Mark Ryan on Acting, Tarot, and the Whispers of the Wildwood

Mark Ryan is a man of many faces, both literally and figuratively. From captivating audiences as the enigmatic Saracen, Nasir, in Robin of Sherwood, to lending his voice to characters in blockbuster Hollywood films like Transformers, Mark's acting career has taken him on a fascinating journey. But his creative pursuits extend beyond the screen, delving into the mystical realm of tarot. He's the co-creator of the evocative Wildwood Tarot, a deck steeped in the symbolism of nature and the Wheel of the Year. And, as we discovered in our recent conversation, it's a passion that runs deep, connecting him to ancient wisdom and offering profound insights into the human experience. We explored the threads that connect his acting career, his deep engagement with tarot, and his perspective on the mysteries that whisper from the edges of our understanding.

For many, Mark's introduction came through his captivating portrayal of Nasir in Robin of Sherwood. It's a role that continues to resonate with audiences, and for Mark, it was a pivotal experience. "Robin of Sherwood was the most extraordinary expression in terms of bumping into my own childhood during working on that and how that all unfolded," he reflected. He shared anecdotes from the set, highlighting the strong bonds forged with his fellow actors. "We all traipsed down to the Bahamas recently, Ray, Clive, and I, to terrorize Jason in his new abode in the Bahamas," he recounted with a laugh, emphasizing the enduring friendships that emerged from the series. It wasn't just a job; it was a connection to the magic and folklore that had captivated him as a child. Beyond Robin of Sherwood, Mark's acting credits include voice work in major films, bringing characters to life in the Transformers franchise and other productions, solidifying his presence as a versatile performer in Hollywood.

But it's the Wildwood Tarot that truly reveals the depth of Mark's connection to the mystical. He spoke with passion about the deck's creation, explaining how it evolved from an initial concept to a unique system that resonates with so many. "When we were talking about doing a tarot deck," Mark explained, Chesca said, 'Well, is there another system?' And I said, 'Well, let's see.'" He detailed the collaborative process with Chesca Potter, emphasising the organic way in which the deck's imagery and structure came together. "We laid it all out," he said, "and put the animals where we thought they were for the festivals... And suddenly it made sense. To me, it made sense." The Wildwood Tarot isn't just a collection of cards; it's a portal to a deeper understanding of ourselves and our connection to the natural world.

Mark spoke about the deliberate choices made in the deck's symbolism, revealing the thought and intention behind each card. He described the shift from the traditional Chariot card to the Archer, explaining, "I changed things like the charioteer. I wanted to change that to the archer because that was about controlling and balancing energies." This subtle but significant change reflects the deck's focus on balance, intuition, and the power of intention. He also touched on the deck's connection to the Wheel of the Year, explaining how the cards are aligned with the cycles of nature and the changing seasons. "We put the animals where we thought they were for the festivals," he recalled, emphasising the deep connection between the deck's imagery and the ancient rhythms of the earth.

Mark's approach to tarot reading is as distinctive as the Wildwood Tarot itself. He shared his preference for a hands-off approach, allowing the querent to shuffle and handle the cards. "I don't actually handle the deck," he explained. "I usually give the person the deck and I go, 'Now you shuffle it, don't tell me what the question is.'" He described the "Bow Spread" and his focus on the cards themselves, rather than any preconceived notions. He recounted an intriguing story about a reading where the same cards appeared repeatedly, highlighting the mysterious and often profound nature of the tarot. "I've even had people sort of like go, 'I don't know, are you reading my mind or something?'" he chuckled, acknowledging the sometimes uncanny accuracy of the cards. For Mark, tarot isn't about predicting the future; it's about illuminating the present, revealing the hidden patterns and energies that shape our lives.

While acting and tarot are clearly passions for Mark, our conversation also touched upon his perspective on broader mysteries. He shared his thoughts on UFOs and the possibility of advanced, classified technology, suggesting that some sightings may be attributable to secret aircraft developed by various governments. While careful not to reveal any classified information, he hinted at his knowledge of these programs and the complex reasons behind their secrecy. "They are flying stuff which we haven't seen yet," he stated. "So it's perfectly believable that some of the stuff that people are seeing are craft that's been in development since the '90s."

From the stage and screen to the mystical realm of tarot, and even a glimpse into the world of the unexplained, Mark Ryan's journey is a testament to the power of curiosity and the enduring fascination with the unknown. He's a storyteller in the truest sense of the word, weaving together narratives that captivate, intrigue, and leave us pondering the mysteries that lie just beyond our everyday perception.

To hear the full interview check out episode 43 of Wyrd Wessex here