Johnny Link, an accomplished actor and musician, recently graced our screens in the Netflix hit “My Life with the Walter Boys” as Will Walter, the hard-of-hearing oldest brother of the Walter family.
Who is Johnny Link?
Growing up in Batavia, Illinois, Johnny Link‘s journey into the world of acting and music began at a young age, eventually leading him to graduate from Penn State University. His career unfolded on both stage and screen, with notable appearances in Apple TV+’s “Dear Edward” and NBC’s “Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist.” However, it’s his portrayal of Will Walter in “My Life with the Walter Boys” that has brought him into the spotlight.
Johnny Link as Will Walter
In the heartwarming coming-of-age story of “My Life with the Walter Boys,” Link’s character, Will Walter, emerges as a pivotal figure. As the eldest of the Walter siblings, Will welcomes Jackie, played by Nikki Rodriguez, into the chaotic yet loving Walter household. A college graduate engaged to be married, Will wears hearing aids, drawing a parallel with Johnny Link’s real-life experience of being hard-of-hearing since childhood.
The show, set against the backdrop of rural Colorado, explores themes of family, romance, and self-discovery. Will’s character adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative, reflecting the diversity and richness that actors like Johnny Link bring to the screen.
Advocating for Accessibility
Beyond his on-screen roles, Johnny Link is an advocate for accessibility. With moderate to severe sensorineural hearing loss in both ears, Link understands the importance of representation and inclusivity. His goal is clear: to tell inclusive stories that ignite curiosity and empathy, fostering a sense of belonging for all.
Link’s commitment goes beyond storytelling; he is actively working to improve on-set conditions for the Deaf community. Recognizing that accommodations should be tailored to individual needs, he emphasizes the impact of the set environments on the Deaf community, stating that communicating in a room with two people is vastly different from a set bustling with a hundred.
Watch “My Life with the Walter Boys”
“My Life with the Walter Boys” is not just a series; it’s a journey into the complexities of life, love, and family. Johnny Link’s portrayal of Will Walter, coupled with his advocacy for accessibility, adds depth to the narrative and amplifies the importance of diverse voices in the entertainment industry.
For those starting their American Sign Language learning journey and seeking to understand Deaf culture and current events, Johnny Link’s story serves as a fantastic and current example.
