Xander Berkeley Interview

Xander Berkeley: Mastering the Art of Transformation in Film and TV

Interviews, Stories
Xander Berkeley: A Versatile Talent in Film and Television

This interview with Xander Berkeley was conducted via mail correspondence in March 2024, offering a unique insight into the career and perspectives of one of the most versatile actors in the industry.

About Xander Berkeley

Xander Berkeley’s journey in the entertainment industry is marked by a rich tapestry of roles that span across a wide array of genres. From his early days in the arts to his prominent roles in “Terminator 2: Judgment Day” and “The Walking Dead,” Berkeley has demonstrated a remarkable ability to bring depth and nuance to every character he portrays.

With a career that has not only encompassed film but also television and voice acting, Berkeley has shown an exceptional range and dedication to his craft. His work in “Air Force One” and as a voice actor in animated series and video games highlights his adaptability and the breadth of his talent.

Off-screen, Berkeley’s interests in sculpture and special effects makeup artistry reveal a multifaceted artist with a passion for creation in all its forms. His contributions to the industry are not just limited to his performances but also include his behind-the-scenes artistry and creativity.

Exclusive Interview with Xander Berkeley

Xander Berkeley in 24 and Day 2
© 2002 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
1. Reflecting on your diverse career, from “Terminator 2: Judgment Day”2 to “The Walking Dead,” how do you prepare for roles that span such a wide range of genres and character complexities?
My approach is to read the script a few times and sense the tone. With “The Walking Dead” (TWD)1, I was brought in early enough to binge-watch two seasons. You try to visualize what colors you could bring to the story that would most engage the audience (or re-engage). In TWD, I had them print out and blow up stills of the character from the comic book to compare body language.
2. In “Terminator 2,” your character is part of a pivotal moment in the film’s storyline. Can you share any behind-the-scenes insights from working on this iconic movie?2
As a sculptor and special effects makeup artist, I took particular interest in the success of creating the illusion of my being impaled by the hand-blade. The death sequence was part CGI and part practical puppetry with a retractable blade and sculpted arm blade.
3. Your role as Secret Service Agent Gibbs in “Air Force One” placed you in the heart of a political thriller. What was it like working on a film that blends action with intense political drama, and how did you approach embodying this character?
Well, in this case, the writer and director never came up with an explanation for why Gibbs was doing what he did. So I studied the behavior of secret servicemen in general—which allowed me very neutral expressions—less behavior, which functioned as a kind of blank screen upon which the audience could project whatever motive they might imagine.
4. “The Walking Dead” is known for its deep exploration of human nature and survival. How did you prepare for the role of Gregory, and what challenges did you face in bringing this character to life in a post-apocalyptic setting?
I actually explain my process in TWD in a previous question. Additionally, I came up with a backstory of a mid-level management guy who liked to act like a big-shot. I imagined him smoking cigars in loud bars telling his big stories at full volume—hence him having a somewhat blown-out voice. Also, thought about Preston in “The Music Man” and other blow-hards.
5. Throughout your career, you’ve worked with a remarkable list of directors and actors. Is there a particular piece of advice or a lesson learned from one of your colleagues that has stuck with you?
Ed Harris4 once said, “never let them make you tell a lie”. Which was good to hear at 30, stick to your guns, and choose projects that lend themselves to authentic acting. Bruce Dern’s5 advice to me in my 20s was “it doesn’t matter if you’re the third bad guy to the left—keep it real and keep it interesting”.
6. You’ve also lent your voice to several animated series and video games. How does your approach to voice acting differ from your on-screen roles, and what do you enjoy most about this type of performance?
I study the visual references they give me for the character. Even if it’s just a few drawings, I try to find the voice that would come out of something or someone who looked like that. How would they move, and behave, and then just try to channel that.
7. Your career has spanned several decades in the entertainment industry. How have you seen the industry change over the years, and what impact has it had on your work as an actor?
TV got a lot better. I need to try to stay pretty exclusively in the film world because of the quality. In film, the director has control over the dialogue, so if you have an idea of how to improve it—they are open—while TV is more of a board-of-directors arrangement with staff writers and studio executives hovering around to decide everything by committee.
8. Is there a role or project that you consider a turning point in your career, one that challenged you in new ways or opened up new opportunities?
“Sid and Nancy”7, hands down. Both in terms of gritty realism and improvisational elements and alternative dialogue being welcomed. It also advanced my skills as a filmmaker—my artistry.
9. What upcoming projects are you looking forward to the most?
I am about to head off to play the role of Andrew Undershaft in an adaptation of George Bernard Shaw’s “Major Barbara”6. He is a contrarian and a provocateur (like Shaw himself was) and a billionaire munitions producer with convincing arguments to justify what he does and why.
^ “The Walking Dead” (TWD) is a post-apocalyptic horror television series based on the comic book series by Robert Kirkman, Tony Moore, and Charlie Adlard. Berkeley’s role as Gregory introduced a complex character to the series’ narrative, showcasing his ability to adapt to diverse roles.
^ “Terminator 2: Judgment Day” is a 1991 science fiction film directed by James Cameron, featuring groundbreaking special effects for its time. Berkeley’s involvement in the film’s iconic scenes highlights his diverse acting skills and interest in special effects.
^ “Air Force One” is a 1997 political action thriller film that explores a hijacking scenario aboard the President’s plane. Berkeley’s portrayal of Agent Gibbs adds depth to the film’s exploration of loyalty and betrayal.
^ Ed Harris is an acclaimed actor known for his roles in films such as “The Truman Show” and “Apollo 13”. His advice reflects the importance of authenticity and dedication in acting.
^ Bruce Dern is an acclaimed actor known for his roles in films like “Nebraska” and “The Hateful Eight”. His advice reflects the importance of authenticity and dedication in acting.
^ “Major Barbara” is a play by George Bernard Shaw, exploring themes of morality, wealth, and social justice. Berkeley’s anticipation for playing Andrew Undershaft indicates his continued pursuit of challenging and thought-provoking roles.
^ “Sid and Nancy” is a 1986 biopic directed by Alex Cox, depicting the life of Sex Pistols bassist Sid Vicious and his girlfriend Nancy Spungen. Berkeley’s role in the film marked a significant moment in his career, showcasing his ability to engage in deeply realistic and improvisational acting.

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