
Tim Jo Interview
Date : 7th December 2013
Tim Jo is an actor who has appeared on television 2009, staring in TV shows such as
Greek, Glory Daze, Castle, I Am Ben and is now starring in The Neighbors.
John - Hi Tim thank you for talking to us today we are big fans on yours.
John - When you were growing up what were the TV shows that got you hooked watching them?
Tim - I was really into TGIF and saturday morning cartoons. The Dinosaurs, Family Matters, Full House, to name a few.
John - When did you first realise that you wanted to work in the world of television?
Tim - It's a strange, strange thing. I sort of always knew that I would end up doing this. Even though I was painfully introverted, I somehow had the confidence that this would eventually be my career. I lived my life dreaming of becoming an archaeologist, graphic designer, businessman, but always knew I'd end up acting.
John - Do you remember your first day working on a TV show, what was the show and how did your first day go?
Tim - GREEK: I was really nervous and I remember everyone being nice. It's strange to be a guest actor on a long running show. It's like going to thanksgiving dinner with a huge family, however you're not related to anyone.
John - Who influenced you in your career?
Tim - Lots of my fellow actors are such inspirations. I've learned so much about dedication and discipline. Also- I wouldn't be where I am without my manager and acting coach. ;)
John - Over the years who has been the most famous person you have worked with or met?
Tim - Al Pacino. It was all a blur. He was a delight!
John - When did you first hear about The Neighbors?
Tim - I had recently watched and loved "Crazy, Stupid, Love", so I put all of Dan Fogelman's projects high on my radar.
John - What were your thoughts when you first read the script?
Tim - "Dan Fogelman. Aliens. Sitcom. This is too good to be true." "Holy crap. I really, really want this."
John - What did you think about the other members of the cast when you first heard who you will be be working with?
Tim - Probably the same thing they thought about me. "never heard of them" And honestly that was the absolute most thrilling part of it all. I was so SO excited to see each actor's take on the characters.
John - What is your favourite The Neighbors episode or the one you had the most fun filming and why?
Tim - I love the school dance episode from season 1, '50 Shades of Green'. Experiencing heartbreak for the first time was really fun. The episode also had a really classic 80's vibe.
John - Do you remember your first day filming?
Tim - Nope- it's all a blur. Probably too nervous throughout the filming of the whole pilot. However I remember the first episode AFTER we were picked up and off to the races into production. We were at the mall, filming the Pi scene between Amber and Reggie. I remember surprising myself: it was so easy to fall in love with Amber. And that was it- I think that was the day "Reggie and Amber" were born. I think Dan saw something between these two characters and really ran with it.
John - Has anything funny ever happened or gone wrong while filming live that you remember and how did you react and carry on?
Tim - I break character every time Chris Koch is directing an episode. Everything that comes out of his mouth makes me laugh, so it's really hard to keep a straight face around him. Every now and then he will throw out a line for me to deliver and it takes 4 or 5 attempts bc I can't stop laughing. Last week I flat out said 'No. Nope. I can't." I knew it would be physically impossible to do with a straight face. I ended up taking a minute to compose myself before throwing it out once.
John - What is your most embarrassing moment on set?
Tim - There isn't much room for embarrassment when you are playing an alien in a sitcom. Everything we do is a bit wacky or out there. The challenge is to make it as grounded as possible, so that it is relatable and hopefully, funny!
John - Did you expect The Neighbors to become as big as it has with fans from across the world?
Tim - Actually, I am unaware of our popularity around the world. Do tell!
John - What projects are you working on and where can we expect to see you next?
Tim - Currently, I am focused 100% on The Neighbors and trying to get as many new viewers as possibly. Our move to Friday nights has been a challenge, but I think we are doing our best to secure and build our audience. Our fans from last season are so loyal, I am so thankful they migrated over to our new night. Now the goal is to spread the word about the show, keep recruiting fans and have a long run of many fun adventures.
John - Thank you for answering my questions today Tim it means alot!
Tim - Thanks for the questions!
