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A Chat with Jacob Batalon

Paradigm Talent Agency
Paradigm Talent Agency

One of the most anticipated films of the summer is premiering today, and one of its stars is from Hawaii.

Tony Pablo
Credit Tony Pablo
In November 2016, Jacob met with students in the performing arts class at Damien Memorial School.

Damien graduate Jacob Batalon stars as Ned Leeds in the latest Marvel superhero movie Spider Man: Homecoming.

Batalon says the last two years have been a whirlwind: moving to New York, going to school, starring in a major motion picture, and now wrapping up a press tour.

Originally, Jacob wanted to be a musician. But after getting noticed at a talent showcase, his future manager saw he had what it took to be an actor.

The last time he was home was last November, when he spent time talking to students at his alma mater and attending a play at St. Andrew’s Priory.

He says it’s important to give back.

Pat Bigold
Credit Pat Bigold
Jacob with the all-girl cast of St. Andrew's Priory's production of "Antigone Now" at the Tenney Theater in November

But like any local boy away from home, there are things about Hawaii that he misses.

jake2_070717.mp3

Batalon recently finished shooting another film alongside Tim Blake Nelson, and is set to reprise his role in the Spider Man sequel.

Casey Harlow was an HPR reporter and occasionally filled in as local host of Morning Edition and All Things Considered.
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