Harris Reflects on Past as He Stars in ‘My Dead Friend Zoe’

LOS ANGELES, CA — Actor Ed Harris is digging deep into his past as he prepares for his role in the upcoming film, “My Dead Friend Zoe.” The 74-year-old portrays an emotionally scarred army veteran in a poignant narrative that examines loss and resilience. The film is set to release on February 28, 2025.

In reflecting on his character, Harris recalls a former roommate who faced immense struggles after combat. “In the early ’70s, I lived with a fellow who had lost his right arm and left limb in combat,” Harris shared with PEOPLE. “He was a mechanic and I worked with him in his gas station, and he was suffering. He had left his wife and kids, he was drinking a lot. We spent a lot of time together.”

Harris noted that the emotional toll of his roommate’s experiences has stayed with him. “His pain was so deep, and you just can’t forget that,” he explained. “You understand something. I couldn’t help but think back on those days.”

The actor’s commitment to the project is further fueled by the story’s director and writer, Kyle Hausmann-Stokes. “What inspired me was Kyle Hausmann-Stokes, the director and the writer of the movie,” he said. “He talked to me about his own experiences in combat and how he lost two of his buddies who killed themselves after returning home. He wanted to make this film to save lives.”

Harris was enthusiastic after reading the script. “It was a really good script, an interesting character, and I really wanted to work with this man, a first-time director. I think I was the first person cast in the film and I said, ‘Yeah, man, let’s do it. I want to help you do this,’” he said.

This collaboration is Harris’ first with Hausmann-Stokes but is not his first portrayal of a veteran. “I did one film called ‘Jacknife’ where I got to know a lot of the vets, Vietnam vets who were in a VFW post in Naga Tuck, Connecticut,” he shared. “I spent a lot of time with those guys and really got a sense of how they were dealing with their own experiences individually.”

The film gained additional depth through the performance of cast member Sonequa Martin-Green, who plays Merit, a granddaughter coping with PTSD after losing her best friend in combat. “She was just so committed to playing this character and she had worked so hard in preparation,” said Harris.

Harris emphasized the importance of working with dedicated actors, stating, “When you’re working with actors who give a damn and who are totally committed, it just brings everything to another level.” He believes this collaboration heightens the overall experience and encourages everyone involved to deliver their best work.

In addition to “My Dead Friend Zoe,” Harris stars as an ex-criminal in the comedy “Riff Raff,” which also premieres on February 28. “The director, Dito Montiel, sent me the script and it was fun, it was a good character, and, I mean, Jennifer was attached,” he explained, teasing excitement for both films.

Harris expressed pride in being part of both projects. “I thought it worked and it made me laugh and I was emotional. I always thought it was powerful, and I thought Kyle really achieved what he wanted to. I’m very proud to be a part of it,” he said.

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988, text “STRENGTH” to the Crisis Text Line at 741741, or visit their website.