James Buckley, known for his vibrant on-screen persona, is shifting gears with his recent role that emphasizes the complexities of fatherhood. In the film “Finding Father Christmas,” he navigates themes of family, loss, and the nuanced magic of Christmas.
Exploring Father-Son Relationships
In the film, Buckley portrays a widowed father who must confront the realities of parenting in a festive context. Reflecting on his own experiences, Buckley admits that the transition for his sons, Harrison (14) and Jude (12), from believing in Santa was bittersweet for him and his wife. “It was a bit sadder for us, as parents,” he recalls. This emotional depth enriches his performance, showcasing his ability to handle serious themes.
The Influence of Childhood Experiences
Buckley recounts the moment he learned the truth about Santa Claus. “I was about five or six when my older cousins told me. It was a tough moment,” he shares. This personal experience resonates in his portrayal, allowing viewers to connect with the character’s journey.
Collaboration with Young Talent
One of the motivating factors for Buckley in taking this role was to work alongside Lenny Rush, a talented young actor with dwarfism. Rush’s previous work in “Am I Being Unreasonable?” had caught Buckley’s attention. “He’s the happiest person I’ve ever met. If Christmas were a person, it would be Lenny,” Buckley expresses.
Transitioning Roles
Although fans may find it surprising to see Buckley in a fatherly role, he brings a fresh perspective. “It’s a subtle performance, showing more layers than my role as Jay,” he notes, candidly reflecting on the changes in his career. Despite finding his new roles a bit depressing, he acknowledges the importance of portraying complicated father-son dynamics.
Raising Responsible Young Men
As a father, Buckley emphasizes the need for open communication. “It’s about guiding my boys to become nice and caring young men. The dialogue can be uncomfortable but is crucial,” he advises.
Media Influence on Youth
In 2025, television debates have focused on issues facing today’s youth, especially with shows like “Adolescence,” which addresses knife crime. This series gained significant attention, leading the Prime Minister to support its accessibility in schools.
While Buckley hasn’t watched “Adolescence,” he has his own approach to parenting. When his son Harrison faced challenges at school, he introduced him to “The Inbetweeners.” Despite the show’s reputation for focusing on teenage misbehavior, Buckley believes it offers valuable insights into growing up.
- Name: James Buckley
- Age of Sons: Harrison (14), Jude (12)
- Film: Finding Father Christmas
- Key Themes: Fatherhood, Loss, Communication
Through his evolving roles, Buckley demonstrates the spectrum of parenting experiences while advocating for open discussions about the challenges faced by young boys today.
