13 Reasons Why: Brandon Larracuente on Returning for Season 2 [Exclusive Interview]

Netflix’s teen drama, 13 Reasons Why is accustomed to controversy, but what’s not up for debate is how likable actor Brandon Larracuente is as the affable Jeff Atkins.

Although Larracuente’s character died last season, he reprised the role in Season 2, in an episode that revealed another side to Hannah and Clay’s relationship.

I had a few questions for Larracuente about returning to 13 Reasons Why, his favorite on-set memory, how he got his start in acting, and more.

Tell-Tale TV: What made you decide to become an actor?

Brandon Larracuente: Growing up, I played baseball and was pursuing an acting career. It came to a road where I had to make a decision and choose one or the other. It wasn’t easy because I was teased by the guys who all chose sports, but while I loved both, I had to admit acting was my passion and I chose that route.

Tell-Tale TV: Your character Jeff died on the first season of 13 Reasons Why, and it ended up being one of the reasons for the tapes. What was the most challenging part of playing that storyline?

Larracuente: One of the most challenging parts of playing that storyline was knowing that at first, my character would be perceived as the reckless drunk driver. While it taught an important lesson, it was still tough knowing that Jeff would be apart of an unfortunate statistic of people, who get behind the wheel after drinking.

Tell-Tale TV: What was it like being back for more flashbacks in Season 2?

Larracuente: It was nostalgic and a great feeling to be reunited with the cast, even if for a short amount of time.

Tell-Tale TV: What’s your best memory from being on set?

Larracuente: The best memory from Season 2 has to be the scene that we shot in Jeff’s basement. It was the conclusion of a long, tiring day. We ended up being so delirious that we all couldn’t stop cracking up laughing. To my surprise, they actually kept that.

Tell-Tale TV:  Were you surprised by the events of this season and how the story played out?

Larracuente: Actually, to be honest, I’m not even halfway through yet. Don’t ruin it for me!

Tell-Tale TV: 13 Reasons Why has a huge following and fans are passionate about it. What has the response been like for you?

Larracuente: The response has luckily always been weighted on the positive side for me. A lot of people really connected to Jeff and as long as the audience can relate it’s always a good thing.

Tell-Tale TV: What do you hope viewers can take away from this show, and the issues it explores?

Larracuente: I hope the viewers can take our show and learn something positive from it. The issues it explores can be touchy and heart wrenching but if we spread awareness and start a conversation, we can change lives.

Tell-Tale TV: Do you have any other upcoming projects you’d like to tell us about?

Larracuente: I have two films coming out, Confessional and The Buried Girl.

Tell-Tale TV: When you aren’t busy working, how do you like to spend your time?

Larracuente: I love to workout, spend time with my loved ones, relax at home, travel, and how could I forget? Eat a LOT of food.

Tell-Tale TV: What’s something fans might be surprised to learn about you?

Larracuente: I am Puerto Rican and a fluent Spanish speaker. Adios!

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Be sure to catch Brandon Larracuente on 13 Reasons Why, now streaming on Netflix.

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