Disney Channel’s hit comedy series Sydney to the Max is back for a second season—and the episodes are funnier than ever. The series follows middle-schooler Sydney Reynolds (Ruth Righi), who lives with her single dad, Max (Ian Reed Kessler), and grandmother, Judy (Caroline Rhea), in the house where Max grew up. As Sydney tries to navigate life as a tween, she faces unexpected twists along the way yet continues to navigate each experience with the support of her family and friends. Below, 13-year-old Jackson Dollinger (Puppy Dog Pals; Loosely Exactly Nicole; Jimmy Kimmel Live), who plays Young Max, discusses what it’s like filming the series and hints at what to expect in Season 2. 

What is your favorite part about being on the set of ​Sydney to the Max?

The amazing cast and crew. They‘re like my second family, and I‘m so grateful that I'm able to spend so much time with them. I‘m learning so much working with such a talented group of people. I especially enjoy it when a crew member teaches me how to operate a piece of equipment.


How do you tap into your character?

For my role as ​Young Max​, I don’t have to dig too deep because Max and I have a lot of similarities. We both love to skateboard, are sports enthusiasts, and have a close relationship with our moms. However, we‘re different in many ways, too, which requires me to tap more into the character. For example, Young Max can be completely clueless sometimes. I usually tackle those lines by thinking of absolutely nothing and putting on a blank stare. Sometimes, it‘s difficult not to start laughing in those moments. With regard to school, Young Max is a little more laissez-faire about his grades than I am. I‘ve also found it helpful to study Ian’s mannerisms and delivery of certain lines, which helps with the continuity of Max’s character in the 90s and present day.

Any memorable behind-the-scenes moments you can share?

Oh, wow. Where do I even start? We have so many hilarious moments, but if I had to choose one, it would be the “possum incident.” It was just another day in the office, and I was hanging out in my dressing room, waiting for rehearsal. Then, all of a sudden, I heard people screaming and running down the hallway. There was a possum in a box behind a rack in the wardrobe department. Thankfully, maintenance came to the rescue and helped get the possum to safety outside.


Who is your favorite cast member to work with, and why?

I love working with everyone, but I would probably say my favorite cast member to work with is Caroline Rhea. She plays my mother, Judy Reynolds, on the show. I learn so much from her. She‘s such a seasoned pro. She‘s always giving us advice in a kind and gentle manner and is hilarious as well!


How has your character grown over the course of the show?

Well, I don’t want to give away too much of Season 2, but I can say that this season is filled with some really deep moments that give viewers a better understanding of Young Max, therefore illustrating why Adult Max is the way he is. 


What new elements can people expect on the next season of ​Sydney to the Max?

Be prepared to laugh and cry. This season gives so much insight into the personal lives of characters. In addition, there are also some important topics that we‘re touching on this season. Viewers might even see some singing and dancing in both the 90s and the present day!

Follow Jackson on Social Media:

Instagram: @jacksondollinger

TikTok: @officialjacksondollinger