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Hanna Pallot
PULLED BY THE MOON

In conversation with CORY MICHAEL SMITH

PULLED BY THE MOON
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Martin Onufrowicz
SOUL VIBRATIONS
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Hanna Pallot
HOPEFUL ESCAPISM
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Martin Onufrowicz
MAN IN THE MIRROR
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Martin Onufrowicz
A LESSON IN EMPATHY

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WORLDLINESS AND WONDER

 At just 16-years-old, McKenna Grace has all the stuff that makes film and tv studio exec’s drool: talent far beyond her years, beauty, an ease for expressiveness which can convey both worldliness and wonder, enthusiasm, and a widely popular Instagram account. She can play that poster child of bright, funny, wise-beyond-her-years teenage girl, but also take on mature roles that resonate with adults as well as teens, even when she’s playing younger versions of onscreen characters (something she’s quite used to).

She’s booked a string of roles including Mrs. Keyes in The Handmaid’s Tale – which earned her an Emmy nomination – and appeared in movies like I, Tonya, Gifted, Ghostbusters: Afterlife and chilling TV dramas including Haunting of Hill House and A Friend of the Family, based on a true story, in which she played a young Jan Broberg who was kidnapped multiple times in the 1970s.  Next up is the equally hard-hitting film Spider and Jessie, dealing with themes of addiction, playing one half of two sisters, battling separation after their mother fatally overdoses – and on a lighter note, she’s also bagged herself a lead character in Disney+'s new coming-of-age film, Crater. Acting aside, Grace has also taken a strong interest in writing and recording music, and as her rise to stardom continues, it’s clear to see she has all the makings of a very big future.

Left Full look Louis Vuitton

Right Full look Alexander McQueen

You’ve got the Ghostbusters Afterlife sequel coming in 2023, what can we expect for Phoebe Spengler in this next chapter?

 My lips are sealed. Ha-ha! I CAN’T say anything! I did an interview for my last show, A Friend of the Familyand the interviewer asked me a casual question about the sequel, and I can't even remember what I said...next thing I knew there were all these articles saying that I officially confirmed that I would be in the sequel, which was absolutely not true! So, I am not saying a thing! Ha-ha...this is NOT me confirming anything. I know nothing!

Coat Zadig&Voltaire, sweater N21

 Ok, but did you ever see the female-led reboot, which starred Melissa McCarthy and Kristen Wiig in 2016? Do you have a favourite kick-ass woman film character?

 Yes! I loved it! I love Captain marvel, Lara Croft, and especially love Ripley from Alien, she’s so cool!! 

 

And talking of female powerhouses, you’ve starred alongside Sigourney Weaver, Margot Robbie and Elisabeth Moss among others – what do you think you learned most from watching them on set?

 I’ve learned so much from watching these amazing women, but I really learned a lot from Elisabeth Moss. I've spent the most time with her. I think she’s just one of the most brilliant people I’ve ever worked with, I really mean that. I totally look up to her and her work. She has this incredible work ethic and brings such powerhouse performances in everything she does. I would get so excited when she was directing me on Handmaid's Tale. I'm such a huge fan of hers!

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 You’re not afraid to tackle complex roles, such as playing the child bride Esther in The Handmaid’s Tale – and your role in A Friend of the Family. Do you take roles based on what you believe in and that will challenge you, rather than choosing roles that might be, quote-unquote, career choices?

 I really do try to do projects that matter to me and tell stories I think are important. I’m honoured to be a part of The Handmaids Tale and A Friend of The Family because they’re projects that don’t shy away from the uncomfortable subjects and help open up conversations. I love being challenged and will never take on a role that I know I can't give my all to. I'm lucky enough to not have to choose my jobs based on money because I'm still a teenager and live with my parents, ha-ha! So as far as career choices, I just read a script and if it speaks to me, I give it my best shot to get to play the role.

 With A Friend of the Family, how was it portraying a non-fictional character on-screen? You had chats with the real-life Jan too, right?

 It felt like a lot of pressure and really scary, but then after speaking to Ms. Jan I felt a lot more at ease. I tried my best to do her story justice. I did as much research as I could!

Full look Miu Miu

 Which character that you’ve played has taught you the most about yourself?

 I’d say playing Jan Broberg, I learned a lot about acting, and grew a lot both as an actor and hopefully as a person.  

Left Coat Zadig&Voltaire

Right Dress Alexander McQueen

You’ve been working on TV and film sets since you were five years old. Do you think acting is nature or nurture for you? Were you born an actor? Or were you nurtured to become one?

 I guess it might be a little bit of both. I begged my parents to do acting when I was 5 after watching Shirley Temple videos and the Pee-Wee Herman show, but I begged to do a lot of things! I wanted to be a gymnast, a dancer, a cheerleader, I even told my parents I was going to be a Ghostbuster when I grew up. I'm an only child, so they let me try a lot of things. I was horrible at dance and gymnastics! But my teacher pulled my Mom outside after my first acting class and told her that I was doing things naturally at 5 years-old that she teaches in adult classes, and that my parents should really consider getting me an agent. Memorising scripts and taking direction came easily to me and I remember it being a lot of fun. I couldn't have done all of that without my parents help. I have always really felt like I'm doing what I was born to do, like I wouldn't rather be doing anything else, and I am happiest when I am creating.

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 Is there a level of performance that you’re chasing as an actor, and have you reached it to your own satisfaction yet at this stage? I mean you’ve already achieved an Emmy nominee for your part in The Handmaid’s Tale?

 I don't think I will ever be completely satisfied with my work. It's a blessing and a curse and something I've had to come to terms with, especially over the past couple years as I've got older. It's a blessing because I always want to be better, but it's a curse because I'll go back and pick apart my performances. While I was filming A Friend of the Family, I was really happy with my performance, then I did a film afterwards that I feel like I grew so much on as an actor. Now, I look back at AFOF and I feel like I could've done so much better! I guess I just want to keep out-doing myself. I could say I don't want the accolades or that they aren't important to me, but I would be lying. Of course, as an actor it would be nice to have recognition for my acting from my peers or the public, but I can’t, and don’t work for that. If I did, I would be a mess. As I've grown up in this business, I've learned not to have any expectations when it comes to people or projects. I work and do my best for the directors/studios that hire me and for myself and all I can do is hope people appreciate and like what I do. However, if I'm being 100% honest, my biggest dream is to win an Oscar or an Emmy someday.

Dress Alexander McQueen

 Acting aside, music is another creative passion for you. What are you currently listening to, and do you make playlists?

 I’m listening to a lot of Carol Ades, DJO, Lovejoy (in preparation for their concert!) and lots of love songs ha-ha! I love making playlists! I have a ton that I’ve posted on Spotify!

 

Do you ever listen to music when you need to get into character for a role?

 I always listen to music to get into character. I learned that from Elisabeth Moss. It's funny how certain songs bring me back to different characters. Just this morning on my way to work, I was listening to Savior Complex by Phoebe Bridgers, and it brought me back to this past summer. I listened to it to get emotional for my scenes on Spider and Jessie. 

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  You’re releasing your next single soon, Self-Dysmorphia. Can you tell me more about the meaning behind the title? Is it in any way a reference to selfie dysmorphia and social media, and the way so many young people are so obsessed with this pursuit for perfection, with things like filters etc?  

 I wrote the song during a time in my life where I was really struggling with not liking myself. On my socials, I'm sure I looked happy and confident, but I was having a hard time in my personal life and with my self-image and worth. I would sometimes read mean comments on my Instagram, and it would spiral me. I have a lyric "don't be critical, I'm so miserable" because that was exactly how I was feeling. I had been hiding my struggle with scoliosis for so long. I had written the song to express my feelings because I was afraid to express how I was feeling out loud. I didn't think people would understand, and that I would look like a whiny person who didn't appreciate the things I do have. And while I am so grateful for my life, this song was just how I was feeling at the time. Just a way of saying that it doesn't matter what someone may look like on the outside, we all have battles and struggles internally.

 

So, I imagine you obviously stand with other actors and female stars like Zendaya, Kate Winslet and Priyanka Chopra, who have slammed society and Hollywood’s unrealistic beauty standards and especially the prevalence of digitally altered photos in fashion shoots and on social media. Are you against airbrushing, because as women, shouldn’t we be inspiring other women to be confident in themselves and make the most of their natural good looks?

 Speaking of powerhouse women… Zendaya is incredible! I really look up to her! Of course, I hate how society has placed these ridiculous expectations on people. I think if a woman wants to wear lots of makeup because it makes her feel pretty, then she should, and if she wants to wear no makeup because she feels better doing that, she should! We all have different things that help us look pretty and feel pretty! I have noticed over the last year though that when I'm working on making my heart happy and prettier, that reflects on the outside. It sounds super cheesy, but I truly mean it. Taking care of our minds and hearts should be top priority.

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Interview by Kate Lawson

Photography by Hadar Pitchon

Fashion by Michael Rosenberg

Casting by Imagemachine cs

Hair by Ledora Francis

Make-Up by Ayaka Nihei

BLOODY AMAZING!

Since starring in It’s a Sin, Callum Scott Howells has been gravitating towards opportunities that will challenge him just as much as the queer series. “I yearn for roles that will get my blood going and my adrenaline pumping,” says the Welsh actor. This year, he’s starring in two such projects, the first one being Netflix’s The Beautiful Game. In the film, Callum is portraying an English football team player participating in the Homeless World Cup, for whom the sport becomes a powerful tool in fighting his drug addiction. In October, the actor also began his stint on the West End stage as the naughty Emcee in the incredible adaptation of the classic musical Cabaret. What intrigues him about this story? “It shows a country, and the underground scene and its community, on the verge of war,” answers Callum. “I think it’s super interesting to look at how that moment affected people, and this rendition explores that on a deep level.”

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How did the experience of starring in It’s A Sin affect the types of roles that you are looking for right now?

 The show really threw me into the deep end in terms of topics I dealt with as an actor, and the physical and mental challenges I faced. Now, when I look at potential roles, I yearn for projects that really get my blood going and my adrenaline pumping. I want to play characters that have a lot of backstories and be a part of things that challenge people’s ideas.

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 The series has really resonated with the audience at the time of its release  - what have been some of the interactions with the viewers that will always stay with you?

 I still think about moments from the past couple of years when people would approach me on the street while I’m walking my dog and share with me their personal stories about living with HIV and how the show made a big change in their lives. Those are the interactions that I tell my parents about because they’re the most special thing. I remember them all so vividly.

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Right Full look Gucci

 This Autumn, you’re taking over the Playhouse Theatre stage in London as the Emcee in Cabaret. How are the rehearsals going?

 The role of the Emcee is so iconic and there’s a lot of pressure that I’ve put on myself about it, but I’m being allowed to do my own thing which is really fun! I’m having the time of my life during the rehearsals – it’s one of the most fun roles I’ve ever played and I’m excited to get my teeth into it properly.

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 Cabaret is such a timeless musical! What do you find most interesting about the story that the show is telling?

 I find it really intriguing how the play shows a country, and also more specifically, the underground scene and community around it, on the verge of war. I think it’s super interesting to explore how that moment affected and changed people, and I think this production really explores that on a deep level.

Full look Salvatore Ferragamo

 Up next, you’re also starring in The Beautiful Game on Netflix. What made you want to be a part of this project and who are you playing in the film?

 I’m portraying Nathan, a player of the England football team in the Homeless World Cup who’s coming off heroin and is dealing with a very complicated situation at home. The film is all about people forgetting the troubles they face in their day-to-day lives and channelling their energy into something they love, which I hope will resonate with a lot of people.

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 I read somewhere that you really like to play FIFA - how’s that going and which team do you most often play with?

 Yes, I love it! My housemates and I have the career mode with Wimbledon, because that’s where we live, and we are doing quite well. We’ve got them up to the Premier League, which is quite a big achievement for us!

Full look Alexander McQueen

 So you’re a great actor and FIFA player - are there any other talents that we should know about?

 I’m biased and people may disagree, but I think I’m bloody good at cooking! If you give me some ingredients and tell me to make a dish, I’ll usually be able to muster something up – the reason that I’m saying this is because a lot of my friends would say that I’m shit at it. But you know what? Give me my own cooking show and I’ll show the bloody world!

Left Top JW Anderson, brooch Faberge

Right Full look JW Anderson

 Lastly, what’s a film that shaped you growing up or was just really important to you at that time?

 High School Musical had a huge impact on me! When it first came out, I remember really seeing myself in the character of Ryan and also relating to Troy’s storyline about wanting to play basketball and act at the same time, because I really loved football growing up. It sounds so cliché, but it was such a bloody amazing film!

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Interview by Martin Onufrowicz

Photography by Emilia Staugaard

Fashion by Michael Miller

Casting by Imagemachine Cs

Production by Dominic Holroyd

Grooming by Nadia Altinbas

SWEET REVENGE

You might not know Nicholas Denton just yet, but that’s sure about to change! The Australian actor’s charming portrayal of Pascal Valmont – a young mapmaker working on regaining his social status in 18th century French society – is one of the shining points of the opulent new series Dangerous Liaisons, inspired by the classic book with the same title. The funny and often very naughty production (out now on Starz) acts as an origin story of the deliciously manipulative duo known from the novel – presenting them as villains-to-be who are slowly finding their feet in the art of seduction and blackmail. For Nicholas, the story he gets to show on the screen in many ways feels incredibly modern despite its historic surroundings. “You get to meet these cats when they’re at a young age and they’re vulnerable and they’re confused and they’re trying to both figure out the world they’re in and themselves,” he explains. “ And I think that gives it a contemporary flair.”

The first episode of the series came out last week – did you do anything to celebrate the premiere?

 Yeah! The day before the show premiered, I did a screening party with 16 of my friends – we were all crammed into one bedroom and watched it on a shitty projector. The quality was quite rough, but it was fun! [Laughs]

 Amazing! Was there anything that surprised you when you were watching it?

 I didn’t think it would be so charming, that it would be a show that felt like a storybook that I’d want to read when I was younger! That’s the thing about the show – it doesn’t take away from the films made about this story before and the book itself. What we’re seeing are not the evil characters that people know so well from the novel or the Stephen Frears version. The characters that me and Alice [Englert] are playing are baby villains, they are slowly finding their feet. And I was most happy that we caught that – it was like capturing something very sweet in a bottle. That’s the really important part: to show the vulnerability, show why they are the way they are and give the audience the context to what those two will end up being, which is these conniving jerks.

 Have the previous adaptations of this story that show your character at an older age influenced in any way the way you approached Pascal?

 Well, I love John Malkovich and I knew that it was a very big job in terms of setting up this character that people know very well and love to hate. That said, I never watched the film – I didn’t want to see it because I would’ve ended up copying John. I remember actually that Leo Lonsdale, the director of the first block of the show, said to me that one of the reasons I got the job is because I didn’t come into the casting trying to mimic John’s version. So I’m quite proud that I was able to bring in something unique to this character.

 Despite being set hundreds of years back, the show feels very modern…

 Yeah, it’s the modern version of this story and at the same time, it's just a nice starting point – it’s their origin story. You get to meet these cats when they’re at a young age and they’re vulnerable and they’re confused and they’re trying to both figure out the world they’re in and themselves. So I think that gives it a contemporary flair.

 What do you like the most about Valmont?

 I like the fact that he’s incredibly inconsistent. [Laughs] For me, to play a character like that is really a blessing because I can kind of just do whatever I want. And in a way, it also makes a lot of sense for him to be that way because he has so many different kinds of attitudes and faces that he takes into the world. He’s a snake, but he’s also a deeply sad young man. He’s got some rage in him. He’s lonely. I find him deeply conflicted as a human being because he’s so willing to use anything he can to manipulate and get what he wants. But that’s such a human thing – people do that all the time! They’re like, ‘If I have something taken away from me, I feel that it is my right to get it back and I’ll do everything I can to do so.’ So that’s a super strong anchor for me as an actor to go, ‘Alright, this is what he wants, and he’ll do anything to get that.’ It’s very fun, but also quite morally distorting for me. I don’t respect this guy, but I do admire his rambunctiousness in going to get what he wants. I’m not like that, I’m quite a passive person…

 That actually reminds me of this quote from the interview you and Alice did for The New York Times, where you said that you guys are ‘betas pretending to be alphas.’ What did you find most helpful in your preparations for the role to enter this ‘alpha’ state?

 I do a lot of fencing and love-making in the show, so I was very aware that Pascal had to have a sense of a quite strong physique to be both able to have a bit of this bull-like quality to him and also hold people up. I did a lot of training to get some sort of a [muscular] body out of the pickle-like body that I have. Also, the costumes were incredibly helpful in terms of just getting a bit more posture and stature.

 The show has been already renewed for its second season. Where do you hope to see this story evolve? Do you have any insight on what’s happening next?

 I don’t, actually! But I know that the revolution is coming and things are definitely heating up. Also, the war between Camille and Valmont will be very apparent in the second season, so it will get a lot darker. Which I’m all about! Also, I hope I get to do some more sword fighting and some dancing. [Laughs]

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Interview by Martin Onufrowicz

Photography by Hadar Pitchon

Casting by Imagemachine cs

Grooming by Laila Hayani at Forwards Artists

All clothes Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello

HEY, I'M ZACKARY, WANNA PLAY?

Imagine two queer kids in love dealing with a serial-killing doll, and not just any doll, but the most well-known slasher doll in cinema history EVER, Chucky.

Rising acting talent, Zackary Arthur, plays the lead as teen Jake wheeler in the latest small screen incarnation of Don Mancini’s possessed doll from the Child’s Play film franchise, complete with freshly rebooted swivelling eyes, missing knives, jump scares and the urge to get behind a sofa and check the little murderous maniac with a bad haircut isn’t behind you. Before you binge the show so far this weekend, which has been applauded for its inclusion of LGBTQ+ characters and tackling themes about bullying – you ought to get familiar with LA native Zackary, the young horror-genre trailblazer who still sleeps with the light on after watching scary movies. Here’s all the need-to-know details, and then some.

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Were you familiar with the unruly horror icon Chucky, from the 1988 slasher movie, Child’s Play, before joining this series? 

After I auditioned, I watched all the films with my family. My mom and dad didn’t let me watch a lot of that because I used to be really scared of horror movies. Now, I really like them, although I must admit I sleep with the light on after I watch scary films. I don’t usually tell people that!

Left Full Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello

Right Tanktop JW Anderson, shorts & belt Moschino

 The series progressively and positively resonates with our own times, embracing queer main characters and representing the LGBTQ+ community, while also tackling themes of bullying.  When you got the script, how did you prepare for the role?

 In preparing for the part of Jake Wheeler, I had many talks with the brilliant Don Mancini, and the character was based on Don’s experience to a large degree, so I knew he would be helpful. He lets us bring what we have into the character, which is a great thing because it helped me put myself in Jake’s headspace. He deals with so much, but he’s really brave and I admire him for that, and I think many people can relate to him because he has a big heart and is very forgiving. I think it was interesting to see the development of the friendship between him and Lexy, as there was a lot of forgiveness there on Jake’s part. That’s not easy, but it was so valuable and brought the three of them together. The one thing about this series that makes it work is there’s so much love in it. That’s Don Mancini though. He’s such a caring person with a big heart. 

Jacket Louis Vuitton

“The one thing about this series that makes it work is there’s so much love in it. That’s Don Mancini though. He’s such a caring person with a big heart.”

 Have you had a lot of positive feedback from fans who see themselves in your character, and how does it feel to be a horror-genre trailblazer?

I would love the chance to get to know the fans and find out how Jake has helped them. Some comments on social media have come through and it means so much to me, and I’ve received a few letters too. They really inspire me to keep doing my best. Sharing stories about other experiences is so important as it makes it easier for other people to get through the challenges. It helps them know that they’re not alone. 

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 It's interesting that there’s no CGI in this series, it’s all done with puppetry. How was it playing opposite a puppet then, did you learn any new acting skills or techniques?

It gave me a deep respect for all the puppeteers. They are so much fun to work with and bring so much life into the characters. I can’t even tell you how amazing they are because you just must see it to believe it. Working with Chucky means there are more takes to do, but they’re all experts so it’s easier than it could be. 

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 We’re into the next season now, so how does Chucky handle the relationship with your love-interest Devon? It’s also set in a Catholic school, just to make things even more challenging!? 

Oh, watch the show and you will see. It is crazy!! I think it’s an amazing plot and good to see if, or how, Jake and Devon get through it. Together or not? You’ll see. It’s a mystery at this point.

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Right Full look Dolce&Gabbana

 Ok, some quick-fire questions now…...

  

What’s the one film you wish you’d played the lead in…? 

 Batman, but hopefully I will get a chance one day.

  

Your dream role is…?

 There are so many. I want to be in all types of films!

 

The one thing you always have in your trailer on-set is…?

 Listerine Strips. Haha!

 

Your choice for cinema’s most terrifying toy…? 

 CHUCKY!!! Definitely!!! 

Left Full look Alexander McQueen

Right Tanktop JW Anderson, shorts & belt Moschino, boots Prada

The actor who’s left you the most starstruck…?

 Jim Carey! I met him a few times on the show Kidding and we had really good talks. He’s a cool person. I’ll always remember the good advice he shared with me. He’s a caring person and a great actor.

 

When you’re not acting, you’re…?

 Hanging out with my family, my dogs, and my friends. I make music and like sports. Also, I really like watching films and shows to see good content and good acting. 

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Right Full look Louis Vuitton

The one thing you wish you’d known about being an actor is...? 

 How long it takes and how much of a journey it is. There are lots of times you have to be patient, it’s not a fast process, but it’s a fast-paced business. I’m very lucky to have a great team behind me and a close family, they’re always brutally honest with me. That’s what an actor needs. It’s not always easy, but it keeps me in touch with what’s important. Thank you all so much for reading this, and for asking me to be in Behind The Blinds!

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Interview by Kate Lawson

Photography by Dorien Jimenez

Fashion by Wojiech Christopher Nowak

Casting by Imaginemachine cs

Grooming by Davey Matthew

Stylist’s assistant Annette Gaitan

Photographer’s assistant Joey Whitley

DIGGING DEEP

With his chill and super friendly demeanour, Malte Gårdinger could not have been more different from the character that he plays on Netflix’s queer show Young Royals. In the series, the up-and-coming Swedish actor does a wonderful job of portraying August - a seemingly overtly-confident royal family member and school prefect who on the inside deals with a ton of insecurities. Although August's attempts to remain in power can be only described as despicable, for Malte, it’s important to understand the basis of his actions. “His behaviour comes from the fact that he’s just really scared to lose everything that he has and his way of dealing with that makes him really impulsive,” he explains. “Everything that August does is a reaction to his terrified state.” A couple of days before the series' season two premiere, we spoke to Malte about going back on set and the challenges of portraying a villain.

What did it feel like to go back on set for the second season? Did you feel there was more pressure surrounding the project now that the show has been a hit?

 No, not really! I felt like it was easier to reprise the role that I’ve already done before and work again with people that I’ve gotten to know over the past couple of years. I knew what to expect, so I definitely felt more comfortable [this time around].

 

I feel like the second season of the show definitely has a darker and more grown-up tone. In your opinion, what are the biggest differences between this season and the previous one?

 In the second season, every character gets another layer to them – we’re digging more and you can get deeper into every person on the show.

 Yeah, that’s definitely the case with the character that you’re playing, August. This year, we get to see more of the insecurities that he’s facing, and understand a little bit more the basis of his behaviour. What would you say are the biggest challenges with portraying a dark character like him?

 I would say that the biggest one was showing August in a completely different set of circumstances. He’s definitely so much more vulnerable now. I had to find that dark place inside me and I did the best that I could to not bring myself down too much [while doing it]. Some of the harder scenes for me this season were the ones where he’s in a state of panic on the inside and trying to push it down.

 Do you in any way empathize with what he’s going through?

 Yeah, of course! I feel like I have to get the reasonings [behind his actions] to be able to stand for it in the moment. For me, his behaviour comes from the fact that he’s just really scared to lose everything that he has and his way of dealing with that makes him really impulsive. Everything that he does is a reaction to his terrified state.

 Once you saw the scripts for the second season, what were the aspects of August’s storyline that you were most surprised to see or most excited about getting to play on screen?

 I was quite excited for him to not be as on top as he was in the first one. It was interesting to see how he would react and handle the position that he’s in now. I was really pumped about trying to showcase that! 

Young Royals is for many young people a show that definitely has a big impact on them growing up, for example when it comes to exploring their identities. What would you say were the films or shows that were really important to you when you were younger?

 Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind was a big one for me! Also, Little Miss Sunshine and The Tree of Life. They all bring that [warm] feeling when I think about them.

 

Who is an actor that you look up to?

 Daniel Day-Lewis. He’s such an interesting person and an amazing actor.

 

Yeah, back when he was still acting, he was the master of transformations! Which one of his roles were you most impressed with?

 I would say his role in Gangs of New York, where he puts on that 19th century accent - that was the first time I realized just how much research he does for every role!

 Let’s switch gears a little bit: outside of acting, what’s something that you're good at that not many people know about? Do you have any secret talents?

 Well, I write music and play both piano and guitar, but I feel like most people might know that already. [Laughs] I can also do a breakdance move where I spin around on my shoulders called the windmill – I learned how to breakdance as a kid and now it’s my party trick!

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Interview by Martin Onufrowicz

Photography by Marco van Rijt

Fashion by Hilda Sandström

Casting Imagemachine cs

Grooming by Martin Sundqvist

All clothes Prada

GEEKING OUT

Russell Tovey knows a lot about a lot. Meeting me for this interview whilst working out on a treadmill, the English actor and self-proclaimed ‘art geek’ has the impressive ability to simultaneously discuss - in a very animated manner - the abundance of film, theatre, literature and art references that he comes across in his daily research (far too many to mention in this piece!). It’s no surprise then how excited he was to become part of American Horror Story: NYC, the latest instalment of the classic camp horror show, which this season is rich in citations to the burgeoning queer art and nightlife scenes of 1980s New York. In our digital cover story, Russell talks about the thrill of telling nuanced stories on screen and the buzz he gets from working on his popular podcast Talk Art, which breaks through the intimidating nature of the contemporary art world.

Full look Miu Miu & glasses Oliver Peoples

The new season of American Horror Story is full of references to the queer art and nightlife scenes of 1980s New York - the film Cruising, singer Klaus Nomi, the relationship between Robert Mapplethorpe and Sam Wagstaff, or Bette Midler performing at the bathhouses are just a couple of examples. Which of these references were you most excited to see in the script?

 All of them because they are reference points that have meant so much to me in my personal existence, and also in my career as inspiration. You know, hearing the stories about Bette Midler and Barry Manilow singing at a gay bathhouse just doesn’t make any sense [laughs], but it happened! And it happened in a lounge where guys would chill out in their towels, while others were hooking up [in different rooms]. So now we have Patti LuPone playing a homage to this story in the show. Cruising is another great example – it’s an incredible movie, and when you watch it now, it is a historical document. It’s a movie that was made in the very, very early stages of the AIDS epidemic in New York, and everybody who is in the background was part of that gay scene depicted in the film – they went to all the fetish leather clubs in the city, and many of them died within years of this movie being released. And now, when you watch that movie, there’s that unfathomable realization of what was just around the corner. Also, at the time, the film was very controversial within the community – the queer people didn’t like it, there was a lot of friction surrounding its release, and no one’s touched it since. So for Ryan Murphy to look at it, reference it and make a homage to it feels incredibly exciting. It’s something that he does [so well] – he takes risks, he charters uncharted territories, and I think that’s really thrilling.

Left Top and skirt Dolce&Gabbana , belt Jil Sander

Right Jacket Louis Vuitton

 Was Crusing one of your main references while you were getting into the role you’re playing in the show?

 Yes – when Ryan offered me the role, he said that my character was in some ways like the Al Pacino character in the film. He was playing an undercover cop who wasn’t gay, but the guys that were being killed in the city looked like him, so the police force decided to use him as bait. However, what we’ve done with my character, Patrick, is that we’re meeting him at a point where he’s left his wife for a man – a character inspired by Larry Kramer, someone who’s completely proud and confident in his identity - but he’s still closeted within the force because it’s an incredibly homophobic environment at the time. And that makes me think of another character I played, Joe Pitt in Angels in America, who was a closeted Mormon that was having an affair and leaving his wife – for me, Patrick is an extension or a partner to Joe Pitt’s journey, and now, I can use all of that angst, that pain, that turmoil that I had with Joe to create this new character.

 

Throughout the course of the series, we are slowly introduced to Patrick’s darker side. What do you find most fascinating about him as a character to play?

 Well, I think that as an actor, you want to play complicated, nuanced and dark roles. The scripts for the show were getting written as we were starting to shoot, so in some ways, I hadn’t fully realized exactly what was at stake for Patrick – it all started to unravel even more as we went along. But yeah, I’ve always been drawn to characters that are multifaceted and complicated, and who don’t always mean what they say.

Left Full look Dior Men by Kim Jones

Right Top Versace

 Stepping into the AHS universe for the first time, what impressed you the most about the way in which Ryan [Murphy] is running this ship?

 I’m really amazed by his attention to detail and his ability to hold so many stories in his head at once – there are so many themes, so many references. He’s like Stephen Fry when it comes to pop history, queer history, horror history, or the history of serial killers of the world. He’s an incredibly inspiring and fascinating man. His achievements are beyond, and he continues to reinvent, challenge and make work that is fresh. He creates the zeitgeist.

 

Early next year, you will be also starring in Richard Eyre’s film adaptation of Alan Bennett’s play Allelujah - why is it a story that you wanted to tell?

 Alan Bennett and I have had a strong connection. I was in the original cast of The History Boys, which changed my life, and I also did a small part in the film The Lady in the Van. I mean, it’s Alan Bennett, why would you not want to do it? He’s a British Arthur Miller, he tells our stories. It’s a project that is a love letter to the NHS, a funny and joyful movie with national treasures like Judi Dench and Jennifer Saunders! I think it’s a really important story and what we did is nuanced and special.

Jacket & pants Gucci, sweater Prada, shoes J.W.Anderson

 A couple of years ago, you started your own very successful podcast Talk Art, which has just recently hit 5 million downloads. Congratulations!

 Thank you very much! Yeah, it’s been one of my biggest joys and one of my proudest achievements. It’s something that’s come out of pure enthusiasm and being a complete geek – me and my friend Rob [Diament, co-host] wanted to create a space where we could nerd out about something that we are both obsessed with.


You’ve spoken to many great artists, curators and collectors over the years - which of the guests were you most nervous about interviewing?

 Weirdly, I get nervous for every guest because I want to make sure they feel comfortable, happy and not under pressure. Some people are incredibly shy, some are incredibly confident, but that’s the human condition and no interview’s going to be the same. I always go into it making sure that I’m prepared – I do all my research, Rob does his research, and we never share notes so that we can have a balanced conversation. Whether it’s an emerging artist, a celebrity or a gallerist, we always want to do our best and facilitate an experience where they can feel like they can be open, honest and happy. So I get nervous with every single one, but I also get such a buzz after we’ve finished every episode. They’re never a chore. 

Left Full look Miu Miu

Right Pants Prada, shoes Tod’s

Who’s someone that you’re dreaming of interviewing, but haven’t yet?

 David Hockney! I think we would make it a two-episode special because he’s so masterful and such a big part of history. He’s so inspiring and has lived through everything – he lost loads of friends to AIDS, experienced what it was like to be queer when it had to be coded, he lived in London and Los Angeles, but he also knows what it’s like to be from the north of England. His colloquialism is so accessible, and yet he’s an absolute art history and world history icon!

 

I know that you are currently working on your second Talk Art book - what are the themes that you want to explore in this publication?  

 The second Talk Art book is all about the interviews – we’ve curated an incredible selection of conversations that changed us, showcased important voices and connected with the audience. We’ve compiled them all, and also, we’ve put in hints, tips and references that will make it very clear for people who want to go on this art adventure. For me, it’s something that you can have next to your bed or carry around with you while on a train or bus – you pick it up, you read one interview, you put it down and you think about it. We want to make people feel like they can get in [into this world]. They might not feel like they can go in the front, but we are opening a little side door and going, ‘Come in this side here, we’re gonna show you what it’s like!’

…

Interview by Martin Onufrowicz

Photography by Alvin Kean Wong at Seen Artists

Fashion & production Alexey Kazakov

Grooming by Thomas Dunkin at Art Department

Location Scouting by Andy Butthol

Photographer’s assistant Yo-yo

Location Toya Horiuchi' artist studio

ALTERNATE WORLDS

Singer-slash-actress Elektra Kilbey is one part of the twin sis’ duo Say Lou Lou, the band that fashion fell in love with, fronting ads for Gucci and H&M, while making us fall in love with their sonic universe of mood music and videos fused with a visually cinematic sensuality. Speaking of the big screen, Elektra’s now pursuing a life-long-acting passion, having appeared in the indie movie Odd Man Rush, and the Amazon TV series, Tales from the Loop.

Her latest role sees her play Lisa Carter in Apple TV+’s new offering, Shantaram, which is based on a best-selling 2003 novel of the same name. Here she shares her thoughts on how acting and music inform one another, and making playlists for everything!

I know that you’re a musician as well as an actor. Does one come before the other? 

Right now, my main focus is acting but I’d like to think that I don’t have to choose one over the other… I love them both.

 

Do you write songs when you’re on set?

No. When I’m working on a project, whether film or music, I am totally consumed with where I am and what I’m doing. I have to feel totally immersed, or I get too distracted or stressed. 

 Was acting your original goal, as you were in the film Gossip back in 2000, before you formed the band Say Lou Lou with your twin sister?

Since childhood, acting has always been a passion and a dream, something I’ve felt drawn to, I always had a surplus of emotions and feelings that had nowhere to go until I figured out it could be expressed in embodying different characters in alternate worlds. 

My identical twin sister and I had a brief stint as the token twin actors when we were kids, doing TV shows, movies and commercial work until we hit our teens and started wanting to be anything but identical! 

 Do you find that your acting and music inform one another? Has acting changed for you because of music?

Yes. All art forms and expressions inform each other. But at the end of the day, it’s about storytelling, which transcends choice of medium. 

 Do you make playlists for your characters, or has any character inspired your music?

Yes, definitely. I made one for Lisa [my character on Shantaram], trying to get into her head, her memories, her triggers...Tim Buckley, The Doors, Zombies, Kinks, Bowie, CAN, Iggy, NEU!

I make playlists for everything, whether it’s a new album I’m working on, a road trip, autumn, winter, summer, spring, a party – they’re sonic moodboards! 

 Music was obviously important in your house when you were growing up, with both your parents being singers. You spent time in Sydney with your dad and in Stockholm with your mum. I’m interested to know if the duality of that upbringing informed a kind of longing or dislocation in yourself, and has that impacted the music and the characters you’re attracted to in acting projects?

Growing up between two places forced me to become a social chameleon, having to learn how to fit in and play different roles, which made me pretty sensitive and aware of dynamics and contexts from a young age. All of that is helpful both in the process of creation itself, but also in all the practicalities around it. 

 Do you feel more vulnerable as an actor playing a character or as a musician performing?

 As an actor, the vulnerability is more present after the performance. As a musician, the vulnerability is before the performance. 

 How do you wind down after filming, in comparison with how you wind down after a show or tour?

After a show or tour, you get hooked on the adrenaline rush from each night’s performance and winding down from that can be difficult, leaving you with “post tour depression” and this strange feeling of emptiness. After filming, I immediately miss being on set and the creative environment, wondering when I will have the privilege to do it again. But in terms of winding down, it’s way more dependent on the scenes that were shot on the day. In Shantaram, there were many harrowing moments for my character, high stakes and dramatic interactions and coming back to myself could be challenging at times. 

 When you first learned that you got the roles in Tales from the Loop and Odd Man Rush, how did you feel, and how did you prepare for them?

I mean… I’m still pinching myself for getting to do what I do. I do not take it for granted, ever.  So far, I’ve prepared for characters the same way each time by dreaming up their life story based on the material given and my intuition. Excavating their fears, hopes, dreams, triggers.  Preparation is so integral to being able to let the character live through you, I think. 

 

When you’re on set, has it been interesting finding that relationship between you and your character?

Yes. But I do need a trigger to get me there. On Shantaram it was by listening to Once I Was by Tim Buckley. It was like a door opening to Lisa each time. 

So how did Shantaram come about, and can you tell me more about the character you play?

The process was normal, but the experience for me at that time was very new and riveting. I’d only been acting for a few months, and every opportunity I had to do an audition was so mega for me.  I play Lisa Carter, an American girl on a quest for beauty, adoration, belonging, escape. I think the zeitgeist of 70’s rock n roll led her to India to find enlightenment and awakening, like many of her idols at the time. Only Lisa quickly falls into brown sugar, and subsequently into sex work to support her habit. She’s a dream character to inhabit, childlike but wise, vulnerable and naive yet so experienced. There’s so much to work and play with. And throughout the season you’ll see her develop a sense of agency and confidence she doesn’t have in the beginning. It’s a lovely arc. 

 

Who are some of your favourite actors of all time?

Where do I start… off the top of my head.... Isabelle Huppert, Charlotte Rampling, Nina Hoss, Juliette Binoche, Bibi Andersson, Andrea Riseborough.

 

Are you more self-aware about how people perceive you when you’re doing the solo stuff like acting?

It’s very different. As an actor you’re practically yourself off screen, but with our band we were always conscious about reinforcing the style of the record we were releasing at the time as if the perception of us was meant to embody the mood of the music. 

 Speaking of the band, are you planning any new music? 

We’re releasing a new EP in the beginning of November. I think it’s our most sincere music thus far and I’m excited to share it with the world. 

 

Ok, finally, give me one album and one film that are your forever go-to’s?

Brian Eno – Apollo, Kieslowski - Three Colours, Blue

Interview by Kate Lawson

Photography by Jenn Kang

Fashion by Marc Eram

Make-Up by Cedric Jolivet

Hair by Lauren Palmer Smith at Forward Artists using Oribe

Video directed by Dana Boulos

Produced by BRAINFREEZE

Edited by Kevin Luna

All clothes SAINT LAURENT by ANTHONY VACCARELLO

ALL THE RIGHT MOVES

Alfie Allen fits into an enviable niche of actors. He works consistently between film, TV and theatre, and always in high-quality projects. His credits include Equus, Flashbacks of a Fool, John Wick, Pandemic, Close to the Enemy, How to Build a Girl, Jojo Rabbit and most notably, his eight seasons as Theon Greyjoy on Game of Thrones. After a recent stint on Broadway in the thriller Hangmen, he’s back in front of the camera in Steven Knight’s SAS: Rogue Heroes, a World War II action series in which he plays Jock Lewes, the founding principal training officer of the SAS. We recently caught up with him to discuss inner resilience, fatherhood, and retiring with cheese and wine.

Jacket Frame, shirt, tie & shoes Dunhill, pants Golden Goose Deluxe Brand, socks Uniqlo

You didn’t take the usual drama school route into acting, and I read that you referred to your time on stage in Equus (when you took over from Daniel Radcliffe in 2008), as essentially your drama school. I guess it was the ultimate role in which to lay yourself bare and learn the ropes, so to speak!?

 Doing Equus was definitely like a drama school for me. Learning from one of the greats, Simon Callow, was amazing. He gave me sound advice on how to approach the career of acting, and it was a real treat to be able to act with him, but also just be able to go out to dinner with him all the time. It is something I will always remember. 

 You were recently in Hangmen. What’s your sense of Broadway? How do you reckon it compares to what we’re used to in London?

 I loved being on Broadway. There was a real welcoming atmosphere for us when we arrived. Hangmen had been off Broadway already pre-covid, and then its run on Broadway was stopped from Covid, so when everyone was coming back, it was a really beautiful thing to be a part of that whole community getting back on its feet again. I will never forget it. 

Coat & shoes Valentino, suit Louis Vuitton

 Have you ever had any shockers onstage? Have you ever blanked? I think audiences love mistakes, don’t they? Because they feel part of it?

 I have definitely blanked on stage. I had a really bad one during Hangmen. It only happened once, but it was a real dry moment where I just totally forgot what I was going to say in quite an important moment for the audience to understand the plot. Thankfully, my castmate Andy Nyman was the one who thought on his feet and saved me in that moment. I was very thankful to him. I think audiences do like mistakes. You kind of ask them afterwards “did you notice?” and either they are being totally polite, which is very possible, and just trying to make you feel better, but most of the time they don’t even notice, which is one of the great things about being on stage – its ability to constantly change at any moment. When I was a kid growing up and doing pantomime on stage, I loved it when things went wrong, I got a real buzz off that. Maybe not being a part of the action that went wrong, but seeing it happen and having the audience laugh at it. 

Full look Celine Homme

Knit, brooch & shoes Hermes, pants Giorgio Armani

 Aside from theatre, you do television and movies — you’ve paid attention to trying to remain versatile. Is that something you’ve taken advice on? Has your father (actor, Keith Allen) been helpful in that?

 Yes, I have always wanted to be versatile in doing tv, theatre and films. They are all different in their own way. Being on Broadway was terrifying at first, but it was good terror. My father has always been helpful in giving me advice about acting. I don’t really reach out to him for those types of things anymore, but he gave me some sound advice at the beginning. 

Knit Prada, pants Valentino

 You’re a father yourself. Do you think there will ever come a time when you’ll enter dadland roles, when you’ll just play dads – different kinds of dads. Dressed-up dads. Dads with beards. Drunk dads in Vegas?!

 Yes, I am a father to my gorgeous daughter Arrow. I would love to play a dad at some point. Maybe an animated dad. I would love to be able to play a cartoon character that she would know I was doing the voice for. It puts a smile on my face to think that could be a possibility. 

 

How do you think you would feel if she wanted to become an actor, with this constant push for gender equality in Hollywood – what changes would you most like to see in the world for her?

 I would like to see equal pay for my daughter if she were in the entertainment industry – in any industry. That is one thing I would like to see if she were to choose to become an actor.

Full look Celine Homme

 Let’s discuss your latest TV project, SAS Rogue Heroes, which explores the founding of the British Army’s Special Air Service during World War II. You play Jock Lewes, tell me more about him?

 He’s instrumental in the formation of the SAS from its origins. He was a disciplinarian and a quite uptight man. He was respected by his soldiers, but quite an aloof and distant man, so many felt like they did not really know him. Being surrounded by a bunch of psychotic drunkards, I guess he was the balance that they needed to keep them in line. That was quite fun to play. He was a pioneer in new methods that were tried and tested even if they failed a lot of the time. It was kind of his idea to parachute into the desert and attack from behind enemy lines, which was unheard of at the time.

 

What was the audition process like?

 I had a chat with the director Tom Shankland over zoom, and thankfully he decided that he wanted me to play Jock.

Left Full look Prada

Right Coat Valentino, suit Louis Vuitton

 How was it working with the series creator Steven Knight?

 Working with Steven was amazing. He managed to bring humour into some moments where you really wouldn’t think it would apply, but then jolt you back into the sense that what these men were going through was pretty horrific. 

 

 You filmed in both Morocco and the UK, what was it like being in the desert, I imagine it could be quite challenging and demanding?

 Filming in the desert was extremely demanding. Both emotionally and physically. It was very isolating at times being out there for three months. The desert was beautiful, but it was also all we had. We were always making sure to check in with each other and checking to see if everyone was doing okay. It eradicated any egos that were likely to arise. We were all equals out there. It was great, I enjoyed it immensely. 

Left Jacket Frame, shirt & tie Dunhill, pants Golden Goose Deluxe Brand

Right Full look Prada

 So, years from now, when you’re finished with all the dadland roles(!), where do you want to retire? Or maybe you’ll pursue another passion?

 I’d like to retire and go to live in Italy with my daughter and my grandchildren and eat cheese and make bread. That is what I would like to do!

…

Interview by Kate Lawson


Photography by Zeb Daemen 

Fashion by Michael Miller 

Grooming by Nadia Altinbas at A-Frame Agency Using Bumble and Bumble, Tom Ford Beauty & Wahlpro

Set design by Joshua Stovell 

Photographer’s assistant Jack Snell


Styling’s assistant Lacie Gittins

INELUCTABLE CHARISMA

It’s time to get into Ismael Cruz Córdova. It’s been a tough journey to the top as a Puerto Rican-born actor, struggling to find his space and voice in a Hollywood which still has a long way to go in terms of representation of Latinos on screen, particularly in stories that reflect their experiences.

Already deep into a stage, TV and film career, wowing with his charisma and craft, he’s just stepped into the shoes of Silvan Elf Arondir for Amazon’s billion-dollar epic saga The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power. With his sights set on a world beyond stereotypes, it’s finally Ismael's moment and it couldn’t feel more right.

Left Jacket N21 & jewelry Ismael’s own

Right Full Calvin Klein

You’re playing Arondir, a silvan elf, which is great casting for the Tolkien universe, as Middle-Earth finally becomes more diverse. When you learned that you got the role, what was the first thing you did?

 Funnily enough it was such a long process to get the role, over 6 or 7 months, doing in-person tapes from different parts of the world, including one during the final stretch when I was in the desert in South Africa, which was quite hectic. I had received two or three rejections at this point for the role, and the stakes were so high, and the journey had been so long, and I hadn’t heard back from my last audition, and I was really stressed and so anxious to hear back. So, I decided to do some self-care and got a room in a nice hotel in New York and ordered some champagne and was just going to take a nice relaxing bath, and then as I was checking into the room, I got the call that I got the role! So, the first thing I did was to scream loudly in front of the concierge, haha! and ran outside and did a little happy dance!

 

Were you nervous about taking on such a big role? What can we expect from your character’s story arc?

 A resounding no! I was excited, grateful, anxious, but in all quite prepared from not only my professional experience, but I would say this is a role that my life has prepared me for, and the circumstances with which I’ve gone into this industry. My life has made me feel extremely ready to take on these roles and perform to the best of my abilities, so that I could not only bring this incredible character into this outstanding fantasy world and give it its full life; but also, be able to dignify and elevate this being that we know by bringing so much meaning as the first elf of colour in this massive classic work.

I grew up very poor and fought for opportunities, and through blood, sweat and tears I made my way to NYC through many obstacles, and like me, my character Arondir is a warrior, with a quiet force behind his eyes that sets him and his journey of curiosity apart, and I feel very familiar with that and his emotional soul. Expect resilience, strength, a depth of empathy but also ferocity and vulnerability from him – both emotional and physical. I hope that all those qualities that come from the character, but also the soul and meaning that I’ve put into bringing him to life, touches people as much as the character has touched and transformed me.

Left Full look Givenchy, crown Ismael’s own

Right Sweater Zadig&Voltaire, jewelry Ismael’s own

 What about how you’ll look? Did you have to sit through layers of makeup and prosthetics, like getting the elf ears on?

 My costume is not as flashy and elegant as the high elves, as Arondir is a soldier, but it’s still such a beautiful and elaborate costume and everything in it has meaning. The designer [Kate Hawley], is just incredible and she’s gracious enough to let you have an opinion here and there like with the movement and comfort of it. Arondir is also a short-haired elf which is a departure from the usual aesthetic in the movies, and it’s pretty distinct, and yes those pointy ears took around 2 hours to do the transformation from tired Ismael in the mornings to Arondir!

 How did you prepare? Did you have to learn any new skills for the role, like learning to speak elvish?

 Yes, I learned a lot of skills, and it was important to me that I was able to bring a different message in the way the character moved, thought and experienced the world as he’s a character with a lot of action, and I wanted to ground that in the mythology of the woodland elves – but then again Arondir is a different kind of elf as it’s the first time you see one like myself, of Afro descent.

So, I trained in Wushu kung fu and Taekwondo martial arts and also in Capoeira which is an Afro-Brazilian martial art which is very appropriate as it’s close to the ground and feels very of the earth and the environment with a different flow, and it’s also an Afro-diasporic martial art so that’s part of my message and part of my contribution to this world too.

I also learned archery, wirework, and did about 95% of my stunts, I was really involved in this process training every day for months and months. Arondir lives and experiences the world through his physicality for the most part, so for me that was his language. I also had a dialect coach [Leith McPherson] who I worked with daily and weekly to learn to speak Elvish, and the bigger challenge was that I had to learn a received pronounciation British accent for the role. I’m not a native English speaker but Leith has an incredible depth of knowledge with Tolkien and Shakespeare, and really guided me by the hand technically, spiritually, and emotionally through the process.

Full Calvin Klein

 What was it like being in middle earth, filming in New Zealand, did you have any pinch me moments where you were like, this is so surreal, I’m really here?

 New Zealand is one of the most beautiful places I’ve been in my life, and I’ve had a lot of great opportunities to travel in my work. It’s a breathtaking place that’s very humbling and it recalibrates you and makes you understand a lot about yourself, humanity, nature, and spirituality. I had a great connection with the Māori culture, my brothers and sisters who brought me into their villages and families and welcomed me, and I gained their respect and it’s been one of the most important experiences of my life. Every day was a pinch me moment in Middle Earth, the way the artists, designers and builders all created these sets and worlds that were so interesting and beautiful with such a depth of detail, so incredibly surreal.

Left Full Prada

Right Tank top Calvin Klein, jeans Givenchy, jewelry Ismael’s own

 I read that you often show up in character to an audition, that’s dedication! What did you do for Lord of the Rings?

 I didn’t even know I was auditioning for an elf for a long time, so as it progressed more and more, and I experienced the rejections for the role, I became more ferocious about getting the part and I didn’t want to take no for an answer! So while I was working on a movie called Settlers in South Africa, the AD and make up team there were huge LOTR fans and when they heard I had to make another tape, I told them what the scene was and the setting, and they did all this post-battle make up for me and let me use the costume I was wearing and lighting gave me a sky panel and I went and did the whole scene in this tent with the feeling and look and atmosphere. I kind of went full out and I think when you’re committed to something, you have to make those choices!

 You’ve had such an eclectic mix of roles in your career so far. From Sesame Street, to playing a boxing champion, then an Italian renaissance violinist to Mary Queen of Scots and now an Elf. Why those choices, and what other genres would you like to try, maybe the next James Bond?

 Looking for a voice is what got me into acting. I was always on a quest to find those opportunities in which me and people like myself, could enter spaces where our voices were heard, and considered and have a seat at the table, and for my words to mean something and to matter. I think the visibility aspect and occupying spaces is important and changing in perception, so I’ve worked really hard to say no to certain things and craft and build a body of work that serves a purpose and it’s taken time for that purpose to be clear so people can see and connect the dots.

This mix of roles have often not been open to other ethnicities and people of colour when I started  20 years ago. We’ve moved further on in this journey but we’re definitely not where we should be. That’s part of my crusade, to work on these roles and give a message that we can do it all and occupy these spaces and deserve to shape the image and stereotypes that everyone puts on us, and it’s important for people to rewire themselves and playing different roles helps that. I’m still looking for my superhero, I would love to play one, he’s still out there! Also maybe a romcom, but I heard there is a superstition that you shouldn’t say you want to be the next James Bond, so I won’t!

 There have been many Latino’s who’ve made history at the Oscars, from José Ferrer and Rita Moreno, to Benicio del Toro and more recently Ariana DeBose. Being rightly so proud of your Afro-Puerto Rican roots, are you also ready for your big Hollywood moment?

 Yes, I’m ready for this moment, everything in my life has taken me to this place and I just feel grateful, and I have given everything to this craft, and sacrificed everything, leaving home, my family, my country, my people and culture, and have just had to work and work as I’ve come from nothing, to make my way. I’ve slept in a bathtub, the train and a park bench, you know there are volumes of a book I could write about my struggle to get where I am. There’s been plenty of backlash so far about me playing an elf of colour, and when there are waves of hatred directed at any human being it can affect you, but it’s also made me feel stronger and prouder because this is the exact type of space I want to disrupt and occupy, and I want to go even further after this! 

Left Jewelry Ismael’s own

Right Full look Fendi

So, if your life were a TV show or movie, what would be the theme song?

 Oh no….wait a second, that’s hard! You got me on this one! I don’t know, but there is this one song that’s lived rent-free in my head for like 15 years, don’t ask me why, but it’s Age of Aquarius

from the musical Hairspray. I actually think it would be quite funny to have a montage of me just coming through a door to that song, for no damn reason, haha!

 

Mine would be “Je Ne Regrette Rien” by Edith Piaf. Speaking of regrets, any career-wise so far?

 I don’t usually have regrets, but recently I’ve had this dream of making an album because I love singing and writing music, I love melodies, and music is just the friggin best thing there is, so I do regret not having made an album yet, and I’m looking forward to doing that!

…

See the full feature in our FW22 Issue - out now.

Interview by Kate Lawson

Photography by Hadar Pitchon

Fashion by Michael Rosenberg

Grooming by Laila Hayani

GOOD, EVIL, AND PRINCESS DRESSES

In the film The School for Good and Evil, Sofia Wylie and Sophia Anne Caruso play best friends put to the test when they’re whisked away to a magical school for future fairytale heroes and villains. Based on Soman Chainani’s fantasy book series, the movie ratchets up the tension as the duo find themselves on opposing sides of an epic battle to protect the balance between good and evil. But in real life, the actors became fast friends while shooting the Netflix flick, Wylie’s latest project, having also starred in High School Musical: The Musical, the series Andi Mac, and Disney’s danceathon Shook. A model, dancer and singer too, it seems there’s nothing this shining talent can’t do. Here she tells us about female bonds, fan-girling and wish fishes.

Full look Zadig&Voltaire

You’re playing the role of Agatha in Netflix's The School for Good and Evil. She seems to have many layers. Do you relate to her in real life at all, and do you pick certain roles because you identify with or feel more passionate about the character? 

 I really enjoy playing characters that have enough depth to truly feel human to me. I think any multi-dimensional character can be relatable in some way. While Agatha’s interests/demeanor is different from mine, I think our thoughts and hearts are similar. I can relate to the struggles that come from feeling different or like you don’t belong.  I find the chapter or season of my life frequently mirrors my characters if we are close to age as well!

 

Which school would you put yourself in, in real life? 

 I would definitely put myself in the School for Good! I’ve always loved princesses and fairytales. I am very routined and particular, which definitely fits in with the organisation within the School for Good!

Full looks Zadig&Voltaire

 The film explores themes of friendship, the question of fate and the complexities of good vs evil. Agatha even says it in the movie, 'You're not evil, you're just human.' How do you think it speaks to the way that the world is right now? 

 I think it is unfair to place people in boxes. We are ever-changing beings with complexities that cannot be defined in one word! When we realise that the world isn’t so black-and-white, it definitely becomes much easier to have empathy for others. 

 The movie is a great example of how Sophie, Agatha, Professor Dovey and Lady Lesso are these strong, independent women. Their stories are about them, and not identified by their relationships to men, which is so important in how women are portrayed in film today, don’t you think? 

 Yes, I completely agree! In past fairytale narratives, it is so common to see a prince saving a princess. However, the School for Good and Evil showcases the power and strength that comes from female friendships. Friendships can be so underrated and represented, especially in film and television. But a bond between two girls/women is like no other!

 How did the chemistry between yourself and Sophia develop over the course of filming, and had you both made a point to get to know each other before even landing on set?

 Sophia Anne and I didn’t know each other before auditioning for the movie, but once we started pre-production, we met up a couple of times to go over the script and get to know each other. When you’re filming a movie, there is a natural bond that grows between you and your co-stars. Because Sophia Anne and I were together all the time on set, I think we just naturally grew a bond similar to our characters.

Full looks Zadig&Voltaire

 What was it like to work alongside Michelle Yeoh, Charlize Theron, and Kerry Washington too. Were you fan-girling?

 I was totally fan-girling! I’ve been watching them since I was a little girl, so being able to work beside them felt like a true fairytale. I learned so much just through different observation each day on set!

 What do you feel like you’ve learned from them, collectively?

 How to treat yourself AND others with the utmost respect. They all carried themselves with so much confidence in their abilities and what they were bringing to each scene. This confidence was never confused with cockiness though. Even though they are all so accomplished, they always showed so much respect and kindness to everyone else on set. Whether it was your first day on a set, or thousandth, they did not treat you any differently!

Full look Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello

 What did you all do for fun in Belfast when you weren’t shooting?

 Our hotel was right outside of Belfast, so whenever I had time, I would go into the city with my parents! We would walk around the botanical gardens, grab food or shop. I was still in high school at the time, so A LOT of my free time was taken up by school. To be completely honest, I think my favourite thing on my off time was SLEEP!

 What do you think of the costumes in the movie by designer Renée Ehrlich Kalfus?

 The costumes are one of my favourite elements of the movie. Renée was so incredibly collaborative and receptive. She allowed me to have such a large say in my wardrobe. Whether that had to do with comfortability or just simply my own preference, she was always open to hearing my thoughts. Her eye is so sharp, and she just knows how to make things look good! We are all so blessed to have worked with her!

 

Can you tell me about any specific memorable scenes or anecdotes from filming that really encapsulate the project to you?

 Without giving away any spoilers, I think one of the last scenes Sophie and Agatha have in the School Masters Tower is a really powerful one. At this point in the movie, they’ve been through so much together and individually. But at the end of the day, their love and friendship are the most important thing to both of them. If people only take one thing away from this movie, I hope that it’s the importance of the people you love rather than success, power, or beauty. 

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 Who is your favourite fantasy fairytale goodie or villain – and do you have a fairytale book that you loved as a child, that still resonates with you today?

 I always have and always will love Ariel from The Little Mermaid. I wanted to be a mermaid soooo badly when I was a little girl, and I’d be lying if I said I still wasn’t dying to be one. The music is also so incredible in that movie!

 

Aside from acting, you’ve also been a backup dancer for Justin Bieber in the past, and I read that you love K-pop too! Do you listen to stuff and dance like nobody’s watching on your days off at home?!

 Of course! Dancing was my first passion, and it will forever hold such a special place in my heart. Even though I am focusing on acting right now, I feel so lucky to be able to incorporate dancing and singing into some of the projects I do. I hope that I’ll always dance like no one’s watching, because the freedom of movement to music is like no other.

 

What kind of doors are opening up for you now, and what do you have planned for the future?

 Working within film is something I’ve always wanted to do! This is the second film I’ve ever done, and I hope that I can do many more in the future. I want to keep testing and challenging myself as an actress, so I am open to what’s to come! 

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“I’ve noticed how important representation has been to me growing up, and how important it has been for other young girls and boys to see someone like them on screen.”

We must also talk about your production company, AIFOS Entertainment, which aims to spotlight female voices and storylines. You’ve optioned various Young Adult novels and screenplays. Can you tell me about any of them, and what you’re most excited to see? 

 I’m really excited to see projects that are made by the same people who wanna watch them. I’ve noticed how important representation has been to me growing up, and how important it has been for other young girls and boys to see someone like them on screen. I think a lot of people underestimate how impactful the stories we see and hear through the media can be. Shining a beautiful and bright light on people who have been in the dark for too long is something I feel very passionate about. I’m so happy that I get to have the opportunity to give a voice to those who haven’t been heard and I have so many wonderful stories coming… but I’ll leave it at that. No spoilers just yet!

 

Finally, let’s return to The School for Good and Evil. In the movie, in her first lesson, Agatha learns that wish fishes can show what your soul really desires. What would the fishes see when they look into your soul right now?  

 Oh I love this question! I think it would show me, my parents, my sister and our two dogs at the beach eating tacos and Acai! There’s nothing more that I want than for my family and I to always be together!

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Interview by Kate Lawson

Photography by Jenn Kang

Fashion by Sharon Chitrit

Casting by ImageMachine cs

Hair by Vernon François

Make-Up by Robert Bryan

DARING TO DREAM

Since she burst on to the fashion scene in 2011, as the gender-free Swedish model the industry couldn’t get enough of – booking gigs for men’s campaigns including Tom Ford and being cast as a young Leonardo DiCaprio – Erika Linder’s life has undergone significant, self-motivated changes. Most notably, she's focusing less on the catwalk and more on the big screen, with a string of diverse acting projects including her film debut in Below Her Mouth and the upcoming neo-noir haute couture meets murder movie thriller Cover, in which she ironically plays a supermodel called Justine, struggling in the battle for ego over self-identity. It’s little surprise that the camera still loves Erika, and here she tells us about childhood dreams and pursuing her own path.

Did you grow up watching movies and ever actually think you would be in one?

 I think story telling for me, in any capacity, was something I wanted to do. Whether through pictures, films, music or just playing as a kid, I always knew I wanted to be a performer from a very early age. I remember my grandma would put on Elvis Presley films, and I would think, that’s what I wanna do! The thought was always there, but to make it happen was surreal, although I think I always knew that there was going to come a time and a chance for me to prove myself.

 

Has it been difficult to break free of modelling and for people to consider you as an actor?

 In the beginning, yes. I don’t necessarily have the same approach and view on it as I used to have. I promised myself when I started in the fashion industry doing men’s and women’s fashion, that I wanted to do it all because otherwise it would bore me. I don’t see myself as an actor or a model now. I just see myself as an artist, as just doing one thing out of the two would bore me. I want to constantly expand and dare to dream.

 

You’re not theatrically trained, so you’ve obviously had an organic approach to acting. Did nerves get the better of you at first?

 No, when I did the auditioning process for Below Her Mouth, I wasn’t even considering acting at all. The script got sent to my agents and it all went from there. When I finally booked the part, the producers didn’t want me to take any acting classes, and it wasn’t until later I started working with a coach. I guess I have an organic approach to a lot of things, and it’s interesting to learn and to get the tools needed. I think you could do as much preparation as possible before you make a film, but when you’re finally on set, you just kind of let everything go with the flow and just respond.

“I don’t see myself as an actor or a model now. I just see myself as an artist.”

 Like modelling, it’s such an uncertain business, were you emotionally ready when the opportunity came with the 2016 movie Below Her Mouth?

 I was very ready. I think because it came out of nowhere, it made it so much easier. I don’t think you’re given the opportunity if you’re not ready for it. I am a firm believer that everything happens for a reason.  But true, it is an uncertain business and you’re not shooting the film until you’re physically on set. I’ve had films fall apart multiple times and it can be devastating. You have to be mad enough to believe in yourself and that you can do it, and that there’s no other option than “this”.

 

After that film, you then got a part in a TV series. Is that when the spark really ignited for you to then pursue it as a career?

 I’m not sure if it really sparked anything in me to pursue an acting career, but I think what it did was to make me realise there was a whole other industry to play in. With it being shot in Portugal it opened my mind to the European market, which I find a little bit more up my alley. If anything, I felt creative after it, because everyone involved was filming it during the day, and would go and do a play right after, that same evening or night. It awoke a creativeness in me that I hadn’t seen before. Something that wasn’t driven by career or the next big thing but driven by love.

 

A lot of other actors I’ve spoken to say that they’ve learned a lot about their own flaws through becoming other characters. Is that something you can relate to so far?

 

Absolutely! Realising that my mistakes are opportunities to learn. Portraying the flaws is what makes for great acting, but it can be the most challenging. I think it’s hard for people to see and admit their own flaws. To share them with others.

 

It must be quite liberating to have the opportunity to be in this other body though, and not in your own reality, and just totally forget who you are for a second?

 Yes. I felt it especially when I was shooting Blue Lisbon. I played a taoist character named Tommy and for the first time in my life, I practiced it so heavily that nothing phased me. I was just ok with everything that was going on around me. I can get anxious but didn’t on that set. I had a solid two weeks of feeling unbothered by everything around me, haha!

 Looking ahead, what would be the dream role for you?

 I find it hard to say what kind of dream role I want, but for now I think it’s my dream to play a role in something which a director that I admire sees me in. I would love to do a medieval character.

 

Well, your next movie project takes you back into fashion again, can you tell me more about it?

 I have a couple of films on the radar for the near future, and the one I’m doing next is going to be the most fun, yet scary, but also the most challenging role I’ve played to date. It’s a story within the fashion world about a young woman who struggles for her existence and visibility, gradually losing her mind. It’s about self-denial, loss of identity and isolation.

 

On this new path of yours, is there an actor who inspires the journey, or speaks to your mindset?

 I have always admired Tilda Swinton. Words can’t describe it. Other than that, I’m trying to create my own journey and follow my own path.

Interview by Kate Lawson

Photography by Amanda Demme

DARK AND LIGHT

Grace Van Dien is no stranger to the spotlight; she was in a reality show at nine and hasn’t stopped working since. But cutting a path away from your typical drama serial actress, Grace has become a face known for taking tragic roles that meet a deadly ending and adding layers until they’re 3D people to love and mourn. But it’s not a love of horror that motivates her, it’s thought-process - “I’m a bit of a scaredy-cat”. Fascinated by the psyche behind every character, she’s played Sleeping Beauty, Sharon Tate and most recently, Chrissy, the cheerleader that featured in one episode of Stranger Things and stole everyone’s heart.

 Slowly settling down after the post-release storm that follows a series like that, she apologises for any background noise as she sits down in her LA garden for our chat…

The last couple of months since Stranger Things was released have seemed crazy…

 It’s been a whirlwind. But also very refreshing because for months prior to the release, I was just sitting idly by waiting for something to happen. And then suddenly since the release, it's been totally nonstop. It was a real shift and the reaction to Chrissy and her storyline was totally unexpected.

 Is it hard to prepare for a character with a short lifespan?

 Well, I think because her issues are relatable, it was already easy to resonate with. They’re not talked about enough in real life, but they are very much in all our lives; everyone knows someone with an eating disorder or with issues with one of their parents. They’re such common problems, everyone can see a bit of themselves in Chrissy. And when the Duffer Brothers told me her storyline, they advised that I rewatched the Black Swan so there was a lot of character development going into her because we wanted it to be an impactful death.

 I really see the light and the dark of the Black Swan in Chrissy’s storyline…

 I think the main parallel for me is that both these characters are soft-spoken, quiet people, but they’re very much overwhelmed by their insecurities and the pressures others put on them. It's not something that you would immediately assume by looking at them, but it is their reality.

 Is that duality what drew you to her?

 Totally. Yeah, she's the head cheerleader dating the main jock, but I never saw her like that. I don’t believe anyone is one-layered. Even mean girls have a reason for being defensive and closed off, and I like to figure out those reasons and bring a softer side to them.

 How’s it been doing meet-and-greets? I imagine it's very different to any other release cycle…

 I grew up with my dad doing Comic Cons when I was growing up, and it's incredible to have those one-on-one exchanges with everyone now. I can’t believe how talented and attentive everyone is. They bring little crochet dolls of Chrissy that they’ve made overnight or French records after I said I listened to French music while I portrayed her. They really are so loving and thoughtful.

 What was the main lesson your dad taught you as you stepped into acting yourself?

 He ingrained in me very young to always stick up for myself. Obviously, there are disadvantages to being a woman in any industry, and starting out in this one, I definitely saw glimpses of that. But I’m pretty strong-willed and put my foot down quite easily. It's been nice to have him as my backup voice whenever I need it and it's influenced me to do that for friends who don't have the same wager as I do, having someone in your family in the industry.

 Your roles so far have all felt very horror-tinged, but what would be your dream project?

 I think they attempted to adopt one of my favourite books a few years ago, but it never came to fruition. So I would love to partake in any kind of role, crew or cast, for The Bell Jar. I grew up reading that book over and over. It would have to be done right though.

…

Interview by Lucy Harbron

Photography by Pierre Crosby

Fashion by Carolina Orrico

Casting by Imagemachine cs

Hair by Kristian Kanika at The Wall Group

Make-Up by Jewels Grogan at The Wall Group

All clothes Zadig&Voltaire

IN THE COMPANY OF ANGELS

Like so many of today’s rising stars, Avi Angel got his start on YouTube and Tik Tok, albeit with a little help from his middle sibling status – having actor Asher Angel as your brother, and social media sensation, London Bleu as your sister, might just get you noticed.

Having amassed thousands of subscribers to his platforms, he’s now ascending from internet notoriety to every other opportunity that comes his way, most notably modelling and acting. Here he talks to us about the power of positivity, his dream movie role and his fashion picks.

When did you set your sights on becoming a YouTube and Tik Tok superstar?

 My brother inspired me, and people started to notice me when I appeared in his content. I started to gain my community as I grew older, and from that point on, I’ve been focusing on my socials.

 

Imagine someone has never heard of you, how would you describe yourself to them and the output on your social platforms?

I’m a very positive person who tries to use my platform to inspire and motivate people. With Instagram, I mainly focus on my modelling. With Tiktok, it's dancing and other fun videos.

 It’s changed your life really, social media, so what’s been the most significant change for you?

Trying to find genuine and authentic friends. I’ve noticed that it’s become a lot more challenging throughout my life to make real friends due to how much social media has changed.

 

Do you see TikTok as a place where you can spread positive messages? Is it where you can apply more bright ideas about how teens want the world to be?

Yes, 100%. Tiktok is a vast platform with so many teenagers who can learn many things. Spreading a positive message can significantly impact so many people.

 What kind of emotions and experiences influence your content?

I think the content that I put out into the world is a reflection of how I’m feeling at a particular moment. The influences are a collection of my life and daily experiences.

 

Do you ever feel pressure to top your previous videos?

I wouldn’t use the word pressure. I try to put out good content and I want it to be seen and interacted with. It seems like the algorithm can be inconsistent but all I can control is the effort that I put in, so that’s what I focus on.  

Can you tell me about your interests before making videos and how you feel about everything that’s happened since?

I’m just the 15-year-old boy next door. Before making videos, I liked football, baseball, basketball and having fun with my friends and family. I still like all of that, but it has been, and continues to be a crazy and fun ride. I’m very grateful for every opportunity that has come to me.

 

Like modelling, which you seem to enjoy, and you’re really into fashion. How would you describe your personal style?

It’s a lot of different styles. I love to mix stuff up and grab things and throw it on. I love vintage wear and streetwear. Fashion is a massive part of me. I love dressing up and looking stylish.

What brand would you say represents you perfectly?

Rhude, Palm Angels, Homme + Femme, *BeLer With Age* and Casablanca.

What’s the one piece of clothing you couldn’t live without?

 I call myself a huge sneaker head as sneakers allow me to express my fashion and individuality. So, I would say shoes.

 

What about next moves, like acting? What would be a dream role for you?

One of my dream roles would be the main character in a horror film. Being able to express myself in a movie like that would be a super cool experience. I love horror films. I could watch one every night and day.

Whose movie career do you admire?

 I admire Tom Holland; it looks like he works hard and has fun.

 

Ok, for all your admirers out there, let’s talk romance. Are you a romantic? What’s your perfect date night out / in?

Yes, I’m definitely a romantic at heart. The perfect date would start with a nice meal and then maybe a scary movie. We both can get scared and lean on each other for support. Then we could drive to the top of the mountain, lay out some blankets, and watch the stars. Doesn’t that sound like fun?
…

Interview by Kate Lawson

Photography by Doug Inglish

ENTER THE FANTASY

It’s clear that this Autumn the fantasy genre is reigning supreme, in large part thanks to the premiere of the long-awaited show The Rings of Power. The epic series - based on the writings of the legendary author J.R.R. Tolkien, and set thousands of years before the events taking place in his famed book The Lord of the Rings - has been gathering international attention thanks to its spectacular visuals (and budget). 

For Tyroe Muhafidin, a 17-year-old Australian actor for whom the show marks his first big role on screen, the grand scale of operating has been an incredibly helpful tool to enter this far-from-reality universe. “It was amazing to see how the production had every single base covered,” says Tyroe. “It just made everything so easy and [as actors] we were able to concentrate on telling the best story that we could.” 

Following the series’ global premiere circuit, we caught up with Tyroe about acting with elves, fake crying, and his much-discussed fashion sense.

The Rings of Power is part of the epic fantasy The Lord of the Rings universe. Did you know much about this cultural phenomenon prior to starring in the show?

 No, not really! My dad was a fan of the series so I knew of it, but I’m younger than the trilogy itself, so I didn’t really grow up on it. However, once I got the role, I did a deep dive – I watched the trilogy, read The Hobbit, and saw a lot of the LOTR YouTube videos to keep myself in check. So I’m definitely a fan now!

What surprised you the most about this world?

 How vast, detailed, and specific it is, and how it all came from just one mind! Middle-earth is almost like another planet and another history on its own. We could probably have tests in school on it, that’s how specific it is! It’s incredible and so unique.

 And what were the biggest challenges when stepping into it?

 I think the biggest challenge was getting out of this world we’re in! Doing the scenes in front of these magical creatures like elves and orcs was crazy, but the fact that the set design was so realistic made it easy to use my imagination. And then once I got into it, I was fully immersed and fell in love with it.

The show is one of the most expensive productions in the history of TV. What amazed you the most about being part of such a grand series?

 The fact that they built entire villages and cities for us to shoot in. In the village where my character and his family live, there were even locations that we never ended up shooting in – they were there just in case we needed them. It was amazing to see how the production had every single base covered – it just made everything so easy and [as actors] we were able to concentrate on telling the best story that we could.

 Which scene for you was the most memorable to shoot?

 There was a scene where I had to cry, and I have never done that in front of the camera before. I got the script saying that I will have to do it six months in advance, and I spent a lot of that time trying to get into that emotion. On the day of the shoot, I had great support from the crew and my mom – who was with me on set – and they all really helped me unlock that feeling. Now, I think I’m pretty good at fake crying! [Laughs]

Over the course of the premiere circuit for the series, you got a lot of recognition for your bold style statements. Are you a fan of fashion?

 Yes, I’m totally into it! I’ve got a great stylist, Parker Harwood, and throughout the press tour, we worked on showing that I care about how I look and what clothes I wear. My philosophy is that if I look good, I feel good, and if I feel good, I do good.

 Which of the looks was your favourite?

 It was the suit by The Incorporated, paired with a balaclava and Alexander McQueen shoes, that I wore to the global premiere. It was actually a homage to the late Virgil Abloh and the look he wore to the 2021 MET Gala. Parker and I have been so inspired by his work and we decided that it was a great moment to pay tribute to him.

 

Whose style do you look to the most for inspiration?

 My older brother’s – he’s the one who got me into fashion! He’s got an amazing sense of style and he would always come back home with great finds after going shopping on the weekend. We didn’t grow up with much money, but we learned how to make it work with what we had. Anytime I put together an outfit, I always ask him what he thinks of it! He really inspires me.

Having this amazing first big experience, what are your dream roles to play now?

 I really want to be a Power Ranger.

 

Which one?

 That’s what I’m not sure about. I don’t know if I want to be the red one because that’s a lot of pressure. [Laughs] I just know that I want to be a Power Ranger and I hope that it’ll happen one day.

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Interview by Martin Onufrowicz

Photography by Hadar Pitchon

Grooming by Ruth Fernandez

All clothes Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello

NO LIMITS

Javon ‘Wanna’ Walton was just 11 years-old when he was cast in his breakout acting role as Ashtray in HBO’s cult teen drama Euphoria. He has since appeared in Amazon Prime’s Utopia, played Pugsley in The Addams Family 2 and Stanley, a rebellious little scamp in The Umbrella Academy. Now he’s landed his first lead role opposite Hollywood heavyweight Sylvester Stallone, in the superhero thriller movie Samaritan, which is kinda cool for a kid who grew up watching Rocky movies and is also a Junior Olympic boxing prodigy. We caught up with Walton to discuss the Spice Girls and superpowers.

‘I think all actors dream of being a superhero at some point in their career.’

Firstly, your nickname in real life is 'Wanna’. Do you wanna really, really, really wanna zig-a-zig-ah? Name the record?

[Laughs.] I don’t know that one! My Dad started calling me Wanna from a young age because I didn’t want to be treated like a child. I wanted to train with the grown-ups, I wanted to hurry up and turn 8 years-old so I could take my first fight. I wanted to compete on a big stage. My parents never put limitations on me, and neither did I on myself.

 

What?! Ok you’re too young to remember a Spice Girls classic. Let’s talk about Ashtray instead. You managed to make him into one of the most loved characters on the show. How did you bring that likeability to such a seemingly unlikeable character?

I think the mystery behind Ashtray allows people to create their own stories. Other than Fez we don’t see Ashtray loved and treated like a child and that’s really sad. I think people feel compassion for him and justify his behavior. People are still really pulling for Ashtray.

 

Speaking of Fez, did you continue your brotherly bond off-camera with Angus [Cloud], do you hang out now?

jw: We definitely have a connection. Angus is a really good soul. He’s always positive. We live in different states, but we try to Facetime often. It’s cool because we both got our start on Euphoria and were actually discovered by the same casting director.

 

We’re all presuming Ashtray was killed in the emotional Season 2 finale. Do you have any hopes or wishes for him if he comes back in Season 3?

I wish I could tell you if he’s really dead but even I don’t know for sure. Sam [Levinson] is genius and super creative so there’s really no telling until filming starts back. If Ashtray doesn’t return, of course I’ll be a little disappointed, but I’m glad he got the finale he deserved. It was a lot of fun to shoot that episode.

 

So, how did acting come about for you? Because you’re actually a boxing and gymnastics prodigy first and foremost?

When I was 11 years-old, The Steve Harvey Show noticed me on Instagram and asked me to come on the show. The casting director for Euphoria just happened to see me on that show and somehow got my dad’s number and called to see if I was interested in acting. I hadn’t actually thought about it before then, so I got the role without any acting experience.

 

Do you think your sporting work ethic has helped you with your on-screen career?

Yeah, it definitely has helped me. Boxing requires a lot of discipline and a strong work ethic.  Acting is the same. It requires a lot of hours on set and you have to bring the right energy to each take. When I step in the ring every round is important, because I’ve only got 3 rounds. I think of acting in the same way. You never know which take the director will use, so you have to bring your best every time.

 

You’ve recently worked with a sporting legend, Rocky, aka, Sly Stallone, for the film Samaritan. Did you ever watch the Rockymovies? Were you starry-eyed around him?

I grew up watching Rocky movies with my dad! When I heard Sly was making a movie with a kid, I knew that kid had to be me! I can’t wait for everyone to see it. I don’t really get star struck, but he and I talked about boxing a lot on set.

 

As an actor looking at an acting legend, what do you think you could learn from him?

This movie was the first time I really had the freedom to go off script and improvise. Sly really taught me that the energy you bring, and your connection to the character, is more important than nailing every word. He gave me confidence to believe in the character that I brought to life, and speak for that character in a way that I believed was truthful.

 

The movie is a superhero drama based on the Mythos Comics graphic novels. Do you have any comic-book heroes you would love to play on screen in the future?

I think all actors dream of being a superhero at some point in their career. I wouldn’t mind being a villain too. Heath Ledger and Joaquin Phoenix were both amazing playing the Joker, and I think when I’m older I’d like to play the Joker too. I’d also love to play Robin.

 

In the film, Sly’s character has superhuman abilities. What three superpowers would you have if given the opportunity?

I would want to be super strong. I feel like it’s a power that I could do so much with. I would also like to fly. That would be really cool. If I had to pick one more, I would probably say I would want to be super-fast!

…

Full feature in our upcoming FW22 issue. Stay Tuned!

Pre_Order Now

Release mid-October in Paris and worldwide shortly after.

Interview by Kate Lawson

Photography by Noua Unu Studio

Fashion by Sharon Chitrit

Casting by Imagemachine cs

Grooming by Zaheer Sukhnandan

Set Design by Romain Goudinoux 

Photographer’s assistant Casey Cunneen

ON FIRE

From her roles as a young Lara Croft Tomb Raider and young Diana aka Wonder Woman, to the cyberbullied Mika in the hit Netflix teen drama, Get Even, the name on everyone’s lips is Emily Carey. Even if CGI dragons aren’t your thing, the rising British star now plays a young Alicent Hightower – a key player in the Targaryen civil war known as the “Dance of the Dragons” – in HBO’s Game of Thrones spinoff, House of the Dragon, easily the biggest show of the year.

Full look Balenciaga

How do the younger years of your character Alicent Hightower play out?

 People are expecting to see Alicent as this angry woman, with a lot of people already seeing her as the villain. Her early years give an insight into why she grows into this woman and what (or who) pushes her to grow this fire within. I think bringing her out as a young girl, the perspective of the character that people already have should hopefully change. It shows her journey in a way we hadn’t seen in the book. 

 

Was it a long audition process? How does it feel to be part of such a highly anticipated show?

 The audition process was a good few months and it was a while before I even knew what I was auditioning for. Every time I went in the room for this, it felt as if things were clicking into place. This job felt very right for me. It’s of course absolutely massive. Slightly intimidating as it’s such a highly anticipated show but it’s an honour to take on this role and it amazes me every day that I was trusted with it. I’m so incredibly excited for the world to see this wild show we’ve created. Somebody pinch me. 

 

Left Full look Givenchy

Right Jacket MSGM and earring N°21

“To truly feel beautiful comes from a place of self-love and acceptance.”

Did you feel that same “pinch” with Wonder Woman and Lara Croft, in terms of being part of such strong female-led movies?

 Wonder Woman was such a monumental film - to be involved in any way is an honour but being able to play young Diana herself was a dream. Similar with Tomb Raider, playing an iconic woman like Lara Croft even for just a scene was the experience of a lifetime. Coming off both those sets I felt empowered as a young woman. I don’t think I fully understood each moment as it was happening but to reflect on both films now, it astounds me that I got to play such classic feminist roles. Millions of young girls could see and feel strength through the characters I played and that is a magical thing. 

 

What about the female actors you admire?

 I fell in love with Hailee Steinfeld’s acting style after seeing The Edge of Seventeen years ago and now I am falling in love all over again watching Dickinson. She always feels so grounded and relatable, the dark comedy is so organic. Career wise, I aspire to Florence Pugh. She’s taken on such a variety of genres and is so versatile, which is something I hope to be.

Left Full look Miu Miu

Right Full look Givenchy

 Speaking of being relatable, your character Mika in Get Even really highlighted the prevalent issue of cyberbullying of women in this age of social media. What’s your view about the societal pressure heaped on girls to be this version of “sexy” that feels so outdated?

 It’s so difficult to ignore this societal pressure on women when the media’s favourite topic is women. Girls are joining social media younger and younger now and are only being exposed to this earlier. It’s about unlearning what’s been pumped into us for years. Women don’t owe anybody sexy, and you don’t owe anybody femininity or political politeness. It’s been drilled into us that we must look what society deems beautiful and perfect all the time. But that ‘beautiful’ is simply ‘desirable’. No one should be able to give you that validation other than yourself, but women are taught that to be wanted is to feel beautiful. It’s rooted so deeply in society that we should rely upon men to feel worth. To truly feel beautiful comes from a place of self-love and acceptance in a world where we are taught to hate ourselves from the second we hit puberty. 

 

Are you drawn to more challenging or darker roles which explore life lessons and boundaries?

 My favourite thing about my job is there’s always newness to explore and I’d hate to limit myself to a certain type of character or a certain genre, however I do love darker roles! I’m drawn to psychological stories, something thrilling but more unsettling that horrifying. As an actor, I get to play with my own emotions and have a sense of control over them and I love any character that pushes me to delve deeper into my mind and lets me discover parts of myself that hadn’t seen the light before. Emotion is such a vast spectrum, and we often don’t realise how deeply we’re capable of feeling things until it’s happening. I really enjoy any role where I get to push those boundaries and test my own emotional limits. Exploring real human feelings keeps things truthful. 

Full look Miu Miu

…

Full feature in our upcoming FW22 issue. Stay Tuned!

Interview by Kate Lawson

Photography by Gregory Derkenne

Fashion by Marco Drammis

Casting by ImagineMachine cs

Hair by Ben Talbott at The Wall Group using Ghd Pro and Living Proof

Make-Up by Valeria Ferreira at The Wall Group using Clé de Peau Beauté

Stylist’s assistant Saverio Rufini

ALL EYES ON YOU

For the past three weeks, Milly Alcock has been winning over the audiences with her nuanced portrayal of young Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen in House of the Dragon - the HBO show which last month made headlines for its record-breaking premiere. For the Australian actress - who prior to getting the part has never seen Game of Thrones, the series that HotD is a prequel to - the biggest surprise was just how straightforward the extravagant show’s arc is. “It’s a story of one family, and how that family has a massive fight which affects the whole kingdom,” says Alcock. “And because they’re in charge, everyone else around them suffers and has an opinion on their actions.” Prior to the show’s big launch, we spoke to Milly about the fascinating nature of Rhaenyra, the euphoria of riding a horse, and wanting to play a valley girl.

Full look Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello

House of the Dragon is one of the biggest shows of the year! How did you become a part of this project?

 It was a really fast auditioning process. I did a self-tape back in Sydney and the sample scene they gave me was actually from Game of Thrones – I hadn’t seen the show at that point, so I hadn’t actually realized [what I might be auditioning for]. Then, two weeks later, I got a callback, followed by a phone call saying that I got the part two weeks after that. It was just so extremely quick that I didn’t feel like I actually landed the role!

Left Full look Loewe

Right Shirt Miu Miu and shorts Polo by Ralph Lauren

 What would you say are the main differences in the storytelling tone between House of the Dragonand Game of Thrones?

 I would say that our show is the modern revamp of Game of Thrones – the series has definitely addressed the critiques and didn’t make the same mistakes that the original got scrutinized for, which I think is going to make it more appealing to a wider audience. House of the Dragon explores a broader range of perspectives in terms of themes like sexuality, gender, and race, so it allows everybody to be a part of that world.

Knitwear N°21 and boots JW Anderson

 Having not seen the original show prior to getting the part, what surprised you the most about this universe?

 The fact that despite being very extravagant in its presentation, it’s very simplistic in its themes – it’s a story of one family, and how that family has a massive fight which affects the whole kingdom. And because they’re in charge, everyone else around them suffers and has an opinion on their actions.

Knitwear N°21

 In the series, you play Rhaenyra Targaryen – what do you find most fascinating about her as a person?

 She is a princess, but she fundamentally doesn’t want to adhere to that role and what she’s expected to do. That’s why she acts out in a lot of ways, and because of her position of privilege, she can get away with a lot more stuff. She comes across as quite arrogant – we meet her when she’s in her early teens, so she’s at that point where she expects the world to owe her something and hasn’t grasped the reality that everybody suffers and that she’s not the only person who’s ever experienced these feelings. She holds a lot of anger in her and we see her work through that anger, but quite publicly, because of her position. But I do really adore her outspokenness and emotional intelligence about people close to her. She’s a lot smarter than she’s made out to be.

Full look JW Anderson

 What was the wildest skill you got to learn for this role?

 I learned how to ride a horse! I’m very grateful that I got to learn that skill – there’s something really fun about horse riding and the freedom that it gives you. Also, I think it helped me tap into Rhaenyra a bit more and tap into her using her dragon – I’m assuming that the feeling of euphoria while riding a horse would be a bit similar to the feeling of riding a dragon, just a thousand times less strong because the dragon would be going so fucking fast! [laughs]

Shirt Miu Miu and shorts Polo by Ralph Lauren

Left Knitwear N°21

Right Shirt Miu Miu

 What amazed you the most about the level of production on a series like this?

 The craft and attention to detail were insane! For example, with the costumes, everything was handmade and hand-embroidered, so it felt like you were wearing art. Also, just the sheer volume of people that it took to make that job. When you’re working with a 400-person crew every day, it can be quite overwhelming – you can’t help but have the feeling that you’re a part of something that’s larger than you and larger than something you’ll ever be. So there was a bit of pressure within that feeling of ‘all eyes are on you’, but I learned to understand that I had so many people around me whose job was to make sure that I came across the best way that I could in my performance. All of the crew was so incredible – they were so kind and so human, which didn’t feel like it should go together with how big and over-the-top the production was.

Left Shirt Miu Miu

Right Full look Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello

 Having that incredible experience, what sort of challenges and roles are you hoping to explore now?

 I really want to do a play. I think it would be such a great challenge in terms of how you rehearse and the text that you are given, as well as vocally and movement-wise. There’s just something that seems so exciting about that moment of performance living in the space of two hours and being shared exclusively with the audience that’s right in front of you. Also, I would love to do some independent films. I want to play a valley girl…

Left Full look Loewe

Right Knitwear N°21 and boots JW Anderson

 

An A24 valley girl?

 Yes! I just want to have fun.

…

Interview by Martin Onufrowicz

Photography by Emilia Staugaard

Fashion by John Handford

Casting by ImageMachine cs

Make-Up by Fiona Gallagher

Hair by Hiroki Kojima at Caren Agency

STEALING HOLLYWOOD'S HEART

Norwegian-American model-turned actress, Kristine Frøseth, has worked with the likes of Chanel, Armani and Miu Miu, and starred in The Weeknd’s music video for False Alarm.

She swapped the catwalk for the big screen when she landed her first major movie in 2017: Rebel in the Rye, alongside Nicholas Hoult. Having also learned to plié for Amazon’s 2021 ballet thriller Birds of Paradise, her latest projects include Lena Dunham’s hotly anticipated dramedy Sharp Stick, and the upcoming all-star ensemble series The First Lady, in which she plays a young Betty Ford. As busy as she is, Froseth still had time to chat with us via Zoom about playing a feminist icon, working with trailblazing women and the Eurovision Song Contest.

Dress Chanel

You’re playing a young Betty Ford as she trains as a dancer for Martha Graham in the TV series The First Lady — what is it with you and dancing?

 Ha ha! Well it all happened so quickly with that role, and I didn’t really have time to prep, or learn much as there was a very different approach, but hey, I’m down and if I get the chance I’ll fully go in for any dance movies, hit me up!

 

So what drew you to that role?

 For me I didn’t know much about her personal life other than her struggles with addiction and that she created the Betty Ford Clinic, and really anyone who advocates for change or de-stigmatises the labels or terms of addiction, is really powerful to me, and people who speak their truths and save other people’s lives. She was really such a hero in that space, and for women too.

 

Yes, she was a courageous and vivacious activist for women's rights, what was the most interesting fact you learned about her that really inspired you?

 Knowing where she grew up in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in this small town, and to be able to find the courage and confidence she did being in that environment is really inspiring to me. Her Mother wanted her to get married and follow the same path as everyone around her at that time, and yet she was so determined to be a dancer or work in fashion, she was always so ahead of the times. She got a divorce when it was not really common, and she spoke up for herself because she was being abused, and women then never really spoke up about those things. So I was inspired by  everything I learned through reading a lot of books about her and listening to some Podcasts, and we also had a historian on set to help us too.  

Dress Chanel

Talking of trailblazing women, your co-stars include Michelle Pfeiffer, Viola Davis and Gillian Anderson - working with actors of that caliber and of a different generation, must be quite intimidating. What was the experience like?

 I was shaking when I first spoke to Michelle on Zoom, and I was trying to do my breathing exercises beforehand, like ‘ground yourself Kristine, ground yourself’! but as soon as she was up on screen, she was the most grounded, kind, human being, so present, no ego. It was really awesome to just watch her too, and how she talks to producers and the strength she has. Sometimes navigating the industry as a woman is hard, for example; in the beginning, if I wasn’t smiling all the time, people would think I was being difficult or having issues with something. So navigating your space and understanding how to be direct and strong, but still be kind, has been a tricky thing, and she just really knows how to be a badass and be generous while doing it all. I wish I had got to watch her more on set.

 

So you shot your scenes before everyone else then, and where were you filming?

 Yes we shot the Betty Block first, and we were in Atlanta for about a month, the hours were really long and it was during Covid, so outside of filming, I just hung out with the cast who were really fun, and we just got lots of take out!

 

You’ve also worked with the super-talented Girls creator, Lena Dunham, on the project  Sharp Stick, in which you play quite a complex character - can you tell us more about that, and what was the most challenging part of the role?

 Working with Lena was something I really wanted to do, and she sent a script and also a thesis over about what she wanted to accomplish with the film, and also a list of 4 or 5 movies that she wanted me to watch that she was inspired by for it. I loved the films and I understood the script and felt really connected and thought it was empowering as my character has this sexual awakening, and is also growing from this trauma that’s held her back for so many years. She’s 26-years-old but she acts like she’s 16 and she’s not had much life experience, and she hasn’t really been exposed to a lot, stuck in this same narrative — but then through her journey she really rips off the shackles and finds herself. I also love that it doesn’t end up with her being ok now, she comes to the realisation that things need to change and the journey is a long one, and that’s just like life really.  

Dress Chanel

“Working with Lena [Dunham] was something I really wanted to do.”

Working with the rest of the cast must have been fun too, like your Mum [Jennifer Jason Leigh], and adopted sister [Taylour Paige] are really quite endearingly dysfunctional in the story?

 They’re both incredible and Jon Bernthal too, who has like a million ways of walking and doing a scene. It’s a heightened world that these characters are all in, and a little kooky, but the way it was written was really funny and the characters are amazing.

 

Were you able to add or change things about your character in the early discussions with Lena, what was she like to work with on set as a Director?

 She was so open and we talked through the script several times beforehand, and we had probably 15 days to shoot it all, and she would come up to me and give me some thoughts or notes and say ‘do with it what you will’. We would get three takes and there would always be something new in between, nothing was ever set in stone or results based, there was always a discovery, and I think that’s why it’s one of my most favourite sets of all time that I’ve been on.

 Ok final question, and completely off-topic here, but I have to ask, did you see Norway’s Eurovision entry this year, with a song called "Give That Wolf a Banana" by Subwoolfer?

 Ha ha! No I didn’t see it…

 

Ok, YouTube it, and I guarantee it will be stuck in your head for the rest of today… and possibly for the rest of this year.

 Oh wow, I have to hear it, I’m gonna go and watch it right now!

…

Full feature in our upcoming FW22 issue. Stay Tuned!

Interview by Kate Lawson

Photography by Ellen Fedors

Fashion by Yael Quint 

Casting by Imaginemachine Cs

Hair by David Von Cannon 

Make-Up by Quinn Murphy 

Nails by Nori Yamanaka using Chanel beauty 

Stylist’s assistants Heather Blair and Josh Mooiweer

THE COOL GIRL

Devon Ross has been a name to know for a long time. Fashion’s cool girl, the model, actress and musician embodies the 60s nostalgia that remains forever the rage. Walking a tightrope between various creative forms, the daughter of a guitarist and a model does it all with ease. Splitting her time between walking shows for Valentino, playing the guitar for her friend Camille Jansen and now acting in her debut role in Irma Vep – she’s a triple threat. But after falling in love with acting, it seems like the multi-hyphenate is buckling down to dominate one domain. Talking about her longing for more female-led rock biopics, tricky characters and plans to prioritise acting, we’re set to see a star rise.

 

On a Zoom call from her West London flat, Devon sits in front of a shrine dedicated to all her icons as we talk with Mick Jagger watching over us. “I’ve got to have all the musicians I love all over my walls,” she laughs from a room that 70s teens would have dreamed of.

Left Full look Riley Joyce

Right Vest Zadig & Voltaire & skirt Alessia Casati

Irma Vep was your first role, acting alongside huge names like Alicia Vikander, how was that?

 It was definitely surreal. I had major imposter syndrome for a while because I was like, ‘how can they trust me when they've never seen me act before?’ I was mind-boggled that this was even a possibility in my life. So even before I started filming, it was already crazy. But when we got to Paris and started filming and the reality set in, I settled into it and knew I was supposed to be there. I'm so lucky that was my first role and especially lucky that I got to work with all these amazing, very seasoned actors that know exactly what they're doing. So I got a lot of amazing people to watch and learn from.

Full look Valentino

 Even though this is your debut role, we've known your name for a long time in the modelling world. Did having that reputation already make it more nerve-wracking? Finally having a credit rather than just another name attached to a show?

 It changes everything. And I guess it is a bit nerve-wracking because you know that people are going to watch it because of that reason, but I knew it was gonna be a great project because Olivier Assayas is amazing. Everyone in it is amazing. So I wasn't nervous about how it was going turn out, I got to trust that it would be great.

Left Dress Emil Dernbach & shoes Emporio Armani

Right Jacket Paula Lozzano, top and skirt Givenchy

 What drew you to this project?

 I guess it was the first Zoom call I had with Olivier. He was in his country house writing the script and we had this long conversation. We hardly even really talked about the project but he's just such a cool guy – he was in London in the 60s and has all these amazing stories. And we just like got along super well so I knew that it was going to be the right first thing to do.

 

And for your character, Regina, what attracted you to her? How did you connect?

 Regina has a lot of layers to her that slowly just come out. She gets more confident and doesn't really stand for bullshit. She always says it's on her mind which I try to do. We’re pretty similar. But I'd love to do a role that's like completely different from me - that's so far from who I am that I have to really study for it.

Full look Miu Miu

 If you could design your absolute dream role - who would you want to be playing?

 I’d love to play Patti Smith. There are so many rock biopics that come out all the time and TV shows, but they're all about men with a whole cast of men and I get super jealous. I want to play the rockstar.

 With modelling and playing music, where do you see acting falling in place in your career? Is it something you want to prioritise moving forward?

 Yeah, definitely. I fell in love with it on Irma Vep and couldn't really see myself doing anything else. I'm in it, it’s super interesting to me and so fulfilling. But even when I was a kid, I loved the idea of doing multiple things. I want to do as many things as I can balance.

…

Full feature in our upcoming FW22 issue. Stay Tuned!

Interview by LUCY HARBRON

Photography by JAIME CANO

Fashion by FÁTIMA MONJAS

Casting by IMAGEMACHINE CS

Hair by YOKO SETOYAMA

Make-Up by MATTIE WHITE at Saint Luke Artists

Photographer’s assistant JAMES CLOTHIER

Stylist’s assistant JAGI NELSON

SUMMER OF ZANE

Zane Phillips, American actor known for his role in the queer comedy of this summer Fire Island, is no stranger to the famed hedonistic destination in the title of the movie. ‘I love going to the island,’ says Phillips. ‘I haven't been a regular for too long, but honestly, it's one of my favourite places to recharge.’ Zane’s recent absence from the gay utopia has been possibly caused by his super busy working schedule - he’s starring in the highly-anticipated Netflix show Partner Track (out later this month) and is currently filming another series for the platform set within a beauty empire titled Glamorous. For us, Zane talks about his go-to Fire Island destinations, acting alongside Kim Cattrall on the upcoming show, and his NYT Crossword addiction.

How did the role in Fire Island come about for you and what made you want to be a part of this project?

Getting to do this movie felt like a cosmic convergence of things that I love - Jane Austen, queer storytelling, every single individual person in this cast!!! When I first received the script in May of last year, it didn't take any kind of consideration to figure out whether I wanted to be a part of it. I remember having an extraordinarily rough day, having had a full day of tutoring in Westchester and then dealing with personal issues on top of that, so I didn't get to working on this tape until about midnight. Thank god for my roommate, who stayed up with me and helped me get this thing in. It's still one of my favourite auditions I've done. 

The cast is full of great comedians. Who made you laugh the most on set? 

I mean, Tomás [Matos] has to be everyone's answer here. An absolute light who makes everyone fall in love with them immediately. And then when they got together with Matt [Rogers], I mean...the fish were unstoppable.

Do you like to go to Fire Island? If so, what are your favourite spots there?

I do love going to the island! I haven't been a regular for too long, but honestly, it's one of my favourite places to recharge. One of my favourite underrated activities is going to the Pantry at 9 in the morning, when most of the island is still asleep. It's times like these where you can actually get in touch with yourself. I also love the Sunken Forest, but it's a bit of a trek.


What’s your craziest Fire Island story that you can say on record?

Ok, I am unfortunately very boring when it comes to Fire Island shenanigans. I take part but I'm also the one making cinnamon rolls the next morning.

Up next, you’re starting to shoot Glamorous. What can you tell me about the show? 

Honestly not sure what I can or can't say - but what I *do* know is that this cast is extraordinarily talented, and Jordon Nardino's vision is razor sharp. Essentially, it's the story of a young, bright, gender non-conforming man named Marco, played by the brilliant Miss Benny, and how they shake up this cosmetics company, as well as, of course, the various characters within. I get to play Chad, the brand's director of sales who absolutely exemplifies the name in every way possible.


What’s it like to have Kim Cattrall play your mom? 

I mean, Kim is incredible. She absolutely has elevated the show to a new level and given us the opportunity to see her in a new light. She's all about the work, which I adore. 

When did you first realize that acting is something that you would like to pursue? 

It really was a moment during my junior year of high school. I was doing a production of Man of la Mancha with my local community theatre, because my high school only did one play a year, and I was starting to really enjoy the process of being in a musical. It had to have been one of our final dress rehearsals - seeing the final vision (which, for a small town community theatre, was quite good), hearing that music soar, and feeling something unlock in me. I felt like I had access to emotions that I'd spent years turning off. Acting became a way for me to get to know myself again. At that point, I decided to try and see if I could make it work for myself. I guess it's not for me to judge whether it has, but I'm certainly happy. 


What’s a show or film that shaped your identity growing up? 

Probably Clue? Screwball antics, perfect aesthetics, legendary performances, and every single thing that comes out of Madeline Kahn's mouth.


What’s one film you can watch over and over, and never get bored of it?

I think it's gotta be Bride and Prejudice, the Bollywood version of Pride and Prejudice. Maybe it's a testament to the source material, but it's so campy and energetic and fun, it always makes me happy. 


What are the challenges that you are looking for as an actor right now? 

The past year has led me to some incredible challenges in terms of the emotional side of acting. I'd love to engage more with the physical side - I've had to stay in good shape for a lot of things, so I'd love to have it be for something. It would be fun to get into the action side of things: learn some combat, swing a sword. That or I'd love to be able to try to meld my musical theatre background and do a musical movie or something like that. 


What’s something that you’re good at that not many people know about? 

Ok, so I am actually killer at the NYT Crossword. When I have the time, I'll do it every single day.

…

Interview by Martin Onufrowicz

Photography by Hadar Pitchon

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