Young Beach actor Ewan Wood plays key role in movie The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

By MATTHEW STEPHENS

For 12-year-old Beacher Ewan Wood – one of the stars of the film The Best Christmas Pageant Ever – acting is his pride and joy.

“I just personally like the different experiences, different cultures, different people, and just like, the thrill of doing it.” Ewan told Beach Metro Community News recently.

The film, which hit theatres Nov. 8, follows the Herdmans: a family of troublesome children who are tasked with taking over their local church Christmas Pageant.

Based on the bestselling book of the same name by author Barbara Robinson, the Christmas comedy features star-studded appearances from Pete Holmes, Judy Greer, and Lauren Graham.

In the film, Ewan plays Leroy Herdman: a problematic child who – according to Ewan – sets the plot of the film into motion when he lures his siblings to church with the promise of free food.

“Leroy Herdman: he’s one of the worst kids in the history of the world, and he’s basically the whole reason this movie happens.” said Ewan.

The British born, Canadian actor got his start in Ottawa. His career reached new heights in 2019, when he was selected by Premiere to showcase his acting skills at Walt Disney World.

When asked about his introduction to acting, Ewan mentioned a distinct conversation he had with his mother while watching television at an early age.

“I was watching a show and my mom asked me ‘Hey Ewan, would you like to do what they’re doing.’ I was young and it looked fun, so I was like ‘Yeah’.” said Ewan.

Before his upcoming role, Ewan was in a lead role for a critically acclaimed independent short film in 2022 and had a guest appearance in Chucky Season 2 on Syfy and USA Network.

Outside of film and television, he has also appeared in advertisements for big name brands such as Nintendo, Lego, and the Toronto Blue Jays baseball team.

Ewan has been immersed in the world of acting for half of his life. While he attends a local school in the Beach, he mentions the balancing act he has to manage between his professional and educational life.

“My teachers usually post all the stuff on Google Classroom, or she’ll just give me work ahead of time.” said Ewan. “So when I come back, I just have my work done.”

When he’s not working in film and television, Ewan likes to spend his time playing with his friends and gaming on his PlayStation.

Living locally in the Beach, he mentioned the waterfront as one the places he likes to hang out at with friends.

As Ewan continues to establish himself in the acting world, he said his role in The Best Christmas Pageant Ever has been one of his most enjoyable experiences thus far.

“I just liked how all of the cast members became friends in like the first 20 minutes.” said Ewan. “We got to do fight scenes, and it’s just fun to be chaotic.”

Catch The Best Christmas Pageant Ever in theatres and on streaming services such as Apple TV and Prime Video.