Miles Heizer, the actor known for his roles in \"Parenthood\" and \"13 Reasons Why,\" recently sat down to discuss his experience starring in the Netflix series \"Boots.\" This 1990s-set drama explores the journey of a young gay man enlisting in the Marines before the military lifted its ban on homosexuality. Heizer highlights the surprising similarities between himself and his character, Cameron Cope, an initially adrift teenager seeking purpose. Despite their shared demeanor and inherent kindness, Heizer notes a key difference: Cope's anxious energy versus his own tendency to withdraw under stress. The series, which premiered on October 9th, gained unexpected notoriety after being labeled \"woke garbage\" by the Pentagon, sparking a broader cultural discussion.
Heizer's portrayal of Cameron Cope allowed him to tap into personal experiences, as much of the character's journey mirrored aspects of his own life. The actor, who relocated from Kentucky to Los Angeles as a child, found it relatively easy to connect with the role's emotional core. Heizer's commitment to the show is evident, not only in his performance but also in his unique approach to memorabilia; he candidly admits to having kept every costume worn by his character, from fatigues to pajamas.
The actor also shared his deep connection to the series' themes of self-discovery and human connection. He found it particularly rewarding to hear from both LGBTQ+ individuals and military personnel who resonated with the show's narrative, affirming its authenticity and impact. Heizer emphasized that \"Boots\" transcends a singular \"gay story\" to explore universal themes of overcoming fear, challenging preconceptions, and fostering understanding among diverse groups of people. This message became particularly poignant following the Pentagon's critical remarks, which, ironically, amplified the show's reach and ignited a significant public dialogue.
Reflecting on the intense filming conditions in New Orleans, Heizer recalled the oppressive summer heat and humidity as a visceral memory that forged a strong bond among the cast. These challenging circumstances, coupled with the rigorous nature of portraying Marine boot camp, underscored the production's commitment to realism. Heizer revealed his personal style preferences, showcasing a strong affinity for vintage clothing found on platforms like Depop. He gravitates towards late '90s and early 2000s baggy silhouettes, citing brands like Paco Jeans, Mac Gear, Quiksilver, Billabong, and even early Old Navy finds as staples. He also highlighted his passion for collecting pieces from the now-defunct Oakley Software line, noting their unexpected stylistic parallels with contemporary high fashion.
Beyond his acting career, Heizer has embraced ceramics as a dedicated hobby, spending countless hours on the craft. His artistic pursuits reflect a broader appreciation for self-expression, which he views as fundamentally linked to personal style. As for the future of \"Boots,\" Heizer remains hopeful for a second season, eagerly awaiting the opportunity to continue Cameron's story, particularly after the provocative cliffhanger hinting at the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait. He expresses a strong desire to see the narrative progress, underscoring the cast's collective enthusiasm for further exploring the series' impactful themes.
The enthusiastic reception from diverse audiences, coupled with the unexpected controversy, transformed \"Boots\" into a significant cultural touchstone. Heizer expressed immense pride in the show, noting that its ability to resonate with viewers from various backgrounds far exceeded his initial expectations. The series’ exploration of identity, belonging, and the challenges of societal acceptance has cemented its place as a compelling and relevant piece of storytelling in contemporary media.