Josh Byrne, once a young actor on the hit sitcom "Step by Step," has taken an unconventional path since leaving the show. After his time on the series, Byrne pursued various interests, including history and all things nerdy, eventually finding a passion for performing at Renaissance Fairs. His experiences on set shaped his adult interests and humor, while also leading him to a career in collectibles manufacturing. Despite stepping away from traditional acting, Byrne continues to embrace performance and education through historical reenactments.
The Influence of Early Acting Years
Joining the cast of "Step by Step" at just six years old, Byrne’s early exposure to the entertainment industry left a lasting impression. The show's move between networks marked the end of his acting career, but not before sparking an interest in behind-the-scenes work. Byrne credits Patrick Duffy for igniting this curiosity, as Duffy began directing episodes during Byrne’s tenure. This experience introduced Byrne to the technical aspects of filmmaking, though his fascination with history soon took precedence over his initial pursuit of a film career.
His time on "Step by Step" was more than just about acting; it was a gateway into a world of comics and nerd culture. Byrne recalls the presence of comic books on set, which reignited his childhood love for superheroes and fantasy. Sasha Mitchell, who played Cody Lambert, further fueled Byrne’s interest in characters like Deadpool. The camaraderie among the cast members created a tight-knit family atmosphere that influenced Byrne’s sense of humor and lifelong friendships. These early influences laid the foundation for Byrne’s future endeavors, blending entertainment with education.
A New Stage: From Taekwondo to Renaissance Fairs
After high school, Byrne’s interests shifted towards history and medieval activities. A significant turning point came when he became involved in martial arts, inspired by Sasha Mitchell and his stepfather. This led Byrne to explore sword fighting and eventually perform at Renaissance Fairs. Performing at these events allowed him to combine his love for history with acting, creating an immersive experience for both performers and audiences. Through these fairs, Byrne found a new way to express himself creatively while educating others about historical practices.
Performing at Renaissance Fairs provided Byrne with a unique form of escapism, where he could embody different characters and teach visitors about the past. He participated in guilds that recreated historical settings, such as taverns, and educated attendees on their significance during the Renaissance period. This blend of performance and education kept Byrne engaged in the world of acting, albeit in a non-traditional format. Today, Byrne works for Sideshow Collectibles, a company specializing in action figures and statuettes, further merging his passion for history and pop culture. Despite leaving mainstream acting, Byrne continues to find fulfillment in performances that allow him to step into different roles, teaching and entertaining along the way.