Editor: Congrats on the release of Tiny Pretty Things on Netflix. You play 'Ramon,’ who uses non-traditional methods for teaching, can you personally relate to the character? What non-traditional methods would you say led you to success?
Bayardo De Murguai: Thank you! I’m so excited to share the series with the world. I definitely can relate to Ramon in many ways. His fire, passion, his honesty were all integral elements that represented not only him as a character, but also the Cuban style of ballet that he comes from. He’s more of a dance now, talk later type and in a way, there were times in my career where I got thrown to the fire and just had to learn by doing. You prepare for these opportunities with hard work and focus, but then when the time comes, I’m pretty sure Ramon would say “Shut up and dance”…with a smile.
What have you enjoyed most about the development of the 1st season and camaraderie between castmates?
I couldn’t have asked for a better cast than Tiny Pretty Things. We all moved to Toronto a month prior to filming and started dance rehearsal for the show. We quickly bonded and became a very tight knit crew. I continue to learn from every single one of my cast mates, and admire their dedication to making sure every dance move you see on the show is on point. I was somewhat of an outsider as my ballet knowledge consisted primarily of the Tiny Pretty Things novel and my newly purchased Ballet 4 Dummies hardcover off of Amazon. I was inspired by my castmates to put in work and was proud to see that pay off. On our days off, we would continue to hang, explore the city of Toronto and show off our amazing dance moves at any chance. You see that connection reflect on our show. Maybe not my cool salsa moves, I’m thinking those might stay BTS.
How would you describe your personal style? What's your go-to clothing store?
My personal style is heavily influenced by motorcycle culture. I’m an avid rider and I always try to look stylish on and off the bike. Take all that, the neutral colors, denim, leather jackets, and add a splash of Reggaeton. Is that even a thing? You’re welcome. The TPT stylist responsible for Ramon’s wardrobe introduced me to Jack and Jones which became my favorite store to shop at while in Toronto. For the perfect t-shirt my go to is Cuts Clothing on Instagram. Other faves are G-Star, Roland Sands Design, All Saints, Ben Sherman, Thursday Boots and Schott NYC.
Tattoos are considered a "look", you have quite a bit - which one(s) are most meaningful?
Each one of my tattoos reflects different experiences I’ve had or meaningful connections along the way. I usually go 1-2 years thinking about the next piece before actually going through with it. Although if you ever say….”hey want to get a tattoo today,” I’m your Huckleberry. Favorites include a full grown Tepextate agave plant, a sugar skull, and a quote from Othello which was inspired by Ramon’s trajectory in season one. For future ink, I have a couple ideas already stewing, but please don’t tell my mom. I’m sure she has a chancla loaded and ready to smack me with if she sees I get more.
If you can give one pointer to men regarding appearance, grooming or anything similar to, what would it be?
Make an effort. Your style and appearance are reflective of you and how you want the world to see you. It reflects what music you like, where you’ve been, what you’ve seen, and where you want to go. Self-care is also key. Took me a while to let go, and get over myself with the “macho mentality.” If you get gifted a facial, pedicure, manicure, etc, you take it with pride and treat yourself fellas.
You've persevered greatly arriving to the U.S. as an immigrant, while successfully navigating your way through a tough entertainment industry, how important to you is keeping history and culture close to you as you elevate in your career?
My culture is what grounds me. It’s also what makes me unique. I never really had a Plan B and although my family couldn’t tell me how to navigate the entertainment industry, they did teach me the importance of hard work, patience, focus, and faith—all while maintaining a sense of humor. I hope to be able to continue working in front of and behind the camera to show that our stories matter.
We hear you're a foodie? What foods or restaurants have been clutch this year during social distancing?
I’m very proud of my hospitality background and always enjoy a good meal and a cocktail. During these times, I’ve seen a lot of places having to adapt and be innovative in order to survive. Outdoor dining has been great for many in that regard. Employees Only in Los Angeles and New York will always have my heart. I’m just grateful to everyone out there hustling in the front and back of house keeping the industry afloat. Also, tacos. You can never go wrong with tacos during this pandemic, they have never let me down.
You played football at the University of San Diego, have you been keeping up with football this year? Who are your picks for the Superbowl?
I’m a Chargers fan through and through! I get it from my mama. She’ll surprise you with her Chargers knowledge. The AFC West is always tough with the Chiefs, Raiders, and Broncos, but I’ll never lose faith. We have a future in Herbert. That guy can ball. Super Bowl worthy teams this year? Chiefs, Packers, Bills, Seahawks…and duh, Chargers.
Are there upcoming projects supporters should look out for or causes you support others can get involved in?
In addition to Tiny Pretty Things, I have an upcoming movie with Warner Bros Animation that I will be very happy to share once it’s announced. I can say that it revolves around a video game I played a lot growing up. As far as causes, since we are in the middle of an election, I ask everyone to remember that they have a voice and to be as involved in whatever way they can socially and politically. As an immigrant, my family was just grateful to be here and that led to indifference when it came to politics. What I learned as I gotten older is that we all have the right to be heard, and that we have to learn to push certain fears aside in order to effect change when needed. During the police brutality protests here in Los Angeles, I saw an Abuelo walking with his two young teenage daughters. He was holding a sign that said “thank you for being the voice, I was too scared to have”. That’s what it’s all about.
Photography: Vince Trupsin
Follow Bayardo @bayardod
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