Exclusive Interview: Jesse Kove Talks Tubi’s President Down — and How the Streaming Platform is Redefining Discoverability

Jesse Kove is a multifaceted talent and one of the hardest-working storytellers in the business, consistently choosing projects that challenge him and deliver something fresh for viewers. His latest role in Tubi’s thriller President Down sets the stage for a high-stakes mission: when a secret message reveals the President’s pacemaker has been compromised, her team mobilizes to identify and stop an enemy operating from the shadows. As Agent Pike, Jesse brings a grounded intensity to the chaos unfolding around him.

At the same time, President Down speaks to a broader shift in the entertainment landscape. Tubi continues to redefine discoverability—making it easier for audiences to come across exciting films they may not have otherwise encountered while creating new opportunities for artists to connect with fans. Pop Culturalist caught up with Jesse to discuss stepping into Agent Pike, the collaboration that shaped the performance, and why platforms like Tubi are changing how—and where—stories are found.

PC: President Down is full of twists and turns, and you’re never quite sure where the story is headed. When a script like this lands on your desk, what’s the first thing that grabs your attention—whether it’s the character, the creative team, or the material itself—and makes you want to be a part of it?
Jesse: It’s important to me that the story is well thought-out—something that keeps audiences engaged, excited, and entertained. And of course, I hope the character has depth and a meaningful journey of his own.

PC: Agent Pike is a character who trusts his instincts, which feels like an interesting parallel to your own approach as a storyteller and artist. Was there a particular moment or scene in this film that you feel best embodies that ethos?
Jesse: Agent Pike was great to play because I really appreciated his loyalty to the president, his determination to get the job done, and his willingness to adapt when things shift. Tapping into those qualities was a lot of fun, and I think it makes him exciting for audiences to watch as well.

PC: Platforms like Tubi are changing the industry in exciting ways. From your perspective, what does that shift mean for storytellers overall, and how has it shaped your own journey as an artist?
Jesse: I really appreciate Tubi because it’s a great platform for audiences to easily discover films like President Down. Sure, there are commercials, but if people can find a movie quickly with just a few clicks, they’re much more likely to watch it—and that accessibility is what matters most.

PC: You and David Chokachi became friends before filming, and it feels like the two of you really elevate each other—especially when that dynamic takes a shift. How did that sense of comfort allow you to push one another creatively, and what did you take away from starring opposite him?
Jesse: David and I hit it off right away because of our shared love of animals and rescue work. We actually just flew together recently and helped save 40 dogs and cats—transporting them from California to Seattle where they’ll be adopted. That was one of the first things we bonded over, and it created an instant rapport between us. Having that level of trust made it so easy to dive into these characters and push each other creatively because we always felt fully supported.

PC: What’s next for you?
Jesse: I have a western called A Gunfighter’s Deal with Kevin Sorbo—it’s a supernatural western, which was a blast to make. I’m currently filming an action-comedy in Canada, and I also have an incredible drama coming up called The Last Firefighter alongside Jon Voight, Kelsey Grammer, and Jessica Lord.

To keep up with Jesse, follow him on X and Instagram. Stream President Down on Tubi today.