“If you ever feel that there is something you love to do, that you feel called to do, then be confident in the knowledge that, that is the universe's sacred urging that you must do it; the world would not be the same without your contribution. You would not live your life in as much abundance if you do not surrender yourself to that quiet, still voice,” he said.
His work in film and television show what a versatile and talented actor Nash is. Hailing from Toronto, Ontario, he knows that having a positive outlook has helped him succeed. His work in the acclaimed films Secret Santa, Saving Dreams, and Fake News, helped bring them to success, and moreover he captivated audiences as Jason the Boxer in the television series Petrol. He consistently impresses all those he works with and is often a leader on set.
“Tony Nash is simply one of the most impressive and professional actors that I have ever met. His work consistently inspires me. He is a terrific person with an infectious passion for his craft, I can't speak higher of him or his work,” said Lonzo Nzekwe.
Nzekwe wrote and directed the film Meet the Parents in which Nash had a starring role. In Meet the Parents, fifteen years after a young man disowns his infant son, fate brings father and son together in a deadly street fight that'll alter their lives forever. It was inspired by the hip hop song of the same title in the 2004 Blueprint 2 album by Jay Z.
“I loved the plot. It was very well written and I had never done any work on a crime thriller before, so I was very eager to work on this project. I think the story is important because it shows how strong a father/son bond can be even after many years apart. It shows the complexity of human nature and I think that the message is important for an audience to relate to. I enjoy working on projects with touching stories such as this,” said Nash.
Nash played Special Agent Jorge Gonzalez, who arrests the lead character of Mike, befriends him and later leads him to his rival, Ezra, on the streets. It is unbeknownst to Mike that this rival is in fact his own son until he kills him. The character of Special Agent Jorge Gonzalez had to be Spanish-speaking as he had scenes in Spanish and was of Hispanic descent. Nash, being multilingual, brought his fluency and command of Mexican-Spanish to the role as well as his Firearm Safety Certification for the handling and firing of a standard issue firearm. Nash was able to give the character a tough demeanor but at the same time make him relatable to the audience and give him a softer side.
“I loved being able to bring together so many of my skills into one character. It was different and more challenging than other projects I have worked on in the past. The cast and crew were very accommodating and professional, and most of all I enjoyed working alongside the director, Lonzo who made the experience memorable,” he said.
When Nzekwe was looking for an actor to play the pivotal role of Special Agent Jorge Gonzalez, he immediately thought of Nash. The Director knew Nash would be perfect with his fluency in Spanish, outstanding acting abilities, and his ability to add that intimidating element to the character, as it comes very naturally to him. When Nash read the script, he was immediately interested, knowing the potential the film had.
Meet the Parents premiered in late 2016 in theaters across Canada, Nigeria and Ghana. The film went on to win the “Best Short Film” Award at the African Movie Academy Awards and was picked up for distribution by IronFlix. None of this success could have been possible without Nash as Special Agent Jorge Gonzalez.
This year, audiences can look forward to Nash once again gracing their television screens in the upcoming show Condor. The thrilling series tells the story of a young CIA analyst named Joe Turner, whose idealism is tested when he joins the CIA hoping to reform it from within. However, he stumbles onto a terrible but brilliant plan that threatens the lives of millions. Condor is produced by MGM and will premiere in June on the Audience network.
There is little doubt as to why Nash is considered such a force as an actor. For those looking to follow in his footsteps, he offers his insight into achieving success.
“I would advise those looking to pursue acting to know why it is they want to pursue it in the first place. It is my sincerely held belief that any answer short of a desire to experience and express the fullness of humanity through a thorough study and absorption of what makes us human, is not enough. And, of course get a good headshot,” Nash humorously concluded.
By Laura Lee