Oliver Stark: Hollywood’s Rising Star in Film, TV, and Theater | Chilled Interview

Named one of “Hollywood’s next wave of leading men” by Hercules Magazine, Oliver Stark has quickly made a name for himself in the United States and abroad for the dynamic characters he has brought to life in film, television, and on stage.

Early Career and Theater

Born in the UK, Oliver began his career at a young age attending the North London Performing Arts Centre. There he honed his craft by appearing in short films and performing in various theatre productions across London. He performed in theatricals such as Dirty Promises at Theatre Royal Stratford, Seconds at the Pleasance Theatre, and in The Fifth Dimension Theatre Company’s Fatal Excuses where critics hailed his performance as ‘phenomenal’ and ‘breathtaking.’

Television and Film

Oliver went on to star in the AMC martial arts-based drama Into the Badlands created by Al Gough and Miles Millar. Additional television credits include: the Emmy and Golden Globe winning series Luther opposite Idris Elba, NBC’s Dracula, Comedy Central’s Big Bad World, and BBC’s BAFTA winning Casualty.

On the film front, Oliver starred opposite Sam Neill and Melia Kreiling in the sci-fi thriller Mindgamers and in the action horror film Underworld: Blood Wars opposite Kate Beckinsale and Theo James for Screen Gems.

9-1-1 and Recognition

This year, Oliver can be seen reprising his starring role as confident and compassionate firefighter Evan ‘Buck’ Buckley in FOX’s smash hit drama series 9-1-1. The series, created by Ryan Murphy, debuted in 2017 and drew in over 15 million viewers making it the #1 new broadcast drama of the season.

In 2018 Oliver was nominated for his first Teen Choice Award for Choice TV: Breakout Star for his work on the show and was nominated again in 2019 for Choice TV Actor: Drama. Additionally, Oliver was featured in People’s Sexiest Man Alive 2022 Issue alongside the men of 9-1-1.

Interview Highlights

Chilled had the opportunity to chat with the star about his off-screen hobbies, hangouts, and more!

Tell us about the projects you are working on.

Oliver: I just wrapped up shooting on season 6 of 9-1-1! The show has been keeping me busy, so I’m excited about taking a little rest or possibly finding a new project to jump into!

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

Oliver: Downtime, what’s that? In all seriousness, sometimes there is very little time off, so on the days I do have off from work, I mostly sleep and try to spend time with loved ones.

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

Oliver: I have been out of the restaurant scene in LA where I’ve lived for some time now. I think post-pandemic I never really got back to it. Although, I did just have dinner at Pura Vida, a vegan Italian place. Much recommended!

What types of dishes do you typically order?

Oliver: I like small sharing plates! I think food creates community, so having a number of small dishes for everyone to share enhances any evening out.

Any favorite bars?

Oliver: One of my go-to places is The Six Chow House in Los Angeles. It’s my go-to when I have to wait out rush hour traffic after work.

What drinks do you order when out?

Oliver: I’m a wine drinker. Red, in particular. Right now, Italian wines are my favorite!

Do you prepare drinks at home?

Oliver: I mostly stick to wine, but sometimes I’ll make something easy and refreshing like a gin and elderflower.

Tell us about your home bar. What is it stocked with?

Oliver: I have a whole selection, and since I don’t drink all that much at home, they last forever! I’m stocked with tequila, whiskey, gin, and an ever-growing selection of wine.

Have you ever been a bartender?

Oliver: I haven’t, but I have been a barback in London. I was tucked away downstairs washing glasses and would bring up kegs, etc. when needed.

If you could share a drink with anyone, who would it be?

Oliver: My older brother. We never had much in common growing up, so we weren’t all that close, but as adults, I always enjoy sharing a drink with him when I can (he lives in the UK).