Luke Evans Manifests Gaston's Return & Talks Intense New Role in Echo 3

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Luke Evans has had quite the year. From his blockbuster projects like Pinocchio, a new album, and even a potential relationship, his schedule is completely booked. And the Beauty and the Beast and Nine Perfect Strangers star is now promoting his latest TV series, Echo 3, which sees the actor showing off his physique like never before.

"I'm always looking for roles that push me in a different way that I've never been challenged before," Evans tells Out. "I've never been involved in something so well-written and expansive. It was very fun, [but] it was exhausting. I did a lot of training and I had to stay in shape."

Echo 3 is an action-packed thriller set in South America that follows Evans' character, Bambi, as he searches for his kidnapped sister.

"I've never played a soldier in this kind of way. I did a lot of tactical training with the Navy Seals and it was a great, enjoyable adventure. The storyline really is incredible."

With such a diverse acting catalog, Evans is thrilled his out-and-proud LGBTQ+ voice is being shown on the big and small screens.

"To send out a message as a gay man in this industry... I'm unapologetically myself. I have no reason to be anything other than that. My talent and my ability as an actor is what gets me the roles. For example, this Echo 3 role is so not me! I'm not this person, but Mark Boal chose me to play this role [and] it came from my body of work. I think that's important and that's how it should be."

As his promo tour comes to an end just before the holidays, the actor is certainly ready to take a step back and enjoy some quality time with his loved ones.

"I need a break! I am so tired! I literally just came from London where I just did a massive promo for my second album, which has done very well. Music promo is something else! I'm aiming for my holiday. I'm going to relax, not look at any scripts, drink great wine, and find some sunshine somewhere in the world."

Once the holidays come to an end, Evans will definitely head back to the studios. Hopefully, the previously announced prequel series for his Beauty and the Beast character, Gaston, will move forward.

"Watch this space. Josh [Gad] and I are really passionate about that story. We'll see. Let's manifest it in the Disney universe and see what happens."

Echo 3 premieres November 22 on Apple TV+. To see the full interview with Luke Evans, check out the video below.

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