Philip Winchester of “Strike Back” and “The Player” on His Roles, On- and Off-screen

SOLDIER OF FORTUNE. No matter what role he’s taking on—action hero, plotter in a Shakespearean tragedy, or father in real-life—Philip Winchester soldiers on with incredible perseverance

 

Outfit and pocket square by Tommy Hilfiger, tie by Ralph Lauren

 

Philip Winchester was only 14 years old when he was casted in his first role in 1998’s “The Patriot” starring Steven Seagal (not the one from 2000 with Mel Gibson). Since then, he has appeared in various large screen titles as well as TV shows, playing a wide range of characters—although plenty of his most memorable roles are of him playing active-duty service members or retired soldiers who somehow find themselves back in the thick of action. There’s the new “The Player,” for instance, as well as fan-favorite “Strike Back” that is now in its fifth season and still going strong. In a way, the man-at-arms archetype might actually be the perfect way to describe Winchester himself: A man of action who is hardworking and loyal, with just the right amount of rebelliousness for that extra ounce of roguish charm.

 

DA MAN: Hi Philip, how are you doing these days?
Philip Winchester: I’m fine, thank you. It’s nice to have some time off.

DA MAN: Since we’re nearing the end of the year, the obvious questions is: Do you have any big plans for 2016? Are there any upcoming movie or TV roles that you can tell us about?
Philip Winchester: There is a possibility of doing a “Strike Back” movie. I’m very excited about that, of course. Otherwise, I’m enjoying being a dad and hanging out with my little family.

DA MAN:  Do you have any predictions or hopes for the film industry in the year to come?
Philip Winchester: It would be great to see the bigger companies make more small films and introduce new young actors rather than a few big-budget films with a-list slam-dunk stars attached.

DA MAN:  Going back to 2015; what do you think has been the highlight of your career this year?
Philip Winchester: This year? Certainly surviving “The Player.” It’s a beast of a show, and the crew and I were hanging on most of the time!