Meet Shaun Johnston: The Heart Behind Heartland’s Grandpa Jack

Ever wondered about the man behind Heartland’s beloved Grandpa Jack?

Shaun Johnston, the talented actor who brings this iconic character to life on the CBC drama Heartland, recently opened up in an exclusive interview. He shared insights into his experiences on the show, his life off-screen, and the heartwarming moments that have made Grandpa Jack a fan favorite.

Heartland Heartthrob

Johnston describes filming the emotional episode where Grandpa Jack says goodbye to his horse Paint as a difficult but powerful experience. He opted for a more organic approach, skipping his usual detailed preparation.

When asked about his favorite episode, Johnston surprisingly picks the same one – the emotional farewell to Paint. It highlights the deep connection he feels towards the character and the impact such moments have.

Looking Back and Ahead on Heartland

Looking back, Johnston admits to worrying between seasons about the show’s renewal. His advice to his younger self? Relax and enjoy the ride!

Life Off the Ranch: Shaun Johnston’s Hobbies

Johnston enjoys playing hockey and guitar in his free time. He may not be a virtuoso, but music brings him joy.

Learning and Growing with Grandpa Jack

Over a decade of playing Grandpa Jack has instilled in Johnston the belief that aging can be graceful. Here’s to aging well like Grandpa Jack!

When Heartland eventually concludes, Johnston plans to catch up on television and spend more time on the hockey rink.

Beyond Heartland: Shaun Johnston’s Acting Career

In addition to Heartland, Johnston has appeared in other projects, including the sci-fi series Wynonna Earp. He also stays active in theatre.

Johnston sheds light on the misconception that theatre is riskier than film. He highlights the pressure of multiple takes in film versus the immediacy and impermanence of mistakes on stage. Interestingly, his favorite stage role was Eddie in Sam Shepard’s “Fool for Love.”

Finding Joy in Performance

Recently, Johnston performed music at an Alberta ranch. He describes the thrill of connecting with a live audience, similar to the experience in theatre. The audience’s energy fueled his own enjoyment, making it a memorable night.