Josh Dallas stars as 21st century's modern Prince Charming in ABC's "Once Upon a Time." Dallas is featured in a 10-page spread in Zooey's December 2012 issue photographed by Derek Wood.
You spent a lot of time studying in London and working with the Royal Shakespeare Company and other prestigious groups - what kind of experience was that?
It laid the greatest and most valuable foundation. I learned so much through working with such theatre companies and actors. AND I fell in love with bangers and mash.
You then landed big part in last year’s blockbuster Thor, what was it like being thrown in to the Hollywood scene after years in theater?
It was incredible and terrifying, all at the same time. I only had three days to rehearse before I started shooting, so it was a “baptism by fire,” but in the hands of the talented Kenneth Branaugh, I never got lost in the Bifrost. Marvel has such great filmmakers and it was a huge pleasure to work for them. What a reintroduction to the United States!
Is there anything you miss about London? Anything you appreciate about the US?
I miss the theatre. I appreciate everything about the US: it’s my home.
You’ve now had great and well respected experience in theater, film, and television. How do you find they differ? Out of all three, which do you prefer to work on?
They are all like walking tight ropes, but at differing heights. To act in theatre is to walk the tight rope high in the air. To act in film or television is to walk the tight rope a bit closer to the ground. Though they all have elements of risk, those risks vary in levels. I think I like working with the camera because I can be a little more free in front it. It always tells the truth. And the more I work with the camera, the more I look on it as a friend.
You now may be best known for your role in "Once Upon a Time," where you play a reworking of Prince Charming. You’ve spoken before about how your portrayal of the Prince gives him a more human depth, what is it like playing a man whose name very much precedes him?
It is wonderful to play a character who is so honest, brave, and good. There’s something comforting about it, and in this day and age, we could all use a little bit of all of that.
You’ve spoken before about your love of all things Disney, what’s it like being able to spend every day in a fairytale world?
It doesn’t get better than spending every day in a world that master storytellers like the Grimm Brothers, Walt Disney, and now Adam Horowitz and Eddy Kitsis have created.
What are your long term goals? What, for you, would be the ultimate accomplishment as an actor?
Work: I just want to keep telling stories, whether I’m acting, directing, or creating.
If you were to star in a remake of a classic film, who would you want to play?
Paul Newman in "Cool Hand Luke."
What do you do outside of acting? Do you have any hobbies?
I ski, I just started golfing (I’m slightly worried because I’ve become obsessed) and I surf.
What is on your iPod right now?
“Days of Speed” by Paul Weller.
What are your favorite TV shows at the moment, other than your own?
“Downton Abbey” and “American Horror Story.”
Do you have any pet peeves?
I hate the sounds made by people licking their fingers.
After the experience of moving to the vastly different culture of London, what other destinations might you like to test out? New Zealand and Paris.
What is one thing you make sure to do every day? Laugh.
Photographer: Derek Wood Stylist: Kenn Law Grooming: Sydney Zibrak (The Wall Group) Location: The Forge in Los Angeles
Video by Matthew Dennis