Professional wrestling depends on larger-than-life spectacle and the conventional wisdom has always been to have a big body or, at least, a big personality. In the cast of Heels, debuting on Starz August 15th, cast members, Allen Maldonado (The Last O.G.) and former Pittsburgh Steeler, James Harrison, would feel right at home. Get the two of them together and they sure seem to have had a lot of fun together during filming.
As Apocalypse, a jaded journeyman wrestler, Harrison brings the same physical presence that made him one of the NFL’s most feared hitters. Allen Maldonado plays the effervescently outspoken Rooster Robbins, possibly the fictional Duffy Wrestling League’s most talented performer. Each of them has their own fights outside the ring: Apocalypse is a recovering alcoholic and Rooster is juggling multiple jobs while itching to get into the main event.
In a rambunctious roundtable interview, the irreverent Allen and James show gave us insight into this:
-The advantage of having a fitness base before production started.
-Allen’s hopes for Rooster’s career.
-What dogs their characters might own (Allen’s French Bulldog made an appearance).
-Apocalypse’s role as a mentor within DWL.
-Why “Pony” by Ginuwine is great choice for karaoke.
-Whether we’ll see more of their characters’ “real life” as the series progresses.
-How Allen sees James as much more “fun and goofy” than his character is (but don’t tell anyone!).
-Who James’ favorite ’80s wrestlers were.
-Allen’s in-scene tribute to “The Heartbreak Kid” Shawn Michaels.
-Who plays Luther Vandross for their 5AM workout.
-… and more in-jokes than an Al Snow promo!
