Credit: Lilly K Photography
Raphael Alejandro has a big year ahead of him. The young actor can currently be seen starring as Matteo in the hit Disney Channel series Bunk’d which was just renewed for a fifth season. Raphael has been a member of the Disney family for years and viewers can also look forward to seeing him when Disney releases their upcoming film Jungle Cruise, based on the ride at Walt Disney World.
We spoke with Raphael Alejandro about what viewers can expect from the upcoming episodes of Bunk’d, his new movie Jungle Cruise, and what being a part of the Disney family means to him.
Read on for our exclusive interview with Raphael Alejandro below:
What would you say initially motivated you to pursue acting as a career? Was there anyone who influenced or inspired you?
I started my acting career at the age of 4. I was influenced by my older sister, Dalila Bela, and my brother, Bruce Salomon, both actors. Because I grew up watching them working on movies and TV shows and having so much fun, I decided to try it myself. When I put my foot on set for the first time, I knew that I wanted to do more of it. My siblings’ dedication, professionalism and love for the entertainment business always inspired me to be a better actor and to continue pursuing my acting career.
You are currently starring in the hit Disney Channel series Bunk’d. Can you tell us a little about your character Matteo?
Matteo Silva is a cautious kid who can find danger in any situation and who, at first, would rather not be at camp.
What do you love most about playing him? Would you say you and Matteo are alike at all?
I love playing Matteo because even though we have many similarities, we also have many differences. Those differences give me some challenges to portray Matteo properly. I would say that Matteo and I are alike when it comes to academics. We both love to learn, especially science. And I have to confess that I’m also a bit of a germ freak like him.
Season 4 of Bunk’d is currently airing on the Disney Channel. What can you tell us about what’s ahead in the upcoming episodes? What can we expect from Matteo?
In this Season 4, Matteo starts becoming more brave and he enjoys his adventures at camp a little more. With the help of his friends Finn (Will Buie Jr.), Gwen (Scarlett Estevez) and the new counselor Noah (Israel Johnson), he becomes more open minded to try new things. But one thing that will never change is that he continues to be a germ freak.
Congratulations on Bunk’d getting picked up for a fifth season! That’s an amazing accomplishment. How did you feel when you heard the news?
Thank you very much! When I heard the news that Bunk’d is getting picked up for a season 5, I was very happy, excited and grateful. I really enjoy working on this show and doing one more season with my costars is wonderful.
Viewers can also see you in the upcoming Disney film Jungle Cruise. Can you tell us a little about your character Zaqueu in the movie?
Unfortunately, I cannot share much about my character in Jungle Cruise. What I can tell you is that I had a wonderful time shooting the movie with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Emily Blunt and Paul Giamatti. They are amazing people and they treated me with a lot of respect. We had a lot of fun on set talking and playing word games during our breaks.
What can you tell us about what viewers can look forward to from the movie? And I have to ask… have you ever ridden the Jungle Cruise ride at Walt Disney World? I imagine it must be quite different!
The movie is full of adventure and magical moments. It has something for everyone in the family. I’m pretty sure that it will be a crowd pleaser. Can’t wait to see when it comes out.
Yes, the ride at Walt Disney World is quite different than the movie, but none the less fun. I really enjoyed that ride and our guide was so funny and that made the ride much more enjoyable.
Starring in a Disney film and a Disney series must be so wonderful. How does it feel to be a part of the Disney family?
I’ve been a part of the Disney family since I was 5 years old. My first job with them was a recurring role for the ABC TV show Once Upon a Time. I played Roland, Robin Hood’s son (played by Sean Maguire). I feel very grateful and honored to be a part of the amazing Disney family and I hope to continue being a part of it for a long time.
Thank you so much to Raphael Alejandro for taking the time to answer some questions for us!
Be sure to check out Bunk’d currently airing on the Disney Channel.
Keep up to date with Raphael Alejandro by following her on Twitter and Instagram.
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