Exclusive Interview: Jason Fernandes Talks ‘Sidelined: The QB and Me,’ Bringing His Interpretation of Josh to Life, and More

Jason Fernandes shines as Josh in Sidelined: The QB and Me, the highly anticipated adaptation of Tay Marley’s beloved YA novel The QB Bad Boy and Me. The story centers on Dallas, a determined dancer paving her own way toward her dreams, and Drayton, a high school quarterback grappling with personal loss. As their worlds collide, Josh emerges as a key figure, offering steady support and unexpected insights. Jason delivers a performance that brings heart and depth to the role, making him an integral part of this inspiring tale about resilience, family, and the pursuit of one’s true path.

Pop Culturalist had the pleasure of speaking with Jason as he shared how he connected with the story’s themes of ambition and self-discovery, the unique challenge of adapting a story with a pre-existing fan base, how he brought his own interpretation of this character to life, and more.

PC: You’ve got a new project coming out, Sidelined: The QB and Me. Like your character, Josh, you have a background in athletics. Was that what immediately drew you to this character and project? What was it about this script that resonated with you?
Jason: I feel like when people watch the film, they’re going to be inspired to follow their dreams. That was something that really spoke to me when I read the script. The combination of that and the fact that we got to play some sports was super cool. I’d never done that on camera until this project.

PC: It’s also rare to join a project that already has an existing fan base. Did that bring a different level of pressure or responsibility heading in? How does this film adaptation build on the legacy of the source material while also putting its own unique creative stamp on it?
Jason: I thrive on pressure. I eat it with my cereal every morning. Just kidding. [laughs] There’s definitely pressure to do the material justice and approach it in a way that feels honest and familiar to fans. I listened to the audiobook and read the book, which helped me connect with the story. It was important to put my best foot forward to make sure fans are really happy when they watch it.

PC: I love the contrast between the generations of characters and how they complement each other. None of them exist in service to one another—they’re all fully three-dimensional. When you’re working with legends and fresh faces, how do you go about building that offscreen chemistry so it translates on screen? What did you learn about your own craft in the process?
Jason: It’s so important to meet people where they are as humans and take the time to get to know them. A lot of the cast would get together for dinners, and since everyone was away from home, we had the chance to spend a lot of time together. We got along so quickly—it was really nice.

I learned that this craft is a long journey, and there’s always something new to learn. I got to pick James Van Der Beek’s brain. He’s a legend in this industry, and he mentioned that he’s always learning and constantly asking questions. I felt so lucky to learn from him and to ask him questions too.

PC: Speaking of that chemistry, the majority of your scenes are with Asia Lizardo. What do you think your respective characters see in each other?
Jason: Asia is amazing. We went out for dinner and spent a lot of time together. I think Gabby sees the earnestness in Josh—he’s always looking to make other people happy. He’s very caring. That’s also what Gabby is to Dallas. They both recognize how much they care for the people they love.

PC: Is there a scene you’re particularly excited for audiences to see?
Jason: I’m really looking forward to the scene where Noah [Beck] is sitting at a table, and I’m talking to Gabby and Dallas, leading Dallas to the table. She doesn’t want to face Drayton, and there’s a lot of underlying tension in that moment that fans are going to pick up on.

PC: This is also Noah’s first feature, so you’re the veteran in this situation. Did you share any words of advice with him during the filming experience?
Jason: He worked so hard for this role, and it really shows. He didn’t need much from me. The only thing I told him was to stay true to himself, trust his intuition, and let whatever he’s feeling in the moment come through on screen without holding back. He was so great—he didn’t need any help.

PC: Justin Wu, who directed this, really fought for the representation we see on screen and to ensure the audience feels reflected in these characters. What’s something you brought to Josh that wasn’t initially on the page?
Jason: That’s a great question. I brought a sense of camaraderie with Noah. Josh is adopted and could be seen as an outsider, but I wanted to make sure the audience could see the brotherly bond between Josh and Drayton and everything they’ve been through together as a family. Instead of portraying a surface-level relationship, I wanted to show that they truly confide in each other.

PC: One of the major takeaways I got from this film is the idea of finding fulfillment outside of your craft at work. How do you find that balance for yourself, and how does it fuel your artistic soul and make you a stronger storyteller?
Jason: I’m always trying to do things that scare me and push me out of my comfort zone. That’s actually why I started acting—it wasn’t something that had ever crossed my mind before. But I’m always open to trying new things and keeping an open mind, which helps me grow both personally and creatively.

PC: Mentorship is also a big theme in the film. Who are the people in your own life who have shaped the storyteller you are today?
Jason: Definitely my mother, who escaped the Civil War in her country and immigrated to Canada. I’m a first-generation Canadian, and she inspires me every day. No matter what she’s been through, she always shows kindness and shares stories with so much ease and grace.

PC: This is going to be a breakout moment for you. As you look ahead, is there a dream role?
Jason: Growing up, my dad and I shared a special bond over action films—that was his thing. I’m not there yet, but I’d love to take on a role like that in the future.

Make sure to follow Jason on Instagram. Sidelined: The QB and Me premieres on Tubi on November 29th.

Photo Credit: Kristine Cofsky Photography