Billy Merasty brings lightness to Winnipeg-shot drama Aberdeen
Billy Merasty may be best known as Roger Laughingstick, the eccentric DJ from the fictional Grouse Lake First Nation on the CTV Comedy series Acting Good. However, his recent role in the feature drama Aberdeen showcases his versatility as an actor.
In Aberdeen, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and is now screening at Cinema City Northgate in Winnipeg, Merasty plays Alfred, the loyal two-spirit friend of the titular character, Aberdeen, portrayed by Gail Maurice. The film follows Aberdeen’s journey as she navigates government bureaucracy to reclaim her grandchildren from the foster care system, with Alfred providing much-needed support and humor along the way.
Co-directors Ryan Cooper and Eva Thomas credit Merasty with bringing a lightness to the film’s dark and gritty atmosphere. Cooper, who drew inspiration from his own experiences on the streets of Winnipeg, wanted to infuse pockets of humor into the narrative to balance out the trauma depicted on screen. Merasty’s portrayal of Alfred adds a touch of charm and sparkle to the film, helping to keep the overall tone in balance.
Born and raised in Brochet, Manitoba, Merasty has spent the majority of his 41-year career based in Toronto. A seasoned theatre actor and playwright, Merasty has worked extensively in both stage and screen productions, with Acting Good marking a significant turning point in his career. The series, which has become a top-rated show on CTV’s Comedy Channel, reignited Merasty’s passion for acting and opened up new opportunities for him in the industry.
While Acting Good allows Merasty to showcase his comedic chops as Roger Laughingstick, Aberdeen presents a more serious and complex role for the actor. Playing a two-spirit character was a natural fit for Merasty, who has always been open about his identity as a gay man. The film’s exploration of the two-spirit experience in Winnipeg resonated with Merasty, who found the role of Alfred to be both profound and truthful.
Merasty’s dedication to portraying the lived experiences of marginalized communities shines through in his performance in Aberdeen. He hopes to honor the resilience and strength of two-spirit individuals in Winnipeg who navigate the challenges of rejection and discrimination on a daily basis. By embracing both masculine and feminine energies in his acting career, Merasty celebrates the diversity and complexity of human identity.
As an actor who has thrived in both lighthearted comedies and weighty dramas, Billy Merasty continues to captivate audiences with his talent and versatility. From the streets of Winnipeg to the bright lights of Toronto, Merasty’s career is a testament to his dedication to his craft and his commitment to telling stories that resonate with audiences on a deep and emotional level.
