Kellan Lutz discusses the Twilight reunion with Cam Gigandet in Desert Dawn - Exclusive Interview

      Tai Freligh interviewed Kellan Lutz about his film Desert Dawn. In the movie, Kellan Lutz (known for his roles in the Twilight Saga, Immortals, and Extraction) portrays a newly appointed sheriff in a small town, alongside his hesitant deputy played by Cam Gigandet (also from the Twilight Saga, Priest, and Love Hurts). They become embroiled in a complex conspiracy involving corrupt businessmen and a notorious cartel following the murder of a mysterious woman. Tai Freligh spoke with Kellan about reuniting with Cam, performing his own stunts, and how he landed the role in Desert Dawn.

      When asked to describe his character and the film's premise, Kellan shared, “I play a sheriff returning to his small hometown after spending years in a big city. While looking into a woman's murder, I uncover various lies and corrupt acts. It’s a murder mystery action thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat.”

      Kellan expressed his excitement about reuniting with Cam Gigandet after their time in the Twilight films, stating, “It was wonderful to work with Cam again after so many years. We’ve both matured significantly, and as fathers now, it's always enjoyable to reconnect with someone from such a significant experience as Twilight.”

      Kellan got involved in Desert Dawn through the producers of a film he had previously worked on. He explained, “I collaborated with the producers on a movie called Due Justice the year before and had a great experience. When they had this script, they thought of me, and we worked together on the story you’ll see onscreen.”

      Given that Desert Dawn features some thrilling stunts, I inquired whether Kellan did his own stunts. His response was quite intriguing. “I did! I have immense respect for the stunt community. I feel a connection with them as someone who loves adventure and taking risks. I have been fortunate to work with top professionals and learn from them. Whenever I can perform my own stunts, I love to do so, and when I can’t, I’m happy to step back for the experts.”

      Shifting the conversation to his career, I posed a personal question—if he could speak with any character he has played, what advice would he give them and what might they say to him? His response was profound. “That’s a great question… probably Emmett from Twilight, and we would likely agree to enjoy the present because it’s a gift.”

      If acting were not an option for Kellan, his alternative career choice is revealing. “I would be a Navy seal—fighting for justice and against injustice. That’s why I take pleasure in playing heroic characters.”

      As we wrapped up the interview, I asked him a question he wishes people would pose more often—what is it, and what would his answer be? Lutz shared, “People often describe me as energetic, positive, and full of life, but they don’t usually ask where that energy comes from. For me, it always comes back to my faith in God.”

      I concluded the interview by inquiring about his upcoming projects and future plans. Kellan replied, “I cherish being a husband and father of two! It’s an incredible phase of life that’s passing too quickly! I’m trying to soak it all in and enjoy every moment, and I also have some independent films lined up for later this year and the next, so I’m excited to keep working and doing what I love!”

      A small-town sheriff (Kellan Lutz) and his hesitant deputy (Cam Gigandet) find themselves caught in a tangle of lies and corruption when the murder of a mysterious woman exposes a treacherous conspiracy with unscrupulous businessmen and a cartel.

      Kellan Lutz gained international fame with his breakout role in the blockbuster Twilight Saga, establishing himself as a prominent action star. His filmography includes some of the industry's biggest franchises, which have collectively earned over $4 billion worldwide, and notable roles in Extraction, The Expendables, The Legend Of Hercules, Prom Night, A Nightmare On Elm Street, and Immortals. On television, Kellan played significant roles in Dick Wolf’s FBI universe, appearing in over 30 episodes across FBI, FBI: Most Wanted, and FBI: International. While best known for his action and thriller roles, Lutz has also demonstrated his versatility in comedy and drama, featuring in HBO’s The Comeback, Paramount’s What Men Want alongside Taraji P. Henson, Love Wedding Marriage with Mandy Moore, and memorable guest spots in 30 Rock, Accepted, and Six Feet Under. Lutz resides in Nashville with his family.

      I appreciate Kellan Lutz for taking the time to speak with me. He is active on Instagram. Desert Dawn is available in select U.S. theaters, as well as on digital and On Demand since May 16th.

      Tai Freligh writes about entertainment and pop culture for Flickering Myth from sunny