Canadian actor Chris McNally has learned how important it is to stay grounded while navigating the unpredictable world of acting.
Known for playing Lucas Bouchard on Hallmark’s popular series When Calls the Heart, McNally joined the show in its sixth season alongside Erin Krakow. The season six premiere, which aired in February, became the most-watched scripted cable telecast at the time.
McNally has also appeared in Hallmark’s A Winter Princess, starring opposite Natalie Hall. He later took on a role in Lifetime’s Heaven, the first film in a series based on V.C. Andrews’ Casteel family novels, which explore the complicated relationships within the family.
The Role That Helped Change His Career
Jamie Agoglia: You’ve been part of some well-known television projects. Was there one show that made a particularly big difference to your career? You’ve mentioned that Altered Carbon was an important turning point for you.
Chris McNally: Altered Carbon really changed things for me. When Calls the Heart was the first series where I became a regular, and I don’t think that opportunity would have happened without Altered Carbon.
Joining an Established Hallmark Favourite
What was it like stepping into When Calls the Heart, especially since the cast had already worked together for several years?
I was pretty nervous at first because the cast had already been together for five years. But everyone was incredibly welcoming and friendly. I felt comfortable there very quickly.
Staying Steady Through the Ups and Downs
You’ve experienced both exciting moments and difficult periods while building your career. What have those experiences taught you?
I’ve learned to keep my head up when work isn’t going well and to try to stay level. There are so many highs and lows in this industry. It’s a real rollercoaster.
You can’t let yourself get too discouraged. I try to stay evened out. Being prepared helps too. When you walk into an audition knowing you’ve done everything you can, it takes some of the pressure away. Then you can leave it behind and accept it if you don’t get the part.
The Advice That Made Him Work Harder
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given during your career?
One of my coaches once told me that it’s harder to make the Olympics than it is to become a professional actor. There are so few people who actually make it as professional actors, and hearing that made me want to work even harder.
It encouraged me to put everything I had into acting.
Why Acting Means So Much to Him
What does being an actor and entertainer mean to you personally?
It means I’ve achieved something I’ve wanted since I was a kid. I’ve always wanted to work in this industry and become an actor.
I love getting lost in stories, playing different characters and knowing that people are enjoying the projects I’m involved in. It feels like a personal achievement. I also genuinely love what I do, so I’m very happy with where I am in life.
The Career He Might Have Chosen Instead
If acting hadn’t worked out, what do you think you’d be doing?
Probably interior design or decorating. I’ve always loved it, and my parents were involved in that world, so I grew up around it.
What His Life Looks Like Away From Work
What does a typical day look like for you?
I’m completely different when I’m working compared with when I’m not working. [Laughs] If I’m filming or preparing for a project, it takes over everything. I disappear into a black hole. The transformation and preparation can take up a lot of my time.
When I’m not working, I enjoy sleeping in. I like wine and beer, going camping and exploring whenever I can. I also enjoy travelling.
I moved to Los Angeles last year, so I’ve been spending time exploring the city and the surrounding areas.
The Actor He’d Love to Meet on Set
Is there an actor or director you’ve always wanted to work with?
I’ve always taken a lot of inspiration from Sean Penn. I’d probably be incredibly intimidated, but working with him would be a dream.
The Music He Keeps Coming Back To
What have you been listening to lately?
I’ve been listening to a lot of Greta Van Fleet recently. They’re really good. Age of Man and Watching Over are a couple of the songs I’ve been playing.
When I get into a band, I tend to listen to almost nothing else for weeks or even months. Then eventually I’ll move on to something completely different.
What’s Waiting on His Reading List?
What’s currently sitting on your bedside table? Are you reading anything at the moment?
I don’t actually have a nightstand yet. [Laughs] I’m still furnishing my apartment.
If I did, it would probably have my watch, my phone and a lamp on it. Never Cry Wolf by Farley Mowat is next on my reading list, though.
Discovering His Favourite Side of LA
Which part of Los Angeles have you enjoyed most since moving there?
The Arts District is probably my favourite part of the city at the moment. There are breweries and restaurants within walking distance, and the whole area has such a lively feel.
It’s clean and creative, and it feels surprisingly fresh despite being downtown. There are beautiful murals and artwork everywhere, which gives the neighbourhood a really distinctive character.
