The star of Amazon’s ‘Red Oaks’ on Kanye West and alien invasions

BY ANDREA REIHER 

Red Oaks is Amazon’s new comedy about down-on-his-luck teen David, who is working at the country club in his town the summer between his sophomore and junior year of college.

It’s a delightful, nostalgia-filled romp through the ’80s and Roberts is hilarious and touching as David, which is why he’s one of Zap2it’s Ones to Watch for 2015. Learn more about him in the Q&A below.

What’s the current home-screen picture on your phone?

A photograph taken by Stanley Kubrick

What are your can’t-miss TV shows?

I don’t have one at the moment. I tend to just watch the same shows over and over. I’m obsessed with Nighty Night.

What’s a song that always makes you happy when you hear it?

“My Mammy” by Al Jolson

What’s the most embarrassing song on your iPod?

A Justin Bieber song. It’s not playable, it’s on my cloud but there seems to be no way of removing it from the phone.

Zombie apocalypse or alien invasion?

Alien invasion.

What’s the last item you purchased?

A DVD, Angel Baby by Michael Rymer.

Do you have any current pop-culture obsessions?

Kanye West. That guy is very funny to watch—I hope he’s actually running for president. Things could get interesting.

What’s the worst injury you’ve ever had?

I broke my arm. I survived.

Do you have any nicknames?

No. People don’t really use any name when calling me, it’s usually “Hey you.” 

Your first kiss—who and when?

Amy Taylor. In the street. It was hugely unsuccessful.

What’s the worst place you have ever been to?

The dentist.

What’s your spirit animal?

A dog.

What was the last lie you told?

That my spirit animal is a dog.

Air guitar or hairbrush singer?

Air guitar.

Who is your last text message from?

Darragh Mortell.

Grab the book nearest to you, turn to page 23, what’s the third sentence?

“After all, the fast-talking Joe had always explained away his every double cross of the slow witted Murray.”

If you had to choose another career, what would it be?

Professional gamer for Xbox.

If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would you be?

The Prince Charles cinema.

Is there a celebrity that you have met and been starstruck by?

Eminem.

What goes in your carry-on bag on the plane?

Laptop and water.

What’s your favorite beverage?

Diet Coke.

What food can you not resist?

Terry’s chocolate orange.

What do your friends make fun of you for?

Still liking Eminem.

Screengrab via Amazon/YouTube