Star of Mad Men and 12 Years a Slave, Bryan Batt brings his hotly anticipated cabaret show to London this month. The out and proud gay Hollywood actor will take to the stage of The Bayou Banquet with just a microphone and a piano to regale guests with stories and songs from his hometown of New Orleans. This week Jason Reid talks to Bryan about starring in Mad Men, being gay in Hollywood, and his love for New Orleans.
I’ve got to start by asking you about Mad Men, if not I’ll probably get lynched by the super-fans. How was it to be a part of that?
Mad Men was the very first TV pilot I shot, and the first series I was a regular character in. To be part of such an iconic and great show set the bar very high.
So it was good then?
It was MAGICAL. When we shot the pilot episode, we had no idea what the show would become and it was a fabulous journey as it all unfolded.
What did you enjoy most about playing Salvatore? He was a very interesting character…
Hell, everything! Foremost the brilliant writing which made portraying Sal an effortless joy. Early on I realised that we, the actors, were going to be so well taken care of on every front: writing, costume, lighting, set, and editing, that we were able to fly with no worries or reservations. We knew the powers that be would never let us or the show be less than the best. It was and remains one of the best sets I’ve ever worked on.
Moving on, you’re an out and proud gay Hollywood actor. However many still choose to remain in the closet. Why do you think it’s still relatively difficult to be out in Hollywood?
One word: money. But I believe that is changing. While there are established TV and Broadway stars like Neil Patrick Harris who are out, for the film industry, it is moving very slowly.
Are the younger actors changing that trend in your experience?
I think just like their age group, younger audiences don’t really care if someone is gay or straight and that reflect upon actors. Younger actors are more likely to come out as bisexual or gay these days. But in Hollywood and the film industry internationally, it’s all about money. When a big money making box office star comes out and continues to bring in the big bucks, watch out!
Have you ever felt at a disadvantage career-wise by being out?
Of course. I’ve actually been refused the opportunity to audition for roles because the casting director couldn’t “see” me in the role. The role was a lawyer. And the casting director was gay. Crazy, right?
“I promise laughter, and maybe an emotional tug at the heart here and there. A definite FUN evening!”
Bonkers! Do you think directors’ mindsets will change anytime soon?
With the great strides the gay movement has made so rapidly in recent years, I think it may take some time for the average joe to catch up.
Is there ever a circumstance where you would agree with outing someone?
The only time I would agree with outing someone would be when that person was an elected official or someone who openly opposed LBGT equality while hypocrictiaclly being a closet case. I have no time for that shit.
You’re a New Orleans boy, born and bred, what are your three favourite things about this great city?
The people, the culture and the soul.
The new show also centres around your beloved hometown, so what can we expect?
Its my thing, my stories, with an eclectic mix up of songs. I promise laughter, and maybe an emotional tug at the heart here and there. A definite FUN evening!
The Bryan Batt Cabaret presents Tales from New Orleans is running from Monday 21st and Wednesday 23rd September. Tickets £25 Monday & Tuesday, £40 Wednesday (includes 4 course dinner). Doors 8pm.
