The Martindales! Bob and Millie!

Mark Neufang playing Bob!

- Tell us a little bit about who you play in the show.

I play Bob Martindale, a head of Personnel for the State Security Department in Washington, D.C. in 1950; "husband" to Millie, lover/partner to Jim Baxter. To all outward appearances, Bob is a somewhat debonair, successful, happily married man.

- What is something that you really enjoy about your character?

Though it tends to be to his detriment all too often, I like that Bob is a protector and fixer. He frequently says to Millie, Norma, and Jim that they are his "family", and he is "trying to do what is right to protect us". I can identify with fiercely wanting to protect the people you love. Ultimately, Bob's furious protection comes at a cost. His character arc is a reminder that we all need to ascertain whether the protection we provide to our loved ones genuinely motivates and guides them to a healthier life, or leads them down destructive paths.

- If you could offer a real piece of advice to your 1950 character about anything, what would that be?

I'd likely tell Bob to back up a bit on being so narrow-minded and judgemental, as is his wont. He tends to feel that his way is the "only" way, and he wants to be the one in control, instead of opening himself to others' perspectives which might, in the long run, be more beneficial to him and the people in his life. Granted, I also feel he is a victim of his time; many of the attitudes and changes that would afford Bob a better and more accepted life as a gay man were not to come along until almost a half-century later. He is "stuck", and as easy as it is to dislike his motivations here, his struggle is also very real and conceivable.

- Do you have a favorite cocktail?

Yes - a Black Manhattan is my go-to (rye whiskey, Averna Amaro, black walnut and Trinity bitters, Luxardo cherry).

- How do you feel about sardines, potted meat and cheese sandwiches?!

I'll take a nice grilled cheese sandwich and skip on the rest, thanks.