Actor Jack Falahee on ‘How to Get Away With Murder’

Hot US import How to Get Away with Murder is quickly becoming one of our favourite TV shows. This classy drama stars Oscar nominee Viola Davis as a super-fierce Law professor at Philadelphia University, who finds herself in the midst of a murder plot involving some of her students; among them, 25-year-old newcomer Jack Falahee, who plays openly gay student Connor Walsh. With executive producer Shonda Rhimes recently speaking out in defence of the show’s man-on-man sex scenes involving Jack’s character, we figured it was the perfect time to ask the rising star a few questions.

How has the immediate success of the show made you feel?
“I feel very fortunate and grateful that I’m able to wake up every day and go to work on this show. There has been a huge response from viewers and it’s so nice to hear that people are enjoying it. I’ve received some fanmail which is very flattering. It still hasn’t sunk in. I just feel lucky to be doing what I love to do.”

Are there any parts of Connor that you see in yourself?
“We both care about how we’re perceived by our peers and superiors. We both are terrible under pressure. I think that Connor has boatloads more confidence than I do and I envy him for that. And he definitely dresses better than I do!”

Some actors can be anxious about playing a character that is gay, in case they become typecast – did this ever cross your mind before you took on the role of Connor?
“I really didn’t think twice about playing a character that is gay. I was just excited to audition because [the show’s creator] Pete Nowalk wrote a compelling, smart, and engaging pilot with real, multi-faceted characters.”

You’re working alongside the incredible Viola Davis; is she as fierce as the character she plays on the show?
I consider myself very lucky to work alongside the entire cast and the fact that Viola Davis is among them is a treat. She’s an absolute joy. She’s very maternal and sets a high bar for professionalism and the craft. She’s very funny and warm and is the first to crack a joke on set. She keeps us all at ease during our sometimes long shoot days.”

Shonda Rhimes recently responded to those who have criticised the show for featuring man-on-man sex scenes scenes with a tweet saying: “There are no gay scenes. There are scenes with people in them.” What would you say to critics of the show’s racier moments?
“I think that all of the sex scenes in the show are plot driven and/or character based. Connor is at times driven by his sexual appetite, like many people in this world. He just happens to be gay.”

I’d imagine you’ve been receiving a lot of attention from guys since the show aired. How do you deal with that?
“To be honest, I prefer to keep a lower profile, but the attention and love has been very flattering. I appreciate anyone that takes the time to say hi or offer encouragement.”

Last but not least… how do you get away with murder?
“Here’s a haiku on how to get away with murder:
Quick! Cover your tracks.
Who else knows of your folly?
Call your lawyer now.”

If you can’t get enough of Jack’s character – check out our latest roundup of his hottest moments on the hit show.

How To Get Away With Murder airs in the UK on Universal Channel every Wednesday at 10pm.