Exclusive Interview: Martin Kamm on Expanding the ‘Victorious’ Universe with ‘Hollywood Arts’ and His Debut EP

Martin Kamm brings his talents as an actor and singer-songwriter to Hollywood Arts, a series about young artists discovering who they are and what they have to offer. As Oscar, he brings humor and heart to a student whose certainty that he belongs in the spotlight is tested by the talent around him. It’s a meaningful introduction to Martin, who is also preparing to share more of himself through his debut EP.

Premiering October 15 on Netflix, the Victorious spin-off returns to the familiar performing arts school, where Daniella Monet’s Trina Vega takes an unexpected turn from aspiring star to substitute teacher. Still searching for her own big break, Trina finds herself guiding a new generation of ambitious students. Martin joins the ensemble as they bring fresh personalities and perspectives to a world that audiences have loved for years.

Pop Culturalist caught up with Martin to discuss finding his place in that world, exploring Oscar’s ambitions and vulnerabilities, and building the sibling relationship at the center of his character’s growth. We also spoke about his upcoming debut EP, the experiences that fuel his songwriting, and how he’s finding his voice across both music and acting.

PC: You’re joining the next chapter of the Victorious universe, which means so much to a generation of viewers. How did you approach paying homage to the original while bringing something fresh and distinctly your own to this new chapter?
Martin: I was a fan of Victorious growing up, and this show means a lot to me. My approach was to keep in mind that this is not a replacement for Victorious, but almost like an expansion! It’s a lot of what I loved growing up, but with a different perspective!

PC: This is the longest you’ve lived with a character on screen, and there are so many sides to Oscar, including his Daniel Day-Lewis-inspired approach to method acting. How did you explore those nuances, and where did you find opportunities to bring yourself to the role while also distinguishing Oscar from who you are?
Martin: Well, when it came to Oscar’s method acting, I kind of took a page out of his book! There were many times on set when I would just stay in character. It helped me get into the oh-so-serious mind of Oscar! When it came to his relationship with his sister and his passion for his craft, I could really pull from my own life. I’ve got two older sisters, so it was easy to get into the mindset of being a brother. His passion was what I found most relatable! He loves his art as much as I do!

PC: Oscar has grown up believing he’s the star of the family until he discovers Emmy can sing, too. How did you and Alyssa Miles collaborate to build that sibling dynamic, and how does that discovery challenge his sense of identity as the season unfolds?
Martin: Alyssa and I fell into the sibling dynamic very fast! In fact, we as a cast bonded so quickly! When preparing for and understanding that relationship, Alyssa and I recognized that, yes, there is a bit of sibling rivalry (mainly on Oscar’s side), but there’s also that deeper love that comes with having a sibling. I think, for Oscar, it’s a journey to discover what being a star really means, especially with a sister who’s just as talented!

PC: In the series, Trina unexpectedly becomes a mentor to these young students. Who were the mentors in your own life who helped shape the artist you are today, and how do you see their influence in your work?
Martin: I’ve been blessed with a lot of amazing people in my life who have poured into me, but I think the ones who have made the biggest impact are my parents and my mentor, Tom. My parents have always encouraged me to pursue my dreams, even when it got hard. Tom pushed me to strive for excellence and never do anything half-baked.

PC: This is one of your biggest roles to date, so congratulations! What has surprised you most about the experience so far, and what have you discovered about yourself and your craft along the way?
Martin: All of it surprised me! I had very little knowledge of the industry, and I have learned and grown a lot on this adventure. One thing I discovered about myself is that I can do whatever I set my mind to. When times get challenging, I will rise to the occasion! I think that can apply to anyone pursuing this career as well.

PC: Alongside your work as an actor, you’re also a singer-songwriter. If you were to write a song inspired by Oscar’s journey in Season 1, what would you title it, and what part of his story would you want to capture?
Martin: I’d title it “A New Perspective.” It would explore his relationship with his sister, Emmy, and how Oscar navigates her rising star.

PC: In one of the earlier episodes, the show highlights the healing power of karaoke. What’s your go-to karaoke song?
Martin: I’d have to say “Sway” by Michael Bublé! It’s such a fun song that leaves room for some salsa dancing!

PC: I also love that every student at Hollywood Arts has a locker designed to reflect their personality. If you were designing your own locker as Martin, what would it look like?
Martin: My locker would have a guitar on it made out of guitar picks! Each pick would have a different band or design on it!

PC: You’re getting ready to release your debut EP. What inspired the project, and if you had to choose one song that best captures who you are as an artist right now, which would it be and why?
Martin: I have been writing songs for years, and I wanted to give people something that really represents me! The song that truly encapsulates me as an artist right now is my song “Brave.” I wrote it during a time when I was feeling very lost and confused, and I wrote what I desired to feel. I hope people can listen to it and be inspired to be brave as well.

To keep up with Martin, follow him on Instagram. Stream Hollywood Arts on Netflix on October 15th.

Photo Credit: Charlie Neuenschwander