Tune in at 7 p.m. tomorrow to the new show “Love at First Kiss” on TLC.
Watch Josh Basili pucker up. His lips are sealed about what happens next.
Basili, 28, graduated from Cascade High School and the University of Washington. He worked for Boeing for about two years before seeking fame and fortune in Los Angeles. “Since then, I have been in countless shows, indie films, short films, TV shows and reality television,” he said.
His parents, Sam and Mary, live in Everett.
Talk about “Love at First Kiss.”
The show is a reality dating series by the same producers of the “Bachelor.” Basically “Love at First Kiss” puts a spin on dating. Instead of the standard dating procedures, such as going on a full date, the show starts with the end result. The dating experience starts out with kissing a stranger. The next step is a 2-minute speed date if both parties agree, then the last and final step is a full date.
The audition was a Skype interview with the casting director. Then the casting director interviewed me again to send the tape to the network. From there, the network decided to bring me along for Season 1.
How did you prepare for the show?
Lots of mouthwash and flossing.
Were you nervous?
Yes, because I was stepping into the unknown. Anytime you step into something that is unknown the nerves boil up. Luckily I was able to stay calm and composed while on the show.
Did it lead to love?
Well, you will have to tune in Aug. 3 and for the entire season to find out if I found love.
What makes a good kisser? A bad kisser? Tips, please.
A good kisser to me is someone who brings the heat. Bringing the heat meaning someone who is passionate in their kissing and displays it.
I think if you want to show someone that you like them you should go for it and not hold back. A tip that I have learned is to pull your partner’s chin down a little and slightly caress the back of the head. Tongue is always nice, but don’t be sloppy with it. Slip some tongue, but like a lizard bring it back and forth, don’t just leave it hanging in there.
What other shows have you been on?
“Justice With Judge Mablean.” “You Can’t Lick Your Elbow.” “Jimmy Kimmel Live.” “Declassified.” “The End.” “Finest Women in Real Estate.”
What did you like best about growing up in Everett?
The sense of community. From elementary to college I was relatively able to keep the same friend group growing up. All my family lives close by so I was pretty tight with my cousins, uncles, aunts and grandparents. I also enjoyed playing sports in rec leagues.
When was your first kiss? (We don’t normally ask that question but …)
Actually my first kiss was on national television on “Love at First Kiss.” So, you will have to tune in to find out how my first kiss goes down.
If you could have a drink with anyone alive or in history, who would it be?
Jesus Christ and Kobe Bryant.
Jesus because he is the most influential person in history and he turned water into wine so we know that he knows how to throw a party. In all honesty, Jesus would be great to have a drink with and talk to because he could share life’s mysteries and the eternal spiritual realm experiences. I am a Christian and talking to Jesus in a physical state would be pretty rad.
Kobe is the reason I became a basketball fan and started to watch the NBA. Even as a Seatteite I gravitated towards the Lakers and was mesmerized by the Legend that is Kobe.
People would be shocked to know …
I wrote my own autobiography. The book shares views on my faith and struggles in life and the fulfillment that God brings. It details the homeless outreach I started in Los Angeles called Beautiful Feet Outreach. I have been fortunate to pass out and donate 1000 blankets and hygiene kits, clothing and Bibles to the homeless in Skid Row, MacArthur Park and Hollywood areas.
What are you wearing?
Currently rocking a blue bro-top tank and Lakers shorts because it’s 90 degrees.
What are three things in your fridge?
Water, molokhia and pitted black olives. Molokhia is an Egyptian green-looking soup made from the jute plant.
What is your pet peeve?
When people assume they know everything and believe that their way is the right way.
What questions should I have asked?
Has anyone ever told you that you look like Russell Wilson? I get that all the time. Luckily, I am a huge Seahawks fan and take the Wilson comment as a compliment. I went to the 2014 Super Bowl when the Seahawks handily defeated the Broncos 43-8. The Bronco fans were talking trash to my uncle John and I on the train heading into New Jersey and by third quarter they were silent and falling asleep.
Why didn’t I date or kiss any girls growing up? I was extremely shy and reserved. Back then I only opened up to my close friends and inner circle. Now I can talk to anyone. A big part of that has been improv comedy classes and being more comfortable with myself and loving who I am no matter what anyone else thinks or says.
— Andrea Brown, Herald writer
The Chat is a weekly casual conversation with ordinary questions put to local extraordinary people. Do you know someone we should get to know better? Send suggestions to abrown@heraldnet.com or call 425-339-3443.
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