James Tupper is more than just a pretty face. In addition to being voted one of US Magazine’s “10 Sexiest Men on TV," the 30-year-old star of Men in Trees has devoted his life to exploring every opportunity that comes his way. The hunky thesp has toiled in the fields of Africa and acted in over thirty plays.
So just how did this small town boy make his way from Kenya to Hollywood? We caught up with him on the set to find out.
How did you get started in acting?
I grew up in Nova Scotia. When I was a kid in high school I was pretty shy. I didn’t do any drama, but I knew that I wanted to; I knew I had it in me. It took me a few years after high school to figure out what I wanted to do. And one of those things I did was to scrape the money together to go to East Africa, near the foothills of Mt. Kenya, on a one acre coffee farm with a family. I spent the entire time learning how to speak Swahili.
How does a boy from Nova Scotia wind up in Africa?
They have in Canada these exchange programs. I didn’t have a tourist experience. I really became a part of their family. It’s amazing. You pick up the differences and yet it’s so similar; even Africans in the middle of nowhere.
Do you keep in touch with the family?
I do, I send letters.
They must be really happy for you.
It might be a little bit baffling for them. (laughs) They don’t have a TV. They don’t have electricity.
What happened next?
After Africa, I went to drama school in Montreal. Then I went down to New York and I studied with a bunch of people who all wore black turtlenecks. It was very hardcore training. We did about 30 shows.
You've worked in theater, TV, and film. Is there one you prefer more?
I don’t think there are that many actors out there who wouldn’t want to try their hand at everything. The only thing I really can’t do is sing. I hope you’re not going to ask me to do that.
So no Celebrity Duets for you?
No.
The show’s about a relationship coach. What do you think is the key to a successful relationship?
Do you know how much money I would have if I could answer that question? I guess…probably communication and sensitivity to the other person’s experience.
Everyone wants to know what’s next for you and Marin?
I think both Marin and Jack are coming from really divided or hurt pasts and it’s great that they’ve met each other because they’re kind of helping each other work through some problems.
Like on the show, you’re surrounded by guys all the time. How does that affect the dynamic on the set?
I think it’s great. It’s like a fire department around here. It’s great, you know, we’re guys' guys. We’re actually having a little football watching party this weekend with some of the guys from the set.
Article comments
1 - Joan Hunt
Congratulations! This article has been selected for placement on Advance.net
2 - Embarrassed Canadian
Interview: MeeVee Speaks with Men in Trees Star James Tupper
Published: October 17, 2006
Update: November 2006 - James Tupper leaves his wife.
Update: January 2007 - Anne Heche leaves her husband and child for James Tupper.
Way to embarrass Canadians, James Tupper.