Harvey Guillén
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Bow by Stylist Own
Oxblood Silk Faille Opera Gloves by Landeros New York
Harvey Guillén, a dynamic and prominent force in entertainment, is celebrated for his captivating portrayal of Guillermo de la Cruz in the critically acclaimed series “What We Do in the Shadows.” He has two Critics Choice Award nominations, and has been honored with two Imagen Awards for his standout performances. Beyond the screen, his versatile voice has brought to life a myriad of characters in animated favorites. He enhanced his reputation as a sought after voice actor. With an impressive range that spans television, film and voice-over work, he continues to be a prominent and influential figure in Hollywood, captivating audiences with his depth, humor and authenticity.
With an acting career spanning about a decade, tell us about your introduction to the world of performing?
I first fell in love with acting when I was about five or six. I was watching “Annie,” completely infatuated with the fact that poor kids like me were given the opportunity to sing and dance on screen. I’ve always liked the idea of the escapism that comes with playing different types of characters. As I grew older, I quickly realized that training came with a hefty price tag and that those kids were not actual poor orphans.
You have become somewhat of a trailblazer for what is possible for queer, Latinx actors. Who are your biggest role models and inspirations when it comes to performing?
My on-screen role models were pretty limited. I found inspiration in watching Cantinflas, a Latino comedian, with my dad. Watching people like Salma Hayek and Antonio Banderas represent Latinos on the big screen helped keep me hopeful. I’m happy to report that I’ve worked with both of them.
Black suit by New Era Factory Outlet:
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Grey Mock Neck top by Model’s Own
Silver Vest by AKIRA
Pants by New Era Factory Outlet:
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Shoes by Giuseppe Zanotti
Your character, Guillermo, in “What We Do in the Shadows” has become a fan favorite. What do you enjoy most about portraying him?
I’ve really enjoyed seeing how Guillermo connects with everyone. I think when we cheer for Guillermo, we cheer for ourselves. He is us. We’ve all been at a job that overlooks us for a promotion. We’ve all been in love with someone from afar. He’s the only housemate who's human. I think that’s what makes him so easy to root for. I’m lucky to have played him and be a part of such an iconic show.
When playing a vampire, what does the process of getting into character look like?
For a short period of time, I played a vampire, and the process was definitely different. He faced obstacles; he had Van Helsing blood flowing through his veins, so he couldn’t fully undergo the transition. In a sense, he was like a baby learning to walk for the first time, except in this case, he was learning how to be a vampire. It was Guillermo, yet not exactly, so it was interesting to play for sure.
Left:
Pink Tuxedo with bow ties from New Era Factory Outlet:
https://www.newdresssuits.com/
Shirt by Karl Lagerfeld
Shoes by Giuseppe Zanotti
Right:
Black suit by New Era Factory Outlet:
https://www.newdresssuits.com/
Grey Mock Neck top by Model’s Own
Silver Vest by AKIRA
Pants by New Era Factory Outlet:
https://www.newdresssuits.com/
Shoes by Giuseppe Zanotti
From “What We Do in the Shadows,” to “The Magicians,” there is a slight recurring theme of supernatural or fantasy. What draws you to these types of projects and roles?
In both 'The Magicians' and 'Shadows,' anything is possible. I love the idea that there are no limitations on where our characters can go, so I’ve always been drawn to that. I was never specifically seeking to be in these particular genres, but I’m so happy to be a part of them.
In addition to on the screen, you have an extensive portfolio of voice acting credits. How does working behind a microphone compare to working on the camera?
Doing voice-over has been such a wonderful experience. I didn’t really start doing V.O. work until the pandemic. It’s a tough door to get through. The pandemic brought these opportunities to me. It was the only work that I was able to do safely at the time. Since then, my portfolio has doubled in voice-over work. All the characters I get to play are so different from each other. I get so excited when people come up to me and mention they're fans of a character I voice.
Left:
Coat by Yu Gong
Pleated Wrap Skirt With Brass D-Ring Buckles by Jack Sivan
Shoes by Giuseppe Zanotti
Right:
Jacket by Laruicci
Pants by New Era Factory Outlet:
https://www.newdresssuits.com/
Black PV Deconstructed Vest
Price available on request. by Landeros New York
Either voice acting, on camera, or on the stage, are there any dream roles you would love to play?
As a musical theatre kid, I’d obviously love to do Broadway. I’d also really love to host SNL one day.
In addition to acting, you're also involved in advocacy work, particularly in the LGBTQ+ field. What inspires you to use your voice and platform for good?
I try to use my platform to help anyone that I can, especially those in the LGBTQ+ and Latino community. For so long, I didn’t see anyone advocating for someone like me so I do the best I can to amplify their voices while bringing awareness to those communities.
Chevron Sleeveless Trench Coat by Landeros New York
Shirt by Karl Lagerfeld
With “What We Do in the Shadows” heading into its sixth and final season, what’s next for you? Anything fans should look forward to?
We’re about to wrap in two weeks from the time this interview is published. That being said, it’s bittersweet. We recently said goodbye to our exterior set, and it was really emotional. I committed to this character for half a decade, which is no small task. It’s become such a big part of my life, and I’m thankful for all the lives we’ve touched through comedy. Season 6 will air later this year. I’ll have projects like “Companion” and “Garfield” out this year as well as a couple others. I’m excited to see what’s next!
Instagram: @HarveyGuillen
Pink Tuxedo with bow ties from New Era Factory Outlet:
https://www.newdresssuits.com/
Shirt by Karl Lagerfeld
Shoes by Giuseppe Zanotti
CREW CREDITS:
PhotoBook Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
PhotoBook Creative Director + Photographer + Producer: Mike Ruiz
Talent: Harvey Guillén
Fashion Stylist: Alison Hernon at Exclusive Artists
Hair: Niko Weddle for Judy Casey using L’Oreal Matrix
Makeup: Sandy Linter at Bryan Bantry Agency
Set Design: Jasin Cadic
Fashion Stylist Interns: Hanna Flores & Cole Sudduth
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by Ethan Engh, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
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