By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
A familiar face will be gracing television screens next Monday as Rock Anthony joins the cast of “Kickin’ It,” a Disney series about a ragtag crew of loveable misfits who become friends at the Bobby Wasabi Martial Arts Academy.
This marks the third season for the program which first aired in 2011. Anthony plays a Scottish character in the episode entitled “Meet the McKrupnicks.”
Anthony, formerly of Presque Isle, has relatives in southern Aroostook County. He said he’s enjoying acting and the opportunities it presents him. He was thrilled to join the Disney cast.
“Things have been exciting lately. As far as I know the episode will be airing on April 29. I’ll be guest starring as a character named Angus McCrary,” said Anthony. Check local listings for an exact time.
“‘Kickin’ It’ is a fun show that airs on Disney XD. The show centers around a group of friends who hang out and train at a dojo. In this particular episode, the kids take a trip to Scotland to attend one of the main character’s — Milton’s — family reunion. Milton Krupnick (played by Dylan Riley Snyder) accidentally reignites an old family feud between the clans (McKrupnicks and McCrarys),” continued Anthony.
Anthony said his character is unwillingly thrust into the feud.
“My character, Angus — the toughest of the clan — gets pulled into the competition between the families and pitted against Milton in multiple events but doesn’t really want to be feuding,” said Anthony, noting, with a chuckle, “for once I play a nice guy!”
One of Anthony’s most recent roles, a recurring part on Fox’s “Glee,” had him playing Rick “The Stick” Nelson, a bullying hockey player who tormented the main characters on several occasions last season.
For Anthony, acting is more than a job.
“It was so much fun to film. The kids on the show are great to work with and all are extremely talented,” he said.
Anthony completed the independent film “Walbob’s” last year, in which he was cast in the lead as Anferny Fertado, a young man who blew his chance to play college football by failing the SAT’s. Fertado joins an underground football league at the drug store of his summer job, Walbob’s, in an effort to win a girl’s heart. But multiple obstacles, including the societal pressures of middle class Cincinnati, stand in his way. The movie was directed by Anthony Cook.
He completed his latest movie project in January.
“Production wrapped in January. I have a lead role in the feature film tentatively titled ‘Feels So Good,’ directed by Josh Stolberg. Also starring in the movie are Matt Shively, Brendan Robinson, Hutch Dano, Jamie Kennedy and Stephen Root,” said Anthony.
Anthony said “Feels So Good” is due out later this year.
“It’s a great cast. They’re all amazing actors. It’s a comedy and should be out later this year,” said Anthony, noting he’ll share more details later.
Though he resides in California, Anthony — who attended Presque Isle High School — said he holds a place in his heart for family and friends back home in Maine.
“The support from all my Maine friends and family and fans has been amazing. I really appreciate you all,” said Anthony.
