Soap Hub recently caught up with Daytime Emmy winner and Days of our Lives star James Reynolds (Abe) for a quick chat during quarantine. From his dad moments to his jobs as a teenager to his first car, learn more about the fascinating actor!
James Reynolds Exclusive Interview
What have you learned about yourself these past few months at home?
That doing nothing is overrated. My natural tendency to procrastinate has to be curbed. I make that decision daily and then, actually, feel the gratification of accomplishment.
What’s the last gift that you bought for yourself?
I got a new iPad and a ring light. FaceTime and Zoom have pushed me into new equipment.
What’s your favorite way to spend time with the family?
We are table game players. Of course, it is just Lissa and me at our home. Our son is at his own home. We faceTime twice a week and occasionally meet in front of one home or the other (6 feet apart, with mask and gloves) for a visit.
What’s your proudest moment as a father?
Wow! So many proud moments. Jed received the top student award. He was on the 1st All-League team in basketball and football. So many other awards and honors, but I am most proud when I hear (unsolicited) about the many kindnesses he has done for people.
What’s the best part of being a dad?
It is 70% gratification, 5% annoying, 20% worry, and 5% What the F@#*.
What part of your son is most like you?
He loves sports. He enjoys reading. He likes being a gamer. We have a lot in common.
Best advice you ever received from your father?
Unfortunately, my father wasn’t in my life. So my best advice was not to be like him.
Best advice you’ve given your son?
Treat everyone with kindness.
What has your son taught you?
We all learn so much from our children. I love the value he puts on friendship and helping others.
What’s was your favorite tv show when you were a kid?
OK, showing my age: Gunsmoke.
What’s your favorite – pie, cake, or ice cream?
I love and make a wonderful apple cobbler. I’m not a cake person. Haagen Daz Vanilla Swiss Almond ice cream is a treat that I can’t get enough.
What jobs did you work as a teenager or before you were an actor?
Oh, man, I had so many jobs. As a kid I worked mainly on farms. I put up hay, dug ditches, fed livestock. My most interesting jobs were my days as a journalist.
What is your fondest memory at DAYS?
I have so many wonderful memories. It would be impossible to separate one fond memory from a lifetime of them. Of course we are still working and alive so memories are still being created.
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What is your favorite vacation spot?
It is a tie: Paris and Hawaii.
Is there any place you’ve always wanted to visit, but haven’t? Why?
I have been so lucky to visit so many countries around the world. Australia has eluded me so far and I would love to visit there.
What song do you hear and immediately think of one of your parents?
My mother loved the gospel song “His Eyes Are On The Sparrow.”
What’s the last song you’ve caught yourself singing in the shower?
“Impossible Dream.” I have no idea why.
What is the last good book you’ve read?
“The Splendid and the Vile” by Erik Larson. This is a beautifully crafted book about Churchhill’s first year as Britain’s Prime Minister. It is a tutorial on leadership.
What is your favorite sport?
Love me some basketball! Bad grammar, but pure love.
Who makes you laugh?
I like all kinds of humor. Sharp satire. Witty dialogue, and good intelligent writing in a play or movie. Chris Rock, Kate McKinnon, Leslie Jones are only a few of my favorite performers.
Which movie do you know from start to finish?
“Miracle on 34th Street”
What job could you never ever do?
Executioner!
What was your first car?
An old mid-50’s Chevy Bel Air. It had no key and was stolen about every 2 months.
What cartoon character do you never get tired of?
“The Roadrunner.” Wiley Coyote will win at some point.
What’s your favorite summer activity?
We love our summer trips. Road trips, flying, cruising. It is all fun for us.
If you were a pro athlete instead of an actor, what sport would it be?
Basketball would be the sport.
Who is the most famous person you’ve met?
I don’t know how to answer this. I feel fortunate to have met a number of famous people. I am going to say, Maya Angelou. I am still overwhelmed that I was invited by her to lunch at her home. She is among that rare breed of people whose whole persona is intriguing. Her presence was awe-inspiring.
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