Recently, we had the chance to sit down with Jose Solomon. Jose is starring in the recently released American Zombie - a documentary about high-functioning zombies struggling to gain acceptance in a human world.

 

 

 

TCB: Tell us a little about you.

 

Jose:  Well, what can I say? I was born and raised in Southern California.  I've got 3 sisters, a brother, my parents and some killer nieces and nephews.  They're my buddies :)  !!  I've lived in LA going on to 8 years now, and just like any actor i have worked in high powered jobs like waitering and bussing!!  Oh and the ever so lovely world of telemarketing!

 

TCB: Who is the biggest influence in your life? 

 

Jose:  Seriously? There have been so many influences in my life it would be hard to just point to one person. But I will be a little cliché and say my father would have to be the biggest influence. When ever I am up against what seems to be a wall, I simply remind myself what would he do and how would he approach this. He's a pretty wise guy, albeit we don’t agree on many issues but in terms of life struggles and the quest for inner and outer peace in life - we seem to think alike.

 

TCB: How long have you been acting? 

 

Jose:  Professionally I have been acting now for 9 years, but I grew up performing. In the 80's my family was like a Latin Partridge family. My parents were missionaries and musicians. They formed a group in the 70's and would tour all over Mexico and some US cities and perform. Once we were old enough and Dad saw that we kids could carry a tune he would pack us up in a big Purple bus (called Jonah) every summer and all over Mexico we would travel and sing. At the time I hated it because all I wanted to hear after 3 months was English and eat McDonalds but now I look back on those memories very fondly.

 

TCB: What is it like being an openly gay actor? 

 

Jose:  This question is something I will have a better answer for down the line. I am open about my life but people assume I have a girlfriend or love women -- which I do love women, but when the topic of dating or relationships come up on set or in rehearsals i find myself a little more hesitant to open up about it.  That is something that will change with time. It's tough being an actor period, simply because you run around town with your head shot and show up at auditions and put your best out there sometimes only to be shot down. Its business but sometimes it's hard to not take this business personally.  I have yet to read for any gay roles (and by gay I mean homosexual roles), but gimme a couple months and I will let you know. 

 

TCB: Tell us about American Zombie.

 

 

 

Jose:  You MUST SEE this film.  This wonderful film came from the minds of Rebecca Sonnenshine and Grace Lee.  It's sort of a tongue in cheek Docu-Drama-Comedy-Zombie-Horror flick.  The story revolves around Grace Lee and her good friend John as they set out to document the daily lives of the living dead in Los Angeles.   They find some interesting characters along the way, and oddly enough you will probably identify with them. Who knew you could relate to Zombies!??

 

TCB: Tell us about the restaurant.

 

Jose:  It's an outdoor coffeehouse/cafe, with a 40 seat black box theater attached to it for evening performances and daytime classes.  About 8 months ago my very good friend Lisa Welti approached me about partnering up to open up a new business. I have worked in coffeehouses for over 13 years and ran shops. I have always wanted my own place so I jumped at the opportunity. The Lyric Cafe will open soon. In fact, I took the day off today because it has been crazy finishing construction and finalizing the details of the menu, which will feature toasted sandwiches, salads, organic pastries and desserts Along with some amazing full city roasted coffees. I have my own recipe for a killer iced coffee which I think many folks will take to.  I am excited and hope that this will be a success.

 

TCB: What is your favorite dish?

 

Jose:  My favorite item on the menu is the grilled cheese, on a Rustic Olive bread and Pepper Jack and Sharp Cheddar mix, with some Dijon..HMMMMMM.

 

TCB: Are you a bear? 

 

Jose:  Yes and I am a homo sapien.

 

TCB: Single, BF? Married? 

 

Jose:  Still single...and looking LOL

 

TCB: What’s next for you?  Movies?  The Restaurant?

 

Jose:  I have been reading for some good roles lately and the cafe has kept me busy. I plan to RULE THE WORLD NEXT!! (Insert evil laughter)