Brandon Scott
Brandon Scott is a versatile actor known for his captivating performances across both television and film. Best known for his roles as Dr. Ryan Spalding in "Grey's Anatomy," Coach J.J. Kerba in Netflix’s “13 Reasons Why,” Nick Prager in “Dead to Me,” and Cory Lawrence in “This Is Us.”
He established himself as a talent to watch in the entertainment industry. Currently, he shines in the Max series "The Girls on the Bus," which premiered in March and continues to captivate audiences weekly. Inspired by Amy Chozick's memoir Chasing Hillary, the show follows the journey of four female journalists covering the chaotic presidential campaign trail. Scott's portrayal adds depth to the character dynamics, particularly his role as the ex-lover of star journalist Melissa Benoist (Melissa is playing journalist Sadie McCarthy), now serving as press secretary to the leading presidential candidate.
Among your extensive acting credits spanning television series and films, do you have a favorite project?
My favorite project changes pretty regularly. Each story, character, or experience leaves me with something that seems so necessary for my life at the moment— so they’re all kind of my favorite. Dead to Me comes to mind presently though. The show explores grief and during the first season I was grieving the loss of my uncle. I was grateful to be able to jump in a sandbox that contained so many different shades of humor amidst the grief. In addition, it also stands out as a milestone because I cannot put into words how much I learned from watching and working with Christina Applegate, Linda Cardellini, and the creator Liz Feldman.
You portrayed Dr. Ryan Spalding on the fan-favorite series, “Grey’s Anatomy.” Reflecting on your time in this iconic role, what facets of the role did you find most fulfilling?
I enjoyed playing a bold, hungry, maybe a bit arrogant resident. We had a secret intern society and performed surgeries on each other. Maybe we took it too far. Maybe… Either way, I loved playing a character that daring despite the consequences.
How did you navigate the experience of becoming part of such a passionate fan community?
I watched “Grey’s Anatomy” from the beginning and was a passionate fan before I became a part of the show. I loved the relationships, the writing, the acting, and discussing the weekly events with friends and family. So, it was fun transitioning onto Grey’s, knowing I’d be a part of that fan chatter. In addition, when I was cast as Ryan Spalding, my side gig was teaching martial arts to kids. And I continued to teach throughout the show. It was wild talking to parents about whatever crazy story was happening on Grey’s, and then turning around and becoming Sensei Brandon.
In addition to acting, you've also worked in animated films and video games. How does your approach to performance differ across these mediums, and do you prefer one over the other?
I love being physical with roles and using an environment (even if it’s mostly green screen). So video game performance comes more naturally to me. Especially motion capture. It reminds me of theater in the round. However, you can have the smallest most nuanced moment, and the 360 grid of cameras can zoom in and capture it clearly. Playing Henry in “The Last of Us” really was a highlight of my career not only because the game was so ground-breaking and the story so epic, but also because mo-capping with that team was just a ton of fun. With animation, I can’t use my body as much since, in my experience, you’re usually in a booth with a mic, and sometimes too much movement can ruin the recording. So, in those instances, I work on translating my physical impulses into something that leads more with the voice and relationship with the mic.
What drew you to "The Girls on the Bus," and can you share any behind-the-scenes anecdotes or memorable moments from filming?
The writing and the relationships hooked me from the beginning. The heart and hope. My character is referred to as Loafers. Plus, sprinkle in some politics and journalism… The show checked so many boxes for me regarding what makes for a fulfilling project. This cast, crew, and all the creatives involved were an absolute joy. I was a bit disappointed I never got a scene with Griffin Dunne, though. I’ve been a long fan of his, and this is actually the third show we’ve been on together and still I haven’t gotten a chance to work with him (the other two being “This Is Us” & “Goliath”).
This series draws inspiration from Amy Chozick's memoir, Chasing Hillary. How did this source material influence your approach to portraying the character and navigating the storyline?
Starting any project, I’m looking for textures that give glimpses into a world— anchor points that spark curiosity and ground my belief. Amy Chozick has a unique voice and her memoir just sizzles with her humor, quips, love, and sharp point of view, all which are touchstones of “The Girls on the Bus.” So, though the show is fictional and does not follow the events of the memoir, the source material was a great entry point into this story and character, and a north star for the show’s tone and authenticity.
Your character in the series shares a complex history with Melissa Benoist's character. Please discuss the dynamics of this relationship and how it informs the narrative.
Well, their relationship is fraught from the beginning of the show. They had a bit of a fling last campaign cycle when my character was a low-level staffer. (And Sadie probably wouldn’t even call what they had a “relationship” while Loafers would, hence drama already). And then Sadie went and “ghosted” him… so, yeah, he’s been bruised and driven by that ever since. Now, four years later, he’s risen quickly through the ranks and is the press secretary for the Democratic frontrunner. It’s interesting to see how they interact, knowing they have to put aside their differences and work together. Also knowing that a spark may still exist and a relationship between a journalist and a staffer crosses into an ethical grey area.
As the series progresses, what can audiences expect from your character and the overall storyline?
For things to get messier and messier! Malcolm (aka Loafers) will always want to follow his heart. Even though it’s a struggle. Concerning the candidate he deeply believes in and concerning Sadie. I think it weaves well into the “work, life, ambition balance” question the series explores. These folks often give up their lives for the job. Hitting the road, neglecting families and home lives. It’s tough and it sometimes gets messy.
What upcoming projects or roles are you particularly excited about?
I’m really excited to finish a music project I’ve been producing. I release tunes under my Pop/Soul Alter Ego, Icarus V and have an EP I’m wrapping up. In addition, I’m part of a Hip Hop/Soul band called Verbal & Icarus (fka The Sin City LP) with rapper/actor Malcolm Barrett. I’m looking forward to creating and gigging again with both of these projects.
CREW CREDITS:
PhotoBook Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
PhotoBook Creative Director: Mike Ruiz
Photographer: Russell Baer
Talent: Brandon Scott
Fashion Stylist: Adam Ballheim
Groomer: Sydney Sollod
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by Makenna Tourville, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
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