BEVERLY HILLS — Stephen Amell proved to be a straight shooter when chatting with reporters recently at the Television Critics Association press tour about preparing for his starring role in the new CW superhero drama “Arrow,” which premieres Wednesday at 8 p.m.

The action-packed show, based on the DC Comics character the Green Arrow, required intense training for the Canadian actor, who previously guested on series like “New Girl” and “Private Practice” before strapping on Oliver Queen’s quiver.