When did you first decide you wanted to start acting? What led to that decision?
I knew that I wanted to be an actress when I was seven years old. I was attending an off-Broadway production of “The Hobbit” with my school. My mother was chaperoning, and thank god, she was because at some point I wanted to get up on stage with the actors and my mom had to sit me back down. The director found us afterwards and he agreed to let me audition for the South Pacific and I booked it. I was with them for seven years after that.
Do you have an audition story that stands out as particularly memorable? If so, what is it?
I auditioned for Modern Family once covered in Gasoline. I was on my way to Fox studios and I stopped for gas. Something must have been wrong with the spring in the pump because when I pulled it out it sprayed all over me. I ran to the restroom and cleaned up as much as possible and went on my way. The casting directors thought it was a hilarious situation, which it was, and they ended up giving me the job!
What was it like joining the cast of Days of Our Lives?
It was incredible. Everyone was so welcoming and sincere. They made it very easy for me to adjust to the fast-paced environment that comes with shooting soaps.
Was it difficult stepping into a role that was previously played by someone else?
It actually made it pretty fun. I had preset circumstances and relationships with the characters on the show that I had to generate very quickly, which was probably the hardest part. Other than that, I approached the role as I would on any other project. I just took Ciara’s history and ran with it.
If you could give Ciara one piece of advice, what would it be?
I would tell her to not be so hard on herself, and to allow herself to be happy. She’s in this phase of self-pity right now and it’s not very healthy.
Do you have any other upcoming projects you’d like to tell us about?
There is this short film that a friend of mine is producing and we are discussing the possibility of fitting me into the schedule! I can’t say much, and it might not even happen if it doesn’t clear with the Days of Our Lives schedule but I’ve always wanted to do a short film, so fingers crossed!
When you aren’t busy working, how do you like to spend your time?
I like to spend time on self-care- whether that means putting a face mask on, cooking myself a nice meal with a pot of mint tea, or taking a nice long walk on the beach. I like to relax and do simple things that make me happy. Life doesn’t have to be so crazy all the time. I can’t stress enough how important it is to take the time and pamper yourself, on the inside and out.
What’s something fans might be surprised to learn about you?
I recently found out from an ancestry DNA kit that I am 98% Polish and 2% Finnish! My entire life I thought I was 100% Polish, and even though 2% isn’t much I think it’s pretty cool that I have some Finnish ancestors I never knew about!
9What's your favourite thing about acting?
The way you get to lose yourself in a character. There really is no feeling like it.
Who do you look up to in acting?
I look up to Reese Witherspoon, Meryl Streep, Christian Bale, and Leonardo DiCaprio.
What can we expect to see from Ciara in the upcoming episode of Days of Our Lives?
We can expect to see her learn a lot about herself. She’s going to be in a couple of situations that will force her to come to terms with who she really is and what she really wants. I’m excited for her to grow into the woman she’s destined to be.
If you go back in time what advice would you give to your younger self?
Don’t be afraid! The only thing that is restraining you is fear, and that’s entirely in your head.
What's your message for JAMO readers?
My message for everyone is never forget to love. I use that word a lot because I believe it’s the greatest thing humans have to offer, and we need it now more than ever. You never know what circumstances a person can be going through, so it’s important to be kind. I like to say, “Treat people the way you treat other drunk girls in the bar bathroom.” I’m aware of that only applying to women, but I’m sure men can get the gist of it.
September/October 2018 - 46 ISSUE
JAMO
Interview