Exclusive Interview with Brooks Darnell from ‘A Christmas Miracle’

Brooks Darnell is an actor you’ll want to keep your eye on. Taking over Hollywood this holiday season, he can be seen in the upcoming Hallmark film A Christmas Miracle alongside Tamera Mowry. I got the chance to talk to Brooks about how he got into acting originally, what he learned from his long stint on The Young and the Restless, what it was like working with Tamera Mowry and so much more. Keep reading to see what he had to say!

Tell me a little bit about how you got into acting originally.  

From a very young age (5 years old), my mother made me write, direct and perform monologues, dances, and scenes. The first time I was on stage, I was 7 years old. It was a surprise performance of Pee Wee Herman in front of my whole school, a monologue and dance. My mother wasn’t aware I was even performing. I did my own wardrobe, rehearsals, everything.

Was there a specific person or experience that you would credit with helping you decide that acting is what you wanted to do for a living?

I decided acting was what I wanted to do for a living when I was invited on a huge set once by chance. I cried. I’d finally found my calling.

Do you have a personal acting “bucket list” of things you still want to accomplish in your career? If so, what are some of the things on it?  

Of course! Top of my bucket list is to be the highest grossing actor of all time. Have different projects that win an Academy Award, BAFTA, Palm d’or, Tony and Emmy in the same year. Aim low, right?

You most recently had a long stint on The Young and the Restless. I know soap operas are notorious for doing things extremely fast and efficient and a lot of actors say it’s some of the best training you can have. How did you grow as an actor during your time in the soap world?  

Preparation and stamina. Both are crucial to long hours on film sets.

Let’s talk about your upcoming Hallmark Christmas movie, A Christmas Miracle. First, what did you first think about the project when you read the script and what was your audition process like? 

When I first read the script, I felt warm inside. That’s why I wanted to do this. Family togetherness is something VERY important in my life. As far as the audition process, I was offered the role. 

In the film, you play Marcus. What is he like? How does he fit into the story? 

Marcus has layers he travels throughout the movie, that’s what I loved. As Marcus, I got to play it all. Marcus is an every man’s man. More than that…. you’ll have to tune in to see! 

Tamera Mowry plays opposite you in the film. What was it like working with her?  

Hands down one of the best experiences of my career! We were together every day for almost every scene. She radiates positivity and her talent is effortless, or so she makes it seem.

Hallmark Christmas movies have become this cultural phenomenon over the last few years that is beloved by millions of people. What does it mean to you to be a part of it this holiday season? 

To have a Christmas movie is HUGE. I’m in people’s living rooms helping create wonderful positive family memories. There is nothing better.

In addition to A Christmas Miracle, what are some of your other current projects?  

Right now, I have a few movies and a series that I’m working on. My team and I are in the process of locking down Russia as one of our main locations. Super excited.

Let’s end this with a few fun, Christmas-related questions. Do you have a favorite Christmas tradition that you and your family do each year?  

Absolutely. Baking and eating as many Trader Joes chocolate chip cookies while watching Home Alone one and two. Also making my backup list for people. My back up list is the presents I think they’ll like in case the present I actually got them is a fail!

What was the best gift you ever received on Christmas morning as a kid? 

Yes! The year I got Reebok pumps and Chihuahua named Brownie.

Last question — we’re called Talk Nerdy With Us because we all have an inner nerd so what is something that you’re currently nerding out about? 

Leica cameras and gear and the Mercedes G Wagons. I think I’m about to buy one.

A Christmas Miracle premieres Thursday, November 14 at 9pm/8c. Make sure you follow Brooks on Instagram.

Featured Photo Credit: Tommy Flanagan