GET TO KNOW: Michael Johnston

Fresh-faced, but seasoned actor Michael Johnston anchors recent indie horror hit Obsession as friendzoned beta Bear, whose unrequited crush on dream girl Nikki spirals into a full-blown nightmare. The film dissects themes of entitlement and consent, and seeks to dismantle the nice guy trope, with Johnston delivering a performance that is vulnerable, unsettling and emotionally sharp in all the right places. He is certainly one to watch. Astrophe gets to know this rising star as he shares his comfort meal, most prized possession and current obsession – read more below:

What is your favorite conspiracy theory?
Those pre-AI UFO videos all over the internet. Some of them look so real. I'm a believer—I saw a UFO in North Hollywood!

What is your go-to karaoke song?
‘Fly Me to the Moon’ by Frank Sinatra.

Who are you booking for a dream festival line-up?
Dolly Parton, Adele, Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, and Michael Jackson. If Stevie were feeling sick, I'd ask Ray Charles to step in.

What is your favorite compliment you've ever received?
"I love your furniture/decor!"

What is the last thing you Googled?
"Does my dog think sneezing is painful for me?"

What’s your favorite “third space”?
The gym. There's a specific kind of focus there that I can't find anywhere else.

What is your prized possession?
My original 'One Wish Willow' that I broke in Obsession!

What’s the worst piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Two separate acting teachers advised me not to pursue acting and to try something easier.

What’s your go to comfort meal?
A baked sweet potato with scrambled eggs and asparagus.

What’s your current obsession?
Shopping for produce only at farmers' markets.

What are 7 things you find heavenly?

1. A made bed

2. A fresh haircut

3. A clean kitchen

4. A sharp knife

5. A pause

6. Solid wood furniture

7. An iced latte with home-made cashew/almond milk

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Obsession in theatres now.