HOLR is sitting down to chat with rising star and actor Aaron Harris, who stars in CBS’s ‘Matlock’ Reboot.
Meet Aaron Harris. He is a talented 13-year-old actor set to make a significant impact in the entertainment industry. This Fall, Harris stars as Alfie in CBS’s highly anticipated “Matlock” reboot. His experience working alongside the legendary Kathy Bates has been nothing short of inspiring, teaching him the importance of treating everyone on set with respect, regardless of their role.
In addition to “Matlock,” he recently wrapped filming his first lead in a comedy feature and is venturing into voice acting for a Disney animated project. Today, HOLR is sitting down to chat with Harris, where we discuss how his journey into acting was sparked by his childhood love for Finding Nemo, plus, how Harris expertly balances his career with school.
Keep reading to learn more about how Harris got his start and what’s next for the rising star!
Your role as Alfie in the “Matlock” reboot sounds exciting! What do you enjoy most about playing this character, and how do you relate to him?
My favorite part about playing Alfie is the fact that he in many ways is the brain behind the operation when it comes to the technical aspects of Mattie’s job. I love technology so it was cool to learn more about it through my character’s role. I also love the complexity of my character who comes off as being very charming and happy, but some of it is a bit of a façade because in reality he longs for his mother and that is his motivation to get justice alongside his grandmother.
What was it like filming alongside the legendary Kathy Bates? What have you learned from working with her and other seasoned professionals on set?
Working with Miss Kathy was epic! She treats me with the utmost respect and as if we were equals, even though I am a kid and this is my first professional speaking role. She is extremely caring and the best on-screen grandmother I could ever wish for!
She taught me a very important lesson that no matter who you are working with, whether it is a background actor or the most world-renowned actor, you treat everyone equally.
In addition to your role in “Matlock,” you’re also starring in a new film. Can you give us any hints about this new project?
It has been a crazy year. Along with filming Matlock, I have just completed my first lead in a comedy feature which just wrapped last month in Ontario. I made some awesome friends, and I cannot wait to share more as it is going to be hilarious. I am also working on my first voiceover role for a Disney animated feature. I am currently working in B.C. on the Nickelodeon production of My Weird School based on Dan Gutman’s beloved book series.
You started your journey in acting at a young age after being inspired by Finding Nemo. Can you tell us more about that moment and how it influenced your decision to pursue this career?
When I saw the movie as a young child, I didn’t understand that voice acting was a thing. I thought it was all magic and just wanted to be like those fish swimming around in the water on screen. When I learned that they were actors, it inspired me to take lessons.
Balancing school with your acting career can be challenging. How do you manage your time between education and your work in the entertainment industry?
That has definitely been the biggest challenge for me as a professional actor. It is hectic and exhausting at times because you go back and forth throughout the day filming and schooling. Managing my time is definitely a work in progress but I am very grateful to have understanding and supportive teachers.
With your rapid rise in the industry, what are some goals or aspirations you have for your future in acting, both in television and film?
Some of my professional goals include winning an award for my work, getting killed in a horror movie, and hopefully writing and directing my own movie one day.
Matlock airs on CBS on Thursday nights. It also streams on Paramount+
