For over twenty years, Alan R. Rodriguez has brought a diverse range of characters to life in projects including Power, The Good Wife, Blue Bloods, The Following, Orange is the New Black, and countless more, and he’s showing no signs of slowing down. Pop Culturalist was lucky enough to speak with Alan about his career, how his daughter inspired him to pursue his dreams, his new project, Bull.
PC: How did you discover your passion for acting?
Alan: It started with a book that I found on the ground while on a walk with my mother when I was a kid. The book was by Konstantin Stanislavski. It was about acting—more specifically, method acting. Of course, I didn’t know who he was at the time, but for some reason, I understood and connected with what he was talking about. That’s where my passion for acting began!
PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Alan: I’ve had several influences from both people and circumstances, both big and small, but the two most influential of all are my daughter and my high school drama teacher, may he rest in peace.
My daughter influenced me by merely existing, but more specifically, how could I tell her to pursue her dreams if I didn’t pursue my own? I feel it’s hypocritical for me to do that.
My high school drama teacher taught me to believe in myself and in my dreams of becoming a professional actor.
PC: You’ve been a part of this industry for over twenty years and have been very open about the ups and downs of the business. During those challenging times, how were you able to persevere?
Alan: It’s not always easy by any stretch of the imagination, but when you have a passion for something and make a true commitment to it, you have no other option but to get through the good and bad times, much like any other relationship. I married my career—or vice versa. The up times are so unbelievably gratifying that they overshadow any down times for me.
PC: On the flip side, you’ve had a lot of success in your career. When you look back, is there a particular moment that stands out?
Alan: The one that stands out most is my very first guest star role on Law & Order: SVU. I will cherish that in my memory forever. The first of any of life’s great experiences is always memorable.
PC: Tell us about Bull, your character, and what drew you to this project.
Alan: The role of Agent Marquez on Bull was offered to me and I accepted. He’s a cool character. The cast and crew were wonderful, but because of COVID socializing between takes was somewhat limited and rightfully so. Filming with a mask on was also a bit challenging.
PC: Guilty pleasure TV show?
Alan: Forensic Files or The Office.
PC: Guilty pleasure movie?
Alan: Get Hard, starring Will Ferrell and Kevin Hart.
PC: Favorite book?
Alan: Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki.
PC: Favorite play or musical?
Alan: Fences by August Wilson.
PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Alan: Luciano Pavarotti.
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