Get to know: Jesse James Pickery
Where were you born and where did you grow up?
Born in Kaitaia, but grew up all over the North Island. The 2 schools I guess were the most influential were Hauraki Plains College and Raglan.
How long have you been acting and how did you get your first big break?
In 2010 I starred in Sam Holst’s Meathead. A short film went to Cannes and even won a Crystal Bear at the Berlin Film Festival. I loved working on this project.
Name three similarities between you and your onscreen character:
We both speak Spanish!
Both love a good laugh.
Too polite to leave food on the plate!
What has been your best experience on the show to date?
Meeting Maree, our unit manager. Maree’s in charge of keeping all the cast and crew fed and watered! She’s a treasure.
Which other character would you like to be and why?
Wendy, because she’s the moral centre of the show.
What are your hobbies/interests outside of Shortland Street?
Carving, studying Maori culture at the Waranga up north. Painting and drawing.
What do you do in your down time during the day when you’re not shooting?
Learn lines!
What is your favourite destination in NZ and overseas?
Raglan in NZ and Valparaíso, Chile overseas.
How many brothers and sisters do you have, and are they older or younger?
2 brothers, one older and one younger.
What is your date of birth and what star sign are you?
29 th of July, Leo.
Do you have any pets?
2 dogs called Tank and Dynoglide
Who is the actor or actress that you look up to or admire the most?
Bruce Lee
What is the thing you enjoy most about going to work everyday?
Everyone’s usually smiling, polite and interested in how you are.
What has been your favourite scene to film in your time at Shortland Street?
My first scene. Evan’s face when he gives me the flowers…hilarious.
Do you watch Shortland Street at home?
No, I’ve never really watched the show.
What is your favourite food?
Wonton soup.
What is your favourite television programme and/or film of all time?
I really like Silence of the Lambs and The Exorcist.
Are you from Auckland or did you move here to film Shortland Street?
I moved here to film the show, I grew up all over the North Island.
Which other actors/actresses do you like working with the most and why?
Pearl and I have heaps of scenes together and she’s great to work with.
Have you made any good friends amongst the cast and crew?
Yeah, heaps!
Catch Jesse James as Angel, weeknights at 7pm
