Meet The Very Relatable Tyler Blackburn—Who Discusses His Out-Of-This-World “Roswell” Romance

Photo Credit: Robby Klein @robbysphotos

Tyler Blackburn has done the unthinkable—on his hit series, “Roswell, New Mexico,” he manages t o make romance with an alien (of the UFO variety) seem normal. In the CW series reboot, which is based on the Roswell High book series by Melinda Metz, Blackburn plays Alex, an army vet who returns to his hometown of Roswell, which is the crash site of an alleged UFO. The show centers around these residents, where aliens live undercover among humans… of whom include Alex’s very complicated romantic love interest, Michael (Michael Vlamis). But with his unique charm, Blackburn sets the record straight about his out-of-this-world pairing, and likens it to everyday relationships. You know the kind—between humans.

We chatted with the 32-year-old actors, whose past credits have included  “Pretty Little Liars” and the ABC Family spin-off series “Ravenswood” and the Nickelodeon series “Gigantic” and “Unfabulous” (and who also moonlights as a singer, recording songs for the television show “The Secret Life of the American Teenager” and the web series “Wendy”) about his new series, his “Pretty Little” past and what’s coming next.

Photo Credit: Robby Klein @robbysphotos.

 Tell us about your complicated relationship with Michael. How do you even prep for this kind of situation?

The relationship is one that is a reflection of where these young men are in their journeys. It’s hard for them, more so for Alex, to fully accept himself and get over the fear of what it would mean for both of them if they were to express their love openly – discrimination, further abuse from Alex’s father, and true vulnerability. I know what it feels like to have the mental blocks keeping you from following your heart. I think everyone does.

Be honest: Is this (though it’s onscreen) the oddest relationship you’ve ever had?

Only because Michael is an alien does it make it odd. But I think trying to navigate relationships with anyone can feel like you’re dealing with someone from another planet.

Had you ever been to Roswell prior to the show? If so, what was your experience like?

I hadn’t and still haven’t been to Roswell, NM. We shoot in Santa Fe, which I’ve heard is a bit more dynamic than the former. We all enjoyed our time immensely.

Photo Credit: Robby Klein @robbysphotos.

You seem to find yourself on shows with loads of drama. How does Roswell rank up there with the likes of “Pretty Little Liars” and “Ravenswood?” Which cast members from each are you still in touch with and how often do you see them?

I’d say “Roswell” feels like the most realistic drama if you will. Yes, we are talking about aliens, but the peripheral story lines feel very real and current. Plus, every single actor on the show brings about a grounded view point of whatever it is they are dealing with.

I have kept in touch with almost everyone from “PLL,” though we don’t talk often, I feel we will always have room for each other after going through such a life change together.

What is the question fans ask you most frequently and what is your answer? Is it the real answer?

Believe it or not, I still get asked “who is A!?” My answer is “The show is on Netflix, catch up!”

Photo Credit: DFree/Shutterstock.com

What’s next for you project-wise?

I just shot a guest star role on “Charmed” on The CW. I played a soul-sucking demon who forms a cult of vulnerable women to sacrifice to keep him alive. It was very liberating playing the villain, a character I’ve never played before.

What is something your fans would be surprised to learn about you?

The fact that I still question who I am, where I’m going, and what is my worth. Human stuff.

What to you is the greatest luxury in life?

To have a clear conscious and to trust your instincts.