MATT BARR [BLOOD AND TREASURE] — A BOOK OF MAGAZINE

Action Adventure treasure-hunt series BLOOD AND TREASURE lead MATT BARR is no stranger to acting. Matt’s burning passion for acting landed him numerous roles in film and TV for a while now. He currently plays the character of Danny McNamara, a former FBI agent who now works as a lawyer specializing in repatriating stolen art.

In this exclusive interview, discover how the actor’s dream to be a part of a treasure hunt series came into fruition, see what he normally does aside from acting, and learn why acting with passion, class and integrity is integral to anyone’s success.

What’s your story in a nutshell? Who is Matt Barr?

Out of the womb, I wanted to be an actor. I grew up obsessed with the magic of the movies. That 9 year old is still very much alive in me. I love storytelling and going on a journey. And when you add spectacle, powerful performances, a killer soundtrack .. there is nothing like the cinematic experience. You could say I’m an audience member first, actor second.

Tell us about your new show, Blood and Treasure and what the audience can expect to see this season.

Blood and Treasure is a true action adventure treasure hunt series. Its DNA is very much Indiana Jones, part Romancing the Stone, part The Mummy, and little bit Mission Impossible. It has all those elements you would expect from a globetrotting adventure series. Exotic locations, mystery, a fun love/hate relationship with the two leads, interesting characters and villains, and of course live King Cobras. It’s a ride!

STYLING: GABRIEL LANGEBRUNNER, GROOMER: KIKI HEITKOTTER, PHOTO ASSISTANT: PHIL LIMPRASERTWONG wearing Blazer: TOPMAN, Shirt: ALLSAINTS, Pants: STRONG SUIT CLOTHING, Shoes: ALDO

What can you tell us about your character, Danny McNamara? Are you guys anything alike?

I always found Danny to be unique kind of hero. He has devoted his life to the preservation of art and culture, because art and culture are a civilization’s identity. The real value is never the treasure, it’s the story behind the treasure. I like to think my heart is in the right place like Danny - someone who fights for what they believe in. He’s much smarter than me!

Hone your talent so that you own your confidence in what you’re doing. I think the X factor is hustle.

What’s been the most exciting/memorable experience that you’ve had filming the show?

Traveling the world with our Blood & Treasure team was a dream. We got to experience all these different cultures, food, landmarks, and we got to share that experience with each other. Something I will never forget. And Sofia Pernas is a dream partner, we danced well together.

LEFT: Jacket: NEW YORK AND CO, Shirt: THE KOOPLES, Pants: ALLSAINTS RIGHT: Suit: THE KOOPLES, Shirt: CALVIN KLEIN

As an actor, what type of roles and genres do you normally gravitate towards?

This exact show. I have always been a fan of action adventure stories. Especially ones with an element of comedy to them. Some of my favorite film growing up, Indiana Jones, The Rock, Die Hard, to name a few, they had a great balance of action and comedy. I also like period pieces. They’re transportive. Braveheart, Legends of the Fall, and Last of the Mohicans were very impressionable for me.

Out of all the roles that you’ve played since you started acting, which one has resonated with you the most?

Since I got into the business, I have wanted to make a treasure hunter series. Been chasing it for years. So this is one is pretty special. To be on set where your dreams have aligned with your reality is a humbling experience.

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What’s your dream role or project?

This is one! I also grew up with a dream of working with my hero Kevin Costner. Always wanted to make a western with him. And several years ago we did, Hatfields and McCoys. I’m so proud of that project, and I can’t tell you how much I learned from Kevin. About being an actor, a filmmaker, a storyteller, a professional, and a man. And how to do it all with passion, class, and integrity. He’s a true master! The best.

Blazer: EFM MENSWEAR, Shirt: CALVIN KLEIN, Pants: THE KOOPLES

What advice can you give to all of the aspiring actors reading this?

Be specific with exactly what you want out of this craft/business, hone in on that, put it in the center of the bullseye, and fucking GO FOR IT. Stay the course. Be relentless, be bold, fight through the fear, and go get it. Hone your talent so that you own your confidence in what you’re doing. I think the X factor is hustle. I have found out that those who really hustle, get the wins. And all that being said just let your passion drive you. It’s ‘fun' that way. Passion is king.

Aside from acting, what do you normally enjoy doing in your free time?

I love getting outside in the sunshine and doing something physical. Getting a sweat. Finding adventure wherever I can. The occasional skydive. Love tapping the secrets of the universe with friends and family over a few margaritas. And some guac.

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If you were a book, what kind of book would you be and why?

I’m an escapist, so something fiction. A departure from normal day reality. I’d be one that’s adapted into a feature film or television series of course (wink)

If you had the chance to help any specific charity / organization, which one would it be and why?

I work with Wounded Warriors organization, got a hell of a lot of respect and appreciation for our veterans. I feel lucky to be able to have the freedom to pursue my dreams, freedoms that our veterans and active military fight for everyday.

I also support Alzheimer’s organizations. My mother has Alzheimer’s, and anyone who has ever experienced the disease first hand knows what a difficult disease it is. I want to do everything I can in the pursuit of a cure.

LEFT: Suit: THE KOOPLES, Shirt: Calvin Klein, Belt: HUGO BOSS, Shoes: BALLY RIGHT: Jacket: NEW YORK AND CO, Shirt: THE KOOPLES, Pants: ALLSAINTS

See Matt as Danny McNamara on CBS’s new series, Blood & Treasure.