TV INTERVIEW: IAN PATRICK

Speed Date: New Tween Star Blends Sci-Fi & Family In ABC's Alien Comedy 'The Neighbors'

By: Rachel Heine

November 29, 2012

In a world that seems to spin faster by the day, where social networking allows us to make friends with one another at a click of the mouse, we may be able to see what people have tagged or who they’ve ‘poked,’ but it can sometimes be difficult to really get to know someone and what they’re about. Feeling friendly, cutting to the chase, and learning something about current film and television artists who represent the best of what they do, Buzzine has set a table and would like to introduce you to your Speed Date:

What is your name and where do we know you from?

My name is Ian Patrick and you may know me as Dick Butkus on ABC’s new comedy The Neighbors.

Where are you right now? Can we get a picture to prove it?

On my way to the Hollywood Christmas Parade with the rest of the cast of The Neighbors. We will be riding in the car for the show down Hollywood Blvd.

If we were being set up on a blind date, what 3 things would your mom tell my mom about you?

Haha I guess, that I am funny, I like to play video games, and that I am originally from Texas.

If you could see any movie at its midnight premiere (costume optional), what would it be and who would you be?

I really want to see the new movie that will be coming out next year, Ender’s Game. I really liked the book so I am excited that they are making a movie out of it. I also want to see The Host, which is based on the book by Stephanie Meyer. I like science fiction and fantasy movies.

 Why are you answering these questions (what are you promoting)?

Right now I’m on the new ABC show The Neighbors as the young Alien kid, Dick Butkus. It airs every Wednesday night right before Modern Family. Our show just got nominated for a People’s Choice Award as favorite new comedy so we are all really excited about that. 

What drew you to this project?

I thought that the idea behind the show was really funny and I like being able to play a different kind of character. Plus I really like aliens, and this role allows me to be creative with my scenes.

What does the world need to know about this film/show?

I want everybody to know how funny The Neighbors is, Dan Fogelman, the writer of the show, is so great and I think everything he writes is so amazing. There are no other comedies like it that out there and the quirky concept creates for an entertaining storyline. 

What first made you want to be an actor/writer/director?

My sister, Heda wanted to get into acting and then when I went to the audition with her someone suggested that I should also audition for a part. And when I did I actually got the part, after I tried it I realized that I really like acting and playing different characters. 

What actors/directors would you most like to work with?

I have worked with some pretty amazing writers/producers that are so influential in the comedy field. I am working with Dan Fogelman on The Neighbors right now and I think he is great. He has been involved in so many amazing movies and all his writing is so funny. I also worked with Judd Apatow on Wanderlust.

I would eventually want to work with Jason Segal and Emma Stone.  I think that they are so funny in all their movies and I like being a part of comedies.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Well I just turned 10 a couple weeks ago, so I haven’t really looked too far into my future haha.  I hope to still be acting and having a great time.  I think I will be going to high school but who knows

What has been your best day on a set so far?

There are so many it is so hard to pick just one. I love everybody that I work with and the other kids on the show have become really close to me. I like filming the parts of the show where I turn into an alien and seeing the reactions of my human friends on the show. 

What is the best piece of professional advice that you have been given?

To never give up. You are going to face a lot of disappointment in this industry and you can’t let that discourage you from going out for roles. 

If we were to show the 12-year-old you a highlight reel of your career to date, what off-camera moment would most blow your pre-teen mind?

Well I just turned 10 so I’m not quite sure what to say for this. I know when I’m older I will probably look back at the roles I’ve played and laugh. All the characters I’ve played have been a little off beat and quirky so, yeah. I guess off-screen on the first day of my first role ever I got bit by a pig!! That was definitely memorable.

What are the best online places for fans to find out more about you?

Follow me on Twitter and like my Facebook!! I love interacting with all the fans of The Neighbors so make sure to check them out!

Anything more to add?

Make sure to watch The Neighbors, right before Modern Family on ABC Wednesdays at 8:30pm.

Ian Patrick can be seen on ABC's 'The Neighbors' on Wednesdays at 8:30pm PT.