Star Apps: Brandon Jay McLaren
Brandon Jay McLaren ("The Killing" and "Falling Skies") plays tough immigration agent Dale "DJ" Jakes on "Graceland" (Wednesdays on USA). Acting in the action-packed series about the exploits of DEA, FBI, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents has given him a newfound respect for their courage. I chatted with McLaren about Season 2 of "Graceland," what he's learned from playing an ICE agent, how athletics have empowered him as an actor, and his favorite apps.
Catch Brandon Jay McLaren on Graceland, Wednesdays at 10/9 central on USA.
(Credit: Joe DeAngelis)
What can you tell us about the upcoming season of "Graceland"?
I can tell you that everything this season is ramped up a little bit more, so the stakes are higher, the action is bigger, the emotional loads of the characters are a little larger. I really am looking forward to a great season of television.
What have you learned about law enforcement from playing DJ?
You learn -- especially in our house, where you have different branches of federal agencies working together -- you have to learn about how creative they can get when you're on a case and trying to take somebody down. There are certain ways you can access personal information or controlling the transportation of various services to take down a target. So that's really interesting to me.
If you weren't an actor, could you see yourself working in law enforcement?
No, I just don't think I'd have the courage that these guys do. I have a huge respect for anybody who works in any type of law enforcement, 'cause the courage and mental toughness and dedication you need is a tremendous thing. Working on "Graceland," I'm able to see it more and appreciate it more. My hats go off to them every day.
You're from Vancouver -- tell me a couple things about your hometown that most Americans don't know.
It doesn't snow all year round. We have beaches in Vancouver.
I know that athletics were once a major part of your life. What did you learn on the field that you now apply to other aspects of your life?
Everything that I've learned playing soccer growing up has helped me in all other areas of my life. The value of hard work, because there's a definite correlation between how hard you work and how well you perform -- and that's so easily translated into anything in life, including acting. And learning to compete in a very serious way. I love to compete to this day. Also, the idea of leaving everything on the field, so having no regrets. Never leaving the field thinking, "I wish I had done this or that." Being OK with the results whether you win or lose and never second-guessing that.
Soccer has made Brandon Jay McLaren a much tougher competitor off the field.
(Credit: Joe DeAngelis)
Do you still play?
I try, but I always end up getting injured. Last time I played for two months I really hurt my hamstrings. I need to stay healthy so I can exercise on a regular basis, and playing competitively doesn't allow me to do that. It's hard, though, 'cause I really get the urge.
What are your top five mobile apps?
1. The No. 1 is the Nike Training Club app. It's a workout app that has a whole bunch of workouts. It's great 'cause I can do it anywhere around the world.
2. I do like the Expedia app, 'cause I can organize all my trips and travel and check in online and do all that stuff on my phone. That comes in handy.
3. My Bank of America app, so I can do all my banking from my app. I downloaded it six months ago, and it changed my life. I can do everything from my phone now, which is phenomenal.
4. I like the Yelp app, because I love to eat, and I love seeing the reviews of all the restaurants.
5. I like Shazam, 'cause if I'm at a coffee shop, it's great if I hear a song to be able to figure out what it is and buy it instantly.
