Actor and Artist Fernando Takes on Modern Relationships in Exteriors

Fernando is a queer Latinx artist/activist born in Costa Rica and raised in Niagara Falls, New York. After performance studies at Penn State and Columbia College, they went on to perform on stage and screen, appearing in the 2014 film Divergent. They later transitioned to television, hosting a number of shows for the Disney Channel. And now, Fernando is back on the screen in a new film that takes an honest and captivating look at modern relationships.

Exteriors, written and directed by acclaimed filmmaker Mark Schwab is currently streaming on Gay Binge TV. The film masterfully weaves together three interconnected stories, exploring themes of love, obsession, and reconnection. Through the lens of coincidence and connection, Exteriors delivers a poignant and captivating exploration of human emotions.

In one of the stories, Fernando plays Kenny, a character they played in Schwab’s earlier film 2021’s Brotherly Lies. He encounters pool cleaner Jason, and the two share an evening engaged in a discussion of themes including one-night stands and lost love. Jason and Kenny’s story is a thought-provoking narrative that delves into the complexities of relationships with authenticity and emotional depth.

We had the chance to chat with Fernando about their role in Exteriors and more in our exclusive interview. We also sat him down in the hot seat for another installment of the Socialite Seven. Get to know this actor who is their talents to advance visibility and understanding of the Latinx and gender-fluid communities in Hollywood, with the aim of giving them a global voice.

How did you get bitten by the acting bug? 

In third grade, when people asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I wanted a way to have a platform and the resources to help as many people as I could. My first thought was president, but I couldn’t do that because I wasn’t born in the country – though apparently if I was a billionaire from South Africa I could.  

What attracted you to Exteriors? 

It was a chance to dive back into a role I played in a previous film, Brotherly Lies, and it was a chance to work with the amazing crew and creative team again. 

How do you relate with your character Kenny? Is there much of you in him? 

Kenny has a lot of love to give but can feel lost and trapped at times. I can relate to that. I try to find all the similarities I share with a character and bring those to every role so they feel most authentic. 

Did you learn anything about yourself through your character?

Not so much learn, as reaffirm that it’s okay to open yourself up to people and explore those connections wherever they may lead or not. 

Exteriors still

Your story was so sweet, subtle and real. What is it like telling an LGBTQ+ story without the sensationalism and stereotypes that are prevalent in so many other movies and TV shows?
Thank you. To me, it’s everything. I’m so over the very sassy gay or the coming out and tragedy stories we see over and over. They’re valid, and should be told, don’t get me wrong. In my humble opinion, there’s more to queer people than that. We’re just people like everyone else and telling stories with that perspective is what will truly help normalize us in the mainstream. 

Do you think queer cinema can still make an impact in current times?

With the current administration I think it’s necessary now more than ever. They’re trying to erase us, literally. Making queer cinema sends a clear message that we’ve been here and we’re not going anywhere. 

You’ve worn a lot of hats in the entertainment industry. What do you enjoy doing the most? 

Firstly, making money so I can support myself and others. Secondly, telling stories that give voice and visualization to the queer and Latinx communities.

What are you hoping to achieve through your work?
I want to help as many people as possible. I want to take my platform and resources and use it for change so that maybe, just maybe, we can get to a point where we see everyone as human. No one needs to suffer because someone else is succeeding. We’re all just floating together on a spinning rock in space.

What’s next for you?

While I continue to pursue my career in the entertainment industry I’m going back to school working towards a degree in international law. I’m doing a law fellowship this summer at international law firms. It’s expensive, so – shameless plug – I’m doing a crowdfunding campaign to raise the funds. If anyone is interested in helping me make that a reality they can find more info on my social medias @spacemoneky. 

Exteriors still

Fernando Answers the Socialite Seven

What is your biggest pet peeve?

Cruelty. 

What is your most cherished possession?

I don’t really have one. As corny as it might sound, my relationships with my close family and friends are the most cherished thing I have. 

Who would you want to play you in the movie of your life? 

No idea. They’re probably not born yet. As long as it’s not AI, I’m happy. 

What superpower or talent would you like to wake up with tomorrow? 

I would love to be like Professor X and have telekinesis and telepathy. 

Photo Credit: Molly Pan Photography

What are three things you can’t live without?

1.) Ice cold water. 
2.) My close family & friends.
3.) Music.  

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

oof. Coming in with the hard questions here – I’d have to say, not having a single worry for myself or others, being on the beach with a warm ocean breeze and an east side in my hand. A hot guy I love being there too is optional. 

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

Always live authentically. If you don’t know what that is, put in the work to figure it out, and live freely once you do.

Exteriors and Brotherly Lies are currently streaming on Gay Binge TV. Follow Fernando on Instagram.