From the vibrant streets of Scarborough, Ontario, a St. Lucian-Canadian talent has been honing his craft since the tender age of eight. Ryan Rosery, who began performing professionally at 16, captivates audiences as Chad in the highly anticipated horror/slasher, Fear Street: Prom Queen.
Having refined his skills through a transformative six-month residency at Toronto’s esteemed Canadian Film Centre in 2023, Rosery’s dedication extends beyond the screen. He is also a proud co-founder of BDB Productions Inc., a collaborative venture with six fellow creatives that aims to bring diverse stories to life.
Beyond Fear Street: Prom Queen, Rosery’s recent work includes Q.P. in the Canadian indie film Morningside and Terrell in Lenz Films’ upcoming feature, It Comes in Waves. We sat down with Ryan Rosery to discuss his latest role, his journey in the arts, and what’s next for this multifaceted artist.
The Source: What drew you to the role of Chad in Fear Street: Prom Queen?
Ryan Rosery: Honestly, I’d been wanting to play a high school character for quite some time, and when the chance for Chad came around, I was very excited to jump at the opportunity. He also has class clown energy, and I love making people laugh, so it was a “two birds with one stone” kind of vibe for me.
How would you describe Chad’s dynamic with Melissa (played by Ella Rubin)?
I would say that their dynamic is complicated but interesting. They both care about each other, but I feel they care about their personal goals and desires a bit more than they want to admit.
Fear Street has a huge following — were you a fan of the books or the earlier films before signing on?
I was already a fan of the first three movies. I never read the books growing up, but when my good friend Kiana Madeira had the opportunity to lead the films, I had to tap in and support, and I thoroughly enjoyed what the franchise had done.
Without giving too much away, what can audiences expect from this latest installment?
What I can say about Prom Queen is that fans should expect a wide range of colorful characters and a bloody good time.
What was your favorite memory or moment from filming?
My favorite memory from set was when we, as a cast, went out together and experienced the solar eclipse that occurred. It was such a beautiful moment.
Horror films often have intense on-set experiences. Did anything particularly spooky or unexpected happen during production?
Something that caught me off guard was a scene where a character dies, and the killer pops up out of nowhere. One of the actors let out a scream so loud that it sent a chill down my spine. That was a very freaky moment for me.
You’ve been acting since you were 8 years old. How has your approach to roles like Chad evolved?
My approach has evolved to understanding my character through their manner of walking and talking, as well as the type of music they listen to. I also have a notebook that I use to write down details about the characters I play, such as their personality traits, as well as their likes and dislikes. I aim to be as detailed as possible. I even curated a playlist specifically for Chad, featuring music I thought he would enjoy.
You spent time at the Canadian Film Centre in 2023. How did that experience shape you as an actor?
My time at the CFC was very transformative. It helped me truly see myself as the dynamic artist I am, as well as trust the timing of my life. Whatever is for me cannot pass me by.
Beyond acting, you co-founded BDB Productions Inc. What inspired you to move into producing as well?
When the six other members and I formed the production company, we wanted to create work for people who looked like us, as well as allow ourselves to act in the projects that we weren’t getting at the time.
How do you balance your work in front of the camera with your creative ambitions behind it?
I take it one step at a time and try to focus on the tasks that need immediate attention. I aim to clear the cache on whatever is being dealt with behind the scenes, and then when it comes down to acting in front of the camera, I put all my focus on that. Thankfully, with a strong support system in place at BDB Productions Inc., certain roles can be delegated throughout the company.
After Fear Street: Prom Queen and your upcoming film, It Comes in Waves, what’s next for you?
I have a minimal role in a new project coming out this year called Ripple. I enjoyed the storyline and the underlying message. I hope people get a chance to check it out. Aside from that, I host a health and wellness podcast titled Growing Through It, and I’m aiming to continue investing in it.
Any dream roles or genres you’re hoping to explore in the future?
I would love to star in an action-comedy movie. Two of my favorite genres have been combined to create an entertaining piece of work that people can enjoy and discuss.