BRANDON SPINK: INTERVIEW

January 5, 2018

INTRO BY ALEXIS ROGERS

INTERVIEW BY CAMI LIBERTY

Brandon Spink made his acting debut in a local theater production of Peter Pan. He scored his first major role at the age of 10 in an ABC comedy based on Johnny Knoxville. In his young career, the 14-year-old has had the opportunity of working with stars such as Queen Latifah, Jennifer Aniston, Ben Affleck, Jennifer Garner. Spink is well known for his roles in Mother’s Day, Game of Silence, and Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, in which he played a Young Bruce Wayne. His latest roles in 2017 included Baelfire in Once Upon a Time and Noah Kirsch in Berlin Station. This young actor has a promising future in which he hopes to win an Oscar and positively impact the world. Read below for our full interview with Brandon Spink!

How did you first get your start in acting?

BRANDON: "I started acting in local theater productions at the age of 7. My first role was 'Smee' in Peter Pan. I really loved performing and that’s when I knew acting was my passion."

What do you remember from your first audition and what it was like?

BRANDON: "My first audition was for the NBC family movie Game of Your Life. I remember being excited when I got the call few days later that I booked the role."

You currently star as Noah Kirsch in Berlin Station. Can you tell us a little about your character and the show?

BRANDON: "My character goes to live in Berlin, Germany with his father, Robert, played by Leland Orser. My parents on the show are divorced, and I try to develop a relationship with my Dad. Berlin Station is a dramatic spy thriller series on EPIX. The story line is great because it relates to real life current events. It’s so incredible to work with such amazing actors and film on location in the city of Berlin."

Do you personally feel like you relate to Noah at all? If so, how?

BRANDON: "I relate to Noah because he is adventurous and not afraid to take chances. He also speaks his mind. I believe I have all of those qualities."

You also played young Bruce Wayne in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. What was that whole experience like?

BRANDON: "The whole experience was really amazing! Playing young Bruce Wayne was a dream come true because Batman is my favorite superhero. Having Zack Snyder as my director was awesome, I got to do some of my own stunts and had a scene with Jeremy Irons."

Is there a certain type of role that you haven’t gotten to play yet that you would love to in the future?

BRANDON: "I've only had one comedic role and that was when I played young Johnny Knoxville in the pilot I shot for ABC. I would love to get the opportunity to do more comedy."

Do you have any goals that you would like to achieve as an actor?

BRANDON: "Of course, my ultimate goal would be to win an Oscar, but also to be a part of projects that help make this world a better place."

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NATASHA WANIGATUNGA: INTERVIEW

December 15, 2017

BY MELISSA TUCKER

Known for her work in the indie film Act Drunk, Natasha Wanigatunga is paving her way to some serious fame in acting and modeling. The newest brand ambassador for Essentia Water talks about growing up in Anchorage, Alaska and how important nature is in her daily life. After working with popular brands such as Nordstrom and Aeropostale, Natasha is continuing to turn heads in the fashion industry. She has her own food blog, tashastastes.com, and has 49.2k followers (and counting) on Instagram. Natasha is definitely an icon to keep an eye on.

How did growing up in Alaska shape your acting career?

NATASHA: "Growing up in Alaska has taught me how to make something out of nothing. There wasn’t much to do except for going to the mall and the movies. My sleepovers consisted of video taping acting skits of me with my friends."

In what way has nature influenced your daily life?

NATASHA: "Nature has influenced my life by seeing Mother Nature as an example on living with patience and grace."

How did you get started in acting and modeling?

NATASHA: "I started acting in elementary, and performed in ballet recitals. I began modeling at 12 years old and had my first photo shoot in Sri Lanka."

You have a passion for living a healthy organic lifestyle. How do you promote this way of living through your modeling career?

NATASHA: "For me, the industry involves a lot of energy. Food has helped me naturally keep my energy up while taking care of my body from the inside out."

What motivated you to start your own food blog, tashastastes.com?

NATASHA: "Beauty from the inside out is needed in the world, through words, self care, and food. Food has the power to heal, to restore, and to fuel the body. Tasha’s Tastes educates others on how I live healthily everyday."

What is your favorite way to show yourself self-love?

NATASHA: "Taking time for myself. I love a deep tissue massage and a head massage. Or a nice candle lit dinner."

While filming Act Drunk, what was your favorite memory from set?

NATASHA: "Definitely filming Rancho Bravo Tacos. Who doesn’t like a late night taco run?"

After being the winner of Miss Sri Lanka USA in 2015, how has your life changed?

NATASHA: "Ever since I won the title, I’ve had many young girls email me, DM me, and meet me to share how I’ve inspired them to love their skin color and that is most gratifying, to change others lives."

Do you have any upcoming projects?

NATASHA: "Yes! I just became a brand ambassador for Essentia Water, and more projects coming. Keep up with me on social media @wanigatunga."

What are your plans for the future in acting and modeling?

NATASHA: "To keep creating and learning."

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NADIA GRAY: INTERVIEW

October 18, 2017

INTRO BY MADDEN LEVIN

INTERVIEW BY CAMI LIBERTY

This next actress can be seen on Netflix's upcoming movie, Bright, along with many other talented actors like Will Smith and Joel Edgerton. Nadia Gray, born in Florida, has had an amazing impact on the acting world since she started to seriously pursue acting at age twenty. Bright, though the most recent for Gray, as it releases in just a couple months, is definitely not the least special -- with her appearances in various TV shows, this actress is definitely one to keep an eye on. Bright will be released on Netflix December 22, 2017, but in the mean time, make sure to check out the trailer on YouTube now!

When did you first realize that you wanted to be an actress?

NADIA: "For as long as I can remember! My love for movies began at a very young age, and it was always something I dreamed about. It just took me awhile to realize I could actually go for it!"

What was your first ever audition like?

NADIA: "Oh, it was tragic. It was for a recurring role on a soap opera with a very well known, long running casting director. I was visibly shaking. I was so green and put way too much pressure on myself! Safe to say I did not book that job."

Do you have a certain method you use when you get into character?

NADIA: "I don't really. I've got my own weird thing that works for me though. And I guess the first place I start every time is over-learning my lines. I learn them until I can say them backwards. I feel like this gives me the most freedom when performing. Sort of like it gives me more flexibility in the moment when all the other variables are unknown."

If you could star alongside anybody in either a TV show or movie, who would it be and why?

NADIA: "Ah, it’s so hard to narrow down! Right away though my mind jumps to Stranger Things. That ensemble is next level amazing. Bright and Strangers Things crossover! Who says there can't be elves in the upside-down?! The Duffer brothers maybe, but a girl can dream."

You star alongside Will Smith in the Netflix film Bright – what was it like working on the set?

NADIA: "Working on that set was such a dream, it was hard to believe I deserved being there. I was surrounded by the most talented, hardworking people in the business, so I was just trying to keep my eyes and ears open to learn as much as I could. It was hands down the best experience of my career thus far."

Do you have any favorite memories of working on the set?

NADIA: "Well, every second I had with David Ayer directing me was incredible, and I truly believe I'm a better actor for it. And doing my own stunts was the best shoot day of my life! But day to day, some of my best memories made were in fight training leading up to shooting. My Sensei and trainer became treasured friends of mine, and I miss those days spent laughing and getting my ass kicked!"

For those waiting patiently to see Bright, what would you say they can look forward to the most from the movie?

NADIA: "I would say straight up escapism. Viewers will take a trip into this brand new world that David and Max Landis made so real and grounded. And you know that feeling when you're watching acting so flawless that you forget you're watching them, and instead you're a witness to their life as the character? That. And it'll be the most fun you've had watching a movie in a long time."

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JASMIN SAVOY BROWN: INTERVIEW

August 19, 2017

INTRO BY MADDEN LEVIN

INTERVIEW BY CAMI LIBERTY

We recently spoke with the amazing Jasmin Savoy Brown from HBO's, The Leftovers. However, she isn't just an incredible actress, she has a plethora of other talents that make her unique in the industry. Below you'll find our exclusive interview with her that discusses everything you'll need to know for your new favorite actress. Also be sure to look out for Jasmin as she stars in Will on TNT!

Who or what inspired you to get into acting?

JASMIN: "I came out of the womb an actor. I knew that was what I wanted to do. Luckily, my mom encouraged me from the beginning to peruse my dreams and ambitions with every ounce of my being. I know that is a popular argument in 'why to find millennials annoying' - the overconfidence and genuine belief that they can achieve anything. But, I think what people miss sometimes is that 'overconfidence' is in fact just normal confidence. There is nothing extra or over about it, because we do actually often achieve our dreams. It's a very beautiful thing and I'm beyond grateful that my mom gave me that gift."

What was your first acting role?

JASMIN: "My first theatre acting role was Betsy Ross in a church musical at five years old. I remember my entire song! My first film acting role was 'girl lying on garage floor with broken arm.' I had zero lines and I was freezing, but I was the happiest I'd been up until that point."

When you’re not acting, what do you like to do in your free time?

JASMIN: "I am currently making my way through the Thug Kitchen cookbook and I am loving it! It is very easy to spend way too much money on eating out, so my girlfriend and I are focused on cooking food at home and we're making it our goal to waste zero food. We haven't met the goal yet, but we've cut down our waste by probably sixty percent so far. I love to travel and spend time in the mountains, and currently I am focused on writing my first album."

What do you love most about working on The Leftovers?

JASMIN: "What I loved most about working on The Leftovers was the community. Every artist involved in that show from actor to writer to set designer, was the kind of person at the top of his or her game. Not one person was a diva, and not one person did not love being there. It was impossible not to constantly be learning new things because everywhere you turned, there was another master just having fun."

Recently, TNT’s new drama Will premiered – can you tell us a little about the show?

JASMIN: "Yes! Will is about William Shakespeare, but not the way we know him. He is stripped down, raw and vulnerable and as a result, he is much more relatable and sexy. We get to witness his transformation from an unknown boy from out of town, to the famous hero we all know and love him to be. The show is brought to life with a modern punk rock score that highlights the angst and appeal of being an artist. It is unique and badass."

How do you relate to your character Emilia Bassano on Will?

JASMIN: "To be honest I have a lot to learn from Emilia. She knows who she is to her core. I'm not that confident yet to claim certainly that I know who I am. She is loving, passionate, meticulous, strong, gentle, vulnerable, wise and funny. I suppose I relate most to her sense of artistry. If nothing else, she is an artist, and that piece of my identity is what keeps me centered and sure of who I am."

Out of all the roles you have portrayed, which would you say is your favorite?

JASMIN: "This question isn't fair! They are all my favorites in different ways. Evie is my favorite because she taught me so much, lasted so long, and gave me more gifts than I can count. Emilia is my favorite because she took the most work physically, emotionally and mentally."

Is there a certain type of role that you haven’t portrayed yet that you would like to in the future?

JASMIN: "I would love to play a dark, haunted woman. Someone who recently went through a tragedy and perhaps became mentally unstable as a result. Something scary."

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AUDREY SMALLMAN: INTERVIEW

June 30, 2017

BY SERA SNYDER

At the age of just 11 years old, Audrey Smallman has already begun to leave her mark on the film industry. She is currently playing the lead on UP TV’s new show “Date My Dad”, as the character Gigi Cooper. In her interview she opens up about some of the challenges she has faced, what she loves the most about acting, and shares some things that people may have not known about her before! Read on below to find out more about this talented young lady!

What first made you realize that you wanted to pursue acting?

AUDREY: "What really made me want to pursue acting was how much fun I had on set & how creative it was. Even on long shoot days it's all the people and the energy on set that makes it worth it! I also love meeting new people."

What challenges, if any, have you faced so far working in the industry?

AUDREY: "Some challenges I have faced working in the industry would be all the auditions surprisingly. It can be nerve-racking and stressful. Sometimes I don’t even know who will be in the room! When working, I’d have to say I don’t find it too challenging because I love it. But if I had to say something, it would be that sometimes the clothes can be a little uncomfortable."

What is the best memory you have so far from working on the set of Date My Dad and why?

AUDREY: "The best memory I have from working on the set of Date My Dad would have to be my birthday! We were all working away doing the birthday scene for Ricky (Barry Watson) bringing him his breakfast in bed. All three of us Cooper sisters thought we were going to do a read through of the scene, but when we got to set everyone started singing happy birthday. I thought they switched up the scene and I started singing, but then quickly realized it was for me. It was the best day ever!"

If you could give one piece of advice to fellow young actors and actresses what would it be?

AUDREY: "The one piece of advice I would give young actors and actresses would be to do it because you love it, not for the money or fame."

What is something that most people do not know about you?

AUDREY: "That I have an older brother with cerebral palsy. A cute story about that is when I was really little I didn't understand why my parents fed my older brother all the time. I didn’t think this was fair. So my parents fed me a lot and for a long time. Until I was about five. Then I decided I was old enough to feed myself."

What are your favorite activities to do when you are not working?

AUDREY: "Drawing, gymnastics, soccer, skiing, and spending time with my family and friends. I also go to school."

As a very young actress just getting started, what is one role you’d aspire to take on one day?

AUDREY: "At first I wanted to be a feature film movie star and be on the big screen! But now I'd like to stay in a TV series and also do movies. I like TV shows because I get to work with the same people for longer."

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GENEVIEVE BUECHNER: INTERVIEW

June 19, 2017

BY MADDEN LEVIN

Canadian born actress Genevieve Buechner has been starring in the hit show UnREAL for almost two years now. Madison, Genevieve’s character on the show, is a bit of an interesting person who may get herself into some “dirty” situations. In this recent interview with Genevieve, we learned everything about her role on UnREAL and her other amazing roles. You can find Genevieve on her social media accounts to stay up to date with her talents!

Can you tell us a little about yourself?

GENEVIEVE: "I'm actually a pretty quiet person, I don’t really party or do anything extravagant. I love reading and watching movies at home, and spending time painting. I also love traveling. Learning about people and seeing places with different cultures is fascinating and important to me."

Do you think where you grew up and who you grew up with influenced your decision to be an actress in any way?

GENEVIEVE: "I do. I grew up half of the time on farmland and the other half in a big city. I think that helped me get a real sense of how different people can be depending on where they are from. My mother is an artist and my father is a musician, so I was always surrounded by very creative, intelligent people. They never stopped me from being who I was and always supported my creative side."

When did acting become something you wanted to seriously pursue?

GENEVIEVE: "It was always something I wanted, but how I wanted it and what I wanted from it changed. I started very young, and I loved it. I thought acting was exciting and so much fun. Once I got a little older and learned more about the entertainment industry, I really started caring about everything involved, not just how fun it was for me, but how it effected other people. That means a lot to me."

How do you relate to your character Madison in UnREAL?

GENEVIEVE: "Madison is so different than I am personality wise, BUT we truly are just as awkward and clumsy as each other. I drop things and bump into stuff all the time. To be totally honest, a lot of the clumsy moments with Madison happened because I really did drop the prop or knock over the cup! She’s also pretty determined, which I can be too, but I tend to keep my determination to myself much more than she does."

How did it feel when you found out that UnREAL was returning for a third season?

GENEVIEVE: "We were actually still filming season two when we learned we got a third season! I’ve never worked on anything where that has happened, so I was pretty excited. I was jumping around and crossing my fingers that Madison would be back! I have so much fun on UnREAL with the cast and crew, they are all so amazing. I was very grateful that I would have the chance to work with them all again."

How did it feel to win an award for Best Lead Performance by a Female in 2003?

GENEVIEVE: "I was so little at the time, I didn’t really know what it meant. I was very flattered, but I didn’t realize that there were judges. I thought people were just being nice. The rest of my family was more excited than I was, and I didn’t understand why!"

Out of all of the amazing shows and movies you’ve guest starred in, what has been your favorite personally and which do you think you’ve learned the most from?

GENEVIEVE: "This is a tough one, I’ve worked on so many things I care about, and I've learned something new on every set. But I guess if I had to pick one, it would be the first thing I ever acted in. It was a movie called Saint Monica and I was the lead. I was nine years old, it was the first audition I ever had, and the first set I'd ever been on. That movie and experience holds a very special place in my heart. It started it all for me!"

What is your biggest milestone so far?

GENEVIEVE: "Working in sci-fi and comedy! I love both and didn’t think I would ever be involved in either when I started. Next on the list is fantasy. Everything I’ve been lucky enough to work on has been a milestone in a way though. I’ve learned something on every show and movie. They are all important in some way."

Anything else coming up you can share?

GENEVIEVE: "Work wise, I've just been really focused on UnREAL. As for personal, I'm going on a trip to Japan for a month with my sister. I’m so excited! We’ve wanted to go to Japan our whole lives. There is so much we want to do and see! I’ve never been anywhere in Asia before, so I’m really looking forward to seeing and experiencing a culture from the other side of the world."

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PRISCILLA FORD: INTERVIEW

May 8, 2017

INTRO BY TIFF CHEA

INTERVIEW BY KAT VISTI

Priscilla Ford does it all. Not only is she an actress, she is known for her modeling as well as her blog, priscillaford.com, where she shares her views on the latest trends as well as topics such as the environment. We spoke with her on some upcoming works, and you can read all about it below!

You're in an Indie Thriller entitled Without Disguise – what can you tell us about it?

PRISCILLA: "It's a concept film for hopefully something bigger. It's very beautifully done so we'll see what happens!"

You play Nicola in the film. What can you tell us about your character? How did you get into character?

PRISCILLA: "I think with characters like Nicola, the costuming is everything. We did do a table read, but nothing gets you out of your comfort zone and into someone else's than a well executed costume."

You're also a model and a fashion blogger – what are some of your favorite trends?

PRISCILLA: "To be honest, I don't really look at trends anymore. I'll see a thing here or there like bandanas or a body suit. I feel like there are always two types of trends going on at all times. What is hot right now is because fashion has improved a key staple and re-launches it! Like for example a trend or tweak on the pink fuzzy flippers. It's in all of the music videos and then goes away in 3 months. I'm more interested in the evolution of it and the nuances that show respect of the past version. However, there is a balancing act. It's important to know what you like."

What inspired you to want to start modeling?

PRISCILLA: "I had so many influences as I grew up. My mother was a model and my cousin as well. My godfather is a gay man with a magazine and newspaper in Brazil."

What would you consider your style? What makes it stand out?

PRISCILLA: "I mix straight lines and boho chic all of the time. It depends on the occasion. I'm very petite, so things tend to look either razor sharp from hips up and slouchy downward. I'm not sure what makes it stand out, but it's something that people have pointed out since i was in grade school--so I just continue to evolve with it."

Which is your favorite: acting, modeling, or blogging? Why?

PRISCILLA: "I love acting especially if it's something that I am passionate about. Modeling is awesome because I get to express an idea or image. Even with blogging, it's the expression that's important to me."

Would you like to own your own clothing brand or modeling agency one day?

PRISCILLA: "I could see myself doing some great collaborative work and creating a brand in the future."

What are your future goals?

PRISCILLA: "I'm writing a screenplay with my writing partner. We hope to option it off this year. Continue acting, continue growing in my career. Oh, and adopt a dog."

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SYD WILDER: INTERVIEW

March 30, 2017

INTRO BY TIFF CHEA

INTERVIEW BY MADDEN LEVIN

The talented Syd Wilder is known for her roles as an actress and comedian. Many have seen her performances in the movie This Is The End and her skits on Funny or Die, but there is more than what meets the eye with her. We caught up with Syd to talk about all of her different titles and more!

For those who don’t know you, can you tell us a little about yourself and what you do?

SYD: It's a mouth full of an answer as I do a little bit of everything. I am an actress, comedian, writer, producer, YouTuber and sometime model. I own a production company that produces original SNL style sketches and web series.

How did it feel to play alongside some amazing actors, actresses, and internet personalities on Laid In America? Who was your favorite person to work with?

SYD: It was such an honor to get to work with some of YouTube's biggest talent, as well as Laid In America writer/directors, Sam Milman and Peter Vass. My favorite person to work with was KSI. The majority of my scenes were with KSI. I couldn't believe this was his first movie. He was very talented, charismatic and very professional.

What are some of your other favorite features and jobs that you have done?

SYD: My favorite YouTube video that I wrote and created was Twerking with Seniors. I can't lie that working on Tosh.0 in one episode playing a dominatrix and being able to whip Daniel Tosh into shape was crazy fun. My very first job I booked when I arrived in LA, was to dance onstage with Prince during a private benefit concert at the Roosevelt Hotel. I was only 16 and lied about my age. When I booked it my mom was so worried because there was no +1 for her to attend as my chaperone. I will never forget meeting Pam Anderson and Tommy Lee that night. They invited me to hop on a plane to Vegas for her Birthday Party, not realizing I was only 16! It was quite surreal. I still remember going home and running to find my diary to write about my unforgettable night!

If you weren’t an actress and comedian, what would you be doing right now?

SYD: I honestly have no idea... I can't imagine myself doing anything else.

What made you want to get into acting and comedy? What is the best and worst thing about it?

SYD: I started out at the age of 12 as a country singer/songwriter. I wrote songs as a way to express myself and to help me cope with being bullied. I love to sing. I would sing in church and my uncle, who is a very talented musician that was never able to fulfill his dreams playing music full time, encouraged my musical aspirations. We would put songs together and had the best times collaborating. I would write and sing and he would arrange the music and record the songs. I was offered a record deal in Nashville at the age of 14. My mom, who was a single parent, felt I should wait until I was 18 to be certain singing was a career I wanted to pursue as an adult. During this time, I took an acting class in Atlanta and I fell in love with acting. I moved to LA when I was 16 with my mom and two older sisters who were attending college and modeling. After I attended the American Academy of Dramatic Arts at the age of 17, I then enrolled in every comedy course in town; the Groundlings, Second City, UCB and I started doing stand up. Comedy became a new passion of mine and a great survival tool for this tough industry. After two years of doing stand-up, I transitioned into writing, producing and directing comedy sketches for my YouTube Channel.

The very best thing about comedy is that I love making people laugh. It's awesome when a video I produce goes viral, and I am able to connect with so many people about something that I wrote and created.

The worst thing about comedy is that this business is very tough. People can be very judgmental of your talent because of your social media presence. I am known for being a sometime model on Instagram, but people can't grasp that I actually write, produce and direct the majority of my content. I've worked very hard on educating myself through training with exceptional teachers and learning on set from other actors and directors about the many facets of this business and I take pride in what I do. It's disheartening that I'm constantly being negatively judged because of my modeling photos. Just because I model doesn't mean I'm incapable of creating quality comedy content.

What has it been like having a growing fan base? Did you ever think you’d have more than 400,000 followers on Instagram, for example?

SYD: When I started seriously creating online content in 2013, I had no idea what I was doing! I didn't understand the theory of growing a social media fan base or how important it would become in sharing your work online with others. I just wanted one of my comedy sketches to have a million views on Funny or Die! I never expected to gain more than 100,000 followers on Instagram, and it's surreal I have almost half a million followers. To have 3.6 million views on YouTube and over 50 million online views, makes me feel beyond grateful for all of the kind people who interact with me on a daily basis. I am blessed to have awesome fans that want to be a part of this journey with me.

What has been your biggest milestone, personally or career wise?

SYD: Honestly, my biggest overall milestone was never giving up on my dreams. I've lost count thinking of how many times I almost gave up, but I refuse to do so because my grandfather always taught me to believe in myself and never give up. He passed away 4 years ago, and I feel him every day in small ways guiding me down a path to success. I see it, my next big milestone... it will be when I have my own show on HBO. I truly admire the career model of Lena Dunham. Once I finish writing my pilot this summer, I want to produce it, sell it and gain distribution. Accomplishing those things will be a rewarding milestone for me.

What are you up to in the next few months and what can we expect to see from you?

SYD: I'm working on writing my TV pilot six days a week from late at night until the wee hours of the morning. I'm also writing comedy sketches for my YouTube Channel and developing a few new characters that will sing. I just finished filming a feature film called "Rideshare," about a crazed Uber driver. Finding out my web series, "Fab Life Teresa XO" was nominated for Best Comedy Web Series at the Hollywood Comedy Shorts Film Festival a few days ago was an absolute thrill. The web series follows a British character I created who thinks she is the worlds best Beauty Vlogger, when in reality she is completely awful. She is so much fun to play! Follow Teresa on Instagram @fablifeteresaxo. My production company is producing a new web series called Reckless Juliets, and we are filming the rest of Season 1 over the next three months. The web series is a dark comedy that follows 4 girls who are navigating their way through high school, while dealing with issues such as mental health, body positivity, suicide awareness, teen rebellion, LGBTQ representation and most importantly, the complexity of women and their friendships with one another. Five episodes have already been released, and the web series has already had 6 Film Festival Nominations and one 1 Win! My short term goals are to find a streaming service to distribute Reckless Juliets, and to finish writing my TV Pilot and begin production.

Don't forget to subscribe to my YouTube Channel! I do giveaways there and love connecting with my fans when they leave comments.

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JAKE ALLYN: INTERVIEW

March 21, 2017

BY KAT VISTI

PHOTO BY MARIN HAMATAJ GROOMING BY LAUREN UPTEGROVE REPRESENTED BY MICHELLE Q BEAUTY — PHOTO BY MARIN HAMATAJ
GROOMING BY LAUREN UPTEGROVE REPRESENTED BY MICHELLE Q BEAUTY

Jake Allyn is an up and coming actor who stars in the new series titled The Quad (the season finale airs on March 29th) on BET where he plays BoJohn Folsom. He's also made appearances in multiple other shows such as The Middle and Blood Relatives. We sat down with Jake to hear more about his projects and roles!

You're set to star in a new series entitled The Quad - can you tell us about it?

JAKE: The Quad is a socially conscious drama about a college. Anika Noni Rose, who plays the school’s president, headlines as the newly elected head of the school who is brought in to revamp a struggling historical black college in the deep south. While she tries to juggle her own personal life, she brings in an eclectic freshman class to mix things up on the normally historically conservative school. She brings in a genius computer programmer who’s also a world class musician, a young rapper trying to escape the dangerous streets of Chicago, and me, a small town quarterback recruit who’s dealing with a world of emotional issues from a childhood of domestic abuse. While the freshman class sparks the college back into the spotlight, we also bring along a few problems for the school, and Anika, to tend with!

You've also made a name for yourself starring in television shows such as The Middle, Blood Relatives, and Killer Kids – what was your favorite one to be apart of?

JAKE: I learned a lot from my first few professional sets like Killer Kids and Blood Relatives, but working on a network sitcom like The Middle was definitely when I entered the big leagues. There’s just a level of professionalism and talent on those network shows that can’t be beat, and as a young actor, you want to be a part of it. It makes for great shows and no one wants to be the actor who comes in for a guest star and isn’t prepared. The Middle really taught me to always bring my A game. Because even the series regular who’d been on the show for years never took a scene off, they never mailed it in, they always gave it their best and that’s what professionals do.

You're writing and starring in two new thriller films entitled Wicked Love and Ex-Patriot - what was your inspiration for writing these?

JAKE: I’ve always wanted to revamp a Shakespeare play to modern times and Macbeth is a play that has themes that always stuff with me. So Conor (my older brother) and I revamped Macbeth to be set in modern day in a rural America town. Our Macbeth is the high school quarterback, his father Duncan is a local king as the high school football coach, and lady Macbeth is the girl from the wrong side of the tracks that Macbeth falls in the love with. It made for a gritty love story with plenty of blood! Ex-Patriot started with my brother. He’d been really inspired by the Edward Snowden CIA scandal a few years back. So we just started brainstorming on “what if's” from that case. What we kept coming back to was “what if Snowden had blown the whistle and the CIA was right all along. What if the people they were illegally watching really were terrorists”… From there we were off and running to make a great thriller!

You've been apart of a lot of horror/thriller types of shows and movies like Zoe Gone, Pocket Listing, and more. Was horror and thriller something that always interested you?

JAKE: When I was first acting in LA, any genre that would pay me money to act was something I was interested in! Though I can’t say I prefer horror/thriller to other genres like dramas for instance, I do think that because I had a background in writing thrillers and dark stories, I think I had a little easier time jumping into those roles when it came time to audition so those were the type of roles that I book. I find now that I’m writing more dramas and personal stories, I end up booking a show like The Quad that’s solely based on personal stories and very complicated relationships. I’m glad I can go into multiple genres, I think even as fun as doing a horror movie is, I’d get bored if all I ever made was horror movies.

How do you prepare yourself for roles? Do you have a certain routine?

JAKE: The first thing I do is figure out my character’s history, his goals, and the important relationships in his life. If you know those things, you’re able to handle whatever the writers or producers bring to you during a season run like we just had on The Quad. Viggo Mortensen brings his research down to one simple sentence, “I figure out what’s happened to this character from his birth until page one of the script”. I try and do the same (and let’s face it, Viggo is a pretty damn good actor to copy from!)

You're an actor, writer, and producer, therefore very involved in the industry - what's your favorite aspect to be apart of and why?

JAKE: Acting. I grew up playing sports. In baseball, I was a pitcher. In football, I was a receiver. And now in the film business, I’m an actor. While they may all seem different, what those three have in common is that all those positions want the pressure. When it comes down to a big moment in the game or on set, they all want the ball. When it’s the ninth inning and the game is tied, I want to be on the mound throwing that pitch. When it’s 3AM and the production crew is losing the overhead light to shoot in this huge field in the middle of nowhere Oklahoma, I want to be the one they count on to perform that scene in the clutch (that really happened to me by the way). Anyway, that’s the best way I can explain it so hopefully at least one sports fan out there will understand that, haha.

What got you into acting?

JAKE: To continue the sports train, after my college football career was coming to an end, I was looking for something to fill the soon to be hole in my life. I’d always loved movies and seemed to be more interested in the great acting rather than a big stunt or fantastic directing, so I started taking acting classes and fell in love. The butterflies in my stomach I get just before a big scene are the same ones I used to get in the tunnel before running onto the field on Saturday afternoons. I hope I never lose those butterflies.

What advice would you give to someone who is trying to go into acting, writing, and producing?

JAKE: Go get really good at acting! Don’t rush your training to start auditioning or in hopes of becoming famous. There’s plenty of time for all that. My best friend growing up, Chris Robbs, is currently in med school to become a doctor. He’s 26 years old and still about 2 years away from legally being able to call himself a doctor. Actors are lucky because we don’t have to do all that to call ourselves actors. Hey, the day I loaded up my truck and moved into my brother’s couch in Venice, I called myself an actor. And that’s okay, it’s one of the beauty’s of our job, that’s why there’s so many interesting stories about actors and how they came to be in this industry. But I know for a fact if you treat acting like you're training to become a doctor and put as much time into the craft of acting as a doctor does in earning a PHD, good things will happen. You won’t need luck, social media followers, or an introduction to some famous producer, you’ll have a real craft you can rely on. And that will always be respected in this industry.

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ASHLEY GERASIMOVICH: INTERVIEW

March 13, 2017

BY GRACE SERRAMBANA

At the young age of 13, Ashley Gerasimovich is continuing to make her name known. This growing star has featured in recent films such as Fair Game and We Need to Talk About Kevin - both exciting drama/thrillers. Adding a contrast to Ashley's recent involvements, she plays Delilah Parker in a comedy television series called The Detour, which just debuted season 2. Luckily, Ashley took some time to follow up with us about her past, current and future projects!

What made you interested in acting at such a young age?

ASHLEY: "I literally have to give all the credit to my mom. She got me started in baby modeling and it just took off from there. I got my first acting job when I was five years old, which was the movie Fair Game. I played the daughter of Sean Penn and Naomi Watts. I had so much fun and I never wanted to stop."

You have featured in drama and thriller films such as Fair Game and We Need to Talk About Kevin. What have you done to prepare for a comedy role such as The Detour?

ASHLEY: "I think being funny is a part of my nature, as much as being dramatic is. You just have to imagine that you are the character. Once I'm working, I'm not Ashley anymore, I'm the character I'm playing, so it all comes naturally."

What should viewers expect to see in season 2 of The Detour?

ASHLEY: "The basic plotline of The Detour season 2 is that the Parker family moves to New York City to start fresh and also my dad, Nate, gets a new job. Meanwhile, Delilah and Jared are going through the awkwardness of being a teen. Delilah is really trying to see where she fits in as well.

How do you relate to your character, Delilah Parker, in the family comedy, The Detour?

ASHLEY: "It's really fun playing Delilah, she's a great character. Delilah can be sassy and sarcastic at times and I can be the same way around my friends and sisters. My close friends and my sisters know my sense of humor."

What is it like working with Liam Carroll, who plays Jared Parker, in the comedy, The Detour?

ASHLEY: "Working with Liam is great! He is awesome. He plays a great Jared and we are virtually real twins! We know what each other is thinking and get along really well."

What excites you about starring in the independent film, A Different Sun?

ASHLEY: "Starring in any movie is exciting enough, but in A Different Sun I performed the whole movie in a German accent! It was really fun and very interesting to try something new with my acting."

In the future, what genre of film and/or TV show would you like to play a role in?

ASHLEY: "I really like any genre of film or TV. I love film and TV roles that bring new experiences into my life and let me grow and expand as an actor."

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ABBY DONNELLY: INTERVIEW

October 28, 2016

INTRO BY KAT VISTI

INTERVIEW BY LEAH FRENCH

PHOTO COURTESY OF RED PEBBLES PUBLIC RELATIONS

Abby Donnelly is a young actress who plays Darbie on the hit Amazon Kids show entitled "Just Add Magic." The show has been renewed for a second season which aired on October 14th. Abby is also known for her roles as Peggy Cartwright on American Horror Story and as Jenni on Suburgatory. She also played Helen McGill on Criminal Minds. We caught up with Abby to hear about the new season of Just Add Magic!

You’ve appeared on shows like Criminal Minds and American Horror Story. Can you describe the transition from the horror, mystery side of acting to acting in a kids show?

ABBY: American Horror Story was actually my first job! I was already nervous and scared about hitting my mark and saying my line! I'm a huge fan of Criminal Minds so I had an idea of what I was going to have to do in the show. Both were so much fun to film! Just Add Magic has a much lighter feel, even though there is a lot of mystery in it. The mystery and magic aren't "scary" like they are in the other shows. The biggest transition has been getting to play the same character for many episodes! And I love Darbie!

Can you give us a short summary of your character Darbie in your new show Just Add Magic?

ABBY: Speaking of Darbie, she is fun, loving and tries her best to do the right thing! That doesn't always happen as Darbie tends to be a little clumsy and forgetful at times. She tends to be funny and light hearted and will always be a true friend!

What can viewers expect to see in season two of Just Add Magic?

ABBY: The second season is so fun! A different mystery to solve with new characters and crazy magic recipes. Once again, every episode ends making you want to see more!

What was it like filming the Halloween special of Just Add Magic?

ABBY: The Halloween episode was very special! We had neighborhoods decorated for Halloween, Mama P's decorated for Hallowen and a super cool (and scary) haunted house! It was Halloween in the middle of July which was weird but so fun! I love being the Dar-bee! 🐝

What other genres of TV shows would you like to indulge in, in the future?

ABBY: I would definitely like to play a superhero of some kind!

Are you working on any secret projects at the moment?

ABBY: If I told you then it wouldn't be a secret, right?

What has been your favorite episode to film for Just Add Magic so far?

ABBY: My favorite episode in season one was 'Just Add Birthdays'! We had so much fun just being silly! And so far in season two - well we aren't finished filming so I don't know yet!

What has it been like to work closely with your fellow cast mates, Olivia Sanabia and Aubrey K. Miller?

ABBY: It's been an experience I will never forget working with Olivia and Aubrey! I have a special and unique friendship with them both! 💖

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