Interview: Tom Walker Talks ‘Daredevil,’ Working With Vincent D’Onofrio And The Best Parts Of Acting

Recently, I had the privilege to sitting down and speaking with actor Tom Walker, who you will probably recognize most recently from his multi-episode arc as bodyguard to Wilson Fisk and protector of Fisk’s fiancé Vanessa in the acclaimed #Netflix and #Marvel Studios production Daredevil. Mr. Walker has been appearing in movies and television for the better part of 10 years, and has played roles that has seen him take part in many popular series and films.

Mr. Walker is educated and polished but makes it known he loves his fans, always updating and communicating with them about his latest work on social media, and traveling to take part in many comic conventions and meet and greets. I hope you enjoy this interview as much as I did conducting it.

What made you want to become an actor?

I always wanted to be one since seeing the first Rocky over and over and being mesmerized by Stallone’s performance. It’s a perfect performance. I related to that character so much, and I’m originally from Philly so…. that stuck with me growing up.

Would you consider yourself a method, classical or character actor?

No, not what I’d call a method actor but I take my physicality and prep in that regard very seriously so in that way my mind body spirit connection does get very aligned and focused. I can usually jump right into another character or disposition quite quickly… not always though!

Did you undergo any professional training to be an actor?

I studied film my whole life and until college I’d consider myself “self-taught” but it was in college when I did all the plays, read scripts constantly, et cetera, when I honed in some vital skill sets for stage especially.

So, you had an opportunity most actors who kill for, being part of the Marvel cinematic universe. How did you go about getting the role of Francis in Daredevil?

I auditioned for a different smaller part earlier in the season and didn’t get it, but little did I know casting had liked me and kept me in mind for later when luckily “Francis” came along and it worked out! I’m a fan already, so trust me — I understand the gravity and importance of these characters and their environments being brought to life. It was a dream to be there every day!

What was it like working with an actor like Vincent D’Onofrio?

Vincent is awesome! He is very good, very intense and after a few days on set we got to talking, then became quite comfortable around each other. He looks out for everyone on set in front of and behind the camera. A true pro whose work speaks for itself.

Your character was subjected to a rather vicious beating in the show. With film magic they can make it look so real, how was it filming that scene? Was there a lot of rehearsing?

Yeah it looked great! looked very real, I loved shooting that day. Vincent and I did the large majority of all the angles they used so that’s always good when your principals can sell a scene like that. It took a good few hours and some careful rehearsal for sure.

The season ends with Francis escorting the character of Fisk’s love interest away from New York, and ends with you both leaving, are you open to reprising your character in future seasons of Daredevil?

I think Francis and Vanessa are definitely characters we should see again. Like I said earlier I was already a true comic/marvel fan going into this world so I’d go back to Daredevil in a heartbeat if schedule permits. I sincerely hope that happens in the near future actually.

You have been in quite a few movies and TV shows, is there one role that stands out as your favorite?

I don’t know if I can pick one solitary favorite role I’ve done, I can only group it into experience and relation I have with the character and environment as a whole. So, having said that I’d say my top three favorites I can come up with would be: Drex (Henry Danger), Francis (Daredevil), & Officer Phil (Us & Them).

What is your favorite part of being an actor and your least favorite?

Least favorite part of being an actor is the risk, mental perseverance and unknown that comes with it, but my favorite part is the complete opposite of those feelings when parts and projects work out and come together.

If you could pick any role in any franchise TV or movie to play, what would it be?

I’ve been asked that quite a bit and I can never come up with a perfect answer, which leads me to believe that I can stay a versatile open book that hopefully can still play a wide variety of parts.

Is there any advice you would give to would be actors or actresses who want to break into the business?

Stay the course at all costs. The strong ones who hang in there through all the heartaches and close calls and continue to trust in doing their best work are the ones who find success.

Thank you, Tom for taking the time to sit down with me and discuss Daredevil and your acting career.

I hope you enjoyed listening in to my conversation with Tom Walker. You can next see Mr. Walker appearing in the film Bomb City as well as the film short Blairsville. For all news about new films and appearances check out and like his Facebook page below.

http://https://www.facebook.com/thetommywalker/

Check out the Daredevil red carpet interview of Tom Walker below!

http://https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-MFzb2UoS4