Brandon Flynn, a name that resonates with many fans of the hit Netflix series 13 Reasons Why, has since evolved far beyond the teen heartthrob image that catapulted him into the spotlight. Today, he is embracing a transformative role in the Off-Broadway production Kowalski, where he portrays the young Marlon Brando—a character that not only showcases his acting prowess but also emphasizes his dedication to crafting a unique identity in the artistic realm.
At 31, Flynn stands at a fascinating juncture of his career. The actor, who trained extensively at conservatory during his teenage years and young adulthood, recognizes the opportune moment to utilize those skills to create complex characters. In a recent interview, he expressed his excitement about this role, saying, "I spent most of my teenage years and my young adult years training to be an actor at conservatory. I feel like I’m really able to access a lot of that technique with this play in creating a character...I feel like I’m really getting the opportunity to physically and vocally make shifts and make them feel natural."
It’s not just the showcasing of talent that makes Flynn’s journey noteworthy; it’s also his willingness to speak candidly about his sexuality and the impact it has had on his career. Flynn has openly identified as a part of the LGBTQ+ community, acknowledging how his orientation may influence his professional trajectory. Reflecting on this, he said, "My career, I’m assuming, looks a certain way because I am an out actor. How many of us are working at a high level?" This honest assessment brings to light the ongoing discussions surrounding representation and diversity within the entertainment industry.
As he steps into the shoes of a young Marlon Brando, Flynn draws inspiration from past icons who navigated the complexities of their identities. He cites Marlon Brando and Tennessee Williams as remarkable LGBTQ+ figures who paved the way for future generations of artists. "I mean, [Marlon Brando was] in an interview saying, 'Yes, I’ve slept with men. Yes, I’ve slept with women. What’s the big deal?'; which was quite remarkable. I mean, same with Tennessee Williams. He was quite remarkably out,” Flynn noted, clearly respecting their forthright approach to sexuality.
With rave reviews pouring in for his performance in Kowalski, Flynn is establishing a new chapter in his career, shedding the teen heartthrob label that has followed him since 13 Reasons Why. He finds himself not just as a performer but as an artist willing to take risks—something that will likely define this new phase in his career.
The transition into more mature roles is not merely a professional ambition for Flynn; it’s a personal necessity. "I realize I’m a 31-year-old man who still gets carded and I look young and I don’t necessarily want to keep playing young roles. I want to play adult roles and be in adult films," he stated, expressing a common concern among actors who fear being typecast due to their youthful appearance.
Beyond Kowalski, Flynn is poised for exciting new projects. He will soon appear in The Parenting, a horror-comedy that promises to bring a fresh and relatable perspective. In this film, Flynn collaborates with an esteemed cast, including Brian Cox and Lisa Kudrow, exploring a storyline that takes a lighthearted yet critical look at the complications faced by a young gay couple navigating their relationships.
His enthusiasm for future endeavors doesn’t stop there. Flynn is also working on adapting Gary Indiana’s noir novel, Rent Boy, into a film. This project resonates deeply with Flynn, evidenced by his urgency to secure the rights after personally connecting with the late author. His investment in this project, Flynn states, is more than just professional—it represents a personal milestone and connection. "It was one of the coolest things that has happened [to me]," he shared, reflecting on his friendship with Indiana before the author’s passing. "And hopefully, Rent Boy can get made and it can just be another gift for Gary as well."
This level of passion showcases a commitment not just to his craft but to shaping the future narratives of LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media. Flynn’s journey from a beloved teen actor to a multifaceted artist is a testament to his resilience and dedication to evolving as both a performer and an individual.
Ultimately, Flynn’s story embodies the broader conversation about artistry and identity within the context of the entertainment industry. As societal attitudes shift towards greater acceptance and representation, Flynn emerges not just as a performer but as a role model for aspiring actors. By bringing his authentic self to the forefront, Flynn signals to the industry that authenticity and complexity in storytelling are essential for all creators and performers.
As Brandon Flynn continues to navigate this ever-changing landscape, audiences can only watch in awe as he forges a path that is uniquely his own, inspiring a new generation of artists.
