The Real Black Bart: Dwayne McLean on Playing Ralphie's Dastardly Foe

Talking A Christmas Story

Join us for this insightful episode of Talking a Christmas Story With the Cast. This week, we sat down for an interview with none other than the dastardly villain himself, Black Bart! Listen in to hear Dwayne McLean speak on his career as a stuntman and the turns of events that led to him playing Ralphie's big bad nemesis. His portrayal has brought joy and laughter to generations of fans and continues to be the epitome of the over-the-top, ultimate "bad guy".

Relevant Links

Join the NEW A Christmas Story Immersion Experience: https://www.achristmasstoryfamily.com/freebox
Website & Newsletter: https://www.achristmasstoryfamily.com
Gift Shop: https://www.achristmasstorygift.com

Summary

Dwayne McLean, the actor who portrayed Black Bart in the movie A Christmas Story, shares his journey in the film industry and his experiences working on various movies. He discusses how he became involved in the industry and highlights some of his favorite moments and interactions with famous actors. He also reveals how he unexpectedly became Black Bart in A Christmas Story and reflects on the impact of the movie on his life. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the 25th and 40th anniversary events and the sense of family and connection among the cast and fans. The conversation covers various topics related to the movie 'A Christmas Story' and the experience of being part of the cast. The principal themes include the impact of the movie on generations, advice for aspiring stunt performers, imagining the character Black Bart's response to different scenarios, and the importance of keeping the Christmas spirit alive. The conversation also introduces the A Christmas Story immersion experience and the opportunity for fans to receive a special gift box.

Takeaways

• Dwayne McLean got involved in the film industry by joining a training program in Vancouver and later moved to Toronto where he started getting jobs as a stunt performer.
• He had the opportunity to work with many famous actors and build relationships with them, which he values more than the movies themselves.
• Dwayne McLean was surprised when he was cast as Black Bart in A Christmas Story without auditioning for the role.
• The 25th and 40th anniversary events of A Christmas Story helped Dwayne McLean realize the impact he had on the movie and the importance of his role.
• The events created a sense of family and connection among the cast and fans, making Dwayne McLean feel like an equal part of the movie. A Christmas Story has had a lasting impact on generations of viewers.
• Aspiring stunt performers should find an association, learn multiple disciplines, and build relationships with industry professionals.
• Imagining how the character Black Bart would respond to different scenarios can be a fun exercise in storytelling.
• The Christmas spirit should be kept alive and celebrated throughout the year.
• The A Christmas Story family offers an immersive experience and the opportunity to receive a special gift box.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction: Dwayne McLean and the Film Industry

04:08
Inspiration and Entry into the Film Industry

09:11
Memorable Moments with Famous Actors

14:45
Becoming Black Bart in A Christmas Story

23:02
A Sense of Family and Connection: The Cast and Fans

27:43
The Generational Impact of A Christmas Story

28:34
Advice for Aspiring Stunt Performers

36:13
What Would Black Bart Do?

45:26
Keeping the Christmas Spirit Alive

50:17
The A Christmas Story Immersion Experience and Gift Box