September/October 2018 - 46 ISSUE
In which area would you like to improve as an actor?
I think you’re never done improving. As people, we’re constantly learning and evolving therefore you’re evolving as an actor.
Of all the roles you have played in the past, which is your favorite?
I love every single role for different reasons, but I think Danielle Furlbee will forever hold a very special place in my heart. She’s a part of me and I’m a part of her. Almost like long lost sisters in a way.
Who is your favorite actor/actress and why?
I love Toni Collette with all my heart. Her ability to completely lose herself in a character is absolutely astounding. She’s also such a strong Australian woman whom I’ve always looked up to.
Have you had any weird fan encounters?
I just recently got my driver’s license and after I passed my test, when the examiner handed me my license she said “Love the show, by the way.” My cast and I had a great laugh over that!
Outside of entertainment you are committed to philanthropic work. Can you share more about the organizations you support?
I spent several years as an ambassador for the Children’s Miracle Network in partnership with the Miss New Jersey Education Foundation. Committed to raising money so children could have the best treatment possible, giving them access to a new life. One of my best friends adopted his sister from Foster care. Throughout that process of adoption, I saw firsthand how broken the foster care system was and the lasting effects that neglect has had on the children involved. I couldn’t stay silent, I knew I needed to do something. My friend’s family introduced me to the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, an organization committed to helping children in foster care find the best possible “forever families”.
I live with a common illness called Endometriosis. An illness with little research and no known cure. For my 19th birthday, I held a fundraiser for the Endometriosis Foundation of America. An organization helping to fund research to find a cure and provides support for “Endo Warriors” everywhere.
Do you have any upcoming projects?
This holiday season, my new movie “I’ll be Next Door for Christmas” will be premiering! I had the honor of starring alongside Juliette Angelo (Shameless, Malibu Country) and the incomparable Nicole Sullivan (MadTV, Disjointed).
What is your message to our readers and your fans?
Don’t let society tell you who they think you should be. Be yourself. Find yourself. Do what makes you happy. Be kind. Work hard and follow your heart.