Following the positive reception of his performance as Dylan, Alex began to secure guest roles in various television series. These were often smaller, one-episode appearances as a teenage character that offered him more experience and exposure. However, the role that truly marked a significant step forward was his lead in an episode of the acclaimed ABC After School Special titled "Seven Wishes of a Rich Kid."
In this episode, Alex portrayed Calvin Brundage, a wealthy yet lonely teenager. The story revolved around Calvin unexpectedly being granted seven wishes by a genie. Driven by the desire to fit in and impress the popular girl, Melanie Gamble, Calvin unwisely used his first five wishes to magically win her over. His efforts backfired and failed to unfold as he had hoped. For his sixth wish, Calvin sought advice, which unexpectedly led to a heartwarming moment where he connected with his father, fostering a closer relationship and ultimately gaining the courage to approach Melanie authentically. His genuine self was what truly impressed her. Finally, for his seventh and last wish, Calvin wished for his workaholic father to enjoy life more. This final wish was unique as it came true without any of the usual unexpected side effects that had plagued his previous magical attempts.
Alex garnered particularly good reviews for his humorous portrayal of Calvin, showcasing a knack for comedic timing that added another dimension to his growing talent.
June arrived, bringing with it the promise of summer and, for Alex, the buzz of continued auditions. One afternoon, he found himself sitting in a comfortably appointed office at Creative Artists Agency. Aunt Nancy was beside him, and across the large wooden desk sat Bill, a seasoned agent with a calm, confident demeanor.
"So, Alex," Bill began, leaning back in his chair, his eyes crinkling at the corners, "this is quite an opportunity. A two-part television miniseries of 'Salem's Lot.' Budgeted at around four million dollars, which, as you can imagine, is substantial for a TV project."
Nancy nodded in agreement. "Very."
Alex leaned forward, his interest piqued. "Wow, four million for a TV series? That sounds expensive."
Bill chuckled. "It is, Alex. It speaks to the scale and ambition of this adaptation. And we're talking about James Mason in a starring role. A real legend."
James Mason was a distinguished English actor who had achieved stardom in both British and American cinema. With a career spanning several decades, he was known for his captivating voice and portrayals of complex characters in films like "The Desert Fox," "A Star Is Born," "Lolita," and "North by Northwest." His presence in "Salem's Lot" would undoubtedly lend a significant gravitas to the production.
Bill paused for effect. "Warner Bros. Television is producing, so it's a top-tier production all the way."
"And I have an audition for Mark Petrie?" Alex asked, confirming the details.
"That's right," Nancy confirmed, turning to Bill. "Bill feels this could be a significant role for you, Alex."
"Absolutely," Bill said, looking at Alex. "Mark is a very interesting character. A teenager, a bit of a horror movie enthusiast, who becomes quite instrumental in fighting off… well, vampires." He gave a wry smile.
Alex's eyes widened. "Vampires? That's amazing! I love those kinds of movies."
Bill smiled. "Good. That enthusiasm will serve you well. Mark is a smart kid, resourceful. He knows his monsters."
"We really think this could be a fantastic role for you, Alex," Nancy added encouragingly.
Bill nodded emphatically. "Absolutely. A project like this, with the talent involved and the backing of Warner Bros., it's prestigious. If Alex clicks with them, if he nails this audition, I wouldn't be surprised if we start seeing offers for his first feature film role coming in soon after. This could be the stepping stone to bigger things, Alex."
Alex understood what's Bill talking about. For CAA, while being the third-largest agency, their real strength had traditionally been in television, and Michael Ovitz, one of the agency's five founders along with Ron Meyer, Bill Haber, Rowland Perkins, and Mike Rosenfeld, who served as its chairman, was making a big push to change that and establish CAA as a major force in the movie business. Landing Alex a role in a prestigious project like this could be a significant win for everyone involved.
"You're right, Alex," Bill affirmed, sensing the young actor's understanding. "Television is a great training ground and a significant part of this industry, but it's the movie business where many feel the real prestige lies. A strong performance in 'Salem's Lot,' given its cinematic scope and the talent attached, could definitely open doors to film roles for you down the line. That's the real prize we're aiming for here."
Alex nodded, a newfound determination hardening his gaze. He understood the significance of this opportunity. "I'm going to do my best," he said firmly, looking at both Bill and Nancy. "Looks like I've got a lot of studying to do. Damn, I just finished my freshman year!"
Alex immediately devoured Stephen King's "Salem's Lot," engrossed in the eerie tale of vampires led by the powerful Kurt Barlow.
"Salem's Lot" tells the story of Ben Mears, a writer who returns to his childhood hometown of Jerusalem's Lot, Maine, only to find it slowly being overrun by vampires led by the ancient and powerful Kurt Barlow. As the town's residents begin to disappear and reappear as creatures of the night, Ben, along with a group of fellow townsfolk, including the young horror enthusiast Mark Petrie, must band together to fight the evil that has taken root in their once peaceful community. Mark, with his knowledge of vampire lore and his bravery, becomes a crucial ally in their desperate battle for survival.He grasped that Mark Petrie, a young horror enthusiast, becomes a crucial ally in the town's desperate battle for survival against the evil that has taken root.
The day of the audition arrived, a nervous energy thrumming beneath Alex's calm exterior. He walked into the audition room after a reassuring squeeze from Aunt Nancy. Seated behind a table were three intense figures: Tobe Hooper, director of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre; Richard Kobritz, the producer; and Stirling Silliphant, an executive producer.
"Alex Hayes?" Tobe Hooper asked, his voice calm and encouraging. "Welcome. We'd like you to read a few scenes for us today."
The first scene was the window moment. Alex took his position, imagining his bedroom in the dead of night. He slowly sat up, a furrow in his brow as he heard his friend Danny's voice calling him. His gaze fixed on an imaginary mirror, picturing Danny's face—gaunt, pale, and glowing with an unnatural light. Tears welled in Alex's eyes as he mouthed a silent, choked "Go away," capturing the pain of loss and the horrifying absurdity of the moment. He then mimicked reaching for an unseen cross, holding it up as his silent plea echoed the whispered lines.
"Excellent, Alex," Tobe Hooper said, leaning forward. "Very effective."
Next, the focus shifted to the escape scene. Alex immediately adopted a convincing limp, imagining a sprained ankle hindering his movements. He reached an imaginary door, breath coming in short, sharp gasps, straining to push it shut just as unseen figures pounded on the other side. His face contorted with effort and determination, conveying Mark's desperate fight for survival.
"That showed real grit," Stirling Silliphant commented, nodding his approval.
"Finally," Tobe Hooper announced, his gaze intense, "we want to see Mark after his parents are killed by the vampire"
A raw, visceral rage exploded on Alex's face. He let out a guttural scream, a sound filled with the unbearable pain of loss and a burning desire for revenge. He lunged forward, toward the space where he envisioned the head vampire standing, fists clenched, every muscle tense with fury. The anguish and unadulterated rage were palpable.
The room remained silent. Tobe Hooper exchanged impressed glances with the producers.
"Alex," Tobe Hooper said, a slow smile spreading across his face, "that was… remarkable. You truly embodied Mark Petrie."
"We'll be in touch through your agent, Alex," Tobe Hooper concluded. Alex left the room feeling a profound surge of hope.
Once Alex and Nancy had left, the director turned to the producers. "He's good. Really good. He captured that blend of fear and burgeoning bravery that Mark needs."
"He did a great job with the scenes," Richard Kobritz agreed. "Especially the raw emotion at the end."
Stirling Silliphant voiced a slight concern. "He's a little… short, isn't he? About five-four?"
Tobe Hooper waved a dismissive hand. "Five-five, I think. But it doesn't matter. He's got the right look in his eyes, that intelligence. He is Mark Petrie. We can work with the height; it's not an issue. He's perfect."
The very next day, the phone rang. The house was filled with a comfortable afternoon quiet when the phone rang. Daisy answered it, then called out, "Alex, it's mom!"
He picked up the receiver. "Hi, Aunt Nancy."
"Alex, congratulations!" Nancy's voice was brimming with excitement. "You got it! They loved you. You're going to be Mark Petrie in 'Salem's Lot'! And guess what your salary is going to be... twenty thousand dollars!"
A huge grin spread across Alex's face. "That's fantastic! Thank you!"
"They mentioned that there was a slight initial concern about your height," Nancy continued, "but the director was adamant."
Alex made a playful face, rolling his eyes at Daisy who was watching him curiously. "Height, huh? Well, we Hayes men are late bloomers. My dad was just five-four at my age, and by the time he was twenty, he was a full six feet!" He threw his hands up with a confident shrug. "Just you wait and see!"