dylan playfair

Proving his versatility with every role he takes, Dylan Playfair is a name you need to know. We talked to the actor about his recent projects, dream roles and more!

words by VANESSA SALLES photo by BOBBY QUILLARD

Let’s talk Odd Man Rush! Having such a personal

connection to Dean Hunter’s story, what was that filming experience like for you?

This was the second time I was able to collaborate with Howard and Karen Baldwin which was incredible. The Baldwins have had a huge part in shaping the landscape of professional hockey, as well as cinema. When I began prep for Dean, a lot of dialogue was had between Bill Keenan, the writer of the book, and Doug Dearth, the director. That was extremely valuable in the shaping of how Dean would fit into the story and how we would make the character of service to the story. Dean’s freewheeling spirit was not overshadowed by his realistic view of the world he saw in front of him. He took advantage of the opportunities in front of him while maintaining focus of what he felt was important and that’s where I felt Dean and Dylan had a lot in common.

What do you hope viewers take away from this film?

I hope viewers realize the film’s glimpse into the human experience of transition. It beautifully highlights the necessity to be present, to smell the ‘roses’ and realize it’s the journey, not the destination, that truly matters.

Tell us about your next project, Summerland! What

drew you to the film and made you want to be involved?

Summerland was, for me, an opportunity to work with some great friends on an important film. When Chris Ball reached out to me to be a part of the story, I jumped at the chance to collaborate with him and Kurtis David Harder gain. Maddie Phillips is a close friend of mine and the chance to act with her was exciting. I was in Vegas at the time working on another film so it was only a 45-minute drive to meet the crew and film the scenes I was in. We had a blast and I’m so proud of the film.

What can you tell us about your character, Shawn, and what viewers should expect from him?

Shawn is the “love interest” who is essentially being catfished by the two leads of the film. A sort of unseen pivotal character. He’s the reason for the journey that is ‘Summerland’ and the catalyst for Bray (Chris Ball) and Stacey (Maddie Phillips) to realize what true love should feel like. With Letterkenny going into its ninth season,

what’s been the biggest lesson you’ve learned from your time on set?

Wow, it’s hard to boil it down to just one lesson, but since you’ve asked I’ll answer it with a story from set that sticks out. We were filming a scene at Modeans in season 1 where the hockey players confront the skids and have a verbal altercation. Andrew and I had finished our written dialogue and Tyler Johnston was adlibbing at the end of the scene; the cameras were pointing at me and I was blanking on a comeback. I waited, looked at Jacob Tierney (our Director) and said “That’s it, right?” He didn’t answer so I exited the frame. He stood up and yelled ‘Dylan, don’t run away from the funny! You know how to be funny! Don’t stop till I say cut!’ It was by far the best piece of advice I ever received in a scene. ‘Don’t run away from the funny.’ Comedy is about dealing with discomfort, about unexpected turns and witty remarks; you have to be brave to be funny and be willing to make mistakes. That single direction changed the way I act and how I approach opportunities to improvise. I owe a lot of my comedy chops to Jared Keeso and Jacob Tierney.

What’s been your favorite part about portraying the role of Reilly?

Being able to work with my best friends! The people who make Letterkenny truly are some of the best humans I know. The camaraderie you see on screen is as real as the farm we film on... it’s a real farm, guys. True story.

When you think of your ultimate dream role, what comes to mind?

I know it may sound crazy but Letterkenny has been a dream role for me! It opened the doors for me comedically which is incredible. One day, I would absolutely love to do a wartime drama. It’s a bit offbeat from Letterkenny but for me it’s about the collaboration, not so much the one ‘part’.

Any special message for fans?

Thank you! I love you! I couldn’t do what I do without you!