Jake Weary Describes What Sets Kevin Williamson’s The Waterfront Apart
While previewing Netflix’s The Waterfront, Jake Weary shared insights on how the show stacks up against Kevin Williamson‘s previous successes.
“Kevin excels at crafting diverse worlds across his projects. From The Vampire Diaries to Dawson’s Creek, he seamlessly navigates the horror genre and adapts with ease,” Weary, 35, told Us Weekly about his experience in the Williamson TV universe. “That’s what sets him apart as a creator. So, I must say, The Waterfront was nothing like I anticipated.”
Weary felt “lucky” to collaborate with Williamson at just the right moment.
“As a kid, I had caught a few episodes of Dawson’s Creek. My sister was a huge fan and often mentioned how I resembled Joshua Jackson from the series. So I watched a bit of that show, and I had worked with Zach Roerig — who appeared in The Vampire Diaries — on a soap opera. When he joined The Vampire Diaries, that connected me to that series,” he recounted. “I was actually filming a movie in Vancouver while they were shooting the pilot for The Vampire Diaries. We all got together, and I believe Twilight and Percy Jackson were also filming around the same time. It was exciting to see all those worlds collide.”
Years later, Weary has stepped into the lead role in Williamson’s new Netflix series The Waterfront. Based on Williamson’s life, the show introduces Us to a dysfunctional family struggling to keep their failing North Carolina fishing business afloat by resorting to drug smuggling.
“Reading the pilot episode reveals a complex cast of characters thrust into uncomfortable situations. That tension is captivating, especially in a drama,” Weary told Us. “What truly stood out to me was the humor; there are moments of levity that made me laugh out loud. That aspect is likely what will draw viewers back.”
Weary was excited to explore a fresh direction after becoming known for more intense roles, including Deran Cody in Animal Kingdom.
“Kevin encouraged me to be more expressive and charming. That was a shift for me. After portraying a brooding character for six years, Cane is very open and emotionally transparent,” he joked about his character. “It was refreshing to dive into that mindset and try something different.”
When viewers first encounter Cane, he isn’t really suited for a life of crime. Weary found this aspect particularly appealing about the role.
“There’s something intriguing about his character and appearance. These characters come from privilege and are accustomed to getting their way. The drama unfolds when their plans unravel,” he explained. “What makes Cane fascinating is his expectation of getting what he wants. When everything falls apart, he reverts to a childlike state.”
Weary added: “That unpredictability is what makes this character compelling. He desperately clings to a life he perhaps never intended to lead. It’s quite complex.”
The Waterfront is currently available for streaming on Netflix.
