Justin of "Queer as Folk"

Showtime presents

February 04, 2001

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MaryMiracle: What's your favorite episode?

Randy Harrison: My favorite episode so far is Episode 11, which you guys haven't seen yet…and it's not just because I'm not in it that often!

Smooshpeas: Do you think playing a gay character will help other young gay people find it easier to come out if they watch you in “Queer as Folk”?

Randy Harrison: I hope so.

Randy: Hey Randy -- just wanted to tell you that I think you play a great character on this show, and I wanted to know how you felt about how graphic the show comes off as being, and what kind of a message you hope to convey with your character?

Randy Harrison: I'm actually kind of proud of the graphic nature of the show, only because it depicts sexuality that has not been shown on television before, and that is generally avoided. I don't try to convey any message by playing Justin. I'm only trying to accurately present the character that is given to me in every script.

Stormyday: Randy, do you have any movies in the future planned?

Randy Harrison: Not yet! Are you writing one?

Bi Kat: Randy, when you got to play Justin -- were you nervous since "Brian" is so fine?

Randy Harrison: (laughing) No.

HOPOLO: Are the producers thinking of spinoffs -- IE the lesbian couple with their own show if this goes through a successful season as it seems to be?

Randy Harrison: As far as I know, there is no definite plan for spin offs. I think the producers have their hands full just dealing with the show.

Romeyn: Wow, I didn't think you were that old. I'm actually twenty-three myself. How long have you been in show business?

Randy Harrison: I have been acting since I was seven years old, and I've never stopped. And twenty-three isn't that old, is it?

DJ: Randy, how does this role compare in difficulty to others that you have had?

Randy Harrison: This is the first time I have ever been on television, and the largest challenge to me was switching mediums, and learning to act for a camera, and performing at the speed in which television is shot.

Stlouismuny: Would you ever return to live theatre, or stay with TV?

Randy Harrison: Oh, I never want to stop doing live theater.

JayDotCom: I hope you read this, cause I think you relate to me the best – you’re young and dealing with the whole issue of coming out and recognizing how you feel. How will your character deal with rejection from his father?

Randy Harrison: Watch and see!

Naturally: I am from Pittsburgh and find it hard to believe this series takes place there -- how much actual footage actually takes place in Pittsburgh on Liberty Avenue?

Randy Harrison: Absolutely none! The producers chose Pittsburgh because they wanted a sort of general, middle American town. I don't think their aim was ever to accurately recreate the Pittsburgh gay community.

Gary: Hi Randy! I want to thank you for portraying your character so well. I think many young guys like myself can relate to "Justin" and it helps to see how someone in our situation deals. You're awesome (and gorgeous!) and I hope you continue to do great things!

Randy Harrison: Thank you so much!

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