Ernie Hudson is one of the most prolific character actors going today. Of course, we all know him as Winston Zeddemore in Ghostbusters. It’s an iconic role that’s beloved by filmgoers everywhere. But once he put down the proton pack Hudson went on to become an integral parts of such in films and television series like: The Hand That Rocks the Cradle, Congo, The Crow, Oz, Miss Congenialty, and Desperate Housewives.
Pop Break’s Rob Crowther IV and The Bob Culture Podcast’s Kriss Nunez spoke with Hudson at New Jersey Horror Con in Atlantic City about being at cons, horror movies, and breaking into the acting business.
RC: We’ve met you a few times at these conventions. You’ve always been great to my friends and I. Sometimes you’re even wearing the jumpsuit (Ghostbusters) and you’re always going the extra mile for the fans. What’s it like for you interacting with these fans today?
You know, I love it. This is an opportunity that’s created. This a place to meet people, hear their stories, meet their kids, and take photos. You can’t do this in every day life.
KN: By the way, you are in fantastic shape!
Oh, well thank you! I’m not working out or anything. You have to be kind to yourself.
KN: We’re here at The NJ Horror Con. Do You have any favorite Horror Movies?
Well, ya know I don’t really watch a lot of Horror Movies. I’d rather bust them than watch them. So I’ll just leave it at that.
RC: You look at your IMDB page and you have been constantly working … what a resume. Your characters have held titles such as FBI Director, commander, Warden, and even doctor. Do you like playing some of these more serious roles or do you like playing more comedic roles?
I just prefer to work. I like when things change up a bit. I think I’d have a hard time doing the same thing all the time. You know in Congo, he’s the leader of a safari. In the Hand That Rocks the Cradle, he’s a mentally disabled guy. I’m doing a show called Grace & Frankie where the guy is a potato farmer. I like change. That’s the fun in what I do.
RC: What advice would you have for anyone trying to get into the business?
I think we all have an inner guide, some people call it the Holy Spirit, some people call it other things. I think it’s there to guide you, and I think people should just trust that. You know deep inside what you need to do. Most people are really afraid to step out and do that. There’s another voice inside of you and that’s fear. It’s screaming at you all the time. Most people pay more attention to that.
You just need to quiet your mind, meditate, pray or whatever. Just do what in your heart what you need to do and it will guide you perfectly. The universe won’t let you down.
Photos Property of NJ Horror Con
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GY8lIFhweV4
