Share with us in your own words what “Impeachment: American Crime Story” is about.
Impeachment: American Crime Story, created by the brilliant Ryan Murphy, is an updated narrative of a story everyone thinks they know. It highlights the voices and lives of the women involved, what they experienced, and how they were silenced, controlled, and ridiculed by the public. It is a project that I hope will evoke empathy and compassion from the audience and allow a space for them to view the women of this story in a different light.
Why did you originally audition for the role?
I was fortunate enough to have this project come across my path and have the opportunity to audition for it. It was an exciting process that stretched over several months, and during that time, I had the chance to explore the story and my character: Allison Tripp. Booking this role was so exciting, and I am honored to have been part of this project and work with some of the most talented people in the business.
While on set, what is an example of a challenge you faced? How did you overcome it?
Working on Impeachment: American Crime Story gave me a broader perspective of what acting truly is. It provided me with an opportunity to recognize and learn about the duality of the craft: the character development and emotional side, as well as the technical side. Both aspects have to work in harmony with each other. There was a day on set where we were filming a long, one-take scene, and I had to play my lines directly to the camera for a POV shot. With the camera up close on my face, I had to remain in character speaking to a piece of equipment that someone was reading lines behind. The whole crew and tons of background actors were present, so I had to dig deep, tune out the distractions and find my headspace. I carefully watched how the other actors played to the camera and studied their eyelines. They made it look so easy, remaining in character all while knowing exactly where the camera was at all times. The more I watched, the more I felt confident settling into both the emotional and technical dynamics of the scene.
Growing up, what did you love most about film/television?
Ever since I can remember, I have been in love with acting and the art of filmmaking. When I was younger, I would shut myself in my room and transform into the characters I saw on screen, memorizing scenes and creating new ones that I would then play out.
My imagination has always run wild. I was the girl that transported herself to magical worlds during recess. Acting gave me the chance to be whoever I dreamt I could be. I have always loved writing stories and developing characters that meant something to someone. Whether that be a rebelliously courageous princess fighting for the freedom of her kingdom or a young woman yearning to find herself, I crave the chance to daydream, tell stories, and play characters that allow audiences to experience a deep level of connection and a sense of wonder.
You have also worked with human trafficking organizations such as A21 and Exodus Cry. Do you have a story from these experiences you would like to share?
There are so many amazing Human Trafficking organizations, and A21 and Exodus Cry are two organizations that I admire and hope to shine a spotlight on. Human trafficking is a horrific $150 billion dollar industry where 40.3 million people are enslaved across the world today. In the past, I would host tea parties for young girls and their moms, where I would speak to raise awareness on the pitfalls of sex trafficking. We made bracelets to wear in our schools to act as conversation starters in hopes of furthering the education of others on how to spot and stop sex trafficking. I also had the privilege of shooting a jewelry campaign for Sanctuary Project, a nonprofit organization employing and empowering survivors of human trafficking.
What role does faith play in your life?
Jesus is my best friend! To me, faith is not about following the rules of religion but having a relationship with God, who I know will love me unconditionally. My identity, my confidence, my love, my peace, and my joy all stem from my relationship with Jesus. The beauty of Jesus is that you can talk to him like He is your best friend. Nothing in your life is too big or too small for Him, and when life gets crazy (as it does), I know I can spill my heart out to Him, and He is right there listening, ready to catch me when I fall.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?
As someone with an extreme case of wanderlust, this question is extremely difficult for me to answer. Our world is so rich with different cultures that I crave the opportunity to experience the beautiful hearts and souls that make our world so beautifully diverse. At the moment, I have a list of the top 6 countries that I would like to visit: France, Italy, Japan, Sweden, Iceland, and Greece. However, if I had to pick a place to travel first, my dream would be to move across Italy for a year, building relationships with people and experiencing the totality of its beauty.
What comes next?
After Impeachment: American Crime Story wrapped, I had the opportunity to fly out to Texas and begin filming another project. I am so thankful for this journey that I am on, and I am looking forward to all of the future possibilities and projects to come!
@BELLOmag
Talent Emma Malouff @emmamalouff
Photography Dylan Perlot @dylanperlot
Interview Alexandra Bonnet @alexbonnetwrites