After watching 13 Reasons Why on Netflix, many viewers were left with intense feelings, particularly anger directed at Bryce Walker. Justin Prentice, the actor who brilliantly portrayed this complex and controversial character, might evoke strong reactions due to his on-screen persona. However, the real Justin Prentice is far removed from Bryce Walker. In fact, there are numerous reasons why getting to know Justin beyond his role will make you a true fan. Let’s explore 13 Reasons Why Justin Prentice is not only different from Bryce Walker but also a compelling personality in his own right.
He’s the Total Opposite of Bryce Walker in Real Life
Justin describes himself as almost the antithesis of Bryce. “I’m different in just about every way,” he stated. Unlike the aggressive and entitled Bryce, Justin identifies as a “chill type of person,” jovial, and even an “extroverted introvert.” He prefers to see the positive side of things and maintain a lighthearted approach to life. This stark contrast highlights his acting talent in embodying such a different character so convincingly.
Extensive Research Fueled His Performance
Justin didn’t just jump into the role of Bryce Walker unprepared. He undertook significant research to understand the complexities of the character and the sensitive issues the show addresses. He cited the Brock Turner case and Vanderbilt rape cases as part of his research into the topic of sexual assault. Importantly, he consulted experts like Alexis Jones from the ‘I Am That Girl’ movement, who specializes in sexual assault prevention education for athletes, and psychiatrist Rebecca Hedrick from Cedars-Sinai, who has expertise in individuals similar to Bryce. This dedication to understanding and accurately portraying such a challenging character demonstrates his commitment as an actor.
Navigating Difficult Scenes with Professionalism and Respect
Filming the intense and disturbing scenes in 13 Reasons Why, particularly those depicting sexual assault, was undeniably challenging. Justin emphasized the careful preparation and collaboration involved in filming these sequences. He explained the extensive time spent rehearsing and deciding how to portray these sensitive moments responsibly. He also credited his co-stars, Katherine Langford and Alisha Boe, for their support and the trust they built, which made the process significantly easier. Justin acknowledges the dark headspace required for these scenes but differentiates between acting and reality, recognizing the far greater impact on real-life survivors.
He Was Not the “Cool Kid” in School
Relatability is a key factor in Justin’s appeal. He openly admits he wasn’t part of the popular crowd during his school years. “I was pretty quirky and awkward,” he shared, describing his younger self as “slightly more immature and less worldly and cultured” but similar to his current personality. This candidness about his less-than-cool past makes him approachable and relatable to many viewers who may have had similar experiences.
Dating Hasn’t Always Been a Smooth Ride
Adding to his relatability, Justin confessed that dating wasn’t always his forte. “My game isn’t super strong,” he joked. While he feels comfortable once he’s on a date, the lead-up to it can be awkward. He describes himself as “not super smooth with women.” However, he happily mentioned that his girlfriend appreciates his quirks, and he values their “beautiful tag team” dynamic, proving that awkwardness can be endearing and that finding someone who accepts you for who you are is what truly matters.
You’ve Likely Seen Him Before 13 Reasons Why
While 13 Reasons Why catapulted him to wider recognition, Justin Prentice is not new to acting. He mentioned his role in season two of AMC’s Preacher, highlighting his attraction to “really interesting shows and really interesting characters.” He acknowledged some similarities between his Preacher role, Tyler, and Bryce, expressing a desire to diversify his roles and perhaps play a “good guy” next to avoid being typecast solely as the villainous Bryce Walker. His previous roles demonstrate a varied acting portfolio beyond the confines of 13 Reasons Why.
Comedy is Where His Heart Is
Despite his success in dramatic roles, Justin’s passion extends to comedy. “I would love to do a comedy in my free time if [the opportunity] arises,” he stated, expressing his desire for “good, lighthearted fun.” He has experience in comedy, having guest-starred in comedic roles and been part of a comedy series earlier in his career. This reveals a lighter side to his acting aspirations and suggests versatility beyond serious dramas.
Strong Bonds with His 13 Reasons Why Co-stars
The chemistry among the cast of 13 Reasons Why is palpable, and Justin confirms that it extends beyond the screen. “We love each other,” he shared, emphasizing the genuinely good dynamic within the group. He described them as a “really good group of people” who “clicked and vibed” perfectly. This positive off-screen relationship makes the work environment enjoyable, especially considering the intensity of the show’s subject matter, and their friendships extend beyond filming.
Just as Invested in the Story as the Audience
Justin’s engagement with 13 Reasons Why goes beyond just acting. He expresses genuine curiosity about the storyline and the fates of the characters. “I am just as invested, I think, as the viewers are, and I want to know just as badly, if not more, what happens to all of them,” he revealed. This shows his commitment to the show’s narrative and characters, mirroring the audience’s investment and suggesting a deeper connection to the project than just a job.
Embracing the “Most Hated Guy” Title with Humor
Perhaps surprisingly, Justin doesn’t mind being considered the “most hated guy on Netflix” due to his portrayal of Bryce. “It feels good,” he stated, even taking it as “an honor.” He shared anecdotes of extreme reactions from viewers on social media, like “Rot in hell, rapist,” interpreting them as a sign that he effectively portrayed the character and evoked the intended emotional response. This acceptance and humorous take on negative reactions demonstrate his understanding of the character’s impact and his success in the role.
In conclusion, Justin Prentice is clearly distinct from Bryce Walker. He is a thoughtful, dedicated actor who approaches challenging roles with professionalism and depth. Beyond his acting skills, Justin’s relatable personality, sense of humor, and genuine appreciation for his castmates and the 13 Reasons Why story make him someone to admire. So, while Bryce Walker might be a character to despise, Justin Prentice, the actor behind him, offers plenty of reasons to become a fan.
