Ryan Robbins - Ladon Radim(Atlantis) and Henry Foss(Sanctuary)

Ryan Robbins is a very busy man these days, returning for a second season on Sanctuary as the very capable computer and technical go to guy that everyone relies upon. Star Gate fans will remember him as Ladon Radim, the Genii leader who was responsible for the overthrow of the evil leader, Cowen. Ryan joins us to share a few details on his career then, now, and in the future:

1. How different/or alike is filming on Stargate Atlantis and Sanctuary?

Ryan Robbins: For me, it feels very different. We don’t have a big studio behind us, and I think that’s the reason it feels more intimate. We all feel like we’re a part of something very special. Also, I’ve been a part of Sanctuary since the very beginning, so I feel much more attached to it emotionally.

2. What made you want to become an actor?

RR: I was 12 years old and I saw a school performance by some kids who were a couple of years older than me. I was hooked. I could never decide what I wanted to be when I grew up. There were so many choices. I realized, as an actor, I could be all those things and more.

3. You have attended fan conventions in the past. What is your opinion of that experience?

RR: It’s a great time. It’s an opportunity show appreciation to the fans. I’m very blessed to be able to do what I do. And I enjoy being able to express my gratitude. That, and the fans can really party.

4. Are you going to be at any conventions this year?

RR: Yes. The only one confirmed at the moment is Wolf Haven 1, in London (Heathrow) the first weekend of October, I think.

5. What do you think differentiates science fiction fans from contemporary television fans?

RR: Probably dedication. Science fiction fans get involved and invested. They really care and like to participate. It’s a genre in which the filmmakers are very aware of the fans and their desires.

Ladon Radim

6. Would you try directing or script writing in the future, given the chance?

RR: Possibly. I do aspire to have longevity in this business and I’m always looking to gain knowledge in all aspects of the business. I love to be involved on as many creative levels as possible. I’ve recently started producing. But, at the moment, I’m still very passionate about acting and I have great aspirations for myself as an actor.

7. What do you like best about yourself?

RR: Wow… now there’s a loaded question. I suppose it would be my tenacity. I don’t give up easily. Especially when I’m told I should. I also love to learn new things. Discovery and adventure make me happy.

8. There has been much conjecture among your fans about romantic attachments developing between characters. In your opinion, what is the most likely pairing?

I don’t think there is one. I mean, if you put Will and Magnus together that’s, at best, like Mulder and Scully. But, in my opinion, when Mulder and Scully hooked up the show jumped the shark. I knew it was over and I was sad. The fans wanted it so bad… but it’s the anticipation that’s usually more interesting than the actual event. It’s the same in life. Except in life you can’t give the fans a taste of a hookup with an alternate reality episode or a chemically induced connection that’s only temporary and not at all complicated in the future.

9. What would you say is your biggest weakness?

RR: Insecurity.

10. If you could work with any actor, living or dead, who would it be, and why?

RR: There are many. But if I’m picking just one… Paul Newman. He is/was a shining example of humanity and his generosity showed in his work. He was also someone who really seemed to enjoy his life. I’ll bet he was an amazing man to be around. He is very inspirational to me. Even though his acting is celebrated, I think his work is underrated. His performances were calm and understated at a time when most were still very put on and showy.

11. If you could write your own movie or television series, what would it look like?

RR: Hmm… It would be dark, with an anti-hero lead and dry, sarcastic humor. It would have strong characters that were also vulnerable at times and who would feel very real. It would look and feel like a great graphic novel. Something the audience could identify with, learn from and be inspired by. A place they felt they could live in and belong to.

12. It has been said that you like working on Indie (Independent) film productions. Can you tell us why?

RR: Because everyone involved is there for the project. Everyone is passionate about it. It’s not about the paycheck or the hierarchy. It’s about the love of the project and the process. And, it’s a great way to play parts that might surprise people. It’s very gratifying. It’s like a group of underdogs coming together to create this wonderful thing, despite the odds. It’s a fantastic way for everyone to step out of their comfort zones and raise their personal bar.

13. You have been a guest actor on several Canadian television shows such as The Guard and Jpod. Can you share anything that stood out for you, as an experience, working on any of these shows?

RR: There is no one thing. Any day I get to walk on a set and work is a great day. It’s really nice when I’m given the opportunity to play around help develop a character, which was the case on both shows you mentioned. As I said, I love the collaboration. It’s also personally gratifying to work on good Canadian projects.

14. Battlestar Galactica is huge in the U.S and Canada as a scifi series. What can you share with us about working on that show in particular?

RR: It was awesome. I love that show and I loved every minute I spent working on it. It’s unlike any show I’ve ever worked on. I have a lot of friends on that show. It always felt like everyone brought an A-game. That show has some amazing talent and it was an absolute joy to do a scene with them. I felt excited every time I went to work. I always tried to get scripts, even when I wasn’t in them. Personally, I found the experience very inspiring. I will never forget it.

15. Do you feel that most of your roles fit a certain type of persona? For example, some actors seem to always play geeks and others seem to constantly end up as bad guys. Are you seeing a certain type of role that you now fit, or do you see yourself as the consummate character actor?

RR: Well, I don’t see myself as the consummate anything… But, I definitely feel fortunate that I’m able to play many different types of characters. I do like being considered a character actor. I love the challenge of trying to make each character as fresh as possible. Of course, there will always be a piece of me in every role, I suppose. I don’t ever want to get locked in to any one type of character. I aspire to be as diverse an actor as possible.

16. Are you working on anything else besides Sanctuary?

RR: I recently finished a film called, “Leslie, My Name Is Evil” and I will be shooting a film called, “Marilyn” this summer.

17. How do you keep yourself fit?

RR: I train Mixed Martial Arts 2 to 3 times a week, I skip rope, I work out with light weights twice a week and I try to fit in Yoga at least once a week. This is the schedule, although, it doesn’t mean I always stick to it as much as I’d like to. My diet is pretty good, but I’m not willing to give up beer yet. I also like pizza and the occasional burger. Everything in moderation… sort of.

18. You won a Leo Award last year, which is an award that celebrates British Columbia television and motion picture production (The Oscars of B. C.). That must have been a thrill for you. Can you tell us about that?

RR: It was very surprising. I was shocked to even be nominated. I had such a good time filming that role that the idea of receiving an award for it seemed crazy. I didn’t feel like I had earned it. I was absolutely certain I wasn’t going to win… until I won. It’s always flattering to receive an award. Especially when it’s a jury of your pears, which is how the Leos are decided.

19. What would you say is the most important thing you have learned that you can share with us?

RR: I’m not sure I’ve learned it yet. Life goes by very quickly. It’s easy to get caught up in the drama and the chaos and, the next thing you know, you’re old, unhappy and regretful. I want to be old, happy and grateful. I aspire to seize as many opportunities as I can and treat my life as an adventure. It isn’t easy, but I’m trying.

20. Is there anything you would like to say to your fans?

RR: Thank YOU.