“Buffy Director Shares Actor’s Scary First Day on Set”
David Boreanaz appeared “terrified” during the filming of the initial episode of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, as revealed by director Charles Martin Smith. Smith, together with Buffy alumna Juliet Landau, discussed his experience directing the beloved series’ 1997 premiere in the latest episode of her Re-Vamped podcast. This was the only episode of Buffy that Smith directed.
One of the challenges Smith faced while working on the premiere was the limited on-camera experience of many actors, aside from star Sarah Michelle Gellar. Smith recalled David Boreanaz, who had minimal acting credits before landing the role of the vampire Angel, as especially nervous.
Smith remembered Boreanaz arriving on set, noting, “This kid is terrified,” and witnessing the actor unsure of what to do. Despite his apprehension, Boreanaz went on to become a breakout star on the show. His character, Angel, even received a spin-off series that aired from 1999 to 2004.
Years later, Smith met Boreanaz at a Hollywood party where the actor expressed gratitude for helping him through his first day. Boreanaz confessed, “I really did not know what I was doing. But thanks, Charlie.” Smith, a former young actor himself, was happy to offer support to Boreanaz during his early days on the show.
While Boreanaz hinted at a potential return to the Buffy and Angel universe, the status of his involvement in the upcoming Buffy reboot remains uncertain. While Hulu has announced the reboot with Sarah Michelle Gellar reprising her role, there has been no confirmation regarding Boreanaz’s participation.
Fans can enjoy watching Buffy the Vampire Slayer on Hulu and Tubi.
