Josh McDermitt, known for his portrayal of Dr. Eugene Porter on "The Walking Dead," has faced both the adoration of fans and the harsh realities of online criticism. His experiences highlight the pressures of fame, the prevalence of body shaming, and the challenges of maintaining a positive presence on social media. McDermitt's journey also reflects the importance of gratitude and finding joy in new opportunities, as seen in his recent role in "Suits L.A."
The Dark Side of Social Media: Body Shaming and Haters
McDermitt has been vocal about the negative impact of social media, particularly the prevalence of hate speech and body shaming. This issue came to the forefront when his "Walking Dead" co-star, Alanna Masterson, who plays Tara Chambler, faced relentless online criticism about her weight after returning to the show following the birth of her daughter in 2015. Masterson addressed the body shamers, explaining that she had gained weight due to breastfeeding and pumping breast milk between takes in the Georgia summer heat. She emphasized that she would not change her decision to prioritize her child's health, regardless of the comments about her body. Ultimately, the constant negativity led her to shut down her Instagram account.
McDermitt defended Masterson, calling out the "irresponsible Internet trolls" and highlighting the lack of consequences for hateful behavior on social media. He expressed concern that this online environment breeds negativity and discourages public figures from sharing their lives authentically. McDermitt himself admitted to pulling back from social media due to the negativity he encountered, including personal attacks directed at his character, Eugene. He noted the disconnect between constructive criticism and outright hate, emphasizing the importance of manners and respect, even when expressing opinions about fictional characters.
The Iconic Mullet: A Blessing and a Curse
One of the most recognizable aspects of McDermitt's character on "The Walking Dead" was his distinctive mullet. The hairstyle became so synonymous with Eugene that it even sparked conversations about McDermitt's experiences in Singapore, where he noted the hot and humid climate's effect on his mullet. While McDermitt joked about the literacy of mullet enthusiasts, he acknowledged the hairstyle's iconic status and its unexpected role as a potential spoiler. Fans often commented that as long as he had the mullet, his character was still alive in the show. However, McDermitt cautioned against relying too heavily on the hairstyle as an indicator of Eugene's fate, reminding viewers that anything could happen in the unpredictable world of "The Walking Dead."
Embracing New Opportunities: "Suits L.A."
After his time on "The Walking Dead," McDermitt joined the cast of "Suits L.A.," a spinoff of the popular legal drama "Suits." This new role presented him with the opportunity to trade in Eugene's dark mullet for a blonde hairstyle and beard, showcasing his versatility as an actor. McDermitt expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work on "Suits L.A.," particularly because the production was based in Los Angeles, allowing him to work in the town he lives in. He also shared advice he received from "Suits" star Gabriel Macht, who emphasized the importance of appreciating the opportunity to work in one's own city, as production often moves to other locations.
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McDermitt also spoke about bonding with his "Suits L.A." co-star Stephen Amell, known for his role in "Arrow." He shared how Amell invited him to hang out with his friends in Vancouver, where the pilot was shot, creating a strong sense of camaraderie among the cast. This experience highlighted the importance of building relationships and finding genuine connections in the entertainment industry.
The Pressure of Expectations: Living Up to the "Suits" Legacy
McDermitt acknowledged the pressure that comes with joining a successful franchise like "Suits." He recognized that fans have high expectations for "Suits L.A." and that the cast and crew feel a responsibility to deliver a quality show. However, he also emphasized that pressure is inherent in any new project, regardless of its connection to an existing franchise. McDermitt found inspiration in the enthusiasm of fans, including his own father, who is a dedicated "Suits" fan. This excitement served as a reminder of the potential impact of "Suits L.A." and the importance of creating something that resonates with audiences.
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