Ask the Bearded Guy: Emilien de Falco, martial arts expert & actor
Now and then we sit down with a famous bearded man. We want to better understand what makes these successful men tick, how they get into their field and most importantly of course – what they do to take care of themselves and their beard. This month we have had the pleasure of talking with martial arts expert, actor and all round badass Emilien de Falco.
When and what made you get involved in martial arts?
“I started doing martial arts when I was 7 after watching Bruce lee and Jean Claude Van Damme movies, Enter the dragon, Fist of fury, The way of the dragon, Bloodsport, Kickboxer, all these movies had a huge impact on my life and inspired me to train at an early age. My first style is Tae Kwon Do, I really liked the way practitioners were moving and kicking, soon Tae Kwon do was more than a hobby, it became a lifestyle. Soon after this I started studying different styles as well as acrobatics, weight lifting, functional training and more. I like to be in the best possible shape whenever possible!”
How about acting? How did you get into that?
“I started by performing in live shows mixing acting and fight choreography I then got into the stunt world first in France then in L.A and started acting in short movies, student films on the side, that sort of thing. The desire to be an actor started growing so I ended up focusing on getting parts. I managed to get a booking on a recurring nbc tv show, as well as performing in various indie films and martial arts movies and thought that maybe I could have a career. If that is the case, it has only just started – to be continued…”
The next big martial arts film to come, how did you get involved in the latest Undisputed movie with Scott Adkins?
“This was through the audition process, I was requested by Millenium producer Isaac Florentine to send a video of me fighting as well as some pictures and then I found out they wanted me for the part! I met Scott Adkins on location in Sofia, Bulgaria. He is a very skilled and humble, grounded guy. I really liked working with him.”
How was it being involved in a big screen feature like this?
“Its been great. Prior to this I was acting in a NBC TV Show “Crossbones “alongside John Malkovich , Claire Foy, Richard coyle. This was my first big project. Being on a movie like Boyka Undisputed was one of my goals since I discovered the franchise back in 2006. Working on the sequel was incredible, an unforgettable experience and a dream coming true.”
It must be hard work getting in shape for these films, tell us a bit about your diet and workout routine…
“I avoid processed food, processed meat, dairy and try to eat super healthy most of the time. I cheat here and there when I feel like it. I try to have a different approach more natural, easier to follow in the long run, I don’t count my carbs intake for example and I take very few supplements. Bcaa, Man Vit and some type of pre workout that’s about it. “
When did the beard appear? Was it a decision or did it just happen?
“I first had to grow my beard for a part, I liked it and decided to keep it! Sometimes I have to shave for work though but I try to grow it back as soon as I can. “
Tell us a bit about your beard care routine, what do you use? Would you go back to using no beard care products?
“I use a variety of products, but for my beard oil, beard balm and beard wash I use your Bear Grooming stuff – and have been doing so for over a month now. I really like it, the way it smells and the way it feels. Now I have discovered these beard care products I couldn’t go back to using nothing, these products are a must!”
