IN CONVERSATION WITH ZAC BURGESS

interview by JANA LETONJA

Actor Zac Burgess can be seen in Amazon Prime’s ‘Cruel Intentions’, a modern take on the 1999 cult-classic film, which premiered on 21st November. Previously, Zac was seen starring Netflix’s series ‘Boy Swallows Universe’, Stan Network Australia and AMC+’s ‘Totally, Completely Fine’, and short films ‘Call’ and ‘Flightless Boy’.

trousers and shirt JORDAN LUCA
hat PS KAUFMAN
ring METAL NOIR

We’re able to watch you as Lucien Belmont in the highly anticipated series ‘Cruel Intentions’. What can you tell us about your character, and what attracted you to this role?

Lucien is a free spirit, fun, confident, sexy, and completely unpredictable. He thrives on chaos and lives unapologetically, which makes him such an exciting character to play. When I saw the audition, I fell for him instantly. He’s so different from anything I’ve done before, and I loved the idea of exploring someone so magnetic and layered.

jeans, shirt, and jacket TANNER FLETCHER
rings METAL NOIR
boots PS KAUFMAN
glasses Stylist’s own

‘Cruel Intentions’ is a modern take on the classic 90s film and novel. Did you feel any pressure taking on a role in a series with such a legacy, and how did you prepare for it?

Of course, there’s some pressure when you’re stepping into something with such a strong legacy. The original film has a huge following, so I wanted to honor that while also doing something fresh. I actually avoided watching the movie so I wouldn’t subconsciously mimic anything. Instead, I focused on creating my own version of Lucien for this adaptation. I’m really lucky to have worked with such an incredible team who supported and trusted me to bring him to life.

top and trousers DOLCE&GABBANA
hat VINTAGE STETSON
ring and bracelet METAL NOIR
boots DSQUARED2
necklaces Stylist’s own

The story revolves around high-stakes social dynamics and manipulation. How did you approach portraying such a morally complex character, and what challenged you most about playing Lucien?

I started by breaking down the script to understand the power dynamics in Lucien’s interactions, where he’s in control, where he’s vulnerable, and what’s driving him. Then, I had some great conversations with the showrunners about his backstory, which helped me get a deeper sense of what makes him tick. On the surface, Lucien is vibrant and confident, but underneath, he’s shaped by love and trauma. Balancing his charm with his darker sides was probably the biggest challenge, but also the most rewarding part of playing him.

trousers and shirt TANNER FLETCHER
hat NICK FOUQUET
boots DSQUARED2
rings METAL NOIR
necklaces Stylist’s own
harley davidson courtesy of DIDI ERDYNAST

Your characters, like Lucien in ‘Cruel Intentions’ and John in ‘Totally, Completely Fine’, offer both complexity and relatability. How do you find depth in each role you take on?

I try to stay present and let the moments speak for themselves. A lot of it comes from working with amazing, talented castmates who bring so much to each scene. I also love finding the little contradictions in a character, the moments where their vulnerability breaks through their strength. That’s where you find the humanity, and it’s what makes every role feel special.

Are there any personal experiences or techniques you draw on to help you connect with the characters you play?

I definitely pull from my own experiences and personality. It’s like building a mosaic. Different parts of me come into play depending on the character. With someone like Lucien, I thought about times when I’ve felt confident or reckless, or even uncertain. At the same time, I try to let the character surprise me. It’s a bit of a two-way street. They teach me as much as I bring to them.

trousers, shirt, tie, and jacket SAINT LAURENT
hat VINTAGE STETSON

You graduated from the prestigious Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA) with a Diploma of Acting. How did your time there shape you as an actor?

The training was great, but honestly, I learned just as much about myself as I did about acting. It forced me to face my own insecurities and helped me find the freedom to express myself. That confidence, both as an actor and a person, has been invaluable. It also taught me the discipline and respect you need to approach this craft, which has shaped everything I do.

Out of all the roles you’ve played so far, which one left the most lasting impact on you, and why?

Eli Bell in ‘Boy Swallows Universe’, for sure. That character’s journey is so raw and emotional, it really pushed me in ways I hadn’t experienced before. Playing Eli made me reflect on my own life and relationships, and it gave me a deeper appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit. It’s one of those roles that stays with you long after you’ve finished.

trousers, top, and jacket FENDI
boots PS KAUFMAN
rings and bracelet METAL NOIR

The entertainment industry can be competitive and intense. How do you stay motivated and grounded as you navigate your career?

I’m lucky to have amazing friends and family who keep me grounded. Growing up on a farm in Australia taught me the value of hard work and gave me a deep appreciation for simplicity. When things feel overwhelming, I find a lot of peace in manual labor. Working with my hands is like a reset button. Living in Australia is also such a gift, it’s a place that naturally slows you down and keeps you connected to what really matters.

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jeans and shirt MOSCHINO
rings and bracelet METAL NOIR
necklaces Stylist’s own

right
shirt and jean TANNER FLETCHER
rings METAL NOIR

As a young actor on the rise, what are some of your long-term goals within the industry? Are there any specific genres or characters you’re excited to explore?

I’d love to do a western someday, it’s a genre that’s always fascinated me. Combining my love for the countryside with action and storytelling sounds like a dream. I’m also really drawn to roles that push me out of my comfort zone, ones that challenge how I think and help me grow. Exploring genres like psychological thrillers or even deep comedies would be exciting too. For me, it’s all about continuing to learn and evolve with every role.

jacket and jeans DOLCE&GABBANA
boots DSQUARED2
rings and bracelet METAL NOIR
glasses Stylist’s own
harley davidson courtesy of DIDI ERDYNAST

TEAM CREDITS:
talent ZAC BURGESS
photography ELLEN VON UNWERTH
styling & creative direction MIKE ADLER
grooming SUSSY CAMPOS
production FILIPINE GUYONNAUD
post production manager ANDREW DAY
1st photography assistant TODD WEAVER
2nd photography assistant IAN CUSH
styling assistant YEHOR TKACHENKO
location THE BAXTER HOLLYWOOD
editor TIMI LETONJA
interview JANA LETONJA
cover design ARTHUR ROELOFFZEN

special thanks to DAVID SHERIDAN, TORI KOB, ELIZABETH EICHER, DIDI ERDYNAST, INDIA HAYLEE BARTON & LE ORIENTAL BISTRO CHINESE RESTAURANT HOLLYWOOD