With a major project in South Korea and a bold approach to each role, actor Colin Woodell opens up about staying creative, curious and grounded
For Colin Woodell, the acting bug bit early. “I was probably nine years old when my parents took me to see ‘A Beautiful Mind’—maybe a little too young for that movie,” he said. But he’s glad he did, because Russell Crowe’s performance changed his life. It made him want to be an actor. Today, Woodell has not only fulfilled that childhood dream but also built a reputation for powerful performances across genres. Currently filming a new project in South Korea, he shares how he stays grounded, creative and inspired through it all.
DA MAN: Hi Colin, thanks for making time for us. First off, how are you? What’s been keeping you busy lately—on or off the screen?
Colin Woodell: Thanks for having me! I’m doing great. I’m currently in Seoul, South Korea, shooting a new movie with Korean action legend Don Lee. It’s my first time here, and I’m loving it. I’m just trying not to eat too much—the food is incredible.
DA: Let’s talk about “Pulse,” your newest Netflix series. What was your first reaction when you read the script and met doctor Xander Phillips for the first time?
CW: The story grabbed me right from the beginning, especially reading it from Xander’s perspective. The character was shrouded in mystery, and the dynamic between him and Danny was ambiguous and complicated. I finished the first episode and immediately wanted to know more. I was hooked.
DA: The show dives into intense medical emergencies and emotional drama. How did you prepare for stepping into the ER setting?
CW: We were fortunate to have two amazing teachers, Joshua Troke and Rosa Estrada, lead us in a ‘medical boot camp’ before filming started. We learned the basics of emergency medicine, how to assess trauma patients and how to carry ourselves in high-stress situations. It was essential for stepping into that world.
DA: Xander is a complex character, especially in how his past relationships impact his present decisions. How did you approach those dynamics?
CW: I tried to connect with Xander as much as possible. Luckily, I could relate to some of what he was going through—especially about wanting to prove yourself and feeling misunderstood. The challenge was sympathizing with Xander even when he made choices I didn’t agree with.
DA: The series explores powerful themes like power, trust and trauma. Was there a particular scene that resonated with you?
CW: Absolutely. In episode 10, Xander reveals to Danny what happened at his former hospital and apologizes for everything that’s unfolded between them. That scene is a turning point for Xander—he sees how he’s been manipulated by his parents to protect the family name and how that parallels his need for control in his relationship with Danny. It’s a powerful moment where everything clicks for him.
DA: You’ve portrayed a wide range of characters—from action and thriller to romance and now medical drama. How has that shaped the kind of actor you want to be?
CW: I love a challenge. The joy of acting comes from facing your fears and doubts over a role. You have to find a way in and push through. I hope I get to keep doing this for a long time and never settle.
I love a challenge. The joy of acting comes from facing your fears and doubts over a role
DA: With “The Continental,” you stepped into a franchise with a massive fanbase. How did you make the show’s younger Winston Scott feel both true to the original but also uniquely yours?
CW: Ian McShane is one of my favorite actors. He’s iconic in the “John Wick” franchise. The challenge was honoring Ian’s performance while also bringing my own take to Winston. I didn’t want to mimic him—I wanted to capture the character’s swagger and intelligence in a way that felt authentic to me.
DA: Was there a role that made you think, ‘Yes, this is the direction I want my career to go’?
CW: Working on “The Flight Attendant” really shifted things for me. My character, Buckley aka Feliks, was a chameleon—intoxicating and dangerous. Playing with disguises and accents gave me the confidence to keep pushing myself.
DA: What’s something that most people might not realize about the behind-the-scenes process of creating a high-intensity series like “Pulse” or “The Continental”?
CW: How much rehearsal and prep goes into making those intense scenes look seamless. We have a team of professionals choreographing every move, and we rehearse tirelessly so that once cameras roll, we’re ready.
DA: You’ve worked in both theater and on screen. Do you find one more creatively fulfilling—or is it more about the story?
CW: They’re both fulfilling in different ways. Theater is the actor’s medium—once the show is up, it’s just you and the audience. Film and TV are more collaborative, with hundreds of people working toward the same goal. I love both for different reasons.
DA: If you could work with any filmmaker, who would it be and why?
CW: That’s tough! There are so many. But since I’m in Korea, I’ve been immersing myself in Korean cinema. Bong Joon Ho is one of the greatest filmmakers of our time. I’d love to work with him.
DA: In an industry that’s constantly evolving, how do you stay creatively energized and grounded?
CW: I think it’s crucial to keep creating. Whether it’s writing, taking acting classes, cooking, or painting—it keeps you sharp. During those stretches of unemployment, you can feel all that creative energy building up. You need a release valve. Creating something every day, no matter how small, keeps you sane.
You need a release valve. Creating something every day, no matter how small, keeps you sane.
DA: What’s exciting you right now—personally or professionally?
CW: Being abroad. I’m soaking up so much—new cultures, food, art. It’s easy to get stuck in your own bubble. Experiencing a new place broadens your perspective.
DA: Are there any roles or genres you’re hoping to explore next?
CW: I want to keep pushing myself, whether it’s as an actor, writer or producer. I’m still growing. I’d love to work with more smart, talented people and keep learning.
DA: What’s your go-to way to unwind after a long day on set?
CW: It depends, really. I try to get back to myself—call loved ones, maybe take a hot shower. A hot shower after a long day is a must.
DA: Looking back at everything you’ve done, what would you say to your younger self just starting out in this industry?
CW: Trust the timing of your life, Colin. Stay focused and work hard. You’re exactly where you’re supposed to be. And maybe lay off the Flamin’ Hot Cheetos.
Photography Lens By Mi
Styling Kimberly Goodnight & Venk Modur
Grooming Tanya Alian using Chanel Beauty, represented by A Frame Agency
Location AE Studio
Production Media Playground PR