Interview2 - Adam Rodriguez Connection

On Sunday, March 13th, Adam Rodriguez will be making CSI Miami history by being the first cast member to write, direct and star in a single episode. Here Adam speaks exclusively about the inspiration behind his writing and directorial debut.

On set with David Caruso © CBS

On set with actor Oscar Torre

ARC: You based "Hunting Ground" around Richard Connell's The Most Dangerous Game; what was it about that particular novel that gave you your inspiration?

Adam: That story always stuck with me because of how much it scared me. To kill for sport. The thrill. Human or animal. It's the lowest possible human desire. And yet, there are people out there willing to do it. Because of how appalling, it makes for a good story. Knowing that it's based on MDG, I included another element of humanity at its lowest, human trafficking. And yet through all of this horror, the thing that prevails in the end is man's inherent good nature. His desire to help instead of hurt. His quest for better from life and fellow man.

ARC: You revealed last year that you would write and direct "at least one episode" this season. How did the decision come about that you would also direct your written episode? Or was that the plan all along?

Adam: Definitely was my plan but because I hadn't done either one before, the studio was hesitant. In the end, they decided to take a chance and let me do both together.

ARC: Would you say this is your true vision of an episode or is there more of the story to tell?

Adam: Working within the dynamics that have defined CSI: Miami over the years, this is as close as I could hope to get to being a true rep of my vision. Of course there are limits. I would love to be able to push further but the show would have to be a cable show or a movie without S&P restrictions.

ARC: Did you make any preparations when the time came for you to start writing?

Adam: Prep for writing was mostly about taking my story idea and collaborating with other writers to further develop. We create an outline of scenes and I go write. Prep for writing also included research on bow hunting, human trafficking and other aspects of the story that needed to be studied in order to be accurate.

ARC: As you've been a part of the show since the beginning you know the characters inside out, so when it was time to write a scene... for example Horatio; how did you find it getting his individual character traits dead on?

Adam: You def know the characters and I found it easy to bring their distinct voices to life on the page. Especially H!

ARC: How supportive were your cast mates?
Adam: Cast was extremely supportive! The best! Ready to work hard and do a great job! Really had a great time working in that capacity together. Can't wait to do it again! I will definitely be doing another episode of writing and directing next season.

ARC: Now that you've been in the writer and director shoes, has this given your career a new lease of life? A professional boost?
Adam: Definitely learned a lot and taking on both tasks has made me a better actor with new perspective. As for what it will lead to, I don’t know but i look forward to it!

ARC: Sunday, March 13th... your episode due to air at 10... what are your plans?
Adam: Going to watch the show at Rex's new house with some cast, crew and friends. He's going to make some special Texas BBQ!

So, Let's clear some things up...

ARC: After 8 seasons, Miami was moved to Sunday nights on CBS and the show has had a pretty big hit ratings wise, but despite the interruptions from NFL, etc they've still remained fairly steady for Sunday night viewing. Are the cast happy with the move?

- Adam: The move was disappointing at first but we kicked ass on Sunday and CBS is delighted with how strong we've performed. Solidified our place for the future! The cast is really grateful to the fans who followed us to Sunday nights. Happy we'll be able to continue making the show for a few more years! Thanks!

ARC: In the second episode of the season, Calleigh said she loves Delko like "family". For fans that are either for or against the couple, that comment came pretty out of the blue. You stated that you would like the E/C story to find a conclusion whether it be a happy or unhappy ending; what direction would you personally like to see this storyline go in?

Adam: My take on E/C scene is that due to Emily having a little one on the way we wouldn’t be able to explore that storyline fully and so we needed to put it on ice for a while but they wanted to leave it open ended so we can revisit at some point. That's my guess. Personally I want to see E/C get a chance to fully explore the ups and downs of being in a relationship with a friend and coworker an while doing a job where your life is in danger.

ARC: In "Stoned Cold", Ryan revealed to Delko that he was bullied in school. Some have said that Delko's reaction was... and to use a better term, quite cold. Did Delko leave the telescope in Ryan's locker?

Adam: Was definitely Delko who left the telescope in Ryan's locker. He left it because he was probably bullied also at some point and could relate to Ryan but couldn’t admit it.

ARC: 2011 marks your 14+ years in film and television and during those years you've had a fantastic career. What's it like when looking back at those years? The highs, the lows?

Adam: Last 14 years have been incredible! Always working toward the next level so I never take too much time to look back. Whenever I do, I do smile. When looking back, the highs and lows are all beautiful and I know they were everything it took to get me to here and now. Love the journey.

ARC: What's next for Adam Rodriguez?
Adam: Not sure what's next for me but I look forward to finding out. Work hard, work smart and show up for life everyday. Ready to receive.

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