More Than a Star — A Teacher in Disguise
While Fire Country continues to dominate prime-time television, what many fans don’t see is the mentorship culture quietly cultivated by Max Thieriot behind the scenes. Beyond his roles as actor, producer, and co-creator, Max has taken on a personal mission: to nurture the next generation of storytellers.
Whether it’s first-time actors, assistant directors, interns, or production assistants — those who come through Fire Country often leave with more than just a credit. They leave with lessons, opportunities, and the quiet support of someone who remembers what it’s like to be new.
“I had people who believed in me when I was just a kid fumbling through auditions,” Max says. “Now it’s my turn to do the same.”
Fostering First-Time Directors
One of the boldest moves Max made as a producer was to advocate for rising talents to direct episodes — not just seasoned veterans. In Season 2, multiple assistant directors and cinematographers were given the chance to direct for the first time, with Max walking beside them throughout pre-production.
He’d spend evenings reviewing shot lists, breaking down story arcs, helping them understand how to emotionally “own” a scene rather than just shoot it.
“He treats you like a peer, even if it’s your first shot,” said one crew member. “And if you mess up, he helps you fix it — not shame you.”
Creating a Safe Set for Young Actors
Fire Country features several younger cast members, many of whom had never worked on a show of this scale. From day one, Max made it a priority to build trust with them — not just as a co-star, but as someone they could turn to off-camera.
He offers feedback gently, takes time to rehearse if someone’s nervous, and shields new talent from the pressures of overexposure.
“He told me on Day One: ‘You don’t have to be perfect. Just be present,’” one actress shared. “It changed how I saw the whole job.”
Promoting From Within
Max believes in loyalty — and that belief shapes how jobs are filled. Many crew members on Fire Country were promoted from within. PAs became second ADs. Camera assistants were moved up. Writers’ room interns got a shot at pitching ideas. Max personally reviews submissions and resumes for behind-the-scenes roles.
He’s known to quietly recommend someone for a studio opportunity without even mentioning his name — only their work.
Why Mentorship Matters to Max
Max often reflects on his early career — cast in Catch That Kid at 14, surrounded by adults, unsure of his voice. He remembers the mentors who helped him — and the ones who didn’t.
He also recalls his early directorial work on SEAL Team, where people took a chance on him. Now, with Fire Country, he feels an obligation to pay that faith forward.
“We don’t grow in a vacuum. Someone has to hold the door open,” he said. “That’s what I want this set to be.”
The Ripple Effect
The culture Max has built isn’t just kindness — it’s structural change. CBS executives have noted that Fire Country has one of the lowest turnover rates and highest morale of any drama on the network.
Actors feel safe. Crew feel heard. And young creatives feel like they’re not just watching history — they’re helping make it.
“He’s building more than a show,” a producer said. “He’s building a legacy of generosity.”
