Q: What inspires you?
A: I’m a very self-motivated person. I really thank my parents for that and for believing in me. They are such good examples to always try my best. Also, knowing I have love and support from my family. Even if I fail at something, I know it’s going to be okay because I will learn and grow from it. I have a strong faith in God, so even when I’m nervous or not sure of something, I work hard.
Q: If you could say one thing to everyone on the planet, what would it be?
A: “Eat more pizza!”
No, but seriously, I recently tweeted this and I really meant it: #BELIEVE! Sometimes people say stuff, maybe they regret it, maybe they don’t. Just believe in yourself . . . there is no one like you!
Q: What makes you feel most alive?
A: My beating heart! Hmmm, most alive? Not many people know that I started playing drums last year. This past summer, I got a complete drum set and I love playing the drums. I really enjoy drumming and look forward to playing them every day.
Q: Do you support any causes or organizations? If so, how can your fans get involved?
A: Yes, I do. I support Alex’s Lemonade Stand, which is a foundation that raises funds to find a cure for childhood cancer. I just finished participating in the L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade event, which raised $700,000. Please visit alexslemonade.org to learn about their other amazing events as well as how you can participate and donate.
I also support GenerationOn, which is a global youth service movement that empowers kids and teens to make their mark on the world. Check out generationon.org to see all the cool things they are doing and learn how you can participate. I was just recently asked to become one of their ambassadors, which I am honored to do.
Another great organization is the Jonathan Foundation, whose goal is to obtain good assessments in the public school system so that children with special needs, learning disabilities and other needs can get the services that are right for them in a public school setting. They help see their strengths and weakness and assist the parents in seeing the bigger picture for their child. Please visit thejonathanfoundation.org for more information.
Another great cause is Defeat the Label, which promotes a bully-free society without social labels and stereotypes. Their website is defeatthelabel.com.
Q: What advice would you give to the next generation?
A: Take time to really talk to people face to face, explore your world, and enjoy the beautiful nature that surrounds you!
Q: What projects do you have coming up?
A: Right now, I am recording season four of The Amazing World of Gumball on Cartoon Network. Voicing Gumball Watterson is beyond awesome! I recently finished shooting a couple episodes of the hilarious ABC show The Goldbergs, and I look forward to seeing them. I also had a guest role on the season two premiere of About a Boy on NBC.