IN CONVERSATION WITH BRANDON JAY MCLAREN
interview by JANA LETONJA
photography KEGAN LAMB
With nearly two decades of screen work, Brandon Jay McLaren has established himself as one of television and film’s most versatile actors. From 'The Rookie' and 'Snowfall' to 'Graceland' and 'The Cleaning Lady', Brandon brings layered characters to life with intensity and depth. On the film side, he’s appeared in cult favorites like 'Tucker & Dale vs. Evil' and 'She’s the Man'. This fall, Brandon takes on a leading role in Netflix’s highly anticipated thriller 'Wayward', premiering on 25th September. Beyond acting, he continues to expand his creative footprint as a producer and director—cementing his place as both an on-screen powerhouse and behind-the-scenes storyteller.
'Wayward' is one of Netflix’s most anticipated thrillers this year. What first drew you to the project?
When I got offered the show, they expressed interest in me playing Dwayne, so they sent over the first two scripts. While reading them, I immediately thought this is probably one of the most interesting, coolest things I’ve read in a long time. The characters just jumped off the page. It was chilling, but hilarious all at the same time and I never read anything quite like it, so after those first two scripts, I was like “Yeah, I would love to be a part of it.’”
The series explores the troubled teen industry and the secrets of a seemingly idyllic town. What excites you most about telling this story?
I think what’s cool about this story is that it’s one of those genre-bending type narratives, which I feel is always really exciting and enjoyable for the audience. It also deals with broader issues, like finding oneself, coming of age, and heavier topics like generational trauma and how we deal with that as a society and individuals. Mae does a real good job writing a story that has all the elements of entertainment in there.
How would you describe your character, and what challenges did you face in bringing him to life?
Dwayne Andrews is an ex-veteran who is Mae Martin’s partner at the police station. What I love about Dwayne is that his heart is definitely in the right place. He’s fiercely loyal, and he really believes in the cause of Tall Pines and what the town stands for. However, sometimes when your belief is that strong, you can also be blinded to other ways of doing things, and that could lead to extreme acts.
You’ve worked across so many genres—crime, thriller, drama, comedy, even horror. How do you choose your roles?
In a perfect world, I’d like to do a drama followed by a comedy, and go back and forth, just to keep both skill sets sharp. If I had to choose, I do prefer dramas, but I like to go back and forth, if possible.
Looking back at 'Graceland', 'Snowfall', and 'The Rookie', what have been your most transformative experiences as an actor?
I think it might be ‘Snowfall’, with ‘The Rookie’ a close second. Buckley was such a wild character to play. His actions were so wild and outlandish. The challenge was how do you ground it in a way that’s realistic because some things he did were borderline unbelievable. So, that was really challenging.
How has your approach to preparing for a role evolved over the years?
I think I've put less pressure on myself over the years. For me, the preparation always begins with knowing the dialogue inside and out. I think that’s a really underrated part of the process. Then you learn about the surroundings and circumstances as much as possible. I’m at the point now though where you show up to work with all the work done, and then you throw it away when you get in front of your scene partner. That’s the best.
You’ve also stepped into producing and directing. What motivated you to expand your creative work beyond acting?
After being an actor for almost 20 years, you sort of learn things along the way. You see people doing other things and I like to challenge myself and occupy new spaces. There’s something really rewarding about seeing your ideas on a page or on a screen. That’s a different satisfaction than learning a scene and performing it. They’re all equally valuable, but they’re different, so it’s good to challenge yourself and exercise different parts of your artistry.
Do you find your perspective as an actor influences the way you direct or produce—and vice versa?
They’re definitely related and the funny thing is, I rarely watch the things I’m in, by design. But I always watch and observe on set. What works, what doesn’t, what actors respond to, what they gravitate towards, what they comprehend. It’s all education, and I try to take advantage of every opportunity.
Are there stories or genres you’re most passionate about creating when you’re behind the camera?
Yes. Both my parents are from the Caribbean, so I really want to tell more stories that reflect that part of me. It’s a huge part of who I am as an artist and influences my point of view. I’m actively working on blending those types of stories with ones that can also appeal to a broader audience.
As you balance acting, producing, and directing, what does the next chapter of your career look like?
I can tell you what I’d like it to look like. I hope it’s filled with doing more quality shows like ‘Wayward’, along with developing my own shows. Those two would make for a nice, full, happy 10 years. I’d be good with that.
