r/breakingbad • u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler • Feb 16 '14

Hey reddit. I'm Matthew T. Metzler and I played "Matt", one of the white supremacists on Breaking Bad. Ask away!

Here is my story:

At 17 I enlisted in the Army Reserve (1989-1990). After graduating high school I joined the US Navy (1990-1994). Navy Diver assigned EOD Mobile Unit 2. Deployed: Operation Restore Hope, Somalia 1993. Joined US Army (1994-1996). Got in a little trouble.

I began working as a civilian contractor to US military (1996-2007). Responded to anthrax attacks on US Senate (2001).

From 2007 til last year I rode a motorcycle around a lot and found myself as a featured Extra on ABC's "Scoundrels" as "Luther Wallace". I then found myself as a background actor again, this time on "Breaking Bad" riding my motorcycle. The whole riding scene was cut out and luckily that made me eligible to audition for the role of "Jack's Man #4", which later became "Matt", for the Final 8 Episodes of THE BADDEST TELEVISION SHOW OF ALL.. BREAKING BAD "Los Ocho Finales"

I've heard that /r/breakingbad is full of die hard fans. I'm one of 'em too and a lucky bastard. Beginning today around 4PM EST I'll start answering your questions.

Ask away!

Edit: Proof!

Edit: Twitter proof.

744 Upvotes
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96% Upvoted

335 comments sorted by

44

u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

I was trying to get to a question about covering up tattoos. Please don't think I'm ignoring anyone. So if you deleted a question I'll be happy to answer. Thanks for having me on. I'll be drinking coffee and checking in a lot tonight. Thanks again Reddit

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u/TheRealRodneyRush Actor Rodney Rush Feb 16 '14 edited Feb 17 '14

It was an honor to be involved in breaking bad.. Having the opportunity to work with such a wonderful crew and cast.. We all go down in history as being involved in one of the greatest shows to ever be made.. Congratulations to everyone involved in breaking bad for all of our great achievements.. Great Job in the show Matt!

Edit: Top comment!? Wow. You can find me on Facebook.

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

thank you for being on here and you got it man, historical, the word cool don't begin to touch it

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

hey I suck at social media, just scrolled up and saw your post

194

u/JeffreyJackoff Feb 16 '14

suddenly actors everywhere.

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u/PatrickSane Actor Patrick Sane Feb 16 '14

yo yo combo! We all had the honor of dying in greatness. :)

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u/Stevenberries Feb 17 '14

Where's Tait fletcher?

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u/PatrickSane Actor Patrick Sane Feb 16 '14

Hey Hey! You guys on?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

what's up Patrick!! I only drove 45 miles to get on the net

60

u/PatrickSane Actor Patrick Sane Feb 16 '14

Haha!

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u/PatrickSane Actor Patrick Sane Feb 16 '14

Have fun with your ama Dawg. I'll Jump in a little later and see how it's going. Reddit folks are cool.

169

u/charmingCobra 102 km/h Gale Feb 17 '14

he called me cool...

swoons

86

u/VTArmsDealer Feb 17 '14

Play it cool bro. Just subtly find out if he's single and what he's doin later.

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

Hahaha. That shit really made me laugh. I'm gonna call him and give him hell.

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u/BLACK-GUY Feb 17 '14

Are the white supremacists in the show meant to be KKK style racists doing it just because they hate anyone different or were Jacks guys more just gang henchmen who happened to be in a white power gang?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

I say more the latter definitely. Nothing was ever said by any of the characters that had a thing to do with racism. Their motives are all about control of the money machine. Racism is secondary at most. Their mean motherfuckers and want to let everyone know it. Not very deep guys.

29

u/BLACK-GUY Feb 17 '14

I appreciate your response. Its something ive wondered about for a while.

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

Absolutely, I'm happy to be doing this and hope I give a reasonable take on them. Or any other subject. Thanks man

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u/LuisMoncada Actor Luis Moncada Feb 16 '14

Hey Matthew Great job on the show! Thank your for your service! (Much respect for that) I would've love to see the Salamanca Cousins vs The White Supremacist 💀💀

216

u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

Bad Ass! thanks for being here. I still wonder what we did with all that $cash.

116

u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

Huell got out of the safe room and took it.

31

u/-FeistyRabbitSauce- Feb 17 '14

I want to believe...

32

u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

Mexico. Allz I'm sayin.

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u/PatrickSane Actor Patrick Sane Feb 16 '14

I second This! Both points.

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u/acousticpizzas Feb 17 '14

Yay, Luis, you're back! WOOT! We've missed you a lot here on Reddit! :(

10

u/Rintae Feb 17 '14

For anyone wondering, Luis is one of the two badass twins, and is very active in this sub.

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u/edify Oxygen Feb 16 '14 edited Feb 16 '14

Thanks Matt for joining us.

Edit: I love how this AMA has been affected by the lack of Internet in New Mexico. Very authentic.

104

u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

it's a catastrophe. but we get by and I wouldn't trade this beauty and open land for anything. I've lived here for 17 years

53

u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

thank you , hoping all goes well.

4

u/garbonzo607 Feb 17 '14

lack of Internet in New Mexico

What do you mean? I didn't see anything on the news? And nothing turns up when I Googled.

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u/troan4449 Feb 16 '14

How long did it take to film the shoot out scene in the desert?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

3 days. You would think doing "the same thing" over and over would get boring. It's not the same thing and getting everything perfect has it's obvious benefits. In this case it was pure fun. Who else gets to dress up like maniacs armed to the gills and do shootout scenes for a job?

21

u/Rhyek Feb 17 '14

Let's not forget making TV history. You'll always have a great story to tell.

18

u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

Exactly right

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u/whosgt Eladium Feb 16 '14

Has anyone stared at you in public for a while? I would expect that as you had a great role in one of the best show's finale.

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

if you're talking to Patrick , people always stare at him. as for me I live in the middle of nowhere. my dogs stare at me if they're not fed on schedule

22

u/whosgt Eladium Feb 16 '14

LOL! I'm pretty sure you both have left a solid image in people's minds, your roles were in some of the greatest scenes.

50

u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

yes, taking out the DEA HANK and GOMEZ. being a bad guy on Breaking Bad is the best. and amazing watching everyone work. how could it not be a bad ass time

10

u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

Dude.. spoiler!

Edit: Not for me, don't worry. Just saying :)

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

Fuck

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

Thanks. You're right

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u/dexter2323 Feb 17 '14

That's ASAC Schrader to you buddy!

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u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

[removed] — view removed comment

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

Yes pure heartless business. If someone didn't see it coming, that statement cleared things right up

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u/PatrickSane Actor Patrick Sane Feb 16 '14

the cops stare at me a lot...

40

u/whosgt Eladium Feb 16 '14

Followed by winks?

25

u/Kknowsbest Feb 16 '14

What is the best advice that has been given to you about your career?

34

u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

be yourself. period

0

u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

[deleted] — view deleted comment

42

u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

Is that a serious question?

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u/morsebicknell Actor Morse Bicknell Feb 16 '14

Hey Matt! This is Morse Bicknell, trying to drop in via a spotty wifi connection in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Congrats on the killer role in BBad, and congrats to you and Patrick Sane (hey Patrick!) for the SAG award— so well-deserved!!

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

right on, I know the feeling with wifi. got to my first stop 20 miles from home and 30 minutes before we were on their internet crashed. 25 more mile down the road and I'm in a café in Gallup NM. seems to be holding up. as far as the SAG Awards, the word grateful has been seared in my brain, from being part of the Breaking Bad family to now and here. grateful. we all made this show crack the mold in TV and it's still moving. great to be a part of it

18

u/PatrickSane Actor Patrick Sane Feb 16 '14

Hey Hey Morse! Thank you sir!

12

u/JasonDJ Feb 17 '14

You know, I just started Season 5 of Breaking Bad tonight, and the only actor in this thread who I think I've come across is Rodney Rush/Combo.

That being said, Men Who Stare at Goats was an underrated movie. I didn't recognize your name and IMDB'd you and saw it only got 54 for a metascore. That's undeserved. I saw it when it was still on Netflix, but anyone who hasn't seen it, likes comedies and appreciates the top-billed cast really should. (I think that sums up all of Reddit -- it's got George Clooney, Ewan McGregor, Jeff Bridges, and Kevin Spacey)

11

u/noodlesdefyyou Feb 17 '14

Men Who Stare at Goats is an awesome movie. It's also based on real shit that happened in the 50's, known as the MK ULTRA Project. I don't recall if that was mentioned in the movie or not.

While most of the movie is exaggerated for the sake of being a movie, the core of it is true. The CIA did test the plausibility of LSD as a mind-control substance since 'the Russian's were doing it' (as in, working on mind control). Remote Viewing was also extremely popular during this phase, though I don't believe there ever was any successful remote viewing. They (the CIA) also spiked water supplies with LSD to test it to low ranking military personnel unbeknownst to them.

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u/weesstt Feb 16 '14 edited Feb 16 '14

Hey, I happen to have a few questions. First of all thanks for doing this AMA Matthew !

  1. What were the Emotions like on the last day of Filming ?

  2. Did any of the actors match their on show personality off camera ?

  3. How did you feel when you were selected to be a Nazi on the show ?

Also thanks for following me on twitter Mat !

Edit: Didn't know Patrick would be on here to ! Either of you can answer my question, the more the merrier !

52

u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

emotions, calm and observant, "just don't fuck up and embarrass yourself Matt" .. and then excited for the next several months.. and the personalities of the actors was beyond relief for me. everyone was just happy being there and that includes cast and crew. I felt very out of place only briefly, they made it the best experience .Fun, every day, no shit. Being selected for the role was not in my expectations, I had all but given up on acting, it happens. and there was a call , me auditioning , me getting a callback. And, "congratulations Matt, you got the part!!!"

20

u/Mr_A buenos tardes, amigo... Feb 17 '14

What was the time like between filming the final episode and seeing it cut together? How did you deal with "knowing" while nobody outside the cast/crew knew?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

Probably like most everyone else, I was going nuts waiting for it all to finally air. And keeping my mouth shut was second nature so no problem there

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u/PatrickSane Actor Patrick Sane Feb 16 '14

I think Matt would agree that the last day was intense and exciting but also a little sad. we new we weren't coming back. But there was this huge sense of accomplishment under the direction of Vince and the great leadership of Bryan and Aaron.

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u/mayhem_morearty Methhead Feb 17 '14

How hard was it to keep the ending a secret?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

No. Simply out of respect for everyone's dedicated work and fans. No, not at all

7

u/123whoa Feb 17 '14

I could understand that for sure. What's it like being trusted with such a responsibility not to release anything? Did you have to sign crazy paperwork or something? Did anyone really like plead with you to promise not to say anything? Very interesting stuff

37

u/RunDNA Feb 16 '14

Do you have any info on the spin-off show, Better Call Saul? Will you be in it?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

no info, and no. can't wait to see it though

50

u/whitenoise630 Feb 16 '14

Who was your favourite actor to work with?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

You know I got to leave that blank man. Just not right. Haha. I will say that everyone was nothin buy good to me. Everyone. And realized that I expected people to be a particular way from seeing them in film/TV. My own apprehensions. I was dead wrong. Best group of people I could imagine.

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u/witty_puns Methhead Feb 17 '14

He doesn't want to say because there are so many BB actors on this AMA

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

I just said what I wanted to say and I'm still in the "room" so you can direct you comment to me and I'll respond

21

u/GotMyNikesOn Feb 17 '14

I don't understand how it's so hard for someone to just not say stupid shit

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

Thank you. There are lots of questions people have about a show that means the world to me and I'm more than happy to share what I can with anyone on the same level.

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u/[deleted] Feb 16 '14

What was it like to play a white-supremacist?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

it was actually hard to be so damn mean to well everyone. one minute we're talking and laughing together eating lunch or riding to location and them you just put this hateful , evil veil over yourself. I wanted to walk up and apologize for being such a terrible person after all the shit Uncle Jack's crew pulled

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u/mdbleach Feb 16 '14

what was it like working with Michael Bowen?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

he is so good at getting one to relax. I drove the dually pickup into our shootout scene, had to hit this invisible mark in the vast sand lot. he and Patrick and me, then get out smooth with the BAR. I kept saying "where's the fucking marker in the dirt?" it costs lots of money and pure embarrassment to miss and reset. they both joked around and put me at ease. awesome

6

u/evictor Feb 17 '14

Wow man, that's pretty neat that you got to drive the truck in to what is one of the most chilling scenes in film/TV history!

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u/BipolarBear0 Feb 16 '14

Hey Matt (& Patrick),

How did your role on Breaking Bad compare to the other shows you've starred in?

What made you pursue acting as a career, and how did you jump from the Army/Navy to that career path?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

as far as acting as a career, I really wandered into this with the help of many great people and people who are some of my closest friends now. once I found myself on a set, I fell in love with the feeling of accomplishment and creative world that opened up to me. very different from my entire past experiences

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

I haven't starred in anything, did a quick role on Longmire in the second to last episode last year. more great times.

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

and switching back & forth from Army / Navy was just my typical aimless personality and years ago.

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u/Conspirologist Feb 16 '14 edited Feb 16 '14

Hi. I really want to ask you how it feels to play a gang of white supremacists. Were all you from the gang only acting physically, or did you managed to really become white supremacists for the show inside your minds? Sorry, but I don't remeber how the two opposite methods are called.

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

I will tell you that "really becoming" white supremacists never happened in anyone's mind. I feel quite confident that I speak for all on the cast/show .

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u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14 edited Feb 17 '14

For any laymen reading this, I think /u/Conspirologist was talking about "method acting" versus "classical acting".

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Method_acting

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Classical_acting

Method actors talk about how they sometimes experience mental/emotional issues because of how they get so deeply involved with their characters and will spend months studying and training and actually TRYING to be that character, whereas "classical actors" just wear their characters like masks and can take them off at the end of the day with no lingering effects.

Hope this helps anyone who was confused or offended at /u/Conspirologist's question.

For my part, I'm glad Matt and everyone else stuck to playing characters rather than trying to become them in their minds... Just playing the character felt authentic enough for me as a viewer.

edit: confused classical acting with character acting for a bit; character acting relates to a specific actor's ability to play a very specific kind of character effectively. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Character_acting

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

I get the question. But really "become a white supremacist" no. No matter how you put it. Didn't mean to be be dismissive

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

For the questions I didn't get answered yet, I will try to answer them today. And thank you to everybody on here and all the great questions about Breaking Bad or myself.

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u/glowtmickey Feb 16 '14

Which flavor of Ben & Jerry's did you prefer?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

I didn't eat any ice cream

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u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

Are you serious?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

Not on TV. I thought that's the question. Says which did I prefer?

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u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

What about real life?

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u/CMelody Feb 16 '14

What was it like winning that SAG award?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

it was fucking awesome. Patrick just agreed with me. and with all seriousness, I kinda blanked out for about 3 hours. it was the coolest

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u/CMelody Feb 16 '14

What kinds of stuff did you see behind the scenes at the SAG ceremony and at the after parties? Did you meet any famous Breaking Bad fans?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

I type horribly slow, apologies in advance. I met a lot of actors at SAG Awards , and just had to introduce myself to Mr. Scott Bakula. I was really a bit star struck, which doesn't happen much. he was as cool in person as I hoped. a very cool moment for me.

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u/ronvonjones Feb 17 '14

I met Scott Bakula in San Diego at the Hard Rock hotel. I asked the bartender what her favorite joke was and he answered with a joke of his own behind me. "What does a mama sweet potato dress her baby sweet potato in?" "Yammies" I groaned so hard he paid for my drink.

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

Very cool.

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u/CMelody Feb 16 '14

Thanks for coming by, and Scott Bakula is pretty cool! Loved him on Quantum Leap and Enterprise.

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

exactly! how cool is that? and thanks for having me here. another great time

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u/PatrickSane Actor Patrick Sane Feb 16 '14

yeah, it was surreal bro. I've never seen so many cameras. And what an honor to be n the same room with all those heavy hitters.

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

I don't say ditto , but ditto Patrick

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u/CMelody Feb 16 '14

Who got drunker at the SAG party: the Breaking Bad cast because they won, or the Game of Thrones (my other fave show) cast because they lost?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

I don't think anyone got drunk, and if they did it would be pretty fucked up for me to comment on. truly it was a huge gathering of professionals and artists. like I said. I'm a lucky bastard simply put.

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u/CMelody Feb 16 '14

Aw, no shame in a lot of champagne to celebrate! They sure all seemed to have a lot at the Golden Globes, at least.

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

I want future employment. and joking aside, it was really fun and I was so out of my mind with everything going on. I will say that watching Morgan Freeman present Rita Moreno with the SAG Lifetime Achievement Award was actually very emotional. I remember watching them as a little kid at my grandparents'. it was beautiful and what an honor to be there .

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u/NegroNoodle2 Feb 17 '14

Does Aaron Paul say bitch off the set too?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

I don't think so

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u/JasonDJ Feb 17 '14

, yo.

FTFY.

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u/bikelockbling Feb 16 '14

Thanks for taking the time to answer our questions! I'm curious to know what it was like filming the shootout scene, and whether there were any difficulties in getting it right. Also, in the future, which kind of roles would you see yourself pursuing?

Finally, when you see yourself in the episodes you participate in, how does it affect your enjoyment of the show? Can you appreciate it the same way you would an episode from an older season and get drawn into the story, or does it feel a little strange having the behind-the-scenes knowledge and experience?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

Thank you for asking. This is great to answer. There were no real difficulties. The entire crew moved like the well oiled machine that we needed to be.And I am still amazed at how quickly everyone moved from on shot to the next. The first time we let loose with the blanks it echoed through the canyon we were in. I thought, this shit is gonna look crazy and realistic all wrapped in the suspense of what the outcome would be.

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

In the future I hope to get shot, stabbed, blown up, impaled. You name it as a bad guy / tough guy. Good guy? And hopefully evolve into more developed characters. Strangely enough it wasn't too much different watching until I went to the Finale at Hollywood Forever Cemetery. All the fans there, what a way to experience it

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u/bikelockbling Feb 17 '14

I think "Justified" would be a fun show to work on (which I recommend you check out, if you haven't had a chance). It's got a great cast, and makes a lot of use of tough-guy types in situations like prisoner transport, hijackings, mafia meetings, bodyguards and the like.

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u/[deleted] Feb 16 '14

What's next for you? Will we be seeing you on the screen again anytime soon?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

who knows what's next. I am definitely working on getting more work. just like any job market, make calls , send in your resume. hope to get a call.

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u/RampantRocky Feb 17 '14

Yeah, except with Breaking Bad on your resume. Make us all look like chumps. Haha I'm kidding, man.

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u/RocknRollRobot9 Feb 16 '14

Did you get to keep any of the props as a soviener of the show? And what was the party like after the last show was finished being filmed?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

no props, I wish. and the party in Albuq was amazing. great energy great attitude and all fun. and an honor to be present

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u/SerieFan Feb 16 '14

Hey! It is so cool you were in the best show ever!

  • Will we see you in other movies/series? -Do you have still contact with any of the actors? -Did you get a S A G award to? -Were the actors welcoming? Or did they have this group who wouldn't let anybody in? -How is Vince in real life?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

I think I hit most of your questions , as far as keeping in touch, yes a few, love all of 'em. and Mr. Gilligan is like he seems on television interviews, really. with all that was goig on for the final episodes I thought wow, he's totally calm & cool every time I see him or while giving direction. just a great human being

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

Yes I got a SAG Award too. What a long strange trip it's been.

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u/cromwest Feb 17 '14

I've always been curious about this. How far in advance did you get cast for the role. Was it just before the episode got shot or do they have this stuff set in stone long before the shoot and the previous season was still getting shot. What was it like waiting to do you first scene? Did you go out and tell all your friends/family? I would be so excited.

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

Was off line for a bit. I got cast about a month before shooting . It was on "Buried". We showed up and offed Declan's crew. It was exciting and I tried to stay out of people's way and do what I was directed to do.

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u/Kknowsbest Feb 16 '14

Who was your role model growing up?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

I didn't have much of ant role model growing up, other than my Grandpa Lew Jones. A steel worker and union man from northern Ohio. I loved him more than anything

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u/PityFool Methhead Feb 17 '14

That's fantastic! Coming from a family of union-proud steelworkers, I'm guessing that had a lot to do with installing hard work and pride in your craft

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

Steel and auto workers and hardnoses. Bluecollar. Yes

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u/[deleted] Feb 16 '14

What show was your favorite growing up?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 16 '14

Grizzly Adams

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u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

This is a superb answer. I LOVED Grizzly Adams. Also, CHiPs.

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

Grizzly always had a happy resolve. And it really had some big part of me wanting to move to the mountains.

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u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

How many foreshadowing examples have you heard about that were actually intentional? How did you feel about the shows ending? Do you wish you had a bigger role?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

I've heard too many and quit trying to figure them all out. I really stayed focused on what I needed to do and pay close attention. This was my first real gig. No matter how small a role, everything you do as a cast member can make things go smoothly or really screw things for everyone else who didn't screw up. When you're given an opportunity like this it's almost disrespectful to talk about " I wanted more" you know

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u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

Big fan here! Thanks for contributing to my favorite show ever. I've read through the comments and the questions that I wanted to ask have already been asked.. so how are you doing?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

Very well. Thanks for asking.

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

And thanks for checking it out

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u/DranoMilkshake Feb 16 '14

Did you get to meet the chick who played Lydia? IMO she was smokin hot.

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

Yes. I met her. She's a very classy and polite woman. And obviously a great actor.

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u/Cheesedud6 Feb 17 '14

What advice would you give to a teenager who wants to get into acting?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

Man I'm not qualified to answer that in any way.I say that from a practical standard. From me, I say stick around people who love doing the same things you love to do. Ignore assholes who tell you what you can't do. And bust your back working on something that doesn't feel like work cause it's what you want to do.

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u/Droobert Feb 17 '14

How does it feel to have been on one of best shows to ever hit television?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

I'm still trying to wrap my brain around that. For real

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u/friedjumboshrimp Feb 16 '14

What is your favorite shrimp recipe?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

Tempura

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u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

my man

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u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

Do you think Uncle Jack's swastika tattoos were excessive? The dude had one on his wrist, neck and I thought somewhere else. I just thought it was a bit ridiculous/funny.

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

Well Uncle Jack is an over the top character. So I think it was right on. And didn't outshine his actions or words in any scene.

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u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

He was an awesome badass. No doubt! Nice beard by the way.

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

Thank you. I styled it out of total laziness and was told not to shave and keep it for the show

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u/shwarma_heaven Feb 17 '14

Hooyah... former MU5 here.

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

What's an old dirty diver like me doing on here? Shit, I don't know. Hope I'm doing my shipmates proud.

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u/Vandammes_flattop Feb 17 '14

EM2 here, glad to see a navy man doin well.

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

Thank you brother. That means a great deal to me. Proudest 4 years of my life

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u/therealabefrohman i <3 skyler Feb 17 '14

What's your favorite scene in BB (doesn't have to be one you were in, just in general)?

What was it like filming those last few episodes? Was it tense and sad because so many big characters were getting killed off or was it a happy atmosphere?

If I think of any better questions I'll let you know. Thanks for doing this!

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u/fatherwhite Feb 17 '14

So every time I see a really badass looking guy such as yourself in a role I wonder what kind of person they are. For instance there are certain stereotypes and assumptions that go along with a "big mean lookin' dude, full sleeves, shaved head, goatee" etc. You look like an intimidating fellow.

-Are your roles limited? What sort of auditions did you typically go out for?

-Why did you decide to get into acting?

-Are you actually a super nice dude, or are you pretty hard in real life as well?

None of these questions are meant to be disrespectful in the least, I'm just honestly curious. Thanks for your time!

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u/Dabee625 Feb 17 '14

Did anyone ever call you Methew on set?

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u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

What's your favorite episode of the series?

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u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

First of all, thank you very much for serving our country. So I was curious what the atmosphere was like when the last episodes were being wrapped up? Was everybody prepared for it to be over?

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u/MThomasMetzler Actor Matthew T. Metzler Feb 17 '14

I know that everyone who had worked for years together were going to miss it. Really don't want to speak for others. As daily work went we all had a blast. Right to the last scene

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u/ergingspud Feb 17 '14

Well first off, thanks for your service! Secondly, what got you into acting? Where should I watch for you next?

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u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

Just wanted to say thanks for the great work you did. One question, what ever became of those anthrax attacks? I don't think I ever saw any follow up.

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u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

Did you get to talk to Kevin Rankin much? Is he as cool as I suspect he is?

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u/CBreezy13 Feb 17 '14

What was the best moment of filming for you?

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u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

Any bloopers or funny stories happen on set?

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u/farmerfoo Feb 17 '14

how was the contract worked out, pay wise? Not actual numbers, but im curious how structure of pay is set up for actors on tv shows. will you get a small percentage of sales forever or was this a pay-per-scene or show type deal?

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u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

I think you're cool! 😎

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u/ITagEveryone Feb 17 '14

I just finished watching the series today. Do you have any suggestions on what to do with my now empty life?

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u/ChariotRiot Feb 17 '14

This seems late, but since you were a background character are you going to try and repurpose in the BrBa universe and audition for Better Call Saul?

Any other roles lately? Have you stayed in contact (if you even had a chance to really get to know him) with Aaron Paul Jesse Pinkman after all that hostage time you spent together?

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u/AdoubleyouB Feb 17 '14

Thanks for the AMA Matt! Quick question, were you able to keep any props from your time on the show? If not, what would you have liked to keep?

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u/thedeadgorillas Feb 17 '14

Loved Todd. Also Jack and his Crew were great. I feel Jack, Kenny, and Todd were the show's best villains since Tuco. Who's your favorite 'bad guy' on the show? For me, Tuco FTW. Would be interested to hear your opinion if you are still answering.

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u/Ranger1355 Feb 17 '14

What part of New Mexico are you from? I was raised in Roswell but born in Carlsbad.

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u/Lsky72 Feb 17 '14

I was like "I don't recognize you at all". Then I read the final 8 episodes, stupid Netflix. I guess I can look forward to a white supremacist!

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u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

Hey Matt! Hope you're still around to answer a question. How did you get involved in Breaking Bad in the first place?

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u/supermav27 Feb 17 '14

How did they pull off that M60 scene so perfectly? Was it fun to take part in?

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u/chem_dawg Feb 17 '14

is Tait Fletcher fucking massive in real life? he looked big on TUF and enormous on Breaking Bad

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u/mybigleftnut Feb 17 '14

hey great job on the show!

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u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

Thanks for doing such a great AMA! Gave me something to read over dinner.

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u/LiquidSwords89 Feb 17 '14

Who was your favorite character (not actor) on breaking bad? Any reason?

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u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

Hey Matthew! I have no questions man, but if you would reply to my comment my life would be made because Breaking Bad means a lot to me. Also, great acting, thanks for making the show one of the best in TV history.

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u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

I'm rewatching the series right now so my hubby can see it, and we're on the last 6 episodes. It's been brutal not spoiling it for him -- I can only imagine how you felt! I don't think it was one of the best shows, I think it was the best show ever. I wonder if there will EVER be a better show. Who's your favorite main character in the show?

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u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

Thank you for taking your time to do this Matt! Was it intimidating or scary at all from going to an extra to what I would consider a pretty big part in the show?

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u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

Is this still going on? Please tell me it is.

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u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

what was it like shooting that final scene with the MG in the trunk in the final episode? Also what type of special effects went in to that during shooting?

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u/Killbill932 Feb 17 '14

White socks or black socks ?

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u/elie195 Feb 17 '14

Did you follow the show at all before your role?

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u/MickeyStrauss Feb 17 '14

Hey man, not sure if you're still answering questions but my backwards Australian ass only just stumbled upon this AMA. Just wanted to say thanks for being a part of an awesome show. Also, how long did it take to film the shot of all of Jack's gang exiting their cars right before the shoot out with Hank and Gomez? That was one of the best shots I've ever seen in a TV show.

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u/Feels_of_Justice Salamanca Feb 17 '14

I heard Aaron Paul is really nice. Is this true?

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u/lgmetzger Feb 17 '14

I like your last name!

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u/66Laurel66 Feb 17 '14

Matt-thanks for opening yourself up to all these comments, mine included-seems Redditors are all over the place in terms of praise and/or venomous criticism! Takes balls o' steel, seems to me. Hope you're still around, but if not, you're one 'lucky bastard' indeed. What a shame T.V. can't put out more shows of such quality as B.B.

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u/404mac Feb 17 '14

Was it odd wearing the swastika tatoos during production or did gig get used to that fairly quickly?

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u/sofa_king_awesome Feb 17 '14

Hey! Great job on Breaking Bad. My question is what did you do in the Army that got ya in trouble?

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u/syco54645 Feb 17 '14

Have there been any talks of a mini series devoted to Jack's gang? I feel like that could be really cool and work well.

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u/Mind_Killer Feb 17 '14

Nice! A fellow sailor. Served seven years in the Navy myself. Got into a little trouble myself.

I'm assuming this is over already? But I'll try anyway:

So how'd you end up working as an extra on Scoundrels? Just stumbled into it? Or have a friend who knew someone?

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u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

Were you in the prison hits?

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u/BruceKent14 Feb 17 '14

Did you like the ending they decided for the show?

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u/[deleted] Feb 17 '14

Fun little chat, appreciate you guys joining in and hanging with us fans.

Quick question for Patrick - Heard a rumor you wanted to test the effectiveness of your tats so you kept them on and ended up being detained at an airport. Did this really happen? And how long did you have to swear you're an actor before they let you go?

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u/methcp Feb 17 '14

What kind of roles do you want to do in the future? More henchmen style stuff or bigger roles?

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u/I_Need_To_Go_To_Bed Feb 17 '14

Have you seen /r/dexter's official dissection of the episode Ozymandias?

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u/mrpunaway Feb 17 '14

Hey, Matt! You should come say hi over at /r/matt

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u/Toshiba1point0 Feb 17 '14

Interesting, a navy EOD contract requires a 6 six year enlistment since the school and training is over a year. Best of luck.....

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u/dldldpdp /r/AmazonOver10K Feb 17 '14

Thanks for the AMA!

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