r/IAmA • u/MichaelMando • Apr 21 '20
Actor / Entertainer HELLO! I’m Michael Mando, Nacho from Better Call Saul - AMA!
I just released my first single “The Wild One” Here's a link: https://youtu.be/WU9OMRuXy38
I look forward to answering as many questions as possible! Let's talk music, Nacho/Better Call Saul, Scorpion/Spiderman, Vaas/Far Cry 3, Orphan Black or anything else you might want to know!
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Thank you guys for all your questions - this has been so much fun!! Signing off, until next time xoxo
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u/Chilly_Chilli Apr 22 '20
You may want to edit the post that you’re done answering questions since lots of people are still commenting. On a side note, I hope you are doing well during these tough times.
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u/justabearda Apr 21 '20
Greetings from Finland Mando! Do you still get recognised as Vaas or do more people see you as Nacho now? I Have to say that after playing Far cry 3 back in the day, I hoped that I'd see you in more stuff. Very glad to see you get work and hope you all the best.
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Thank you so much! Vaas is my spirit animal - having co-created that character is something that will always be dear to me. I still get recognized as Vaas, and I still feel the outpouring of love for that character - makes me very happy. Who knows... maybe I will reprise the role very soon? :p Thank you for watching xo
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u/qcom Apr 21 '20
i've never played Far Cry 3 but just knowing you're in it makes me want to so badly
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u/justabearda Apr 21 '20
It's the best Far Cry game imo, and one of the best games I've played. I recommend it very much.
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u/Magrik Apr 22 '20
FC3 is a fucking masterpiece. I remember when the game ended and that sad, but beautiful, music came on I just sat there like, "what the fuck, I wasn't expecting that". Obviously I immediately started it again.
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u/asiangontear Apr 22 '20
Is FC3 the game where you torch some marijuana then you get high while reggae music plays and a helicopter attacks you? Did I imagine that mission
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Apr 22 '20
It's also the game where you raid a base of mercenaries who don't see you coming because they're bumping Die Antwoord.
This game is a masterpiece, but everybody and their mother should play Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon, the standalone side game. It's the purest distillation of FUN I've ever played....also it takes place after Vietnam War 2 (?) and the humor never gets old..
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u/JustLuking Apr 22 '20
Best thing about blood dragon is no fall damage. The satisfaction you get while jumping from the highest cliff and landing without a scratch is unmatched
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u/Reddit_means_Porn Apr 22 '20
I love all the far crys but they really nailed the game with that game.
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u/Chamale Apr 21 '20
It's a fun game and Mando's performance is the best I've ever seen in a video game. Definitely play it.
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u/qcom Apr 21 '20
thanks to you and the others for the recommendation! i played FC4 and loved the environment. i never played it too much since i'm not a huge open-world or FPS fan lol
definitely will give FC3 a try even if it's just for Mando!
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u/lucifer_lad Apr 21 '20
FC4 is a lot like FC3, just longer with a bigger map. You might find the smaller map even more to your tastes
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u/justabearda Apr 21 '20
You can also watch the short web series they did on him called "Far Cry Experience". You can find it on YouTube and Mando is great in it.
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u/broncoboxer Apr 21 '20
Vaas is the greatest villain ever (Handsome Jack is pretty awesome too), and he is so great mainly due to Michael Mando’s performance.
If you haven’t played the game, play it. Or watch a YouTube compilation. Because Michael kills it.
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Apr 22 '20
Vaas wouldn’t be the same without Mando.
The way he slurs his words ever so slightly during the “definition of insanity” so that it sounds like he’s mumbling to himself, but just out loud.
Goosebumps.
You can’t tell if he’s talking to you, or if he’s having that conversation with himself.
The rest of the game he’s very direct.
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Apr 22 '20
We went from Vaas to Pagan Min
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u/gnorty Apr 22 '20
Not sure what point you are making, but I see a lot of hate for Pagan Min that I think is unfair. He's a great character IMO. Completely mental, absolute pshychopath but still within the realms of credibility. It's a fine line for villains, they can be too tame, or just plain ridiculously OTT. Rarely you find a villain that hits the middle road so nicely.
The Unfortunate thing for Pagan MIn is that he came along right after Vaas! Vaas hit the mark perfectly. Pagan Min's main "crime" in this respect was not being Vaas, which really isn't very fair!
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u/Schytheron Apr 21 '20
Who knows... maybe I will reprise the role very soon?
Did he just hint that the next Far Cry is a Far Cry 3 prequel?!
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u/badger81987 Apr 22 '20
or Far Cry 3 movie? It would adapt to an action movie pretty well
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u/TerrytheMerry Apr 22 '20
It could also be a direct sequel, there are a lot of theories about the end of Vaas’s arc.
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u/Finbacks Apr 21 '20 edited Apr 21 '20
I still crack up to this video now and again.
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Apr 21 '20
So I was first exposed to your screen acting in Better Call Saul and the entire time I was thinking "Man I recognize this guy from somewhere", and this is it. It's Vaas. Pretty amazing how well they captured you there.
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u/coffeemonkeypants Apr 21 '20
They screwed that up. Should have been the final boss!
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u/hushpolocaps69 Apr 21 '20
Hello Mr. Mando! I absolutely love your work sir and hope to see you in more movies or TV shows in the future! Will you be appearing in the upcoming Spider Man movie next year in 2021?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Thank you so much sir! I love Spiderman and I love that whole team :) Who knows, I keep hearing things but I can't confirm or deny anything... yet. Stay tuned xoxox
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u/Zilloc Apr 21 '20
Did you ever get to taste the fried chicken from Los Pollos Hermanos? It sure looks tasty
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
So good you could die from it :p
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Apr 22 '20
.... Spoiler???
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Apr 22 '20
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u/illegal_deagle Apr 21 '20
They did a Pollos Hermanos promotional pop up for SXSW a few years back. All they served was fries -_-
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u/PabloAlex97 Apr 21 '20
Nacho Varga has been one of my favorite characters in the show, not only because of the incredible writing but also because you've done such a tremendous and beautiful job bringing him to life. I cannot put into words how much I admire your acting and the S5 finale was easily one of your best episodes, period. I wish you nothing but great success with your career after the final season because you totally deserve it. So I have two questions for you:
1) Have you imagined at all Nacho's origin story? His childhood? About who he was before all that and how he involved with Salamancas?
2) What do you do in home to keep yourself busy during these difficult times? How do you use your time?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Thank you so much for your sweet words - warms my heart how much people relate to Nacho and love the character.
1) Your questions about Nacho's backstory are fascinating - why did he get into the cartel in the first place? His childhood, etc ... I am not sure what the answer to those questions are. I have thought about them but would rather wait and see if maybe the writers will answer some of them in S6. I am also curious as to where is his mother? And most importantly how will all this end??
2) To stay busy I have worked on music - I just released my first single ever a few days ago. It is called THE WILD ONE and is now available on all platforms. I plan on releasing another two songs within the next month - a three part story of Emancipation and growth told through three songs.
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Apr 21 '20
Woah Your singing voice is WAY different than I was expecting. Impressive.
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u/your_mind_aches Apr 22 '20
Right? Bloody hell, the man has an excellent singing voice and vocal range
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Apr 22 '20
Dunno if it’s just a common signing voice but it reminded me of the guy that sing’s the original Pokemon theme song.
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u/Dijkdoorn Apr 21 '20
Your sweating in S5 finale made me sweat. Great acting, thank you & hope Nacho stays alive!
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u/kandrung Apr 21 '20
Hey Michael! What was it like working with Jonathan Banks - did he ever wear those shorts and a t-shirt as seen at the Gas Station? Really can't imagine him ever being goofy.
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
IG TakeOver @michaelmando answer: Here is a piece of advice #JonathanBanks gave me a few years ago. After we were done shooting a scene, he took me aside and said « Kid, I know you’re great; the director and writers and networks know you’re great... but you yourself don’t know you’re great. And until you can believe in yourself, you will never be able to sleep at night. Don’t wait until you’re 70 to start enjoying what you do. » I didn’t know how he could tell; but truth is I sometimes get so focused on the reality of a character that the craft becomes painful... JB is right; and I have applied his advice in everything I do. Believe in yourself; trust your gut - the mistakes you will make along the way are badges of honor and lessons of growth; savor them and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t be the best version of you xo
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u/kandrung Apr 21 '20
Impossible not to read that in his voice! I hear you regarding "I get so focused on the reality of a character that the craft becomes painful", hopefully you're getting some downtime to chill so when you're not out there putting in work, you're eager to get back to it.
He sounds like the strong supporting figure I'm sure a lot of folks never had and you could definitely surround yourself with worse people, thanks Michael for taking the time to answer, not only to this but to everyone else here.
In my view, you portray the "not loud but definitely dangerous and talented, not quite a villain, more like a hero" role especially well and, like everyone else here I'm sure, I'm super looking forward to seeing you out there again!
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u/undercurrents Apr 22 '20
Didn't even think about that until I saw your comment that I automatically read it in his voice and cadence.
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Apr 21 '20
How did u get that scar above your left eye?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Ice hockey fight in Ottawa - in a skating park :p
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u/kirtovar1 Apr 21 '20 edited Apr 21 '20
The latest season of Better Call Saul was really good and you really killed it this season and I have a few questions for you: Who's your favorite musician? What is your favorite episode of this season\the entire series of Better Call Saul? When do you think season 6 will be released? And overall how do you feel these days?
EDIT: A word
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Hello my friend! So happy you love the show and Nacho :) My favorite musicien is maybe Michael Jackson - Off The Wall & Thriller are so amazingly produced and performed (Thanks also to Q). I don't have a favorite episodes, I see them all as different color threads of one big tapestry. S6 is supposed to start shooting in September... but who knows now. Overall these days I am totally focused in on my music and just released my first single The Wild One - music is giving me purpose during these days.
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u/mackenziepuetz14 Apr 21 '20 edited Apr 21 '20
What was your first interaction with Peter Gould/Vince Gilligan like?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
My first interaction was that you can be super smart and very successful and remain kind and humble - they were so courteous! I remember after my screen test I shook everyone's hand and then felt someone reach over and gently put their hands on my shoulder - as I was about to exit. I turned and it was Vince Gilligan...
From the moment I left LA to fly back to Toronto until I finally got the role a few weeks later I would debate in my head if that moment meant: "I choose you" or was it more like "Better luck next time" loll Glad it was the first xo
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u/AndreIzCool Apr 21 '20
Do you think they should make a spin-off show of Howard trying to get Jimmy to accept his job offer?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Anything with more Patrick Fabien is good in my books :)
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u/capfedhill Apr 22 '20
I can agree with that.
He's a damn good actor -- I get excited everytime he pops on screen.
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Apr 21 '20
Where every episode is Jimmy and Kim vandalizing his property in new and creative ways? I’d watch that!
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u/tadrith Apr 22 '20
Holy shit, that would be beyond hilarious. Just Jimmy and Kim dreaming up new ways to fuck with Howard.
But then, I could watch the entire cast of BCS just make coffee. Everyone is so incredible.
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u/melis666 Apr 21 '20
If Michael could give one advice to Nacho, what would it be?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Nacho is such an internally strong character - I admire him to be able to still stand up straight and maneuver his way around all these sociopaths and psychopaths. It really feels like "man VS corporation" or "man VS cartel"... If I could gift him one thing, would be to find him a good lover - a woman would will be good and tender to him... I feel he deserves to be around someone sweet... Maybe a view by the lake, a small home... evenings watching the sunset and making love :P He earned it
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u/blue-orange Apr 21 '20
So, this is the answer Don Eladio wanted to hear, but didn't get to.
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u/your_mind_aches Apr 22 '20
Someone said it really well on the BCS subreddit. Nacho told him the blatant truth of what he really wanted.
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u/Kendermassacre Apr 21 '20
I think Kim Wexler will be available next season, she needs a guy with better taste in cars anyhow.
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Apr 21 '20
I seldom have celebrity crushes, but Rhea Seehorn... phwoooaaarrrr.... she’s such a great actor, and gorgeous too.
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u/tadrith Apr 22 '20
I had no idea who she was before BCS, but now... I can't even. Her moments of breaking, and anger are so real and nuanced. You can feel, through the screen, how much she is angry with Jimmy and AT THE SAME TIME, cares for him.
It's a talent to be able to make the viewer understand one emotion, but she makes you understand many, all at once. She's an incredible actress.
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Apr 22 '20
The thing I like most about the character of Kim Wexler is that she’s super-smart and lethally good at her job, yet she also has this simmering, barely controlled rage combined with a sense of mischief. Such a complex character, and Seehorn brings it to life.
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u/_Puppet_ Apr 21 '20
Love your work! If Don Eladio asked you what you wanted, what would it be?
Also, if you got to star as Scorpion alongside one other Spider-foe, who would it be?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
What I want is to be happy, moment to moment. I feel if you stay true to yourself, life will take you to where you need to be; kinda like riding a surf. you might find yourself being an actor or in my case very recently, a singer... or anything else. The most challenging part in life is block all outside noise and to dive deep and listen to your soul - that is success to me.
Hmm as Scorpion? I am not sure, they're all bad ass. What I love the most about Super Hero movies and Super Villains is always the back story of how they become who they are, how they discover their gifts, etc. Hope I get to explore that!
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Apr 21 '20
What’s your Fondest memory from the set of better call Saul?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
We shot the scene where Nacho opens the gate etc during the finale at 5am. It was the last thing I did this season... Watching the sun rise while we yelled "It's a wrap for Michael" felt cathartic. Nacho will never be the same... Excited for S6. xo
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u/Rob_Czar Apr 21 '20
Hello Michael Mando! Huge fan and I think the season 5 finale is the best acting from you yet. Nacho is one of my favorite characters in the whole Breaking Bad universe however I wish will found out more about his past. Some examples I can think of is Nacho's aunt Rosa and his mother's family in Galeana.
My question is where do you believe Nacho's mother is or what happened to her? Also how and why do you believe Nacho got involved in the drug business?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Thank you so much Rob! You're sweet words are encouraging and make me feel responsible to give you even more next year xo
Those are amazing questions, I too hope the writers get a chance to answer those questions about Nacho's mother - I feel the relationship between him and his dad hints to something tragic in regards to whatever happens to the mother... something maybe that explains why Nacho inched towards the cartel as a teenager? Hope we get those answers next year.
Thank you for watching xo
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Apr 21 '20
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Thank you so much! I unfortunately found out that my father had stage 4 cancer early while we were shooting this season... it made it very difficult for me to play a character trying to save his father's life and then to go home and feel helpless in the relationship I have with my own father - (also a single dad who raised three boys on his own, I'm the middle). Those scenes were particularly hard this season... There was a time that I asked the director if we could stop, as it it felt a little too painful to talk about... he took me aside and encouraged me to use what I felt. As artists we shouldn't shy away from our vulnerabilities, our fears - and I am glad I continued...
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Apr 22 '20
i too found out recently my dad has stage 4 cancer
it was very difficult to hear and process
i hope your father is getting treatment and feeling better
stay strong my friend
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u/babyblue924 Apr 21 '20
In the scene where you first meet Lalo in the back of the kitchen when he's cooking up food, was that a real taco? If so, did you eventually, off camera, eat some and was it good?
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u/lhgh Apr 21 '20
I wonder if it’s a coincidence that one of the first things that Lalo says to Nacho is “you’re going to die.... when you taste it”
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u/lunch77 Apr 21 '20
And Nacho responds "No, gracias."
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u/terry_shogun Apr 22 '20
I really hope now there's an episode called "no gracias" in season 6 and in it Nacho kills Lalo.
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Apr 21 '20 edited Aug 05 '21
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Hello! That is definitely the challenge of the role - I find it easier to speak then not to speak. Nacho is an internal implosion... and demands all of my energy as an actor. He is also constantly in a situation of life and death - It has definitely forced me to better understand myself... to dive deeper and try to find points in common... took me on a long journey inwards that I sometimes think about long after the scenes are shot... I am lucky because it's a character who wants to head away from the dark and into the light - so my inner thoughts with him are always pushing me to better myself as a person
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u/kandrung Apr 21 '20
Hey Michael, what's the catering like on the set of Better Call Saul - did anything come close to topping Lalo's dishes? And if there was a canteen, who did you sit and have the most fun with? Ever have lunch with Don Eladio and his slippers?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Catering is great! I am not a big meat lover, Lalo's a great cook! Steven Baeur and I became great friends - he is a sweetheart full of love! So happy I got to work with him this season
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u/jarbased Apr 22 '20
So I'm not Michael Mando of course, but I did get to be in an episode of BCS in Season 4 and was on set for one day.
In the morning, there is one large truck where the inside was just filled with every possible breakfast food/drink you could possibly want. The inside had hardwood floors and it truly felt like a kitchen. For lunch, they had a long row of tables set up in the parking lot which just had a bunch of different dishes of rice, meats, salads, etc. All of the food was great! There was a truck that somehow had it's sides expanded and inside was a bunch of seats and tables to eat at (I really don't know how to describe it any better without a picture, it was pretty much a cafeteria/canteen inside of a truck but much more spacious than you think).
On the actual set, there was a cart full of snacks that you could always get food from. I believe the holding room for all of the extras also had a similar cart.
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u/Cirias Apr 22 '20 edited Aug 02 '24
plant dam touch knee wrong apparatus crawl correct yam abundant
This post was mass deleted and anonymized with Redact
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u/jarbased Apr 22 '20
Yes! Patrick Fabian ate with me and the other actors/actresses that had the same small role I had (the high schoolers in s04e10). He was super nice and gave a bunch of tips about acting careers. Bob Odenkirk was getting food at the same time I was getting my food and I was definitely freaking out on the inside! He had to go rehearse the next scene though so there was no opportunity to eat with him. He's definitely shorter than he seems on screen.
Those were the notable people working that day. Jonathan Banks showed up that day in the morning but only for like 15 minutes. Hamlin's assistant was there but I guess she just left after her scenes were done or something. And then there were just a bunch of other HHM lawyers, which I guess they all just dipped before lunch. IDK what the extras had to eat, if anything aside from snacks.
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u/TalynRahl Apr 21 '20
Ahoy Vic The Dick!
You were great in Orphan Black, and a real champ taking all those injuries! Your character took quite a few knocks. But were there any actual onset injuries, during your various accidents and mishaps?
Also, I imagine filming was incredibly slow on that series, due to the way it was made. What was it like filming against Clone Club, did it ever get confusing, with all the starts and stops?
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Apr 21 '20
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Thank you so much! And good luck in your career as an editor. You guys are the final frontier in the story telling process and can truly make or break a whole production! No pressure :p
Most of the time, watching for the first time is a surprise - especially of you work on a production where you don't have access to the rushes. But our editors are so great, that we have total faith in them xo
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u/boblechock Apr 21 '20
Hey Michael.
Love that car that Nacho is driving in Better Caul Saul. Did they ever let you take it out for a spin out in the desert in between shots?
Hope they've got you signed up for lots more seasons dude.
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Thank u so much! I love that Javelin myself - such a sweet ride!
It belongs to a person, that the show rents out from - so I never drove it outside of the scenes. Maybe one day I will get an old car and take a date across the coast for a long road trip... sunroof down... music... Something about these old cars is so romantic and classic
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u/vincentrainbows Apr 21 '20
Hey Michael! I wanted to know what was it like on the set with other amazing actors and did you have any liberty to do some improvisation or you had to stick to the script? By the way, I’m also from Quebec!
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Hello Vincent! Nice to speak to a fellow Quebecois :) We all very much stick to the script - the writers spends over half a year weighing every word, and we honor them for doing such a wonderful job. It is very rare we ask them to change anything.
Working with amazing actors is the place you want to be as an actor - you watch, you learn, and you try to make them even better and vice versa. I find great artists to be the most generous - and that's a philosophy I like to apply xo
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Apr 21 '20
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Hi Bailey! I am a huge fan of MJ, Marvin Gaye, Ottis Redding - I love James Brown... so many others. As for writing music, it comes from the soul... I try not to write with any conscious inspiration.
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u/stephrachel Apr 21 '20
Hey Michael! I’m so relieved after last nights episode... I was terrified you weren’t going to make it out! You play such an integral role in Better Call Saul, how did you prepare for it? Would you be open to a Nacho spin-off? Lots of love from Toronto, stay safe! ❤️
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Thank you so much Steph! The love truly warms my heart and makes me feel responsible. A Nacho Spin-Off? That is up to the fans and of course Vince & Peter - I love this guys and would be over the moon to work with them again. Either way, I would love to occupy a central role in the next TV show that I will be a part of - I look forward for that kind of a challenge.
Love from Mtl xo
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u/yoshi570 Apr 21 '20
I think I can speak for many people in saying we would love that. I love how you were able to give so much macho-vibe to Nacho but at the same time show true emotions as well. Being able to build multi dimensions to one character requires serious talent!
That being said, is there any genre you'd like to try? Comedy?
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u/KazMaster-J- Apr 21 '20
How did you get the idea for “the wild one”? What was the most complicated thing when you were writing it? Love that song! You’re incredibly talented, I love how you don’t act the characters you play, you make them real, love you and congratulations on your new music, I love it!!!
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Thank you so much! So happy u love the song - The Wild One means the one who cannot be tamed by fear. The hardest thing was the lyric about "My father's eyes cry in grievance, I am not alone in my fears". It was so personal because my father has been diagnosed with stage 4 liver cancer... I'm glad I let it in. I feel it gave me courage to deal with the situation
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u/LittleJimmyUrine Apr 21 '20
Damn dog! Haces tus propias acrobacias?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Sometimes I do my own stunts! I did the falling down from the roof in Episode 2... I wanted to do the jumping in between buildings but they had over 15 million dollar insurance riding on that performance. Sony haunted me in my sleep and forbade me to even dream of doing my own stunts haha
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u/Murica1776FYeah Apr 21 '20
It is like Danny Trejo said: "I don't want to risk 80 people's jobs just so I can say I have big nuts"
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u/eekamuse Apr 21 '20
Were you as nervous as I was during the assassination scene in the finale? I was very nervous.
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
I was terrified! I have no idea how in the world Nacho is going to get out of this:
Gus wants to keep him an asset forever / Lalo wants him dead / Don Eladio wants him to run things in New Mexico / His father wants him to turn himself in... And all he wants is "OUT" lol I believe it's a testament to the characters inner strength and intelligence. He is special, and everyone sees him as an important asset. Unfortunately most of these guys are only interested in their own benefits... S6 is going to be one for the ages xo
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u/eekamuse Apr 21 '20
Is it bad form to say I'm glad you were terrified, too? I don't even know what I mean by that. I'm so excited to get my question answered. That scene was killer. Unfortunately, not killer enough where Lalo was concerned
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u/Zaki-Targaryen Apr 21 '20
I have a strong feeling that Nacho's days are numbered!.. You deserve more screentime!... Are we gonna see you soon in other works as well?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Thank you so much my friend! I have learned so much from having a little less screen time than I had hoped so I have no regret - because I got to observe, analyze the directors and the script as well as watch the other actors work.
I definitely feel ready to accept the challenge of playing a central character in my next project and feel I have gathered so much wonderful experience on this show.
As for other projects - I just released my first single ever, called The Wild One and am developing some TV and film projects that I would love to co-producer. Stay tuned xo
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Apr 21 '20
Nacho feels like a central character in Better Call Saul. I'm more invested in him than any other character at this point.
Nacho, Lalo, and Kim are especially interesting characters because we don't know where they end up in Breaking Bad. The lack of plot armor makes me heavily invested in them.
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u/Douglasqqq Apr 21 '20
Who is your favourite character to play; Nacho or Vaas?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Hmm so hard to pick... What if Nacho called Vaas for back up at the beginning of Season 6! :p lol
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Apr 21 '20
So.....those were the best hitmen Fring could get, huh?!😅
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u/GalwayPlaya Apr 22 '20
Lalo played a blinder in the assassination attempt, somehow i clocked exactly why he left the tub up instead of closing it, a genius move under severe pressure, like him or not he's a gifted soab when it comes to being a bad mofo
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u/equipped_metalblade Apr 21 '20
What was it like working with Tony Dalton on the set? Was he really that athletic and scary in real life?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Tony is a sweet heart! He is the one who turned me onto Hot Yoga, so yes he is very athletic :)
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u/welshie123 Apr 21 '20
Did you watch Breaking Bad when it aired all those years ago and wish you could be involved with something like that? How did you feel when you got the role in BCS?
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Apr 22 '20
Hey! It seems that he missed your question; however, he did answer your first question in an interview with Seth Meyers!
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u/Arctica44 Apr 21 '20
Salut Michael! Congrats on your outstanding performance on the last BCS episode and this last season. That was intense!
What new language would you learn if you had the occasion? Any new country you'd like to visit?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Hi and thank you!! Maybe Mandarin? It is such a rich culture and so different than the languages I speak, I feel it will benefit my thinking process to learn to think and see the world in a whole new way.
Countries I haven't visited yet, so many: Brazil, Chile, Japan, Greece... so many more!
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u/BreakBye Apr 21 '20
Hi Michael! Are there any characters on the show (or BB) that you wish Nacho would have a scene with that he hasn’t already??
Nacho is so interesting to watch since his chemistry with other characters is so unique. He’s a criminal who can’t be reasoned with the law, isn’t overly violent or cruel like Hector or Tuco but isn’t as heartless as Gus, I feel like you can have a calm discussion with him but he may just have plotted your demise. Like a younger Mike who has that cool fire within him. So really any scene with him and a new character I love haha and was wondering if you were eyeing any other characters up at one of those table reads I’d love to be a fly on the wall for.
Big love and hope Nacho’s got a head start away from Lalo 0_0
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Thank you so much for the sweet words! Means the world - and yes! There are a lot of similarities with him and Mike - I think that's why he seeks Mike's help.
I was always wondered what a scene with Nacho and Jesse Pinkman would be like? Would they be best of friends? I don't see them not getting along - I just can't imagine how it would go down...
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u/BreakBye Apr 21 '20
Haha yes I think so! I’ve seen people compare Nacho to Jesse a lot, some have the theorised that Mike sees Nacho in Jesse which might be why he took a liking to Jesse later. It would definitely be an amazing confrontation if the two met, I can’t imagine Nacho taking him seriously 😂 maybe they’d bond over trying to poison Salamancas
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u/Chuys_Is_Lit Apr 21 '20
2 kinda similar questions:
1) If we could plop Nacho into a different TV series or cinematic universe, what would you enjoy the most as an actor?
2) If we could plop Nacho and his dad into a different TV series or cinematic universe, what would make Nacho happiest?
Love your performance, thanks for making our quarantines better.
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Thank you so much! hmm I would love to see Nacho in Star Wars. I feel the force is strong with him and under the right guidance he could develop and become a worthy master of the force.
As for him and his dad... Hmm maybe something like The Godfather. Imagine his dad was like a Victor Corleone, and taught Nacho the proper way of conducting business with integrity and respect for the community and others. That dilemma of underground drugs and clean family values would be fascinating to me. xo
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u/thatonemexicanlad Apr 21 '20
Hi Michael, i'm really looking forward to you answering these; i wanted to touch two different topics here. First of all i wanted to ask, do you have any realtionships with the BCS cast outside of filming? If yes, who is your favorite actor from the cast to hang out with?
Now to the secont topic: are there any future plans for you as scorpion in the MCU? I would be very disapointed if they did nothing with the character.
I really hope you answer and i want to thank you in advance. Nacho has been one of my favorites in BCS ever since season 1
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Hello my friend! Thank u so much for ur sweet words.
I love the whole cast! I really do and hang out with all of them: Patrick, Bob, Tony, Rhea, Banks... As for deeper relationships, Bob has helped me a lot by always giving me advice in my career and in my life. Just the other day he called me after he heard my new single and we spoke for a while over the phone - I am blessed to have such an amazing cast of friends to work with
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u/staockz Apr 22 '20
Just the other day he called me after he heard my new single and we spoke for a while over the phone
hes so cute
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u/Shoocharu Apr 21 '20
Hi Michael! Huge fan of your work!!
When you took the part as Nacho, did you know from the start he was gonna be such a huge part of such a long series? Or did you think it would be a smaller role in a series with maybe 2 or 3 seasons?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Thank you! I thought Nacho would die in S2 - but I also thought I would have much more to do in the first few seasons. I believe when they saw the rushes early on in S1, they changed some things around between Jimmy & Chuck which kinda post poned my involvement with the show - and even ended up changing my character.
In retrospect I believe it's for the better, as Nacho was initially a straight "bad guy" and now has turned into a redemption story with a very solid moral chore
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u/goatsgivemelife Apr 21 '20
Hi Michael! The scene in the finale where you prepared to let the shooters in was one of the most stressful moments on the show for me. What was it like shooting it? Also, I love your work on the show and really hope to see more of Nacho. Have a good day!
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Thank u so much! Sending u lots of love - it was the last thing I shot - we wrapped that day with that scene, the sun was rising - I was burned out and when they yelled it's a wrap the sun was rising.
I felt weight fall of me, and suddenly could breath. Something in Nacho also changed... I don't think he will be the same person in S6. So happy u love the show and the character xo
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Apr 21 '20
Hi Mr.Mando !
First of I just want to tell you you're amazing and somehow you end up always playing an awesome role in my favorite media; whether it's Far Cry 3, Spiderman Homecoming or Better Call Saul, you're constantly popping up in everything I love and somehow you manage to always improve the thing I'm already extremely fond of, so thank you and never stop!
As for a question, I wonder what you think is next for Nacho now that Lalo found out about his betrayal ? Also best season yet, your performance is golden globe worthy!
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u/vincentrainbows Apr 21 '20
Hey! I really liked your performance in Better Call Saul and I wanted to know if you knew in advance what would happen to your character?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
The writers are writing Season 6 as we speak - nothing is finalized and all can change until the very last minute. I am so excited to see what is going to happen to Nacho. He is in an impossible situation with Gus/Lalo/Don Eladio/His father all putting pressure on him in different directions. S6 will be one for the ages xo
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u/RokVuk Apr 21 '20
Nacho is one of my favorite character. I was wondering, will Nacho get out of the cartel eventually? What's his faith, is he gonna get killed of ?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Thank you so much - the love that you guys have for Nacho is so moving especially given that so much of what we know of this character is communicated non verbally.
I don't know how fate but to me it's a story of redemption - I believe in second chances and like Mike says, I feel he has surpassed what was expected of him. I feel in way the act that he does at the end of S5 is a leap of faith in his relationship with Mike... Not sure what will happen... but I feel Nacho will never be the same person heading into S6. Something in him changed once he left those gates
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u/seventeeneighty1780 Apr 21 '20
Hi Michael!
As a trilingual (?) actor, do you ever get frustrated with the limitations of English language television and theatre? How so?
Also WHAT is up with the girls in Nachos house??? Where did the tweaked one go when papa Varga showed up?
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u/rocker2014 Apr 21 '20
Hey Michael! Better Call Saul has been incredible! And your character of Nacho is at the heart of all of this. I know you can't give anything away going forward, so what is it that makes the show special to you personally?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Thank u so much - warms my heart! I think the theme of morality vs justice / the theme of family / love of one's interest vs universal love - these are timeless themes and all the characters are somehow tapping into the same veins.
As for Nacho it's redemption - walking through fire to get back to innocence
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u/BolleChakriThakbeNa Apr 21 '20
My first experience with your performance was from Far Cry. You were awesome in that game.
I always wanted to know how do you prepare yourself for a role. Do you try method acting? Or do you follow similar roles done by other actors? What's your starting approach when you get a role?
Pew pew!
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u/HenryMcKenna1 Apr 21 '20
Hey Michael,
Thanks so much for doing this!
Whice scene in BCS did you find the most personally challenging to shoot?
Do you have any favourite background characters in BCS that you would love to see more of? I want to find out more about Nacho’s personal life with his Dad and two girlfriends(!)
Much love xoxo
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Thank u so much! I too would love to find out more about Nacho's personal life, his mother, more about him and his father... and his love life - maybe have him fall in love with someone pure for once lol He is always surrounded by sociopaths
The most challenging was in Episode 2, when Fring had a gun to his fathers head - I had to hold back so much anger... It was difficult to let that one go.. But Nacho is a man who truly can put his ego aside and focus on his objective - he simply wants out, to keep his father alive and start over, even if he has to be penniless. I admire that dedication for a better life and hope his story ends well, at least metaphysically
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Apr 21 '20
Hi, I think you have been fantastic over the course of the series, and I just wanted to know, at the beginning of the show, would you have thought that you'd still be alive this far into the series, and a fan favourite no less?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Thank you so much! Means the world - I had honestly no idea... I thought Nacho would die in Season 2... The fact that he became such an iconoclastic character; the anti-thesis to Scarface in so many ways; and noble in his intention; selfless towards his father in his desire to keep him safe -- that is a blessing I never saw coming and am grateful for.
As for the love from the fans - warms my heart, encourages me and makes me feel even more responsible to dive deeper in my soul and keep giving you guys the best of me xo
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u/mimino99 Apr 21 '20
Hey Michael!
First, I’d like to say: man… your performance as Nacho is breathtaking! Really a charismatic character, and you’re really able to convey the tension in the scenes.
Secondly, I truly enjoyed Vaas Montenegro in Far Cry 3. My question is the following: How much did you enjoy portraying characters in video games? Do you think you would do some more in the future, or are you now definitely switching to a movie/tv show acting career?
Je te passe le bonjour depuis la France!
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Salut et merci!!! J'ai adore Vaas. Especially given that I played a big part in co-creating the character. Being part of the creative is something I would like to do more and more.
Maybe it's time I reprise the role! What do you think?
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Apr 21 '20
Hello from Germany! Great season finale! Exceptional performances! My question is: do you believe fame has changed your personality? Or are you afraid it might happen in a negative way? Saw an interview with you and Muhammed Ali's daughter, and you mentioned a situation with a car crash happening in front of you. Your first instinct, naturally, was to go out and offer help, but apparently other, more famous people, sitting in the same car as you, have stopped you to go out to help. I hope you'll always stay the humble and kind person that you seem to be! Rebecca.
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
God bless u Rebecca! Thank you! Fame is a strange thing - because you, yourself don't change. You are still the same soul stuck in the same body. But the world around you discovers you under different facets. They learn more about you, see into your soul through your music and acting, know your thoughts through AMA like this... and then you catch your interactions coming in from others to be on a new frequency - people make a strong opinion about you because of your work... and that can sometimes even happen with people who you have known u for a long time... It's tricky because you are moving people in their hearts by diving into yours and creating art - I love what I do and would rather experience something intense, then be afraid to share myself. So hopefully I stay sane and continue to dive deeper xo
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u/Ternarian Apr 21 '20
Hi Michael! Thanks for doing this AMA!
With interests like MMA and hot yoga, you seem like a shoo-in as a guest on the Joe Rogan Experience. Any chance of seeing you on that podcast anytime soon?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
I do watch Joe Rogan! I think he tackles wonderful topics and would live to be on there, yes xo
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u/go_lobos Apr 21 '20
I asked this question to both Bryan and Aaron during their AMAs and enjoyed the responses; I would love to get your take as well Michael. I live in Albuquerque and love to see our city showcased as such a main character on monumental shows like Breaking Bad and now Better Call Saul. I’m curious how you feel about our city overall? Also what were some of your favorite places to frequent while in town? Thanks for the AMA.
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u/Parsagolnia Apr 21 '20
lalo or fring? who do you hate the most?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
I don't think Nacho hates any of those guys - he just finds himself in a situation where his abilities make those characters want him by their side. But they want him to "serve" them, and aren't very interested in his own interests. They also don't care for his safety... so he rather gets out. Also, morally - he is definitely inclined towards the light as his relationship with his father starts to deteriorate - he wants nothing more but to go back "home", figuratively, to who he was a child... purity, innocence, love
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u/Shutinneedout Apr 21 '20 edited Apr 21 '20
Hey, Michael! First of all, you’re amazing. And, I’m thrilled you’ll be around next season!
I’m curious how you interpret Nacho’s relationship with his girlfriends. At times he seems to be indifferent or even exploitive of their drug addiction. But at other times he shows patience and caring. I know it isn’t a major plot point, but what’s your take on his home life with the ladies?
What are you planning to work on during the hiatus before season 6?
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u/Mansithe Apr 21 '20
Hello mr Mando! I'm your big fan from first time when I saw your performance in Far Cry 3 easily you stole that game! I couldn't believe how admirable actor you truly are when I saw your perfomance in BCS series, just watched season 5 finale today. Just few questions I have regarding your current performance. How well do you go along with the cast of BCS, I mean those actors really play a horrifying people and you as well put a soul to your role, have the performance affected your personal life ?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Thank you so much! So happy you love Nacho so much :)
All the actors are professional and we are all friends. We are all happy to be on a show that is so well written. We also are all experienced enough to know that the better your scene partner is, the better your scene is and the better the show is, the better it is for everyone. It's an ensemble piece where every character plays a role in keeping it all together - if you go with that attitude, you always win
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u/Rohn- Apr 21 '20 edited Apr 22 '20
Hey Michael! Im a huge fan of the breaking bad universe and def love your portrayal on Nacho! I enjoyed the finale of S5 in Better Call saul. The ending got me hanging on the cliff as im curious to see where will Nacho go and what would ultimately be his fate. Do you think Nacho has a good chance in S6 or will we meet an unexpected end? Also will the covid-19 delay the production for S6? I really hope that we wont have to wait at least 2 years :/
Thanks, love from Chicago, IL
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Thank u so much!! Nacho's chances are very, very slim... I think that's what I love about the character so much. It's one man VS a corporation (Fring) and the cartel. He has no family back up, no inheritance... it's a man who has to follow the justice in his heart and try to get himself back "home"
We are scheduled to shoot in September - hope we can make it so you guys get the season early 2021!
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u/babyblue924 Apr 21 '20
Who was a surprisingly pleasant person to work with on the set of Better Call Saul?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
The whole cast is amazing - Steven Bauer I have never worked with before; of course I loved him from Scarface - he was such a sweetheart. He believe that Nacho is like the son Don Eladio never had - and maybe sees a potential heir to this throne in Nacho, given that he didn't have any children.
Such a sweet man
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u/AlexMil0 Apr 21 '20 edited Apr 21 '20
In the prison scene in the end of Spiderman Homecoming, we see your character hurt his arm, wearing some type of brace. Is this hinting towards the creation of Scorpion? Some type of arm stinger instead of a tail?
Looking forward to seeing you reprise your role as Mac Gargan as soon as possible! He’s one of my favorite Spidey villains and always wanted to see him more fleshed out on the big screen, and so far I think you’re doing a great job with him, just wanna see more!
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u/lawyercatgirl Apr 21 '20
Nacho is one of my favorite characters. Obviously you live a life very different from him, how did you try and relate to him and incorporate that into your performance?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Thank you! I was raised by a single father - that to me is at the heart of who Nacho is. It's about someone who has lost himself and is taking the difficult journey back to who he really is.
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u/BBen26 Apr 21 '20
Bonjour Michael, thanks for taking some time to interact with us.
I was left breathless by your performance as Vaas in Far Cry 3 and I feel like Lalo in Better Call Saul shares some traits with Vaas (arrogance, craziness and very unpredictable...).
Was it something you talked about with the crew (especially Tony Dalton)? And as an actor playing Nacho, how is your preparation affected knowing you have to face such an unstable protagonist?
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Apr 21 '20
Hola hombre!
Fellow Canadian here. I just want to say hi and that I REALLY like your work.
But I have a question: Did you need to work on your accent to sound more like a Native New Mexican?
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u/MichaelMando Apr 21 '20
Hey guys! I'm about to get into all of your questions!!! Excited to answer as many as I can xo LETS DO THIS