Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Walker’s Kale Culley

Kale Culley has emerged as one of Hollywood’s most exciting young actors. Throughout his career, he’s proven he has the ability to transform into any character he’s playing, whether that’s in projects like Henry Danger, black-ish, Sydney to the Max, or in his current role as introverted August in the CW’s Walker.

Pop Culturalist had the pleasure of speaking with this rising star about his thriving career, Walker, and what’s ahead for August (hint: it may involve a little love triangle).

Career

PC: How did you discover your passion for acting?
Kale: As a young boy, I always loved to make people laugh and smile. That’s still my main goal; it’s to make people happy. I went to an improv class, and we were doing all these exercises where we had lines that we had to rehearse and then had to improv to continue the scene. Through that, I found a love for growing that story and telling deeper stories than what was on the paper. Whenever I would make people smile, I was like, “This is great. This feels so good.” That was when I was around seven years old. My improv teacher actually went up to my mom and suggested that I get an agent. That’s how it all started.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Kale: That’s a really good question. I’d say one of my favorite actors of all time is Christian Bale. I haven’t met him yet, but I really want to meet and work with him—that’d be awesome. He’s a great person, I’ve heard. He’s a super humble guy. People like him and then my brother as well. My brother really inspires me. He works super hard and he’s very passionate. Also, meeting people like Jared [Padalecki], Keegan [Allen], Molly [Hagan], and the whole cast of Walker—we’re always giving each other tips. We always feed off of each other. We always show up to set and have the best day ever. There are a lot of mentors that I look up to and aspire to be like.

PC: You’ve had a lot of success already in your young career. When you look back, is there a particular moment that stands out to you?
Kale: Honestly, I haven’t thought about that. I’ve always looked at it as a whole. I’m always looking to grow, so I can’t really put my finger on a specific moment. There’s always room for growth. I’m hoping this will be a long ride.

Walker

PC: Great answer. You’re currently starring in the CW’s Walker and the show has been incredibly well received. What do you think is resonating most with audiences?
Kale: I think it’s the familiarity of the family. I mean, Cordell Walker, is a crime-fighting dude. He has his whole squad. They go through these crazy adventures, but he also has to focus on his family as well. People can relate to that. Some people are like my character, August. Some people are introverted and shy, and they’re growing along with the characters. Some people are like Stella, who’s bold and learning to make decisions on her own because her dad’s not always there. People are relating to these characters.

PC: This is your first role as a series regular. What’s been the biggest takeaway so far?
Kale: The biggest takeaway thus far is creating a bond with everyone. Everybody reminds each other how grateful and how happy we are to come to set every day. It doesn’t even feel like work to us. We’re having so much fun, and we’re getting to grow this story that’s being reimagined. We really are so happy to be together every day.

PC: August has had quite the journey already in Season 1. What can you tease about what’s ahead for him in the back half of the season?
Kale: Oh, wow. There’s definitely a lot of stuff that’s going to unfold in the next couple of episodes. I can tell you that August finds himself in a little love triangle of his own. There’s definitely going to be a lot of action, and the stakes are going to be even higher. That’s all I can say.

PC: The series was recently picked up for a second season. Where do you want to see August’s storyline head in Season 2? Is there a relationship you hope to explore more?
Kale: I really want to explore more of August and Uncle Liam; we haven’t really seen them together too much. They haven’t had a really good one-on-one. I’d love to see where that goes. August is still growing, so I know anything they throw at him, he’ll be able to handle it. I really want to see the crazy twists that they’ll throw at him.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: Favorite TV show?
Kale: I can’t choose one! I’m going to give you my top three: Barry, WandaVision, and The Mandalorian.

PC: Favorite movie?
Kale: Either the Truman Show or Good Will Hunting.

PC: Favorite book?
Kale: I just actually finished Fahrenheit 451 for my school, and I really enjoyed that book.

PC: Favorite play or musical?
Kale: There are so many. Singin’ in the Rain is fantastic. I’m going to give it to Singin’ in the Rain. I’m going to watch West Side Story here soon, so we’ll see how that goes. But, as of right now, it’s Singin’ in the Rain.

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Kale: Jacob Collier is my favorite artist right now. “Time Alone with You” featuring Daniel Caesar is my favorite song. It probably won’t change for a hot second.

PC: Dream role?
Kale: A superhero in the Marvel or DC universes.

To keep up with Kale, follow him on Instagram. Watch Walker every Thursday at 8/7c on the CW.

Photo Credit: Amy Casson