IN CONVERSATION WITH MAX PARKER

interview by JANA LETONJA

Max Parker is the breakout force behind ‘Boots’, Netflix’s acclaimed new drama inspired by Greg Cope White’s memoir ‘The Pink Marine’. Critics have hailed his portrayal as “extraordinary” and “the standout performance of the series”, praising his ability to balance quiet strength with heartbreaking vulnerability. Known for his work in ‘Dr Who’, ‘Vampire Academy’ and ‘Emmerdale’, Max proves in ‘Boots’ that he’s an actor unafraid to explore the complexities of masculinity, identity and emotional truth — a raw, character-driven performance that marks his true arrival on the global stage.

jacket OUEST PARIS

‘Boots’ has quickly become one of Netflix’s most talked about dramas. What first drew you to the story and to the character of Sgt. Sullivan?

The idea of working in America was exciting for me, but I wasn’t given too much information about the character initially. The longer I auditioned, the more I was told about the show and the role, and I quickly realised that Sgt. Sullivan was not only a dream role but also a huge challenge as an actor. It was a no-brainer to tackle this story.

The series explores identity, masculinity, and secrecy in a hyper-masculine environment. How did you prepare to navigate those emotional layers?

I saw a lot of myself in Sullivan, which made the emotional journey quite personal. I spent time talking with veterans who had lived through similar experiences, and their honesty gave me an incredible insight into the unspoken pressures of that environment. It was about finding the balance between strength and silence, how someone can hold so much inside and still show up every day as a leader.

coat, trousers, and shirt LOUIS VUITTON
tie CHARVET

Sullivan is a decorated soldier and a man living with deep internal conflict. How did you find the balance between his outer discipline and his inner turmoil?

Sullivan uses his outbursts and drilling with recruits almost as a distraction from his personal life. But everything in his story is fed by this internal battlefield of guilt and depression he’s going through. It was nice to do the flashback scenes where you see some joy for Sullivan, at least.

What was the most challenging aspect of portraying a Marine, physically or psychologically?

I’d say physically, definitely keeping on top of my vocal health. I genuinely have huge respect for drill instructors, as screaming for ten hours a day took a real toll on my throat. I also put in a lot of work after hours in the gym to stay in Marine shape.

left:
shorts, shirt, and tie LOUIS GABRIEL NOUCHI

right:
trench coat GIVENCHY BY SARAH BURTON
boots CAMPERLAB

‘Boots’ deals heavily with themes of shame, silence, and acceptance. Did working on this project change the way you think about vulnerability in men?

I’ve never been on a show with so many men before. It was actually an incredible people-watching experience to see how we are as men, especially in group situations, and even more interesting to see how much we all missed the female energy. I think being vulnerable as a man is often portrayed as weak, but I was lucky to work with a cast that was often vulnerable with each other because we felt so comfortable.

Critics have called ‘Boots’ your breakout role. How does it feel to have such universal praise for a project with so much emotional depth?

I owe a lot of the success to the great scriptwriting in the show. As an actor, the character was a real gift, and I think a lot of people can relate to Sullivan in some way, which is maybe why it’s been received so well. I’m also aware that in this industry sometimes people are scared to take a chance on newcomers, so I’m grateful that this role is opening doors for me that were previously closed.

trousers, vest, and shirt DOLCE & GABBANA
shoes ADIEU PARIS
socks FALKE

You’ve played a wide range of characters, from a king to a vampire to a soldier. How do you choose your roles what makes you say yes to a script?

With some roles, you know straight away if you’re right for it or not. With others, it’s a case of the team seeing something in you that you don’t necessarily see in yourself. That was the case with Sullivan. I always knew I wanted to play a vampire at some point. Being pale has to be good for something.

Having come from a background that includes ‘Emmerdale’ and ‘Vampire Academy’, how do you feel your approach to acting has evolved?

I’ve taken a huge chunk of knowledge from every job I’ve ever done. Each role teaches me something different, and I think the best thing you can do as an actor is never stay comfortable. I’m always looking to be pushed in unexpected directions. I think work and life are more fun that way.

left:
leather jacket and beanie EMPORIO ARMANI

right:
full look COMME DES GARÇONS HOMME PLUS

‘Boots’ is unapologetic in exploring the experience of a gay man in the military. What conversations do you hope the show sparks?

The show has already sparked a lot of conversations. But it was never intended to be a political tool, the heart of the show is about connection and belonging. I really appreciate all the messages I’ve received from real veterans who saw their military experiences reflected authentically. I think Sullivan’s character especially resonates with a lot of gay veterans who’ve been through something similar. Art is a powerful tool, not only to spark conversations, but to help people feel seen.

After such a transformative role, what kind of stories do you hope to tell next?

For me, it’s all about ticking off firsts. I don’t want to leave this planet without ticking off quite a few more. Half of me is focused on playing incredible characters with intricate emotional journeys, and the other half wants to satisfy my inner nerd and join one of my favourite franchises. I’d also love to work with some of my heroes like Ian McKellen and Leonardo DiCaprio.

jacket and pants DIESEL
shoes ADIEU PARIS

What’s coming up next for you that you can share with us?

I can’t share too much at the moment, but I can say I’m super grateful right now for all the opportunities ‘Boots’ has given me. 2026 is looking like it’s going to be an exciting year. We’d obviously also love for there to be a season two, but there’s no news just yet.

tracksuit BALENCIAGA x PUMA
boots BALENCIAGA

ruffled shirt SEBLINE
jeans DSQUARED2

TEAM CREDITS:

talent MAX PARKER
photography KOSMAS PAVLOS
styling LAURENT DOMBROWICZ
grooming BRADY LEA at A-Frame Agency
first assistant LUKE JOHNSON
second assistant TOM HUNT-SMITH
post production ALEXANDRA HEINDL
styling assistant JUDERIC BRAGANZA
editor TIMOTEJ LETONJA
interview JANA LETONJA
cover design ARTHUR ROELOFFZEN