every package! I write everyone back. I get a lot of letters now about Luis and Sheridan-people hoping we'll get together. I've gotten some letters back from people I've sent letters to who say my letters just brightened their day. That to me is the most rewarding part.
If you had one wish, what would it be?
To live a long, healthy, happy life. And to hopefully give some of that happiness back.
If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?
Easygoing, conscientious, and dedicated.
What are you most proud of?
Number one-I'm happy. Number two-I'm doing what I love. Number three-I haven't given up on doing what I love, which I've seen a lot of people do. I'm proud of never giving up on what I love when times were hard.
If you had to write your autobiography tomorrow, what would you call it?
Something like "What An Adventure It's Been." Something that would capture the fact that it's been great--that I've had fun while also working very hard.
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