Why we love how Jordan Gavaris plays Felix in Orphan Black

The brilliant BBC America show Orphan Black has returned for its’ third season, and in honor of the unique sci-fi drama let’s take a look at one of our favorite characters, Felix, which is not based purely on how sexy we find Felix (well maybe 20%).

Felix ‘Fee’ Dawkins, playing by Jordan Gavaris, is the foster brother of main character Sarah and he is relied upon throughout the series to council and help Sarah and the other clones. While so much screen time centers around the five main clones (plus numerous others) played by possibly even more gifted actor Tatiana Maslany, Felix has also helped immensely propel the plot forward on his own.

Orphan Black follows Sarah Manning as she discovers that she is one of many identical clones. When she witnesses her double commit suicide, it forces her to assume the women’s identity to uncover the truth hidden by a secret organization.

Canadian Gavaris has been rightly lauded and awarded for how well he portrays the flamboyant artist and prostitute. For one, when he’s not in character, reporters have trouble believing the English accent he uses for Felix is not natural. But it’s how much care he put into the role to make it real that clearly shows Gavaris is one actor to watch out for.

After the first season, a number of commenters took issue with Gavaris portrayal, calling it an ugly stereotype, cliche and over the top. But in a Q&A during Toronto’s Comic Con, Jordan gave an amazing response to an audience question.

He pointed out that feedback from the LGBT community was ‘brilliant’ and that the negative comments have come for the straight community. As you can see in the video below he went on to explain that society can’t represent only one part of a minority. Felix doesn’t actually conform to a single representation of the gay community (showing stable, well-adjusted characters with great jobs and maybe a child), he’s unique that makes a character that’s more real and genuine.

In other videos for BBC America, Gavaris explained how he gets into character and the struggles he had to bring enough depth to Felix so as not to make him two-dimensional. While that shows how professional he is, it also speaks to a respect for the community Felix is a member of.

Just watch this video from before season 2 began airing, but warning you will get to see a clip of his cute butt in leather chaps (another reason we love Felix).

Watch Orphan Black Saturday nights on BBC America until June 20, 2015. (Catch up on the first two seasons Netflix).