Fans of Jennifer Lopez’ Shades of Blue series got quite a shock during this summer’s season finale, when fan-favorite Miguel Zepeda met an untimely (and dramatic) end. Bad boy Zepeda was actually played by the versatile actor Antonio Jaramillo, who, in reality, is far removed from the abusive ex-boyfriend of Jennifer’s character. We had the chance to chat with him recently about his buzzworthy TV success and where he’s setting his sights after Blue.
‘LL: We’d love to hear how you landed the part of Miguel Zepeda and, perhaps, your professional journey to NBC leading man.
Antonio: I’ll tell you the truth. Growing up, I never thought I’d be an actor. But eventually I came across the literature of Tennessee Williams and Arthur Miller. I started doing small things on stage, never thinking it would be my profession. But opportunities kept coming and 12 years after moving to LA, I am still a working actor. I am very grateful for the love and support of the people who enjoy my work. In regards to Shades of Blue, they were looking for a so-called “hunky” Latin actor to play off of Jennifer. I put myself on tape, submitted it and, after a lengthy audition process, got the part.
‘LL: Congratulations on a very successful season on the show. What were your big takeaways from a year on the set?
Antonio: My experience was fantastic. It was great working with the ensemble. Jennifer Lopez, Ray Liotta and the rest of the crew…We all got along very well. This whole production was amazing. Great actors, great directors, it was all really well done.
‘LL: Beyond Shades of Blue, you have some great credits on your resume; such as Oliver Stone’s Savages. In your 10+ years in the business, have you been noticing more opportunities lately for Latino actors?
Antonio: There is always a need for more opportunities. Right now when they need a minority, they tend to go to the African-American first. And then if they want to go in a different direction, they go to the Latino actor or another minority. Has it changed much? I don’t think so. It is a very slow process. 10 years ago, it was always Antonio Banderas or Salma Hayek. Now there are a few more, but the needle doesn’t move much. They select a few and then they tend to stick with them.
‘LL: Would you have any advice for young Latino actors hoping to catch a break?
Antonio: Keep trying. There are some great Latino actors out there, I know. I hope [the studios] broaden their search and keep hiring Latinos. Personally, I’ve been very lucky and cannot complain. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities that I’ve been given. Shades, for instance, has a lot of diversity. If a role like [Miguel Zepeda] comes along and you can get it, be grateful and do the best work that you can.
‘LL: Now that your time on Shades has come to an end, what are you planning to do next?
Antonio: I’m about to go off to New York to work on an independent film that I hope people will support. I’m also trying to put a theater production together. It’s not an easy task, but I’ve got to get back on the stage and am really looking forward to it.
We are definitely looking forward to Antonio’s next moves and encourage you follow him on Twitter and Facebook for all of his latest updates.