Chillin’ with Bart Edwards

Actor on the rise Bart Edwards has quickly become known throughout Europe for his undeniable talent, charming disposition, and the dynamic characters he has brought to life on screen.

This year he is positioned as “one to watch” in the U.S. Edwards just wrapped season three of Lifetime’s critically acclaimed, award-nominated drama series UnREAL alongside Constance Zimmer and Shiri Appleby. The series gives a fictitious behind-the-scenes glimpse into the chaos surrounding the production of a dating competition show called “Everlasting.” Edwards is a scene stealer as Jasper; a successful, handsome, Wall Street Investment Banker who is vying for the heart of Serena, the first-ever female suitress on the show.

While UnREAL marks Edwards’ first foray in American television, he has been making a name for himself over the years overseas with lead roles in top projects. This year he can be seen starring in the Norwegian series Lykkeland, (also known as State of Happiness) which follows four young people in the midst of an oil rush in Norway that began Christmas Eve in 1969. The series premiered at the 1st Cannes International Series Festival winning two awards and has been renewed for a second season ahead of its television premiere.

On the film front Edwards can next be seen starring in Millennium Film’s horror flick The Dare, which follows Jay (Edwards) a young, workaholic father whose quiet evening takes a brutal twist when he wakes up shackled in a basement with three other prisoners.

Born and raised in Norfolk, England, growing up Edwards had dreams of being a musician, stand-up comedian, or a private detective (ideally a combination of all three). At 13 years old he won a scholarship to one of the UK’s top boarding and performing arts schools, Tring Park School for Performing Arts, where he spent a majority of his time immersed in the arts alongside his academic studies. Upon graduation Edwards was accepted to one of the most prestigious acting schools in Europe: Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. He graduated three years later with a degree in Professional Acting, and has been working ever since.

When he isn’t on set you can find Edwards writing scripts and music, and developing projects for the big and small screens. Most recently he has been collaborating with UK-based, indie rock band Oliver Hoare & The Late Great on “Gig Theatre,” where patrons believe that they are attending a concert, but there is a storyline woven in between the songs. While Edwards calls London home, he spends time in Los Angeles, New York, and in various other parts of the world filming throughout the year.

With your busy schedule, what do you like to do with your downtime?

This changes depending what time of year it is. Coming out of the never-ending winter of the UK I’ve been writing a lot and have just started yoga and rock climbing. I’m not sure why I’ve started them yet. I think it’s because people said they were good for me. I’m looking forward to not being bad at them one day. In the summer months, I’m basically attempting to just spend as long as I can outside.

Do you cook?

I’ve been a vegetarian since I was born and as a kid was blessed with a mother who was an incredible cook (I know most children say that that but honestly she’s an amazing cook). Especially back in the mid-nineties when all you could get in a restaurant for a vegetarian was a spicy bean burger, so we didn’t eat out a lot. Mum was so inventive and imaginative with food. I’ve tried to carry that over to my own cooking. I enjoy cooking for friends and family as often as I can.

When you go out to eat, where do you like to dine?

When traveling I love finding new places to eat. The last great place I’ve been to in London was Kricket, around the corner from the Piccadilly tube station. It does incredible seasonal modern Indian plates and drinks.

What types of drinks do you order when out?

I’m huge Gimlet fan. Usually gin but occasionally vodka too. I’ve read a lot of Raymond Chandler and Phillip Marlowe drinks a fair few of them throughout the series. It was the nostalgia of the books that got me on to them. Oh and good whiskey.

Do you own a home bar?

I’d love a little bar at home. I mean if you can call my pretty well-stocked shelf a bar then it’s the best bar in town!

If you owned a home bar, what would it be like?

If you’ve ever been to High Water in Dalston London I’m thinking a lot like that. If you ever get a chance to go check it out. The people in there really care about what they’re making you. The kind of place that asks you how you’re feeling and then gives you exactly what you want. I love that place!

What is your favorite drink/cocktail?

Other than a Gimlet or a whiskey it would have to be a Boulevardier or a glass of Montrachet.

Have you ever been a bartender?

I certainly have. Some incredibly fun (and I’m sure anyone who has or is currently would understand) stressful evenings behind the bar. I also used to work in a wine shop in south London that did tastings throughout the week. I learned a hell of a lot about wine from the owner, a wonderful French man named Kenrick Bush. He was my Jedi wine Master.

Follow Bart on Instagram and Twitter.