Despite the supernatural premise of Julie and the Phantoms, a series centered around ghost musicians, the most captivating aspect for many viewers was the deeply resonant character of Alex. Alex, the band’s drummer, quickly became a fan favorite, not just for his musical talent but also for his authentic and heartwarming portrayal of an openly gay teenager navigating life, friendship, and love, even in the afterlife. So, Who Played Alex In Julie And The Phantoms and brought this beloved character to life? The answer is the incredibly talented Owen Joyner.
Owen Joyner stepped into the role of Alex, and his performance resonated deeply with audiences, particularly young viewers. Known for his previous work on Nickelodeon’s Knight Squad, Joyner showcased a different facet of his talent in Julie and the Phantoms, seamlessly blending comedic timing with emotional depth. His portrayal of Alex wasn’t just about playing a drummer; it was about embodying a character who was openly gay from the outset, a refreshing and normalized representation rarely seen in teen programming. This immediately set Alex apart and made him a character that many could connect with and admire.
Owen Joyner as Alex in Julie and the Phantoms
Joyner himself recognized the significance of Alex’s character, stating in an interview with TVLine, “At first, I was very excited because I thought it was a story that the younger generation could benefit greatly from seeing.” He understood the importance of portraying Alex “honestly and respectfully,” aiming to create a character that viewers would be “proud of.” This dedication to authenticity is palpable in his performance, making Alex feel like a real, relatable teenager grappling with universal themes of acceptance and belonging, albeit with the added twist of being a ghost from 1995.
One of the most celebrated aspects of Alex’s storyline was his relationship with Willie, another ghost played by Booboo Stewart. This same-sex relationship was handled with remarkable sensitivity and positivity, becoming a central and cherished part of the show. Unlike storylines that often focus on coming-out narratives, Alex’s journey was about finding acceptance and love as someone who has always been true to himself. Joyner emphasized this point, noting, “Alex never really had a big coming-out episode. Kenny and the writers knew that this kid has always been proud to be himself. And I think it’s cool to make it a normal thing within television.”
Madison Reyes and Owen Joyner in Julie and the Phantoms
The chemistry between Joyner and Stewart was undeniable, contributing significantly to the popularity of the Alex and Willie pairing. Joyner spoke highly of Stewart, describing him as “the coolest guy ever” and highlighting the natural connection they developed both on and off-screen. This genuine camaraderie translated into a believable and heartwarming on-screen romance that resonated with viewers and further solidified Alex’s position as a pivotal and beloved character in Julie and the Phantoms.
Beyond the groundbreaking representation, Owen Joyner also brought his musical talents to the role. Having a background in musical theater, Joyner was thrilled to incorporate his singing and drumming skills into his portrayal of Alex. He even embraced the unexpected dance numbers, showcasing his versatility as a performer. This musicality was integral to Alex’s character as the drummer of Sunset Curve and Julie and the Phantoms, making Joyner’s casting a perfect fit.
Cheyenne Jackson in Julie and the Phantoms
In conclusion, Owen Joyner is the talented actor who played Alex in Julie and the Phantoms, delivering a performance that was both musically gifted and emotionally resonant. He captured the hearts of viewers by portraying Alex with authenticity, humor, and sensitivity, making him a standout character in a show already brimming with talent. Joyner’s portrayal of Alex not only answered the question of “who played Alex” but also left a lasting impact, celebrating inclusivity and positive representation in teen television and solidifying Alex’s place as a beloved character for fans worldwide.
