Imagine two queer kids in love dealing with a serial-killing doll, and not just any doll, but the most well-known slasher doll in cinema history EVER, Chucky.
Rising acting talent, Zackary Arthur, plays the lead as teen Jake wheeler in the latest small screen incarnation of Don Mancini’s possessed doll from the Child’s Play film franchise, complete with freshly rebooted swivelling eyes, missing knives, jump scares and the urge to get behind a sofa and check the little murderous maniac with a bad haircut isn’t behind you. Before you binge the show so far this weekend, which has been applauded for its inclusion of LGBTQ+ characters and tackling themes about bullying – you ought to get familiar with LA native Zackary, the young horror-genre trailblazer who still sleeps with the light on after watching scary movies. Here’s all the need-to-know details, and then some.
Full look Fendi
Were you familiar with the unruly horror icon Chucky, from the 1988 slasher movie, Child’s Play, before joining this series?
After I auditioned, I watched all the films with my family. My mom and dad didn’t let me watch a lot of that because I used to be really scared of horror movies. Now, I really like them, although I must admit I sleep with the light on after I watch scary films. I don’t usually tell people that!
Left Full Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello
Right Tanktop JW Anderson, shorts & belt Moschino
The series progressively and positively resonates with our own times, embracing queer main characters and representing the LGBTQ+ community, while also tackling themes of bullying. When you got the script, how did you prepare for the role?
In preparing for the part of Jake Wheeler, I had many talks with the brilliant Don Mancini, and the character was based on Don’s experience to a large degree, so I knew he would be helpful. He lets us bring what we have into the character, which is a great thing because it helped me put myself in Jake’s headspace. He deals with so much, but he’s really brave and I admire him for that, and I think many people can relate to him because he has a big heart and is very forgiving. I think it was interesting to see the development of the friendship between him and Lexy, as there was a lot of forgiveness there on Jake’s part. That’s not easy, but it was so valuable and brought the three of them together. The one thing about this series that makes it work is there’s so much love in it. That’s Don Mancini though. He’s such a caring person with a big heart.
Jacket Louis Vuitton
“The one thing about this series that makes it work is there’s so much love in it. That’s Don Mancini though. He’s such a caring person with a big heart.”
Have you had a lot of positive feedback from fans who see themselves in your character, and how does it feel to be a horror-genre trailblazer?
I would love the chance to get to know the fans and find out how Jake has helped them. Some comments on social media have come through and it means so much to me, and I’ve received a few letters too. They really inspire me to keep doing my best. Sharing stories about other experiences is so important as it makes it easier for other people to get through the challenges. It helps them know that they’re not alone.
Left Full look Alexander McQueen
Right Full look Fendi
It's interesting that there’s no CGI in this series, it’s all done with puppetry. How was it playing opposite a puppet then, did you learn any new acting skills or techniques?
It gave me a deep respect for all the puppeteers. They are so much fun to work with and bring so much life into the characters. I can’t even tell you how amazing they are because you just must see it to believe it. Working with Chucky means there are more takes to do, but they’re all experts so it’s easier than it could be.
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We’re into the next season now, so how does Chucky handle the relationship with your love-interest Devon? It’s also set in a Catholic school, just to make things even more challenging!?
Oh, watch the show and you will see. It is crazy!! I think it’s an amazing plot and good to see if, or how, Jake and Devon get through it. Together or not? You’ll see. It’s a mystery at this point.
Left Jumper Fendi, shoes JW Anderson
Right Full look Dolce&Gabbana
Ok, some quick-fire questions now…...
What’s the one film you wish you’d played the lead in…?
Batman, but hopefully I will get a chance one day.
Your dream role is…?
There are so many. I want to be in all types of films!
The one thing you always have in your trailer on-set is…?
Listerine Strips. Haha!
Your choice for cinema’s most terrifying toy…?
CHUCKY!!! Definitely!!!
Left Full look Alexander McQueen
Right Tanktop JW Anderson, shorts & belt Moschino, boots Prada
The actor who’s left you the most starstruck…?
Jim Carey! I met him a few times on the show Kidding and we had really good talks. He’s a cool person. I’ll always remember the good advice he shared with me. He’s a caring person and a great actor.
When you’re not acting, you’re…?
Hanging out with my family, my dogs, and my friends. I make music and like sports. Also, I really like watching films and shows to see good content and good acting.
Left Full look Fendi
Right Full look Louis Vuitton
The one thing you wish you’d known about being an actor is...?
How long it takes and how much of a journey it is. There are lots of times you have to be patient, it’s not a fast process, but it’s a fast-paced business. I’m very lucky to have a great team behind me and a close family, they’re always brutally honest with me. That’s what an actor needs. It’s not always easy, but it keeps me in touch with what’s important. Thank you all so much for reading this, and for asking me to be in Behind The Blinds!
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Interview by Kate Lawson
Photography by Dorien Jimenez
Fashion by Wojiech Christopher Nowak
Casting by Imaginemachine cs
Grooming by Davey Matthew
Stylist’s assistant Annette Gaitan
Photographer’s assistant Joey Whitley
