CelebrityHauteSpot

Photo Credit: Charley Miller

We recently had the chance to chat with “Orange Is The New Black” star Jason Altman about landing his role on the show, playing his character, upcoming projects, and more!

1. How did you land your role on “Orange Is The New Black?” / What was the audition process like?

I was called in to audition without an agent or manager. The audition was for a smaller role with a few lines.  The next morning the casting directors called me to come in to read for the lead Cert Officer Herrmann and I got the call just a few hours later that I got the part!

2. What was your reaction when you found out you booked the role?

I was overwhelmed with emotions. It was one of the best moments I’ve ever experienced.

3. How would you describe your character?

A no nonsense die hard blue blood dirty cop.

4. How is he different from those you’ve portrayed in the past?

I think he is more experienced in his field than the other roles I’ve played in the past. He is also a lot more vindictive and out for himself more than anyone I’ve ever played.

5. What is your favorite thing about your character?

Well, there really isn’t anything to like about Herrmann. I guess that’s what I like about him because it’s always fun to play the bad guy.

6. What has been your favorite episode to film?

The season 5 finale. Ending the riot.  It was like being on a set of an action movie.

7. What is a typical day like on-set?

I arrive and am usually brought into the hair and makeup trailer first.  Then I wait in my trailer and prepare my scenes until the assistant director brings me to the set for a rehearsal.  After the rehearsal, the crew sets up the cameras and we shoot our scenes once they’re ready.  It’s a well oiled machine.

8. How is the vibe of this set different from those you’ve previously worked on?

I think from the limited time I’ve spent there is that there is a huge sense of family and love on the set of OITNB. The cast has been together for 6 years now and they even call themselves family.

9. Why do you think fans love the show so much?

The show has grown to such a huge worldwide audience.  I think that the way Jenji Kohan and the rest of the writers show each character’s different personalities and point of view is so dynamic.  I also think that even when things are happening that are so dramatic and real, there are always comedic layers that’ll make you laugh. I think the show’s characters stay ingrained in you for a long while after watching.  It started for me as a fish out of water comedy, and has grown to so much more.  This show, more so than any other show I know of, touches on subjects such as race, religion, the justice system, and gender equality.

10. What is a behind-the-scenes secret you can share with us?

My character Herrmann, is named after executive producer Tara Herrmann. 

11. Are you working on any other projects fans can look forward to?

Waiting to hear if I will be back for season 7 of OITB and a few other things I can not talk about yet. And like any other actor, more auditions!

12. What are your social media accounts?

Twitter – @altmanjason

Instagram- jaltman25

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