Answers with Kevin Daniels

Answer 1

In "Sirens" you star as Hank, an openly gay Chicago EMT. So question, as a real-life straight man, what's the biggest challenge you face portraying an out and proud gay man?

You know I've never found sexuality the key when approaching any character. I've played athletes, drug addicts, public servants and once I played a space alien in a children's show. The biggest challenge when playing any character no matter their orientation is making them truthful and grounded as possible. The great thing about playing Hank is that he defies stereotypes, and is just comfortable in his skin. I get a kick out playing someone who's able to do that.

Answer 2

"Sirens" follows three Chicago EMTs (Hank, Johnny, and Brian) who despite their narcissistic and self-destructive personalities are uniquely qualified to save lives. What has been your favorite EMT rescue scene (or failure to rescue scene) on the show?

I think one of my favorite calls in season one was responding to a life alert at the home of an elderly woman. When we arrive we walk in on a very very private moment only to discover age doesn't stop love.

Answer 3

Much of "Sirens" comedic value stems from Hank's outgoing and unfiltered personality. Do Kevin Daniels and Hank St. Clare possess any of the same personality traits?

I'd say I share Hank's ability to let his mouth get him in trouble. I think we also have a similar sense of humor. Hank is like the best friend I've always wanted.

Answer 4

What do you think it is about "Sirens" that resonates with viewers?

At its core Sirens is a show about friendship and love. I hope people turn on our show and see people they like. People they wanna hang out with. People they can root for yet also take a little joy in their misadventures. I also think the show is just painfully funny.

Answer 5

"Sirens" is known for it's raunchy and crude jokes. What has been your favorite line or scene from the series so far (keep it PG-13, c'mon now)?

When Hank gets invited to his ex-boyfriends wedding and has a bit of an on-the-job meltdown and says to Johnny, "I could pick his d*** out of a room full of d***s" -- that line always made me crack up. Another personal favorite of mine is the scene between Loretta Devine and Bill Nunn at dinner. They spent two scenes fighting about fish, art and a painting of Black Jesus. I can't watch that scene today without laughing.

Answer 6

How does "Sirens" change popular opinion about homosexuals?

Well I think in the same way all pop culture can shape and change the views of the public; our show tries to play its part. We just wanna tell great stories and make people laugh, and if after watching the show we've changed someone's mind to become more inclusive and accepting...then to me that's a bonus.

Answer 7

After acting as a certified EMT, would you ever consider working as an EMT in real life?

When preparing for season 2 I got to ride along with EMS. I was amazed at what all they saw and had to deal with on a daily basis. The medical knowledge alone made me realize my BFA hadn't given me sufficient training to step into their selfless career path. In real life I think I'm too soft to even attempt it.

Answer 8

We're super excited for the season 2 premiere January 27th! What will surprise viewers next season?

More blood, guts explosions and babies. We've also added Zombies. Seriously, I think people are gonna be surprised how much trouble these guys manage to get into in 13 episodes. It's gonna be a jam packed season brimming with lots of laughs, and lots of love.

Answer 9

On top of filming for "Sirens" you are also starring in "One Christmas Eve", which was on the Hallmark Channel. What makes this movie a holiday must-see?

There's a great joke in Sirens about never seeing a black man watching the Hallmark Channel. Imagine my surprise when 8 million people tuned in to watch our little movie. It's such a feel good movie the whole family can enjoy. It's sweet, funny, suspenseful, and we have the world's cutest dog in it. It's also available on DVD now!

Answer 10

You've juggled recurring and guest roles on several shows since 1998. Do you prefer playing a variety of characters or a single character for multiple seasons?

I have to say getting a chance to play the same character over a stretch of time has been amazing. You really get to know so much about yourself and your castmates and you just kind of build a family. Sirens has been one of the most amazing jobs I've ever had.