I’m a Proud Texan”: Jared Padalecki Talks Walker, Family, and the Legacy of Supernatural

Jared Padalecki, best known for his portrayal of Sam Winchester in the long-running television drama “Supernatural,” is embarking on a new chapter in his career with the reimagining of the classic series “Walker, Texas Ranger.” Stepping into the iconic boots of a Texas lawman, Padalecki is embracing the challenge of bringing a modern, socially conscious perspective to the beloved character. While acknowledging the legacy of Chuck Norris’s original portrayal, he’s determined to create a fresh and relevant take on the classic story.

A Modern-Day Texas Ranger

Padalecki’s “Walker” is set in Austin, Texas, where he himself has resided for over a decade. This provides him with a unique understanding of the state’s culture and the challenges faced by contemporary law enforcement. He aims to capture the spirit of the original series, while delving into issues like racial inequality and the complexities of modern society.

“It’s Very Timely”

“My Walker, the Cordell Walker that I play, has nothing in common with Chuck Norris’ Walker—other than the name,” Padalecki explains.

“And so our show is a reimagining more than a remake. And it’s very timely. It exists in our current moments, in our current state of political dichotomy and awareness of racial inequality. And it has a socially conscious way of asking, ‘Hey, is everything working the way it should be?’ From the top down and from the bottom up.”
This commitment to addressing contemporary issues is a significant departure from the original “Walker, Texas Ranger,” which focused primarily on action and adventure. Padalecki’s vision is to create a show that reflects the realities of modern life in Texas and the challenges facing law enforcement officers today.

From Supernatural to Walker: A New Chapter in Padalecki’s Career

Padalecki’s journey from the supernatural world of “Supernatural” to the contemporary setting of “Walker” represents a significant change of pace for the actor. However, he approaches this new role with the same dedication and passion that defined his portrayal of Sam Winchester.

“It’s also a dramatic change of pace from Supernatural, the weirder-than-life TV drama that, for 15 seasons, provided gainful employment for Padalecki and costar Jensen Ackles as they portrayed Sam and Dean Winchester, brothers who battled demons, ghosts, and assorted other paranormal pests,” observes the interviewer.

A Texan at Heart

“I’m a proud Texan, born in San Antonio,” Padalecki proudly asserts. “And while I was growing up, I would actually see Texas Rangers now and then.

And I always thought they looked so cool when I’d see them in their white Stetsons at a pizza place or whatever while they were on their lunch break. And now I’m thinking, Wow, I get to portray that.”
This personal connection to Texas is evident in his portrayal of Walker. He brings a sense of authenticity to the character, drawing upon his own experiences and understanding of the state’s culture and traditions.

“I Gave It Everything I Got”

Padalecki’s commitment to “Supernatural” extended over 15 seasons, a testament to his dedication to the project. He acknowledges the profound impact the show had on his life and the deep connection he forged with the audience.

“Fifteen years is a lifetime—literally, sometimes lifetimes don’t last 15 years. And right until the end, we were very aware of that, and tried to honor that, and tried to respect that,” Padalecki reflects.

“And understand that hey, these characters have been with people for a long time. Look, I’ve met people who come up and kind of hit me on the shoulder and go, ‘Dude, I grew up with you.’ And I look at them and I’m thinking to myself, Well, you’re an adult. But then they’ll say something like, ‘Yeah, I’m 22, but I’ve been watching you since I was 7.’ And that’s when I’ll think, ‘Oh, my God. They really let me grow up with them.’ From afar, of course.

And maybe I didn’t really know them. But it’s like you went to school with somebody, starting in kindergarten, and went all the way through elementary school and middle school and high school. And even into college. And you’re the same person all along. That’s what Supernatural has been like for me.”

A Balancing Act: Family, Work, and the Legacy of “Supernatural”

While excited about his new venture, Padalecki remains deeply committed to his family. He balances his demanding work schedule with the joys of fatherhood, spending quality time with his wife, Genevieve Cortese, and their three children.

“When the day’s work is done, and on his days off, he can spend quality time with his wife, Genevieve Cortese, and their three children—two boys and one girl, ranging in age from 3 to 8—at their home near Austin,” notes the interviewer.

Padalecki acknowledges the potential for “Walker” to be a significant part of his career, but he also recognizes the indelible mark “Supernatural” has left on his life and the impact it has had on his fans.

“Frankly, if Supernatural is the show and the role which I hang my hat on until my last days, then I’ll be very proud,” he declares. “I gave it everything I got. And often I gave it more than I had. We all bled together and sweated together and cried together.

It’s a real honor to look back at it now that it’s done, and think, Man, and I was a part of that. That’s really powerful.”
A Texan’s Love for Tradition

Padalecki’s love for Texas extends beyond his role in “Walker,” embracing the state’s history, culture, and traditions. He expresses a deep appreciation for the past, evident in his home decor, which showcases vintage Texas memorabilia and artwork.

“I think that goes back to the watch thing. I do have a great appreciation for history and tradition,” he explains. “And I would much rather have artwork from 80 years ago than artwork from eight months ago. So we do have some great Texas paraphernalia on display. And we have some replica letters from the Alamo, original old Texas maps. And old Texas railroad bills of sale, original currency from the late 1800s, and whatnot. That’s what I like to surround myself with.

It gives me a calm feeling. It reminds me to be reverent of what came before me. We have the limestone exteriors. And we got a big old steel bull out in the front yard that I’ve been practicing my roping on. But, yeah, I’m a big fan of classic Western art and memorabilia. We have some Edward Curtis photographs. Like I say, it gives me a great calm, peaceful feeling when I get home from a hectic day.”
“I’m Having a Great Time”

Despite the demands of his busy schedule, Padalecki remains enthusiastic about his new role.

He relishes the challenges of portraying a character who embodies the spirit of the Texas Ranger, incorporating elements of action, adventure, and social commentary.
“I’m having a great time,” he enthuses. “Just think, I’m playing a character who needs to be on horseback, roping and galloping. And then the next day I’m doing a fight scene. So you get done with the day of horseback riding, and then you have to go to stunt rehearsal and go through those motions.

We have to start early because the sun comes up at 6:30 or 7, and we need to be ready to shoot [then] because the sun’s going to go down around 5:30. We have 12 hours of work we have to fit into 10 hours. So it’s sort of an all-hands-on-deck situation. But it’s wonderful. I feel like it’s an embarrassment of riches. My cup runneth over. And I’m so excited to do all of this. I feel like I need 36-hour days to get it done sometimes. And then I go home, and I’m a husband and a father.

A Modern Texas Ranger

“Walker” represents a departure from Padalecki’s previous work, but it also reflects his commitment to exploring new roles and pushing his creative boundaries. He brings a fresh perspective to the classic character, addressing contemporary issues and injecting a dose of social commentary into the storyline. This, coupled with his passion for Texas and its rich history, promises to create a compelling and engaging viewing experience for audiences.