This article was originally Breanna Olaveson for Utah Valley 360. The following is an excerpt.
In 2000, screenwriter and director Richard Dutcher produced the missionary drama “God’s Army.” This marked the unofficial beginning of the age of Mormon Cinema—for the next 10 years or so, Mormon culture, Mormon actors and Mormon experiences were all the rage on the big screen.
Though other films about and for Mormons had been produced before (like “Saturday’s Warrior,” for example) and have been made since, the first decade of the 21st century was alive with Mormon-made films that made Kirby Heyborne a household name.
Some of the stars of these early Mormon films have continued in successful acting careers, while some have settled into relative obscurity. Here’s an update on 10 familiar faces from Mormon movies past.
1. Kirby Heyborne
We welcome venues, festivals, symphonies, corporations, groups, and special events to start enjoying Kirby’s unique brand of entertainment for the experience of a lifetime!
Known for: “Saints and Soldiers,” “The R.M.,” “The Best Two Years,” “The Singles Ward,” “The Singles 2nd Ward.”
Where he is now: After several credits per year in the mid-2000s, Heyborne’s career has slowed. His most recent film credit is as Sheldon the Turtle in the 2015 film “Twelve.” He has also performed as an audiobook narrator, and recently won The Odyssey Award for his performance. He has narrated over 100 titles, including “Nick and Nora’s Infinite Playlist” and “Black Swan Green.” He also performs as a musician and is the co-founder and director of a Los Angeles-based improv comedy group. In 2015, he appeared in a CarMax TV Commercial called “The Bright Side of Car Buying: Worry Free.”
2. Erin Chambers
Known for: “The Errand of Angels,” “The Singles 2nd Ward.”
Where she is now: Erin has appeared in several TV series since her time in the Mormon Cinema spotlight. TV credits include roles on “Scandal,” “The Young and the Restless,” “NCIS: Los Angeles,” “Castle,” “General Hospital,” “Days of Our Lives,” and “Without a Trace.” She lives in Los Angeles with her family.
Read the full article at UtahValley360.com.
