In Because of Gracia, actor Chris Massoglia plays the friendly neighbor you can easily become best friends with. His character, Chase Morgan, is the typical shy guy who was raised in a good household. While Chase’s family teaches him old-fashioned morals, he learns so much more about life through Gracia Davis. Today, BTSCelebs introduces you to actor Chris Massoglia and discover more about the guy behind the good guy role.

BTSCelebs: Who is Chris Massoglia?

Chris Massoglia: Good question! Since I’m only 25,  I’m still figuring that out! Recently in a class, I had to pick three words to describe myself . So, I picked sexy, hott, & beautiful. Just kidding — I picked: bold, truthful, & loyal — I feel like those describe me pretty well.

Who inspired you to pursue a career in acting?

God. I never really wanted to be in acting but the doors just keep opening for me so I’m like well this seems to be my life path… alright God…

Why did you choose to be apart of “Because of Gracia”?

When Because of Gracia came up, I actually wasn’t doing a ton of auditions. I hadn’t been to LA in five years when I auditioned for the role of Chase! I decided to be apart of this film because I really believe in the message of the film. How the whole process came about was really providential.

Tell us about the audition process for Chase Morgan.

Like I said, I wasn’t really doing auditions when this project came to me. It was really interesting, because my pastor had recently watched a film called ‘God’s Not Dead’. After he saw this movie, he told me about it and was like ‘these are the types of movies I think it’d be really cool for you to be apart of!’ I kind of shrugged it off at the time & was like ‘Yeah, I guess…’ So then, I was super surprised when THREE days later I get an email from my manager saying I had been requested to audition for this project: ‘from the co-producers of God’s Not Dead’ — I was in shock! Because the circumstances seemed pretty unusual I auditioned & BAM got the role!

What was like to work with Moriah Peters on her very first movie? 

I was honestly pretty nervous about who was going to be playing Gracia. Not only was it my love interest, but also as the lead role The success of the film really rested on the Gracia character. I remember meeting Moriah for the first time and after our first day on set I was like “YES — she’s actually a good actress!!” I was so happy. I too like most people had a stigma that faith friendly films don’t always hire the best actors. So, I was pretty thrilled once I started acting with Moriah, she did SUCH a good job carrying this film.

What message is your character Chase sending to young guys today?

You CAN get the girl of your dreams!! I think every young guy can relate to my character Chase in ‘Because Of Gracia’ — we’ve all had that crush we’re scared to approach or those moments where we’re afraid to voice an opinion because of what others will think or say. The message is being who you are, not being afraid to do what’s right instead of what’s easy really will draw people to you as a leader and your confidence will soar!

Who was your favorite character in the movie? Favorite story-line? 

My favorite character was probably Brett Simes as OB (Chase’s best friend), or Maxfield Camp as Jorge (your typical HS stoner kid). Both Brett & Maxfield really brought their characters to life and added a special piece to ‘Because Of Gracia’ through their comedic timing and unique characters. My favorite story line was Bobbi’s (a girl in class going through the biggest trial of her life). Rachael Hayward did a fantastic job depicting the reality of the struggles that so many girls go through with guys and relationships — Bobbi has such a great character arc in Gracia — it’s great!

What projects can we look forward to seeing you in 2018?

I’m just finishing up a small role in a film called ‘Lumber Baron’ it’s a period drama about the ‘Lumber Lords of the 1900’s.’ A pretty fun project, old costumes, and MASSIVE horses. Good stuff!

Because of Gracia premieres in select theaters this Friday! Click Here to learn more sbout the Chris and the film. 

BTSCelebs sends a special thanks to Chris Massoglia, MJM Entertainment Group and Two PR for the exclusive interview.