Our interview with talented young actor Nathaniel Potvin who stars as ‘Ryan Walker’ on Disney XD’s “Mech – X4”. The show centers around ‘Ryan Walker’ (Nathaniel) who can control technology with his mind.
Nathaniel will next be seen in A World Away opposite Rowan Blanchard.
Hi Nathaniel, please tell us a little about you?
I’m seventeen, a high school senior and can’t wait to graduate. I was born and raised in Los Angeles (The Valley). I’m the youngest of three boys, so I played sports like soccer and baseball as a kid. I discovered hip-hop dance when I was seven years old, which eventually led to acting a few years later. I like to camp & do outdoor stuff like hiking, rock climbing, & going to the beach. My passions are music, photography & movies.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Original, Charming & Driven
What inspired you to become an actor?
What inspired me was watching other actors. I love the idea of becoming a different character and telling stories.
What is the best part of acting?
The best part of acting is expressing myself through developing different characters. I really enjoy the experience of working with different directors and other actors and having the opportunity to inspire others to follow their dreams.
What roles do you like to play? And why?
I love dramatic roles because they give me a lot of room to work my craft, but comedy is a lot fun too.
Who is your favorite actor/actress?
I would say Denzel Washington because he is a phenomenal actor and a great director.
Best advice ever given?
Never let someone tell you that you can’t do something.
Now tell us about Disney XD’s “Mech – X4,” and your role as Ryan Walker?
Mech-X4 is about these kids who find a 150 ft robot and their adventures saving the world. Ryan Walker is a regular kid that figures out that he has a superpower to control technology with his mind. His power awakens this 150ft robot (MECH-X4) and then monsters start showing up. Ryan, his two BFFs (Harris & Spyder), and his brother (Mark) have to defend the town from the monsters and stop whomever is behind them.
How did you get to work on it?
Landing the part of Ryan was a long audition process. There were a few callbacks, but when I read with Raymond Cham (who plays my older brother), the chemistry was there, and “bam”, I just knew we had the parts. Then we shot the pilot presentation in Canada and had to wait to see if Disney was going to make it into a series. It was a long wait, and I’m so glad it worked out. It was totally worth it!
3 things you can’t leave home without?
My phone, lip balm & sunglasses.
Any other exciting news you want to share with us?
We just finished shooting Season two of MECH-X4, and it is going to be off the hook!
Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
In five years, I see myself having graduated college and writing and directing my own films…and acting in them too, of course!
What kind of music do you listen normally?
I listen to a lot of different music like Rap, R&B, Pop and Alternative
What’s a normal day in your life?
We are on break from shooting MECH-X4, and I’m a senior this year, so right now I’m busy finishing up school online. If I’m not answering these kinds of questions and doing interviews, then I might go have lunch with a friend, drive around and explore new places, and I usually end the day hanging out with friends or family.
Do you support any charities?
I’m going to be attending a charity event for “Hot Diggity Charity” (dog rescue) and also the 32nd Annual Champions Run for Life ‘Torch Run’ event hosted by Jonathan Jaques Children’s Cancer Center.
What is your idea of a perfect Sunday?
The perfect Sunday would include Church, then lunch at the beach, back home for a nap, and then make my favorite meal for dinner (I love to cook).
Where we can follow you?
Insta: @NathanielPotvin / Twitter: @NatePotvin / SC:@NatePotvin / FB: Nathaniel Potvin
Quote:
“If you are quiet, you’re not living. You’ve got to be noisy and colorful and lively.” –Mel Brooks
“The Outsiders” by S.E. Hinton
Favorite Singer or Artist: Chance the Rapper
Movie: Guardians of the Galaxy (Vol.1 & 2)
Drink: Arnold Palmer
Food: Chicken Piccata
TV Series: The Office
Sports Team: LA Dodgers
Travel destination: Fiji
Photo Credit: Deidhra Fahey
