Canadian actor and model Zane Holtz currently plays the character of KO Kelly in the whimsical, aspirational CW show KATY KEENE opposite Lucy Hale. He is also known for playing Richie Gecko on the El Rey Network television series From Dusk till Dawn: The Series. Holtz is no stranger to the entertainment industry. He began his modeling career when he was 5 years old and one of his first commercials was shot on his 10th birthday.

In this exclusive interview, Holtz spoke with us about his character KO, getting into character, filming the show, moving to New York, and his excitement for this new decade.

Usually, actors are not the best fan of modeling, especially photoshoots. Since you’ve been modeling before, does photoshoots always come easy for you?

It feels familiar for sure.  like acting it really comes down to who I'm working with and how open they are to collaborating.  I got lucky on this shoot and had a great time!

How was it working with the cast of Katy Keene?

I can honestly say I love working with everyone on this cast.  it's crazy to think that we have already all been working together for almost a year.  From our very first table read there was a definite bond and positive vibe.  This definitely feels like one of those lightning in a bottle situations and I hope to be part of this team for years to come.

What’s the best part of playing KO Kelly in Katy Keene?

KO has such an upbeat outlook on life.  He is protective and supportive of his friends and genuinely wants them to succeed.  To me that is real love.  Not just caring for someone but being there to help them be their best.  It's really rewarding showing up to set and always being in that state of mind.

What are the highs, the lows and the challenges that you faced in filming series?

It's been a pretty consistent high!  This has been a pretty smooth process for me and I am having a blast.  I wouldnt call it a low but moving to New York has definitely been an adjustment.  It can be difficult at times but i am beginning to love this city.

How do you get into KO’s character and mindset?

The physical training is a big component.  I make sure I am training and exercising as often as possible. It keeps me in a good mood and I want to be emulating an athletes lifestyle as part of my preparation.

What should the audience expect in this season of Katy Keene?

No spoilers!  I think the audience is going to fall in love with the world that Roberto and Michael have created.  it's such a beautiful aspirational show.  They will definitely be invested in these characters lives and their dreams.  There will be obstacles of course but watching the characters navigate them is half the fun.

Of all the roles that you’ve played, do you have one that resonates with you the most and why?

I really loved playing Richie Gecko in From Dusk till Dawn.  Obviously the polar opposite of KO Kelly.  That show was another incredible experience and an opportunity to play a bank robbing, insane vampire!  That's a part I would certainly be open to revisiting if the situation presented itself.

Is there a role that you would love to play at any point soon? Which one is it and why?

I'm not sure.  I'm ready for whatever grabs me.  You never really know what's going to inspire you.  one of the most exciting parts of being an actor is coming across material you weren't expecting or necessarily looking for.  When a role grabs your attention and gets you excited to perform and create,  it's the right one.

What are you most excited the most in 2020?

A new decade!  So much can happen in ten years. I'm excited and open minded and ready for anything.

See Zane as KO in Katy Keene only on The CW!