For more answers, read this page and our Q&A Archives, and the interviews and convention reports posted elsewhere on this website, to see what other people have already asked René. Don't forget to include your e-mail address on the form below so that we can get in touch with you. 

When you've finished posting your question, you'll be able to click a link and return to this page, so you can continue exploring René's Page. Thanks for writing!

A question from Anita:

Dear René,
I am fuming!!!! Why is David E. Kelly taking you off Boston Legal next season? You are the only decent man on that whole show. In fact your charactor is the only one I like on the whole show (except for Ms. Bergen).

David E. Kelly is going to get a lot of letters, especially from woman in the 50+ range, screaming at him to leave you on the show, and you can bet I am going to be at the top of that list.

Dear Anita-
He's just run out of story ideas for Paul Lewiston. However, I will be doing a few episodes as a guest.

"...your charactor is the only one I like on the whole show (except for Ms. Bergen)."
That's very kind... and to include me with Candace!

Thanks-
rené a.

Posted here July 25, 2007

A question from Bradley:

Dear René,
First I want to say that Boston Legal won't be the same without you. Now that you aren't filming Boston Legal what do you plan to do? Do you think you will step into another regular role?

Dear Bradley-
Thanks. I will be doing a few episodes, and I've always got plenty on my "plate"... just check out renefiles.com. As for another regular role... who knows... that's like getting a winning lottery ticket.

Best-
rené a.

Posted here July 25, 2007

A question from Alex:

Dear Mr. Auberjonois,
Last night I watched the episode called "The Begotten." It's the one with the baby changling. Dr. Mora comes to the station uninvited and helps Odo teach it things. At one point, the changling almost makes a face and Odo was so happy!! But then he found out that the changling was dying. It was so sad to see Odo go from more happy than he's ever been to more sad than he's ever been.

Do you ever see the cast of DS9?? Like, do you have reunions?

Dear Alex-
Thanks so much for your message. Yes, "The Begotten" is one of Odo's best episodes and one of my personal favorites.

As for reunions for the cast of DS9... that really only happens when we see each other at conventions.

Best-
rené a.

Posted here July 25, 2007

A question from Katherine:

Have I completely lost my mind, or does Mr. Auberjonois appear uncredited in the Canadian series Tom Stone? (It was syndicated in the U.S. as Stone Undercover.) The actor who plays the very senior police official to whom Corporal Di Luzio (Janet Kidder) reports is either Mr. Auberjonois or his clone, but I can't find any mention of the character in the credits anywhere.

Dear Katherine-
Well, I wouldn't want to accuse you of "losing your mind," but I am not, nor have I ever been, in a Canadian series called Tom Stone or Stone Undercover... unless I'm the one who's lost his mind. (o;

Best-
rené a.

Posted here July 25, 2007

A question from Brenna:

I was reading the "Philidelphia 2000 convention" report and it mentioned that you were reading Harry Potter. I'm a huge fan and in my early 20s so I find it interesting to find out what, forgive me (Ferengi cringe), the older audience thinks of it.

I'm curious, how big a fan are you of the books? What made you want to read them? Have the movies lived up to the books, in your eye? (despite all they've left out I think they have, you can only put so much on screen.) And do you think that these will withstand the test of time like Dickens, Doyle, Tolkein, and the like?

Thank you!

Dear Brenna-
I'm waiting eagerly for #7. It's already ordered. I love good fantasy/magic/kids books.

"Have the movies lived up to the books, in your opinion?"
I think they've gotten better with each installment.

"And do you think that these will withstand the test of time..."
Absolutely!

All the best-
rené a.

Posted here July 20, 2007

A question from Braden:

Hi René:
I am one of your biggest fans, or at least Odo's. Anyway, I wanted to ask you why you became part of the Star Trek cast, and how hard was it to play your character for seven years?

Dear Braden-
I considered myself extraordinarily lucky to be part of the Star Trek universe and I leapt at the opportunity.

There were times, over the years, that the make-up and the looong hours were trying... but, over all, it was a joy and a privilege to work with such a talented group of people.

All the best-
rené a.

Posted here July 1, 2007

A question from Elaine:

Dear René:
How are you doing? Keep up the excellent work on Boston Legal. Will you be teaching at Julliard? Do you keep in touch with Robert Guilliume? I've been your #1 fan since The Eyes of Laura Mars.

Dear Elaine-
Let me take your questions one at a time:

-- How are you doing?
I'm doing fine, thanks.

--Keep up the excellent work on Boston Legal.
Thank you. I've enjoyed working on the show; however, I won't be part of the cast next season. I, along with three other principals, and the entire writing staff, have been "downsized".

--Will you be teaching at Julliard?
I haven't been associated with Julliard since the late '60s. I don't anticipate working there in the future.

--Do you keep in touch with Robert Guilliume?
Robert and I remain close friends, and we try to catch up with one another on a regular basis.

I've been your #1 fan since The Eyes of Laura Mars.
Thanks. I'd do my Lloyd Bridges imitation for you, if you could see me.

All the best to you-
rené a.

Posted here July 1, 2007

A question from Terencio:

Dear Mr Auberjonois,
I've been a fan of yours since about '85 or so when I discovered Big River, and someone said, "That's the guy from Benson." More recently I find myself watching animation and and telling everyone in the room, "That's Rene Auberjonois!". They say, "Who?" and I say, "The guy from Benson", or if they are of a geekier group, "Odo."

Your voice seems to be everywhere, and I was wondering, how did you rise to be such a prolific voice actor? From The Last Unicorn to Little Mermaid to Avatar, if it wins awards, you seem to be doing a voice or voice over. Is it a small community, or are you simply a very sought after voice?

Dear Terencio-
The truth is, I do relatively little voice work (compared to some colleagues who do it on an almost daily basis) and it is not a small community. Many actors supplement their "on screen" work, or concentrate all their efforts on voice work.

I have been fortunate in that I've been offered the opportunity to work on some very high quality projects.

Thanks for your interest.

All the best-
rené a.

Posted here July 1, 2007

A question from Carlos:

Hello!
My name is Carlos and I'm from Portugal, Azores. I belong to a Portuguese Star Trek Fan Site and sometimes we do some quiz games sending mail to the fans. This month, one of questions is about you and Michael Dorn, about what you did to your alien masks after the last shooting scene of DS9?

Dear Carlos-
Well I can't answer for Michael... as for me, I did what I always did as I finished each episode... I simply peeled it off my face. I saved some of them (I had a new one every day that I filmed) some I auctioned off for charity and some I gave to friends and crew members.

All the best-
rené a.

Posted here July 1, 2007

A question from Robert:

Hello Sir,
I would like to tell you that you have brought me much happiness over the years. In 1971, you filmed a Night Gallery episode with Ross Martin called "Camera Obscura". I must tell you that this was one of the most unusual sci-fi episodes I have ever seen. I do not see that you ever lived in England. How did you provide such a wonderful British accent for this episode? Did you have a tutor work with you to do this or is it just a gift? Did this episode take a long time to film? Arthur Malet was perfect as Abel Joyce and so was Philip Kenneally as Sanderson. How did you get the part for this episode? How did you provide such a perfect British voice and accent for this episode? Thank you very much!!!!

Dear Robert-
Thanks for those kind words. As for my British accent... I'm glad you found it convincing. I actually did spend a few years as a teenager living and going to school in England. That may have helped.

All the best-
rené a.

Posted here July 1, 2007

A question from Michael:

Dear Mr. Auberjonois,
My name is Michael Brown, one out of so many trekkies/trekkers out there in the World. I've been a Star Trek Fan since I was 7 and ever since Star Trek:DS9 came on the air in '92, your character in that DS9 cast was one that fascinated me the most. I've also noticed your guest appearances in many other features, including the voice acting role of Xyber 9. How all do you like acting? What does it feel like to be famous?

By the way, I was wondering what you thought of the "William Shatner Roast" that happened a few months ago. I noticed you and many of the other Star Trek cast members in the audience were there. When I saw it, I thought I was going to just DIE from LAUGHTER.

Dear Michael-
Thanks for your message and kind words. You had three questions.

1) How do I like acting? Well it's the only thing I ever wanted to do. I consider myself very lucky to have been able to make a life as an actor.

2)What does it feel like to be famous? I don't think about it much. I'm a character actor.... that means I can pass through life without being recognized at every turn.

3) What did I think of the Shatner Roast? I was pretty uncomfortable. I thought it was often cruel, and always vulgar.

Best-
rené a.

Posted here July 1, 2007

A question from Alex:

Dear Mr.Auberjonois,
My name is Alex. I am a GIRL in sixth grade.I love the show DS9. I own all seven seasons on DVD. Odo is my favorite character. It's really cool when he shape-shifts. My favorite episodes are the ones mostly about Odo and Kira. My favorite episode of the whole show is "His Way." I really liked the thing on the special features disk where you talk about "the big kiss" and how your make-up got on to Ms. Visitor's face. Speaking of make-up, what's it like to wear so much?

Dear Alex-
How nice to know that DS9 still lives and goes on living in the minds and heart of younger generations. Thanks for your nice message.

The make-up was not very comfortable, but it was all worth it... even if I couldn't feel much of anything when Odo finally got to kiss Kira! (o;

All the best-
rené a.

Posted here July 1, 2007

Another question from Alex:

Dear Mr. Auberjonois,
I just watched the episode of DS9 titled "Looking for Par'mach in all the Wrong Places" from season 5. I really like the relationship between Odo and Quark. It's funny.

P.S. I have a question about one of your other movies: Does Snide and Prejudice have anything to do with Pride and Prejudice?? I haven't seen it, but if it is like Pride and Prejudice, I WILL see it.

Dear Alex-
One of my favorite parts of working on DS9 was working with Armin Shimerman as Quark. We both enjoyed the relationship and the collaboration.

As for Snide and Prejudiced, it has nothing to do with Pride and Prejudice... it's simply a play on words. It is, in fact, a darkly humorous meditation on the rise and fall of Hitler.

All the best-
rené a.

Posted here July 1, 2007

A question from Tamera:

Hello Mr. Auberjonois,
I was wondering, on your costume for Odo, was that a wig or your real hair?

Dear Tamera-
I wore a small "hair piece" which covered the place where my "mask" ended and my real hair began. Does that make any sense?

All the best-
rené a.

Posted here July 1, 2007

A question from Estie:

Rene, I just want to say I love your work. I have The Last Defender of Camelot, Unicorn Variation, Still Life with Crows, and one or two other audio books that you read. I really enjoy my audiobooks and I listen to them over and over.

I do have one question though and here it is: Do you pick the books that you read as audiobooks because you have already read and liked them or do you just get asked to do them as a job and not actually pick any particular books that you want to record? My parents have always liked reading and encouraged me, my brother, and two sisters to read also. My mom even used to read some books onto cassettes when we were kids so we could listen to some of our favorite books when she didn't have time to read them right when we wanted her to. I also have an old tape of my grandmother reading some kids' books to one of my younger sisters. I am thinking about copying the tapes and sending copies to one of my sisters because maybe my nieces would like to listen to them for fun. Sorry, didn't mean to get long winded, I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoy listening to your voice. Hope you keep it up. Thanks.

Dear Estie-
What a nice message! I love the fact that your family recorded stories. You really should send them to your sister for her kids. What a nice legacy to hand down.

Regarding you question about the books I read... I don't choose the books. I just wait for a publisher to ask me to record a book... then, if I like it, I do it.

Keep on listening-
rené a.

Posted here July 1, 2007

A question from Lynne:

When I see all of the new reality shows based on dance, such as Dancing With The Stars, it reminds me of the wonderful scene in "His Way" where Odo is dancing with Kira. Even with knowing that Nana Visitor is a trained dancer, you looked splendid and you looked like you know your way around the dance floor. I know that it was common practice in the past for children to be taught to ballroom dance. Were you taught as a youth? What do you think of the reemerging interest and increasing popularity of ballroom and other forms of dancing? Do you think you would be interested in trying something like Dancing With The Stars? I figure if Jerry Springer at 63 could compete, a gentleman of your obvious grace and agility would do well.

Dear Lynne-
I took a few ballroom dancing classes when I was a kid... hated it. My mom tried desperately to teach me how to waltz... a failure. I've danced quite often on the stage... you can fool all of the people some of the time.

Oh Gad! I'd never even consider Dancing With the Stars. Oy! I'd rather bungee jump. )o;

All the best-
rené a.

Posted here July 1, 2007

A question from Joe:

hello rené,
I'd just like to say i'm not a trekkie or whatever there called but i did like you as odo in star trek : deep space nine and i'm just wondering , as an actor how difficult is it for you to hide your accent for starters and also how did you manage to keep a straight face almost all through every joke and comical moment? It's just brilliant and i don't think except for some random vulcans on star trek (yes i know i don't know their names haha) you are one of the few actors i've seen keep a straight face.

Dear Joe-
I'm not sure if you think because of my name being so foreign, I should have an accent to go with it... I was born and raised in the U.S. of A.

As for keeping a straight face... that's not so hard to do when your face is covered with rubber. (o;

All the best-
rené a.

Posted here July 1, 2007

A question from Amit:

Dear Mr. Auberjonois,
I am a huge fan of 'Benson', and I feel that your portrayal of Clayton Endicott III gave true meaning to the word 'CLASS' and 'sophistication', will you ever consider actually running for office or writing a book about your distinguished life?

Dear Amit-
Thanks for your kind words.

I certainly would NOT consider running for any kind of political office. Heaven forbid! (o; As for writing a book... well... probably not... I'm too busy using my free time to work on my photography and art.

All the best-
rené a.

Posted here July 1, 2007

A comment from Christine:

Dear Sir,
I was delighted and thrilled that your character on Boston Legal pronounced the word "erred" correctly! Over the moon, in fact. This is a peeve that sends me into snarling fits, as it so often abused.

I was once covering "Violetta" in NY with Jonathan Miller. During a blocking rehearsal, he had us all in fits when he launched into a diatribe about diction.

Thank you for your terrific work.

Dear Christine-
Thank you for commenting on that small but, nonetheless, relevant detail. It's nice to know that someone is paying attention.

Best-
rené a.

Posted here July 1, 2007

A question from Jenifer:

Hi René,
Can you name any of your favorite characters in DS9? Odo is definetly one of my favorites. You are an excellent actor!

Dear Jenifer-
I guess I'd have to say that Quark was one of my favorite characters... and Armin is one of my favorite people.

Best-
rené a.

Posted here November 1, 2006

A question from Kirsty:

Dear Mr Auberjonois,
I`ve been meaning to write and ask you this question for a while now, (actually ever since I first discovered this site, which would be about 10 months ago) but I got a little sidetracked because I moved to Japan in March and was a little busy. But, I`ve finally got round to asking it so here goes; have you ever heard a song called "Tomorrow's like Today" by an artist named David McWilliams?

I realise it`s a strange question but I just wondered because the song lyrics really remind me of Odo and the way I imagine him as feeling on Deep Space Nine (until he gets together with Major Kira of course). I hope you get chance to listen to it.

Anyway, thank you for taking the time to read this.

P.S. I read about how you said that producers had difficulty pronouncing your name, you should move to England (or France I guess) we`re used to French names and wouldn`t have any problems pronouncing it. Anyway, don`t move to Japan as they`ll never be able to say it - too many consonants and unfamiliar sounds. It`d end up as something like "lenee oobelujonoeesu" where the e sounds like the 'e' in met.

Dear Kirsty-
No, I don't think I've ever heard the McWilliams song... if you could hum a few bars... (o;

Thanks for your message-

All the best-
"lenee oobelujonoeesu"
aka rené a

Posted here November 1, 2006

A question from Frank:

I've always been a fan of Benson and your work on it. Here's the thing - it was a show similar to others in the sense that it never really had a true "goodbye" episode. However, on the other hand it was NOT similar to many other TV shows when you consider how long of a run it had, was never a "Top 10" show (probably a GOOD thing), had such good character depth (especially for a show people refer to as a 'Sitcom') and STILL was kind of left twisting in the wind at the very end (with regards to the loyal fans anyway).

My question is this... ABC had pretty much yanked the show around during its seventh and final season, moving its time slot (time first, then the day it aired), and the ratings fell, and hard. Was there any sense from yourself and/or the rest of the cast when filming that seasons episodes that it was all about to end? That "well this is it - we're not getting renewed" kind of feeling amongst you all? Although there was no offical "goodbye and farewell" episode like a lot of shows with Benson's longevity have had, I still sensed some feeling from most on screen that it might be the final curtain - "end of an era" sort of thing.

Anyway, I babble on. Just looking for your perspective on it, whenever you have the time to reply.

Dear Frank-
I actually don't recall that the show's time and day was changed... hmmm... perhaps in the area where you saw it? As for a "feeling" that the show was ending, I think we all felt that seven years was the natural life span for that kind of show and we all felt it was time to move on. I like the fact that the show didn't say goodbye... in fact it was left as a cliff hanger.

Best wishes-
rené a.

Posted here November 1, 2006

A question from Danny:

Hello sir,
I have no idea your politial affiliation but I would like to know if you have ever percieved a bias against conservatives in theatre or film.

Thank you for your time.

Dear Danny-
I believe that theatre and film tend to present a more progressive or liberal stance. But I do not think that there is a bias against conservatives. In my experience, the majority of artists of all types are liberal.

Best wishes-
rené a.

Posted here November 1, 2006

A question from Kim:

Hey René,
I just finished watching your performance in King Lear. First off, BRAVO... I really enjoyed it. Your performance was excellent! I was wondering was it fun/tiring jumping around that stage so much? You seemed to be doing A LOT of exuberant body movement.

Dear Kim-
I had a wonderful time doing that production. As for being tired... well, I was much younger then, so, nope... it was just great.

Best-
rené a.

Posted here November 1, 2006

A question from Jordan:

How did it feel to play a scene again with Armin Shimerman in Boston Legal? It reminded me a lot of "Far Beyond the Stars" when you shared scenes not related to Star Trek.

I hope you get another big story arc in season 3 and keep getting ex-Star Trek actors back (I've noticed Ethan Phillips in some current episodes). Take care.

Dear Jordan-
It was great working with Armin again. As you may know, he's a dear personal friend, and I think he's one of the best actors around. I'm sorry I didn't have any scenes with Ethan Phillips, who is also a very close friend.

Best-
rené a.

Posted here November 1, 2006

A question from Loretta:

First, I love René in the episodes of Frasier, great. Second, was the production of Coco every filmed in its entirety? Is it available today? It would be wonderful to know. I know it's so long ago, but I went as a child with my uncle and it brings back fond memories, since he has now passed away. Thanks a lot.

Dear Loretta-
Yes, Coco was a looong time ago. And, no, it was never filmed. The only record is, well, the record.

All the best-
rené a.

Posted here November 1, 2006

A question from Chris K.:

René,
It's exciting to be able to speak to a talented, famous actor like this. It's a great thing you're doing here for your fans!

My question is: I seem to remember rather faintly a credit to you in the U.S. version of the video game Suikoden IV, as the voice of "Colton," though I haven't found anything online (including this site!) to confirm it. Colton's voice was so distinctive, however, that I refuse to believe it to be anyone else. Were you the voice of Colton, or is there someone out there who's a masterful René impressionist?

I must end this message with a comment: the name "Auberjonois" is without a doubt the most beautiful surname I've ever heard. Truly befitting of royalty!

Dear Chris-
Oh my! I wish I could help you out with this. I don't recall the name of that character, or game for that matter. In truth, I've been at this for sooo long that there a number of "gigs" that have slipped through the cracks... sometimes it's a blessing.

Thanks for your kind words.

Best-
rené a.

Posted here November 1, 2006

A question from Lisa:

Hi, Rene!
Just a couple of questions for you...1) What was it like to work with Robert Guillaume? (I hear he could be difficult but I find that hard to believe!) 2) What was your favorite Benson episode that you appeared in? Mine was probably "Jung at Heart" when Clayton takes on Benson's personality. Hilarious stuff there! 3) Any plans to come to Chicago for a convention? I'd love to meet you and get a picture! :) Bye for now!!

Dear Lisa-
Bob was/is a total pro, a sweet man, a gentle man and a gentleman. He was only "difficult" if he felt that people weren't doing their best work.

As for my "favorite" episode... Are you kidding? That was another lifetime ago. All I remember is loving the work and working with people I loved. It's all one big "episode" to me.

"Any plans to come to Chicago..."

I'd love to. Get someone to invite me.

Best-
rené a.

Posted here November 1, 2006

A question from Chris:

Hi René,
I've got a few questions about King Kong. I know that some of that was filmed on location in Hawaii. But I'm not sure about some things. what about closeups of the wall and gate? Was that built on location, or was it a set built in Hollywood? And when your characters go running out by the sacrifice altar, after Dwan is taken, are you running out into, in reality, what is an indoor set, or an actual outside set on location, or in Hollywood? I know that the scenes that Kong is in, in and around the wall, is an indoor set, but what about scenes with just the actors on top of the wall, or inside or outside the wall or gate? Where were those sceens shot at? And...have you seen the 2005 King Kong? Personally I thought the gate pounding scene was much more exciting in the version you were in than in the 2005 version...Thank You! Good luck!

Hi Chris-
To answer your questions regarding the filming of Kong:

"What about closeups of the wall and gate? Was that built on location, or was it a set built in Hollywood?"

We shot all that in the back lot at M.G.M. in Culver City.

"And when your characters go running out by the sacrifice altar..."

Still the back lot.

"...what about scenes with just the actors on top of the wall, or inside or outside the wall or gate? Where were those sceens shot at?"

Back lot.

"And...have you seen the 2005 King Kong? ... I thought the gate pounding scene was much more exciting in the version you were in..."

I haven't seen the '76 version in years. I loved the 2005 version.

Thanks for your interest-
rené a.

Posted here November 1, 2006

A question from George:

Hello,
Thank you for taking time to answer, I am an actor as well and I was doing some research on differant books and your name was mentioned amoung others and I wanted to know how you feel about Bob Fraser's book You Must Act. I look forward to your answer.

Dear George-
I think Bob's book is an invaluable resource for actors at any stage of their career. I believe that he has a testimonial from me on his website.

Best-
rené a.

Posted here November 1, 2006

A question from Tamera:

Mr. Auberjonois, in the DS9 episode "Emmisary" when Odo had captured a guy for stealing in the beginning of the story, did you do all of the acting or was there a stunt double? I noticed the face of odo was different in one clip. :) thank you. by the way I am glad to be one of your fans.

Dear Tamera-
Thanks for those kind words.

Yes, I did all the acting myself. In the beginning, the makeup was still evolving. That may account for it looking different.

Best-
rené a.

Posted here November 1, 2006

A question from Amanda:

I am a big fan of yours and have been a Star Trek Fan for almost 22 years. Mom would sit me in front of the T.V. when I was just a baby, and I would sit quiet as long as Star Trek was on, and I have been watching ever since. I have seen almost every epsiod of every series at least twice, except for DS9 which i'm currently catching up on. As I watch DS9 my love for Odo grows. On DS9 Odo was my favorite character, and it make me happy to know you and Major Kira found happiness.

I was wondering what it was like to go from chief of security on DS9 to Paul Lewiston, a lawyer, on Boston Legal, and what is it like to work with William Shatner?

Dear Amanda-
I am having a great time working with Bill... and enjoying him as a friend.

The transition from Star Trek to Boston Legal is what every character actor dreams of... to stretch and change in challenging and interesting ways.

Best-
rené a.

Posted here November 1, 2006

A question from Jacky:

I saw you do Twelfth Night on Broadway years ago. What role did you play? I remember what I call the "fool's soliloquy" so well. But what was the role, your character's name?

Dear Jacky-
The role is Malvolio, the head servant to Olivia. The famous soliloquy is known as "The Letter Scene" in which Olivia's uncle, Toby Belch, and several other household members take revenge on Malvolio's arrogance and trick him into believing that "the Letter" he has stumbled upon in the garden is a love letter meant for him from his mistress Olivia.

Thanks for remembering.

Best-
rené a.

Posted here November 1, 2006

A question from Brent:

Hello Mr. Auberjonois,
I would like to say that I really enjoyed watching you on the Benson series in the late 70s, early 80s. I was wondering if you happen to keep in touch with the Benson cast from back then? We have enjoyed watching the series since TVLand has been playing it again as well. We hope to see the seasons on DVD in the near future. Thank you for providing quality entertainment to all your fans.

Dear Brent-
Thanks for your kind message.

I have remained in touch with all of the Benson cast members. We were a very happy group. I'm especially close to Ethan Phillips.

All the best-
rené a.

Posted here November 1, 2006

A question from Emma:

Do you think that Star Trek is dying in the eyes of "old people"?

Also, In some episode that I can't place, Odo said that his name meant "unknown sample" in Cardassian. Don't you think that it's kinda funny if someone were to just to walk up to you and say " Hi Unknown Sample!"

Dear Emma-
I think it's more problematic that the younger audience isn't as interested in Star Trek. And yes, I think the writers meant it to be amusing. It's almost as weird as my own last name, which means "armorer" (a person who makes armor).

Best-
rené a.

Posted here November 1, 2006

A question from Ian:

This is a bit of an odd question and bears no significant relevance to my life and its functions, but I saw that I could possibly get hold of you through this site and figured I could get an answer straight from the horse's mouth. When I was much younger--and far more addicted to television--I was watching The Incredible Hulk and I was sure I recognized you in an episode as a guest star. It's not listed on this site and I began to wonder if you might have a doppleganger in the land of televison.

If you weren't ever on that particular show, I would reccomend you keep an eye out for a possible evil twin. Those can be nasty.

That's all. Good day to you sir.

Dear Ian-
Well, I've had a looong career... but I'm pretty sure I never did The Incredible Hulk. I wonder if you're thinking of the wonderful actor Leonard Frey (we were often confused). Unfortunately, he is no longer with us... so, on a more positive note, I don't have to worry about an "evil twin."

Best-
rené a.

Posted here November 1, 2006

A question from Nick:

What were the best moments of DS9? And was the Promanade set a complete cicle with the bar in the centre?

Dear Nick-
After seven years and countless hours of work, it's simply impossible to define a best moment.

The Promenade was not a complete circle. It was a long, slightly curved set.

Best-
rené a.

Posted here November 1, 2006

A question from Jason:

Dear René:
I'm a little behind the times but I have recently taken an interest in DS9 and have purchased several seasons of the show. It is very unique and a little "darker" than previous incarnations of Star Trek. Anyway I'll get to my question. How did you come up with the voice for Odo? I tried to imitate that voice (badly by the way) and found myself having to clear my throat constantly. How did you accomplish this? Thanks for your time.

Dear Jason-
The Odo voice was the result of attempting to create an "alien" voice that would express the character's inner turmoil and rigidity. The extensive work I have done in voicing cartoons helped me find and support the vocal quality.

Thanks for your interest.

Best-
rené a.

Posted here November 1, 2006

A question from Steve:

Hi René!
I am a great admirer of your voice-work as well as your on-screen acting, and was wondering if you could give me any advice on how to get involved in working as a voiceover artist. I've always enjoyed, and been good at, doing impressions and making up funny voices, and I know that I could be a useful voice-actor! (I'm modest too!) I just have no idea how to get into it. Any help at all that you could give me would be massively appreciated, though I fully understand that you may not be able to reply due to your working commitments etc. Thank you, and keep up the good work!

Dear Steve-
I don't know where you live, but it's important to be in one of the major marketplaces ( N.Y., L.A., or Chicago ) and to have an agent. The truth is, it's an extremely competitive field, and very difficult to break into.

Good luck-
rené a.

Posted here November 1, 2006

A question from Wayne:

Did you like playing Odo In DS9? I have one other question: When asked will there ever be a DS9 movie you said "Don't hold your breath." What did you mean by that?

I loved it! As for "Don't hold your breath" I meant: "not bloody likely!"

Best-
rené a.

Posted here November 1, 2006

A question from Maureen:

When I was a kid I saw the movie The Birdmen...my mother and I loved it and have been trying to find it ever since. Do you have any inside information...will it ever be released..or do you know where i can get a copy? I would love to know...it was just such a cool movie. Thank you.

Dear Maureen-
I have no idea if it will ever be released again... I'm sorry to say I have no inside information to offer. I'm delighted that you remember it. If you find out anything... pass it along?

Best-
rené a.

Posted here November 1, 2006

A question from Ginger:

Dear René,

As I type the salutation, my southern upbringing is yelling at me about the informality of my greeting. Starting a letter should not be this difficult! But you've been entertaining me since Benson and I have a hard time thinking of you as anything but an 'old friend' - hence the informal "Dear René."

All rambling aside, I do have a question. How much of the physical characteristics of a character (the posture, the walk, the voice, the speech pattern, etc) comes from the director or from the script and how much of it is left to the actor's interpretation? Or does it depend on the medium? If a lot of the physicality of the character is left up to the actor, how do you decide?

Your talent has amazed me for years. (I couldn't act my way out of a paper bag!) Thanks for giving life to such unforgettable characters. 'Clayton' made me laugh and 'Odo' made me feel. And your character in Sly Fox made me grateful for bladder control. (o: There are many others, but I'll spare you the recitation. All the best to you and your family.

Dear Ginger-
Thanks for your kind words.

As for your question, it is usually the actor who brings the physical and vocal interpretation to the character. The writer may describe some elements, and the director will cast the actor he feels will be able to supply what he imagines. Sometimes the actor will immediately have a concept, and sometimes it will evolve during rehearsals. In Sly Fox, for example, I had seen an illustration by Arthur Rackham for a children's story of a little old man walking with bent knees. That's how I started in rehearsals and everyone seemed pleased with it... everyone but my knees!

Best-
rené a.

Posted here November 1, 2006

A question from Linda B:

Hi René,

Do you think you would ever be interested in guest starring on Battlestar Galactica?

That series truly rocks. I hear that the role of the cylon god might be available. (I think Ron Moore wanted Dirk Benedict to portray the Cylon god, but I think the snowball has more of a chance in hell) :)

I know it might sound like crying over spilt milk, but I cannot help but wonder if Ron Moore had been doing Enterprise if it might have actually made it to the end of the series without being cancelled. The actors on Enterprise were pretty good, but there was this tendency to simply recycle plotlines from (where else?) Deep Space Nine.

Anyway, even if you do not have the time or the inclination to guest star on the show, I do hope you get a chance to see the re-imagined BSG. It is truly aswesome.

Hi Linda-
Thanks for your message. I agree with you that Battlestar Galactica is excellent. Ron Moore is a superb writer, and the cast is terrific. I'd love to do the show, but at the moment I'm pretty tied up with Boston Legal... and loving it!

Take care-
rené a.

Posted here November 1, 2006

For more questions and answers, dating from November 2004 into March 2006, check out our Q&A Archives.

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