What can you tell us about yourself?
My name is Justin, I’m 32 years old and I have Down’s syndrome. If I had to describe myself in 3 words – I’d say I am fun, handsome and stylish. The things I love the most are acting, my family and food! I started performing when I was just a few years old and haven’t stopped since. My dream is to be a regular in a prime soap like Hollyoaks but I’d settle for being the new James Bond.
Your character Glyn is new to the series, can you tell us how he fits into the storyline?
Glyn is a main character in series 3 of Hidden so I am very proud to have played him. Glyn works at the local farm shop and lives with his brother Siôn who is his carer. However as events unfold there is a little role reversal. Glyn is Siôn’s rock and so is integral to the storyline.
What did you like most about your character when you read the script?
I loved finding out about Glyn and his relationship with his brother. I couldn’t wait to research all I could about pigeons for my role. I loved that Glyn had a job too. I really couldn’t believe how much Glyn was involved in the series. You should have seen my script, there was so much pink highlighter!
What was the most challenging aspect of filming Hidden?
The most challenging aspects were filming in the Welsh language as I’m not very familiar with it. Knowing my lines and scenes and filming in English first was a bonus though as I was able to work things out. Also, working through the night as I’d never done that before. I soon managed to adjust as I can sleep anywhere, anytime and was lucky to be able get my ‘8 hours’ in the daytime.
What did you think of the various locations you filmed in? Can you tell us your favourite?
The locations were amazing, I’d never been to south Wales before and the scenery was interesting and beautiful. I really enjoyed filming outdoors with the pigeons in Aberystwyth. My favourite though, has to be Margam Castle and grounds. It was fascinating to learn about the bats that live there and I loved filming inside the castle and out and about in the grounds. I’d like to go back for a visit someday.
What was your favourite scene to film?
I can’t decide between two quite different scenes. The cafe scene with Sion was one I was looking forward to filming and it didn’t disappoint. It is quite an emotional scene. Myself and my family love that one. Then there’s the rooftop scene and the adrenaline that went along with filming that. I was extremely excited for that one.
Who was most fun on set?
Sion Ifan! We had so much fun between scenes and lots of banter. We also had a great time making a little video of Him or Me/Fe or Fi, you can see a snippet of how much fun we had together on there. Sion Ifan is an amazing person to be around and a truly great actor. Sion and I bonded over zoom before meeting in person for the first time, on set. We quickly started a “bromance” and were just like real brothers. He helped me feel relaxed and we’d go over our lines and scenes together. He even made me cups of tea. I didn’t feel like I was acting when I was with him. Caru Ti Sion.
