Actor Nick Searcy made an unexpected visit to the Western Kentucky Regional Blood Center on Thursday, stopping by to donate blood during what he described as a spur-of-the-moment decision while running errands in Owensboro.
Searcy is best known for his role as U.S. Marshal Art Mullen on the hit FX series “Justified,” as well as appearances in films like “Cast Away” and shows such as “Reacher.” He’s also recently appeared in the faith-based film “In the Wait,” starring Dean Cain.
Stephanie Wiggington, director of donor services for the center, said Searcy’s visit started like any other — until his name caught her attention.
“He was being registered, and I happened to walk by. I kept thinking, ‘I know this person,’” Wiggington said. “He gave a California number, so I dismissed it, but I circled back. When I heard his name, it clicked — I’d seen him in movies, but also, our families go way back.”
Searcy’s wife, Leslie, is originally from Owensboro. Her late mother, Luann Kirkland, was a longtime friend of Wiggington’s mother. The two families were close, and although Wiggington had never met Searcy in person before, she recognized him from both the big screen and stories.
The actor, now semi-retired, said he and his wife moved to Cloverport nearly two years ago after spending years in California and Tennessee. He described the transition as a welcome change.
“It’s much more peaceful,” Searcy said. “People in Kentucky are generally pretty happy. People in California are generally very annoyed.”
He said he noticed the blood center while out shopping and decided to stop in.
“It’s Christmas, and I had some time to kill before meeting someone,” he said. “I thought, ‘I’ll just do that.’”
Staff members quickly realized who he was, and several gathered for photos with the actor. While no autographs were signed, Wiggington said it was a fun and uplifting moment for the team.
“He had all his women gathered around him,” she joked. “He was very down to earth and kind.”
Though Searcy has slowed down professionally, he said he still takes on projects that interest him. He recently appeared in season four of “Reacher” and is working to develop a new film titled “Where I’m Bound,” which he hopes to direct and shoot in Kentucky. The film is a period piece set in the 1960s gospel quartet scene and is currently in the early stages of development.
Wiggington said the visit was a welcome surprise during a time of year when donations are especially critical.
“It’s the season to give, so give the gift of life,” she said. “We’re always in need.”
Searcy echoed that sentiment.
“It just felt like the right thing to do,” he said. “And they made it a very pleasant experience.”
