Chillin With Judd Lormand
By Chilled Magazine
Judd Lormand proves that he is one of the hardest working actors in Hollywood, having appeared in over 70 feature films and television shows, and most recently promoted to series regular on the second season of the CBS’s hit TV series SEAL Team.
SEAL Team follows the lives of the elite Navy SEALs as they train, plan, and execute extremely dangerous, high-stakes missions. Judd plays Lieutenant Commander Eric Blackburn, the SEAL Team troop commander who coordinates operations whenever the Bravo Team is on mission, and serves as the team’s leader and confidant, both on and off the battlefield. The series also stars David Boreanaz, Max Thieriot, Neil Brown Jr., A.J. Buckley, Toni Trucks, and Jessica Paré.
Judd’s television credits include fellow CBS shows NCIS: New Orleans and Zoo, as well as FX’s American Horror Story. On the big screen, he has played Secretary of State Robert McNamara in LBJ opposite Woody Harrelson; Mr. Freely in Carter & June, and a corrupt police officer in Jack Reacher: Never Go Back.
Judd spoke with Chilled about being a busy father of three kids and his bartending past.
With your busy schedule, what do you like to do with your downtime?
When I get a few consecutive days off from shooting, I typically jump on a plane and head back to Atlanta to spend time with my wife and kids. When my days off aren’t consecutive and I’m in Los Angeles, I enjoy working out, hiking, biking, and jogging on the beach. I enjoy just about any activity that keeps me moving.
When you go out to eat, where do you like to dine?
I’m a steak guy, so I almost always try to enjoy a good steak when I go out. The Arthur J in Manhattan Beach and Little Alley Steak in Atlanta are two of my favorite spots for a steak. When I’m not counting carbs, I love hitting up Mexican restaurants.
What types of dishes do you usually order?
I almost always order a ribeye medium rare. Typically, I’m on a high-protein, medium-fat and low-carb diet, so the ribeye is not only delicious, but super-practical for me. If I go Mexican, I go cheese enchiladas.
Do you cook?
A little bit. I love cooking and meal-prepping my steak, chicken, and fish. I’m not so great at cooking the side dishes, but I’ve nearly mastered cooking the meats. Also, whether it’s an omelet for myself or fresh pancakes for my kids, I have always loved cooking breakfast from scratch. Being a Louisiana native, naturally, French toast is my specialty.
What types of drinks do you order when out?
I’ve never been a “this is MY drink” guy—I’ve always been all over the map when it comes to drinks. When I’m hanging with the guys and doing something outdoors, I’m going with a cold beer. If out at a nice bar or restaurant, I’ll either do a Crown and Coke or a Vodka and Soda. If it’s a party and I want something sweeter, maybe a Rum and Coke or a Rum and Pineapple. I kind of let the type of night decide what drink I have in my hand.
Do you prepare drinks at home?
With three young children running around the house, unfortunately, I almost never do. Although some would suggest I probably need to. (Laughs).
Do you own a home bar?
No, but I’d love to one day.
If you do not own a home bar, if you did, what would it be like?
It would be very classic-looking … lots of wood. I’ve always admired how the wood on a bar complements the glass so nicely. Bottles would be on display, facing the gues, and between sections of bottles would be lots of wood and mirrors. Also, I’d have wooden stools for guests, the kind with backs on them.
What is your favorite drink/cocktail?
Tough call, but I’m going to go with Vodka and Soda with lime.
Have you ever been a bartender?
Absolutely. I spent the better part of my 20s bartending in various restaurants and bars throughout Louisiana. I definitely respect the art of making a great mixed drink, and love tasting the result as well.