One on One with Nick Mathews
A Man of Inspiration and Talent
Nick Mathews has starred in several television and film roles including, In Between Men, The Mysteries of Laura, and The Private Life of a Modern Woman. He is currently working on two new movies, Heather and DIEry, which will be released soon. Not only is Nick one amazing, diverse, and talented actor, when you scroll through his Instagram you will find a plethora of positive quotes and inspiration. I decided to dig deeper to find out more about Nick.
Nick, can you tell everyone a little about yourself?
Well, I live in New York City but was born and raised in Teaneck, New Jersey and proud of it! I’ve studied at Rutgers University and later at the William Esper School of acting. In the last 10 years, I’ve continued my education with Masterclasses at Beverly Hills Playhouse East. I’m a fitness junkie and health food advocate 100%
You posted this quote on Instagram, “Strength isn’t about being reactionary or defensive towards people that oppose you. It’s the quiet confidence in your own abilities that allow you to see past them.” — Nick Mathews.
Have you always been confident in yourself?
That’s a hard question. I think in some ways, yes, but in lots of ways, no. What I mean by that is: I think when I was younger, I faced difficult situations where making a bold decision was second nature. For example, I didn’t think twice about moving to New York without a job, money or anything mapped out because I knew I needed to be here. In that instance, I was confident with my choice because I knew the ability I had. However, I feel like where I have lacked confidence in the past was in my relationships (both intimate and platonic) specifically when I was required to stand up for myself. Especially if it required me to say or do something that might cause disappointment (in them) or to freely voice my opinion in fear of possible anger/retribution. So, I began to bottle things up which caused me to lash out at people. I thought I had to defend myself and that lashing out was the only a way of expressing myself as that was what I saw most prevalent in my childhood and also in the male peers of my classes. What I realized is that it is a lesser, inarticulate, immature version of myself and I can do better. So back to your question, the quote above is referencing & recognizing the personal growth within myself. Now I don’t hold things in. If I don’t like something you’ll know immediately, in a constructive manner. I don’t need to lose my cool because I don’t like something. I also don’t do things I don’t want to do unlike in previous years where I would do things to simply make other people happy despite my feelings. I’m confident in my abilities and what I do, I don’t always need to be right or the loudest in the room, because I KNOW who and what I am, which gives me a great deal of peace, humility, and ease.
How did you get into acting?
I’ve always loved make-believe and getting lost in my head with fabricated circumstances. One of my earliest memories of dressing up in a costume was for Halloween as Dracula. I didn’t just have a costume on; I embodied the full character and lived to scare the hell out of other kids on my block because that was the meter for if I was doing a good job or not. Looking back, I developed a “character” before I even knew what that was. It was all just so much fun. So, it was a no brainer when I was asked to be the lead in our High School musical, Leader of the Pack. From that point on, I decided, this is what I want to do forever.
I have seen some nice shots of you on Instagram, are you modeling much these days?
Haha aww, thanks, Malcolm. I have a manager, a talent agent, and a commercial print agent, but would be open to modeling. I honestly don’t really know how to break into that business nor do I know much about it. The images you see are a collaboration between me and the photographers because I just think it’s fun to create.
Who has been the most inspirational person in your life?
I don’t actually have one person who has most impacted me. My brother and I didn’t experience good parenting from my father so he was never a good role model for me. I did, however, have a multitude of AMAZING teachers in my life and I am very thankful to have had the opportunity to be in the presence of these outstanding “teachers” (even if their profession wasn’t teaching). I also have some pretty amazing friends in my life and one of them, in particular, is probably the biggest inspiration to me because she is just a step above everyone else in regard to her level of thinking, her character, the compassion in which she operates, I’m just in awe. Her name is Erika and she’s been one of my best friends since we were 15 years old.
How was it working with Sebastian Stan, aka Marvel superhero “Bucky Barnes”, in the TV mini-series Political Animals?
Funny you mention this. Sebastian also went to Rutgers University, so I’ve known him for a while. I hadn’t worked with him until Political Animals but for the short time I was on set, he was the consummate artist. He offered to run the scene several times and we talked prior about behavior to create in the scene. I hadn’t seen him since school so when I did, I was pleasantly surprised that he was a totally down to earth, super humble, chill dude even after all his success.
What do you currently have in works?
I have two films waiting on distribution deals: Heather and DIEry.
As for right this second…I’m literally on set shooting Nightingale with Merrin Dungey, who stars as Madison. I play the part of Robbie, who helps her explore her suppressed sexual desires during a personal low point. That’s all I can say about it right now.
If you want to keep up with the ruggedly handsome and talented Nick, follow him on Instagram @IamNickMathews and Twitter @IamNickMathews.
Nick, thank you so much, it was an honor.
