Connor Clayton Photography
Talent: Hunter Hensley
Credits:
-Lead Role, Scott, in film "The Wildman of Shaggy Creek"
-Supporting role, Dayna, in feature film "Song Sung Blue"
At only 13 and already making a big splash in Hollywood! How did you first get started in acting, and what drew you to it at such a young age?
I participated in a workshop one evening and did some scenes with some friends just for fun. I thought, “Wow, this is really cool!”
I enjoyed it so much that it became a real interest for me. And
I just jumped in with both feet!
You play Dayna's (Hugh Jackman's character) step-son in SongSung Blue, a vibrant and happy-go-lucky character who brings a lot-of heart to the family dynamic. What was it like working along sides such incredible actors like Kate Hudson, Hugh Jackman, and Ella Anderson?
Well, starstruck really describes what I felt every day. This was only my second film and I had to pinch myself to realize. I was merely inches away from these mega stars. They were very sweet o me, patient, kind, and shared great advice for this novice.
Your character, Dayna, plays a key role in the family’s motivation to push through hard times. How did you approach portraying a character with such empathy and compassion at your age? Were there any challenges in bringing this role to life?
The actual Dayna visited the set and I happily hung out with him as much as I could. He was terrific and I gained insight into his life and experience just by spending time with him. Also, Craig Brewer wrote him as he truly is, so the script captured his essence.
How did you prepare for a role like this, especially given the depth of emotion and family dynamics involved?
For the emotional parts, and it felt like there were many,
I just put myself in the place where I pictured my own family facing these circumstances.I felt the pain as if it were my own people. In fact, it took me a few days to snap out of the sad place I went to in order to portray the level of emotions that were called for.
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We know you're also working on ‘The Wildman of Shaggy Creek, which has a nostalgic, coming-of-age vibe. How would you compare your characters in both projects? Are there any similarities between Scott in’ Shaggy Creek’ and Dayna in ‘Song Sung Blue’?
Scott and Dayna are both sweet, innocent, well-meaning boys who face family circumstances they have no control over. Scott is moved to a new town and school, must leave behind his old friends, make new ones, and deal with some drama. Dayna has far more serious trauma to deal with but in the end they each find a way to let their light shine and find happiness in spite of it all.
You’ve mentioned that music plays a big role in your life. Given that Song Sung Blue is about a Neil Diamond tribute band, did you have any personal connection to Neil Diamond's music before joining the cast? What was it like to be part of a story so deeply intertwined with music?
I love so many styles of music. My Dad introduced me to artists he loves and my grandma told me about seeing Neil Diamond at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. It was a blessing to have acting and music, two things I love, all in one place with Song Sung Blue. How perfect!
You mentioned that you’ve been inspired by artists like Billy Joel and Stevie Wonder. Do you see music as a potential future career for you, or is acting your main focus for now?
Playing the piano brings me great joy, but for now, it is acting that calls me as a career. I continue to take lessons in acting, voice and piano, and have a great time playing keyboard in a band at School of Rock. Oh, and dancing, too. Hugh Jackman said,
“Hudson, you gotta keep dancing kid.”
With both Song Sung Blue and The Wildman of Shaggy Creek having themes of family, relationships, and perseverance, what do you hope audiences take away from these films, especially regarding the importance of family support in tough times?
Absolutely! Their shared themes of the importance of family is the glue that holds us all together, as individuals and as a unit. With strong bonds of love and commitment anything life throws at you can be dealt with.
You’ve lived in both LA and Nashville, which has likely influenced your artistic journey. How have your experiences in both cities shaped your outlook on acting and music? What’s something unique about each place that has impacted you personally?
Both these cities are brimming with the arts. But given my young age .I have say that Nashville has been the place that both of these art forms have blossomed for me. Los Angeles’ impact on me was the Pacific Ocean. I was crazy about the beach but the live music all over Nashville is the place to be. So much talent every where you turn and I just want to soak it all in.
As someone who’s just starting to make a name for yourself in the industry, what are your future aspirations? Are there any types of roles or projects you’d like to explore as you continue to grow as an actor?
I look forward to continue to learn all In can about acting, film, theatre, dance, voice, and hope the auditions keep rolling in.I am open to experience a variety of roles and look forward excitedly to the next surprise the future holds for me.
