Jaime Camil stars in the 2022 Netflix biopic El Rey, a mini-series that brought in viewers across the globe and securing the honor of the platform’s most watched TV series in both the United States and Columbia.
Camil is no stranger to the spotlight, first reaching stardom in 2006 and Fernando Mendiola in La Fea Mas Bella (2006 – 2007) and, most recently, as Rogelio de la Vega in the uber-successful series Jane the Virgin (2014 – 2019). The latter performance earned him two Critics; Choice Award nominations.
His career boasts a refreshing variety of genres and talents, encompassing both acting and singing and spanning from comedy to tragedy. The secret to his success? Nerve, dedication, and research.
How did you prepare for the role of Vicente Fernández and familiarize yourself not only with Vicente’s songs but with his personality?
By carefully studying Vicente’s songs and watching countless hours of intimate scenarios like interviews by Veronica Castro, Masiel, and Ricardo Rocha. To best interpret Vicente’s songs and mimic his unique tone, I studied multiple recordings. I analyzed the way he paraphrased his songs and paid particular attention to the way his voice caressed every single word.
What was most challenging about preparing for this role?
Other than singing, the most challenging aspect of this project was avoiding parody and caricature. We wanted Vicente to be relatable so that the audience could connect with him on an emotional level.
What role did Fernández’s family play in the creation of El Rey? Did they offer you advice on how to best execute your role?
I didn’t really talk to them during the process of preparing for the role but they did work very closely with the studio (Caracol Televisión).
How does this biopic compare to and differ from past Vicente Fernández’ biographies?
This was a very special project that I will forever hold close to my heart. However, when approaching a project of this magnitude and portraying a very influential figure you can’t let pressure and sense of responsibility weigh on your shoulders or you’ll set yourself up for failure.
Which came first, your passion for music or your passion for acting?
Probably my passion for music.
How did you prepare for the role of Vicente Fernández and familiarize yourself not only with Vicente’s songs but with his personality?
carefully studying Vicente’s songs and watching countless hours of intimate scenarios like interviews by Veronica Castro, Masiel, and Ricardo Rocha. To best interpret Vicente’s songs and mimic his unique tone, I studied multiple recordings. I analyzed the way he paraphrased his songs and paid particular attention to the way his voice caressed every single word.
What was most challenging about preparing for this role?
Other than singing, the most challenging aspect of this project was avoiding parody and caricature. We wanted Vicente to be relatable so that the audience could connect with him on an emotional level.
What role did Fernández’s family play in the creation of El Rey? Did they offer you advice on how to best execute your role?
I didn’t really talk to them during the process of preparing for the role but they did work very closely with the studio (Caracol Televisión).
How does this biopic compare to and differ from past Vicente Fernández’ biographies?
This was a very special project that I will forever hold close to my heart. However, when approaching a project of this magnitude and portraying a very influential figure you can’t let pressure and sense of responsibility weigh on your shoulders or you’ll set yourself up for failure.
Which came first, your passion for music or your passion for acting?
Probably my passion for music.
Is there a specific genre and/or character type that you enjoy playing in particular?
I love musicals and the theater. I also really enjoy reading scripts and intriguing stories but I don’t favor a specific genre as long as the character I’m playing is interesting and consequential.
How do you balance a successful acting career and fatherhood?
Family will always come first.
What challenges did you face as a Latino actor in Hollywood?
Many. Hollywood lacks diversity but changes are slowly being made. Each small change will take us one step further and help pave the way for other Latinos within the industry.
What role do you think was your breakout role and is there a character in particular that you are most tied to?
La Fea Más Bella was undoubtedly a breakout project for me as well as playing a woman in Por Ella Soy Eva.
Creative Credits
- Written by
- Gaia Stanzani Ghedini
- Image courtesy
- Caracol Televisión
- Retouching
- Brianna Kish
- Photography
- Fer Piña
- Creative Credit
- Caracol Televisión
