Jacob Batalon plans his vampire empire, muses on representation, and admires an unexpected cartoon character.
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More about Jacob Batalon:
Actor and executive producer, Jacob Batalon, has established himself as a leading star in the industry with his ability to resonate with his characters and captivate global audiences. Following the success of his scene-stealing role as Peter Parker’s charming best friend ‘Ned Leeds’ in the MCU Spider-Man films with Tom Holland, Batalon continues to dominate film and television both on and off the screen.
Born and raised in Honolulu to Filipino parents, Jacob never intended on becoming an actor as a kid. Initially interested in studying singing and the ukulele, he enrolled at Honolulu’s Kapi‘olani Community College after high school to study music theory, but he soon dropped out without finishing his degree. Still having interest in performing arts, he went on to attend a two-year acting program at the New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts.
While working through his last year in the program, he sent in a self-tape submission for a vague supporting role in a Marvel movie, his first audition ever. He went on to do a chemistry read with Tom Holland and the rest is history. As one of the few young, Filipino actors in Hollywood, Jacob’s portrayal of Ned is a welcome change to the MCU as he is a far cry from the comic book version, who is tall, white, and blonde.
More about Reginald the Vampire:
Reginald Andres finally got his life together – when he was turned into a vampire. While he doesn’t fit into the stereotypical expectations of what a vampire looks like – he’s not chiseled or classically handsome – Reginald has found his place amongst an unlikely cohort that includes the cool vampire who sired him, the former vampire chieftain turned unexpected ally (or is she?), and his co-worker/former girlfriend. A show with a lot of heart and just enough blood, “Reginald the Vampire” proves the undead life is just as complicated as life itself.