Wayne Bastrup's early years were characterized by a profound fondness for engaging in various physical activities, such as sports, as well as a creative inclination towards constructing intricate treehouses, and a deep-seated affinity for becoming fully immersed in the pages of a captivating novel.
From a tender age, Wayne showcased an extraordinary aptitude for the arts, with acting and music serving as a means of emotional expression, free from the constraints of societal judgment. These artistic pursuits allowed him to convey his feelings with unbridled authenticity, fostering a sense of comfort and security. In addition to his passion for the performing arts, Wayne also developed a profound interest in visual arts, including drawing, photography, and design, which provided further avenues for his creative expression to flourish.
Wayne's academic journey began at the University of Washington, where he initially enrolled in an architecture program with the intention of developing a solid foundation in the field. However, his passion for the performing arts remained unwavering, and he continued to nurture his acting skills by working on a variety of local independent film projects and commercials.
Despite his commitment to architecture, Wayne's creative energy was not limited to a single discipline. He also discovered a new talent for music, teaching himself to play the drums and exploring the world of rhythm and melody. This multifaceted approach to art and design ultimately led Wayne to earn a Master's degree in Architecture, a testament to his dedication and perseverance.
Through his diverse pursuits, Wayne demonstrated a remarkable ability to balance his creative impulses with his academic and professional goals, ultimately emerging with a richly textured understanding of the relationships between art, design, and performance.
Wayne, a visionary entrepreneur, embarked on a new creative venture in 2008 by establishing the Seattle-based rock band "Gunbunny", marking the beginning of a remarkable musical journey. As the band's driving force, Wayne took to the stage, captivating audiences throughout the West Coast with electrifying performances that left a lasting impression. With a keen eye for opportunity, Wayne seized the chance to share the spotlight with numerous renowned national acts, honing his skills and refining his craft under the bright lights of the music industry.
As his reputation as a talented architect and musician continued to gain momentum, a newfound passion for the world of acting began to emerge, ultimately leading him to make a significant career pivot. In the year 2009, a pivotal moment arrived when he secured a role on the popular TNT series Leverage, alongside the esteemed Academy Award-winning actor Timothy Hutton. This transformative experience marked a turning point in his professional journey, prompting him to make the bold decision to bid farewell to his beloved Pacific Northwest home and relocate to the iconic city of Hollywood.
Wayne embarked on a rigorous training regimen at the esteemed Actors Workshop, where he had the privilege of being mentored by the renowned instructors RJ Adams and Rob Adams, who were deeply rooted in the Meissner method of acting. This immersive experience served as a catalyst for his subsequent success, as he went on to showcase his remarkable talent in a diverse array of critically acclaimed films and television shows.
Notably, before his significant involvement in the production of Paramount Studios' 2015 blockbuster film, Terminator Genisys, Wayne had already established himself as a talented actor with a diverse range of credits to his name. One of his most notable early roles was a recurring appearance on the critically acclaimed television series Awake, which garnered widespread attention and acclaim. Additionally, Wayne had also made notable appearances in several notable films, including the biographical drama Love and Mercy, skillfully directed by the accomplished filmmaker Bill Pohlad.
Wayne's leisure activities revolve around nurturing his personal relationships, often engaging in leisurely strolls with his beloved canine companion Maple, a Chihuahua-Beagle hybrid rescued from a Los Angeles animal shelter. This remarkable rescue dog has not only brought joy to Wayne's life but has also inspired his passion for animal welfare. As a dedicated advocate for animal rights, Wayne lends his support to esteemed organizations such as The Humane Society of the United States, a leading force in promoting animal welfare and combating animal cruelty. Additionally, he extends his philanthropic efforts to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, a renowned organization dedicated to advancing the understanding and treatment of Parkinson's disease, a condition that has personally impacted his life.