In a recent interview with Military.com, Riley Green, a country music star, opened up about stepping into the role of Garrett, a former Navy SEAL struggling with the psychological scars of war, in the CBS series Marshals. The role, which is a significant departure from Green’s usual stage performances, challenged him in ways he had never encountered before, especially when it came to portraying a character with a background that he didn’t personally experience. Green admitted that there is a certain level of pressure when playing such a role, a pressure that doesn’t come with playing just any character.

Garrett, Green’s character in Marshals, is introduced as a former teammate of Kayce Dutton, played by Luke Grimes. He carries with him the heavy burden of “extreme PTSD” from his time in the military. The role pushed Green outside of his comfort zone, making him feel the weight of responsibility not only as an actor but as someone representing the struggles of real-world service members.

To truly understand and accurately portray his character, Green sought the guidance of real Navy SEALs who were present on the set as technical advisors. These veterans served as invaluable resources, offering firsthand accounts and advice that allowed Green to better understand the emotional and physical toll that comes with a life of service. Green expressed how fortunate he felt to have the SEALs on set, as their insights helped him bring more authenticity to his portrayal.

The process of preparing for this role wasn’t just about understanding Garrett’s inner turmoil. Green also had to physically prepare for the role, learning the mechanics of military combat. He spent time off-camera practicing things like reloading a weapon, a skill that, according to his advisors, had to become second nature. “You need to be able to do it without thinking about it, without looking at it,” Green recalled. These sessions were more than just about learning how to reload; they were about instilling muscle memory and making the actions appear as natural as breathing. Green’s commitment to getting even the smallest details right was essential for making his portrayal believable, particularly for viewers who have served in the military themselves. He knew that the authenticity of his performance could mean the difference between a compelling portrayal and one that felt forced.

While Green is used to being the star of a show, his experience on Marshals was a different kind of performance. On stage, he is the center of attention, the one who commands the crowd. But on a set, he had to adjust to being the new guy. “When I go to a show, everybody’s there to see me,” Green explained. “When you show up on a set… I’m not the guy. I’m like the new guy.” This shift in dynamics brought its own set of pressures. Green had to prove himself in a new environment, knowing that if he didn’t perform his role correctly, the production would be delayed. But instead of shying away from the challenge, Green embraced it. He compared the pressure he felt on set to the mental switch he often has to make when performing on stage. As a performer, he’s used to bringing a level of energy and enthusiasm to his work, and that same energy helped him adjust to his new role on set.

One of the most interesting ways that Green’s real-life background intersects with his character is through the character’s love for music. Garrett is depicted as someone who plays the guitar, a detail that subtly connects Green’s real-life identity to the role he’s playing. Green acknowledged that while it would have been easy to lean heavily into his musical background, he didn’t want the character to feel like just an extension of himself. “I didn’t want it to seem like it was just Riley Green on this show,” he said. “I wanted to be the character Garrett.” The musical element, he added, is simply a “tip of the cap,” a small nod to his own life but not something that defines the character.

For Green, the most important takeaway from his role in Marshals is a deep sense of respect for military service members. While he can never truly comprehend the depth of the sacrifices made by veterans, working on the show gave him a glimpse into that reality. He hoped that his portrayal would resonate with military audiences and honor the service and sacrifices of those who have served. “I think I speak for all the cast that we’re extremely appreciative of everybody who served in the military and the things that they go through that we probably will never… be able to comprehend,” he said. The series, he noted, offers a small window into that world, even if it’s told through the lens of fiction.

Green’s involvement in Marshals is not a one-time affair. Although he stopped short of confirming a return, he suggested that Garrett’s story might not be over just yet. “It’s possible that I could be back on the show,” he teased. “I had a great experience with it.” For now, Green is focusing on exploring more acting opportunities, another avenue that, much like his music career, requires learning and growth. He acknowledged that taking on this acting role was a challenge, but one that he was excited to continue pursuing. “It was a challenge…And something I’d like to explore and try to do more of,” Green concluded.

In many ways, Green’s transition from country music star to actor has been a journey of learning and growth. His role in Marshals has not only introduced him to a new world of storytelling but has also deepened his appreciation for the men and women who serve in the military. Through his portrayal of Garrett, Green hopes to show a side of service that many people may never see, but one that is deserving of respect and recognition.