Get to know: Mike Edward
Mike Edward reprises his role as Zac Smith who originally graced our screens in the 1990s as step-son to former Clinic director Julia Thornton and later had a brief fling with Rachel McKenna in 2003.
How did you get your role on Shortland Street?
Auditioned back in the day - this time I was lucky enough to
just get a phone call.
How long have you been acting and how did you get your first big break?
I have been acting since my high school musical days and professionally since I graduated from my drama school in 2001. I've never really had a 'break', I feel like my career has just been going forward in increments, slowly establishing in both my experience and ability.
Name three similarities between you and your onscreen
character.
Hmmm....we both look quite similar! He can get a bit distracted
by girls. Perhaps the key identification is the dissonance between
where his is and where he feels he should be.
What has been your best experience/scene on the show to
date?
Meeting all the lovely people who work here.
Which other character would you like to be and
why?
Lana. She wears nice frocks.
What are your hobbies/interests outside of Shorty?
I have two beautiful children. I create physical theatre. I love
poker.
What do you do in your down time during the day when
you're not shooting?
At the moment I am constantly learning lines! I also do a lot of
cirque/acrobalance work for corporate and I train. I try and spend
as much time with my kids as I can.
What is your favourite destination in NZ?
Karekare Beach.
Are you single or attached?
On Facebook it says 'in a relationship'.
How many brothers and sisters do you have, are they older
or younger?
One older sister
What is your date of birth and what star sign are you?
26th December and I am a Capricorn.
Do you have any pets?
Not at the moment. We are still in mourning for my daughters'
two recently deceased mice.
Who is the actor or actress that you look up to or admire the most?
Robert Downey Jnr: so very interesting to watch.
What is the thing you enjoy most about going to work everyday?
The fact I'm getting to do what I love most for a living.
What has been your favorite scene to film in your time at Shortland Street?
Saving Rachel from drowning in 2003.
Do you watch Shortland Street at home? If yes, is it strange seeing yourself on television or are you used to it?
I do at times ... It's not strange; it's good to watch your work
critically as you can make adjustments and look to approve and grow
as an actor.
What is your favourite food?
Nana's roast.
What is your favourite television programme and/or film of all
time?
The reboot of Battlestar Galactica was pretty good.
Are you from Auckland or did you move here to film Shortland
Street? Where did you grow up?
Auckland.
Which other actors/actresses do you like working with the
most and why?
I make a lot of theatre with Eve Gordon; We both have similar goals
in regards to creating physical works and incorporating cirque with
narrative.
Have you made any good friends amongst the cast and
crew?
I still feel a bit like the new kid at school but they all seem
great and no one has stolen my lunch yet!
What's the best experience you've had with a fan/fans?
Just the kindness of strangers is beautiful.
Can you remember your first day on Shortland Street - what was it
like?
It was 16 years ago and I had a crush on Angela Dotchin - plus I was nervous as heck!
Catch Mike Edwards as Zack in Shortland Street,
weeknights at 7pm.
