Brookside Grad and Former 19 Action News Reporter Cast Disney Star in New Comedy Film

LOS ANGELES — Production is set to begin later this month on "Worst Man," a dark comedic short film featuring an unexpected ensemble cast: Jason Earles of Disney Channel fame, professional wrestling legend James Storm, and four-time Emmy-winning host Chris Van Vliet. The film is written and directed by Cleveland native Brandon Arroyo, who also stars in the project.

"There probably isn’t a person alive who would have predicted this exact group of amazing talent would meld together as a comedic ensemble, yet that’s exactly what I believe we’ve found," said Arroyo in a press release. "We want to give people something that feels fresh, something with heart, and something that features a strong brotherhood of friends."

The story follows a man on the afternoon his divorce is set to finalize. His two co-best men attempt to lift his spirits, but their plans go wildly off course. Arroyo describes the film as having "the kind of humor and heart that I grew up loving on shows like 'Fresh Prince' and 'Boy Meets World.'"

Jason Earles, known for his role as Jackson Stewart on "Hannah Montana," brings his sitcom experience to this edgier indie role. Chris Van Vliet, a former entertainment reporter for Cleveland's 19 Action News and host of the popular "Insight with Chris Van Vliet" podcast, takes on his largest scripted acting role to date. James Storm, a former TNA World Champion and member of the Canadian Pro Wrestling Hall of Fame, continues his transition from the wrestling ring to the screen with this project.

Arroyo, a graduate of Brookside High School and Kent State University, previously reported high school football on 19 Action News. He has appeared on HBO’s "Curb Your Enthusiasm" and ABC’s "The Company You Keep," and was a contestant on Food Network’s "Worst Cooks in America."

Production for "Worst Man" is scheduled to begin in Los Angeles later this month, with plans to premiere at film festivals in the fall. Arroyo sees potential for the project to expand into a series or feature film, stating, "Right now, we’re focused on making the best short film possible, reaching the full potential of these amazing artists."

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