YRB: Were you familiar with the comic before getting the part? Johnny: I was somewhat familiar with it. I would say that growing up I leaned towards a different universe, but definitely I was well aware of Ghost Rider. My little brother actually introduced me to it when I was probably about 15 or 16. He had some original copies, I believe, and I read it. And I mean, he’s definitely the coolest lookin’ superhero. I was just excited to be a part of something that was bringing it to life in a different way than the first movie. I watched the first movie and I didn’t hate it, it was just a different cup of tea. But when you’re dealing with the element of hell and the devil, it needs to be darker, and this one definitely achieves that.
YRB: It’s been noted that you took a break from acting some years back. Was there a specific reason for that? What brought you back? Johnny: I wasn’t having fun anymore; I put a lot of pressure on myself. I wasn’t real comfortable with who I was… I put a lot of pressure on myself to be result-oriented and that took the spontaneity and fun out of what I do. Once I figured out how to do that in life I was able to put that back in my work and actually enjoy what I’m doing… I did a lot of independent films and things that were under the radar for different reasons so I could garner the knowledge and experience that I needed to give me the confidence to handle more roles that I want to play.
YRB: At this point in your career, is there anything in particular you look for before signing on to a project?
Johnny: Well, first it’s whether or not it’s got a challenge for me, if I can see myself doing it. It’s all depending on who the director is, but it’s more of an innate thing than a brain thing.
