UNA Theatre Alumnus Lands Role on Hit TV Series 'Heroes'

Aug. 28, 2009

By Cody Wix
Student Writer

FLORENCE, Ala. — University of North Alabama alumnus Daryl Crittenden recently landed a recurring role on the NBC hit drama “Heroes.” He graduated from UNA’s theatre program in 2003 and is also a graduate of Muscle Shoals High School.

Crittenden is being cast as a carnival worker on upcoming episodes of “Heroes,” currently in production. “I am playing a ‘carney,’” he said, “but that’s all I can tell you right now.”

Crittenden said it was his role as a French doctor in the UNA production of Shakespeare’s “Merry Wives of Windsor” that made him realize he wanted to be an actor.

“I played a crazy French doctor. He was scary and hilarious,” Crittenden said. “I remember having the best time.”

Crittenden’s mentor and professor during his time at UNA was Dr. David Ruebhausen. “I only let him play an American once. I gave him a lot of challenges, and it was good for his training,” Ruebhausen said.

Ruebhausen remembered Crittendon a college student with a lot of potential.

“I always knew Daryl was going to do well because he had a great deal of talent and energy,” he said. “But, it takes more than talent to make it in the acting world.

“Daryl always seemed ready for anything, and he never complained. That’s what it takes to make it.”

Crittenden’s unique resume includes a background in martial arts, acrobatics and juggling.

Crittenden has also had acting roles in “Nip/Tuck,” “Wizards of Waverly Place,” “Kokonuts” and a long-running Domino’s commercial.