‘Supernatural’ Guest Star Ty Olsson Talks Benny & SPN Fandom

There’s a new monster in town on Supernatural and I know we’re all waiting on pins and needles to learn more about him. Though we won’t see Ty Olsson’s Benny in tonight’s all new episode, we’ll be getting lots of him in next week’s “Blood Brother.” He recently took some time out of his busy schedule to answer some questions for me and his responses are just too awesome to keep to myself for a whole week (very minimal spoilers below). Be sure to follow Ty on Twitter and don’t miss all new episodes of Supernatural, Wednesdays at 9:00 PM EST.

You have appeared on Supernatural once before. Can you tell me about coming back to the show as a new character and how that happened?

This is something that happens fairly frequently, particularly in shows that run a long time like Supernatural. In True Justice with Steven Seagal I played 2 characters in back to back seasons. I’m fortunate to have the ability to change my look easily and as well to have a range to allow this. Coming back to Supernatural was interesting because many of the crew had been with the show for many [years] ,so it was great having that moment of saying ” OH that’s where you’ve been. ” Other than being vampires, Benny and Eli really aren’t very similar. But they do look a little alike, don’t you think? 😉

What is your favorite thing about playing Benny? Your least favorite thing?

I love the storylines they’re giving Benny. He’s a complex character that struggles with the reality of what he is. A bloodthirsty vampire…Unlike a typical bloodsucker though his conscience and soul leave him in constant turmoil. Keeping his hunger at bay and searching for a place to fit in leaves him lost between the human world and his predatory one. I think in many ways Benny is still in Purgatory.

There really isn’t a down side to playing Benny, I do what I love for a living and have been given the chance to play this amazingly well written, complex character. What’s not to love? If I had to pick something it be that he seems to spend a lotta time dirty..hahaha.

Is there anything you have not yet been given the opportunity to do as Benny that you would love to do?

An on camera, epic bloodbath, fight scene … a beautiful and violent ballet of death with the song “Benny and the Jets,” playing in the background..

The Supernatural fandom is very passionate and protective of their show. What has your fandom experience been like so far?

Love the fans, little kooky (like me), very passionate and they make me laugh out loud every day. Been really enjoying being able to connect with them over twitter. We have a little unofficial contest going …who gets more blushes…I’m destroying them !!  It’s all in good fun and I’m grateful that so many people are enjoying my work as Benny.  Not only that but I seem to have my own little internet IT team!! They have all been so helpful!!

You’ve recently been announced as a guest for the Vancouver Supernatural Convention. Is there anything specific you are looking forward to? Anything you are secretly fearing?

I’m SOOO excited about getting the opportunity to do some conventions in 2013. What a great opportunity for me to travel, meet fans, and maybe squeeze a little R and R in ..I guess if I had a fear … losing a little bit of my anonymity. I’ve been fortunate to work a lot over the years,  but I’ve never really had to worry that if i do something dumb (my only other talent) everyone is gonna know about it . I’ve already promised some fans a drunken karaoke night out … .Sigh* I guess it’s inevitable.

Other than Supernatural, of course, is there a show on television you are really excited about watching?

I don’t have time to watch much TV to be honest…but I have recently started watching The Walking Dead and am enjoying the first season quite a lot ..

Anything you are embarrassed to admit you watch regularly?

I have two young girls so when they are with me the TV is perpetually on kids channels…and I will confess some of them get me watching …I actually thought Hannah Montana was a pretty damn good show hahaha…Nooooo I never turned it on myself … but I’d watch and yes was curious how the series was gonna end ..I’ve seen ALL the kids and teeny shows out there …Witches of Waverly Place is pretty well done too…and the Suite Life ..ok…..I’m gonna stop now .

What is the most important thing the Supernatural fans should know about you?

The most important thing fans should know about me? I wear boxers. Not briefs. And no, I will not smell Jared, Jensen or Misha for you. Although I’m sure they do smell amazing as you say.

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Don’t miss my weekly Supernatural Recaps at TheTelevixen.com. 

photo courtesy of CWTV.com