Answers with A.J. Cook

Answer 1

At just 14 you have managed to rack up quite the impressive resume. What has been your favorite film to star in?

Thank you! I have been acting since I was 8 and I have been fortunate to be a part of some great projects. This is always a hard question to answer because I feel a connection to every role I have played and they were each an important step in my career. But, of all the projects I would say "The Lone Ranger" ranks a little higher because I got to work with one of my acting idols, Johnny Depp. That was amazing.

Answer 2

What do you do for fun?

The best part of living in California is there are so many things to do. I surf, do stand up paddle boarding and ride my bike at the beach, and snowboard in the mountains! I am also a Celebrity Youth Ambassador for GenerationOn, which is an organization that empowers our nations' youth to make positive change through charitable work and giving. I handed out over 100 presents during the holidays to sick children at LA-USC Children's Hospital and I am serving the Easter meal at the LA Mission next week to help feed the homeless. It is fun to give back to those less fortunate than me.

Answer 3

How did you know that you wanted to be an actor?

I just went for it. I had no idea if I was any good because I never took a class or did plays or anything, so I just tried it. I always think what a bummer it would be if I had never given it a shot! People spend years trying to figure out what they are passionate about and some don't ever get to do what they really love because they don't have the opportunity. Acting really is my passion and I am so grateful that I had the chance to discover that at a young age, and that my dad and family support me so I can do it. It is a team effort - we call ourselves #TeamCook!

Answer 4

How do you balance school and your blossoming acting career?

I started acting when I was in 2nd grade and I went to "regular" school in Beverly Hills until the end of 3rd grade. I was working pretty much non-stop and out of the classroom a lot, which was stressful. Even though I had my schoolwork and a set teacher, it wasn't the same as being in the classroom learning the lessons. My education is important to my dad and me and being on set as much as I was, we agreed it would be better for me to homeschool. It has worked out great. I still have my old school friends, and I have a lot less stress!

Answer 5

How is "Legends" different from other crime dramas currently on television?

"Legends" was created, and is produced, by Howard Gordon who also created "24" and "Homeland." Both of those shows brought something new to TV and so does "Legends." The show is not just a crime drama. In fact, the storyline about Martin's past and his family are just as important to each episode as the "cases" you where Martin goes undercover. It will be interesting to see what happens with the new season now that Martin knows that's not his true identity.

Answer 6

What is it like playing Sean Bean's son in "Legends"?

Again I get to work with an amazing actor! Sean is so genuine and committed. He plays like 3 characters in one episode and never misses a beat. He has a huge fan following. Playing his son has made me very popular with the tons of adult women who LOVE him. I get asked frequently if I can introduce them. Sorry ladies, but he is taken!

Answer 7

You also have been working on TNT's "Legends", which was just renewed for a second season. Why are you excited about "Legends" season 2?

I am a series regular on "Legends," where I play Aiden Odum, the son of Sean Bean's character, Martin Odum. SPOILER ALERT so stop reading if you haven't finished watching! Season 1 ended with my dad learning that he wasn't really who he thought he was... That he, Martin Odum, is also a "legend," which is what the FBI calls the false identities they create for their undercover agents. I am his real son, but the rest is all still a mystery and he set off to discover the truth about us. I start filming season 2 very soon and I am personally excited to see where Howard Gordon and the writers take us from there!

Answer 8

Who do you look up to in the acting industry?

There are so many great actors that I look up to. I love intense drama and I also love ridiculous comedy, so there's a long list of names, but some that come to mind are Bradley Cooper, Claire Danes, Meryl Streep, Robert Downey, Jr., and Will Ferrell.

Answer 9

What did you enjoy most about filming "If There Be Thorns"?

Aside from getting to dive into a really deep role headfirst, I would have to say it was filming in Vancouver. Being the main character in the movie, I was the only cast member to work every day of the shoot. Free time was limited to the weekends but I made the most of it. I have filmed in Vancouver several times and I really love it. The people and the city are just great.

Answer 10

If you got to keep one gadget from the "Spy Kids" movies to use in real life, which gadget would you choose?

I actually did get to keep the "hammer hands" I used in "Spy Kids 4!" Sadly they don't work like they did in the movie, so they are safely stored away at home. It would be pretty nice to hammer through walls or knock down a gang of bad guys - or use them to get through L.A. traffic!