Talking Mr. McGetty: Don “The Dragon” Wilson
There were many martial artists turned actors in the 1990’s boom period of direct to video action movies. But none were busier than the third and final guest in our Talking Mr. McGetty series, the one and the only Don “The Dragon” Wilson.
Considered the greatest kickboxer of all-time, “The Dragon” continues to remain busy in front of the camera. I had the extreme honor in talking to Don about his most recent project Paying Mr. McGetty and a look back at his long run in the world of action entertainment.
CTB: You recently completed Paying Mr. McGetty. The movie is unlike anything action fans have seen you in before. Did you enjoy stepping into the action comedy world? And how was it being back in your native Florida?
CTB: Do you think your Paying Mr. McGetty co-star, R. Marcos Taylor, has a bright future in action movies?
CTB: Going back to the start of your acting career, how did you transition from competitive kickboxing to starring in action movies?
DTDW: It was a difficult transition from the ring to the screen, mainly because as a professional athlete it is all about controlling and hiding one’s emotions. In acting, one must do the opposite and “SHOW” emotion. But I used the work ethic of my sports training to work hard and keep my eye on the goal and it worked. I’ve starred in over 30 films and don’t feel I have even begun my career. Of course now I’m getting “Lifetime Achievement Awards” but until I’m working for the major studios, I consider this more of my “amateur” career and I will be a “pro” when I am on the studio lot!
CTB: The 90’s was the golden era for direct to video action movies and a busy time for you starring in dozens of movies. Which of your films from this time stand out in your mind?
DTDW: Red Sun Rising, Bloodfist III: Forced to Fight and Out for Blood are some of my favorites for very different reasons. Two were purchased by HBO as World Premieres, which is their highest honor and the ratings for both were great considering the budgets. As they say, “It all starts on the page” and the scripts were superior to others being made by martial artists at the time so I can’t take all the credit..
DTDW: 2017 will probably be the year I make some major changes in the direction of my acting career. I’ve got some very good offers to do television and since Chuck Norris’ Walker, Texas Ranger was highly rated for 8 years, it is not hard to imagine another martial artist having success on TV. Thank for the opportunity to speak to your readers. Dragon Out!
CTB: I believe I speak on behalf of everyone at the site when I say thanks to “The Dragon” for taking the time to answer some questions. I think I’m going to go watch Bloodfist III: Forced to Fight right now!
If you missed any of the previous interviews click on the links below…
For Part 1 of our Talking Mr. McGetty series, click here!
For Part 2 of our Talking Mr. McGetty Series, click here!
