Photographed by Matt Kallish
Meet: August Maturo
Apr 14, 2022
August! It is so nice to get to catch up on what you’ve been doing acting wise lately.
You just had a release of quite the thriller, “Slapface”, which you’ve already won a Best Actor award for.
Tell us a little bit about it, and what your favorite part of shooting this movie was!
Hi! Thank you so much.
Yes our film “SLAPFACE” is finally out on AMC Shudder streaming service! I was 12 when I filmed it and now I’m 14. The pandemic set the release back, like most films.
This film is really special to me because of the themes of bullying and mental health. It’s about an abused boy who is also dealing with grief from losing his mother. Everyone in his life is terrible to him so he befriends a witch that’s rumored to live in the woods because he’s lonely and hurting. When that happens, things start to get even
crazier for him. My favorite part to film was the final scene, mostly because it was so intense and difficult and I was excited to challenge myself as an actor. I can’t say what that is without giving it away so you’ll have to watch!
It is absolutely something people have to see for themselves! Your previous movie, “Shepherd: The Story of a Jewish Dog” was another movie that required a lot of maturity in order to portray such a difficult timein Jewish history. How do you prepare yourself for these roles, and how do you decompress after heavy roles such as these?
For my film Shepherd, I played a Jewish boy during WWII. For that role I was only 10 and most films dealing with the Holocaust were too mature for me to watch.
So I read books to prepare me for my role, like The Diary of Anne Frank, Number the Stars, The Hiding Place, and The Boy in the Striped
Pajamas. It was important to me to really understand what it was like to be a Jewish child during that terrible time so that I could portray him properly.
In SLAPFACE I played a boy who was being bullied, and at that time in my life I was actually dealing with being bullied myself in middle school. For SLAPFACE I drew from my own personal experience.
When I play these roles I don’t have any trouble leaving the emotions on the set. To decompress I try to go do something fun in my time off. Like sightseeing or going to a play.
I love how thorough you are with your research, or taking from your own experience for your acting!
Now, You are a wonderful spokesperson for FAACT and the Southern California Food Allergy Institute, can you tell us a bit more about what it’s like being an activist for such an important cause?
Thank you! I’ve been dealing with food allergies my entire life, and I believe I’m in a unique position to help raise awareness about this life-threatening condition that is so misunderstood. I was a spokesperson for Epipen when I was 6, and training for that campaign really educated me for my role as a food allergy awareness spokesperson. I love working with FAACT and being involved in their work. They also have a food allergy friendly camp for kids called Camp TAG that I’ve attended. It’s great meeting other people dealing with my condition and letting people know they are not alone in their struggle. I’ve just recently started working with So Cal Food Allergy Institute and I am a new patient as well going through their Tolerance Induction Program. I’m excited to start on this path with them and to be able to tell others first-hand by going through the program that there is hope out there for them.
Wow! That is exciting! I really hope this new Tolerance Induction Program works for you and many others!
How do you feel covid has affected your work lately?
Have you found it easier or harder to be in the entertainment industry these last couple years?
In the beginning everything shut down for our industry and that was very hard. The release of both of my feature films were pushed and now that they are out I’m so much older, so that’s a challenge. I do have to say, at first, I loved just being able to tape our auditions at home instead of driving everywhere, but I think now I miss the human connection you make in the room with a casting director. I think so many things changed and I’m not sure if it will ever go back to normal. Who knows?
Who has influenced you in your personal life and career?
In my personal life I would say it’s my Tete (grandma) She lives with me and she’s my greatest supporter and biggest fan. She stays up late and does my homework with me and she’s the first person I tell all about my day. She loves to cook for me and I’m so close to her. In my career I would definitely say my biggest inspiration and influence is my best friend McKenna Grace. She really is one of the greatest actors I’ve ever seen and she is a wonderful person. I’ve been lucky enough to actually visit her on set and see her work in person. I saw her film some intense scenes in "Annabelle Comes Home" so that definitely influenced my performance in SLAPFACE. She is
fearless and it pushes me to be fearless too.
What would be your dream role?
My dream role would be to be in an action film or marvel movie! I’ve done every genre except that so I want to try it.
Oh that sounds like a blast! How was growing up in the spotlight? Were you able to keep some sense of separation from work and home life?
My life has always been somewhat normal. I know it doesn’t appear that way from the outside but it really is. I go to a regular school and have lots of friends who aren’t actors And I have tons of cousins who know I’m just a regular person with a unusual job so I’m not treated differently. I like that.
What is your vision of a perfect world?
A perfect world would have no war and no pandemics and dogs would live as long as humans!
I love that last part! Who has been your biggest supporter in your career, and how have they impacted your journey?
Definitely my mom. She works so hard behind the scenes and keeps me organized and gives me great advice. Her goal for me has always been getting me into a great college. School is more important to her than acting. Acting was the means to be able to choose any school I want.
That is very smart. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Best advice for me has always been to check the ingredients of what I’m eating and to carry two epinephrine auto injectors wherever I go! Other than that it’s to always treat others the way you want to be treated.
What are your plans for the upcoming year, anything you can share with us?
I do have two very exciting things but I can’t share them yet! A tv series and a film. Hopefully I can share soon.
Ooh exciting! And last, but not least, what would you do if you came home and found a penguin hanging out in your refrigerator?
I would say PLEASE MOM CAN WE KEEP IT?! And then I would FaceTime Mckenna of course.
Yes, she'd definitely need to know about your new friend!
Thank you August, we can't wait to hear more about all your endeavors coming up!
Meet: Jody Curet
Apr 10, 2022
Hello Jordyn! First of all tell us a little bit about yourself. You have been filming Home Economics lately and have been part of a fun cast of children and adults in this heart-warming and comedic series that follow the life of 3 adults siblings and their families. How have you been enjoying growing into your role in this second season of Home Economics?
Hiiii! I absolutely love watching Shamiah grow up in this season, it’s like I’m growing up with her! :) Shamiah is very relatable to me. She is super sweet, but wants some independence. As she starts becoming more of a teenager, you can see that she starts to figure out her style, personality, and attitude!
What a fun role to be playing while you are experiencing the same thing. Now, you were nominated for so many different acting awards by the Young Entertainer Awards this year, how did it feel to get that kind of recognition?
I’m incredibly honored to be nominated for the YEA awards this year! I feel so honored that people like my performances.
We really do! What are some of your favorite things to do besides acting?
I love singing!! I have new music coming out soon, so stay tuned. Playing tennis with my dad is lots of fun. I also love playing hide and seek, with my dog Kona!
Oh I cannot wait to hear your music, that is very exciting.
I know you are a wonderful fashionista, what are some of your favorite brands?
I absolutely love bringing my styles to life, each outfit has its own vibe. One of my current favs is Selkie.
Now, you are not only an actress, but a dancer as well. Is this something that you feel you’ll be pursuing more in the future on top of acting?
I have been getting back into dance again, tap is something I have been working on lately... would love to do a Broadway production in the future!
That would be a really wonderful experience. What is your vision of a perfect world?
I would like to see a world of peace. Where we live in harmony, respect each other and truly care for those around us. To care for our world, environment and truly respect all the wonders we have been given.
That would be quite perfect indeed! Is there anyone that you look up to, that truly inspires you?
I would have to say Zendaya. I find her to be such a phenomenal artist and she inspires me to keep dreaming big!
Love it! Who has been your biggest supporter in your career and how have they impacted your journey?
My parents have always been there for me since day one. They support me exploring more of what I love and I wouldn’t have been able to do all the amazing work I’ve done. I love them! <3
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Hmmm.... I’ve gotten so much advice throughout the years! I would say Scarlett Johansson gave me the best advice. She told me "Don’t be afraid to speak up when you feel unheard.” I loved working with her on set and I’m so grateful I got to talk to her!!
Oh that is not only great advice, but really important advice as well.
So, what are your big plans for this next year?
I’m looking forward to getting back into auditions this coming year and I know their will be many more opportunities out in the open. I’m extremely excited for a voiceover project I worked very hard on to come out! As much as I want to say more, you’re just going to have to wait and see!
Oooh can't wait to hear all about it when you are able to share.
And last, but not least, what would you do if you came home and found a penguin hanging out in your refrigerator?
I would absolutely beg my parents to keep it!! I love animals :)
I'm sure he'd make a great pet too! Thank you Jordyn! It was a pleasure to meet you.
Meet: Marianne from Mars Designs
Apr 10, 2022
Marianne, you are a very talented artist with a gorgeous style all of your own. Tell me, how did your foray into art start?
Thank you so much! Hi, I’m Marianne and I study at the University of Creative Arts in Epsom. I am currently studying Graphic Design.
I have always had a passion for art since reading books that have illustrations in them, mainly from reading Roahl Dahl books. I love how the illustrations relate to the story. My passion for art has changed over the years because I had different options of what creative industry I wanted to go into. I started learning the basics of digital software and that is where I found my passion. I have always been inspired by Andy Warhol, Cubism Movements. I started doing digital illustrations just for experiments, then October 2020 is how I started displaying my artwork on Instagram. I have been doing this since my first year of university.
One of the illustrations that is included in the magazine is the Underwater illustration. This was my first illustration that I managed to challenge myself to create something beautiful with the type of style I have introduced towards digital illustrations. After posting that on Instagram, I knew I could go further and carry on with that style and it has been amazing!
Your work is so distinctive it is easy to spot it anywhere, can you share with our readers how you found your voice? And do you have any advice for young artists on how to create something that truly represents them?
Art by Mars Design @mars.designs_
I guess I can say I found my voice by being surrounded by many amazing, talented young artists. Being a part of a design community, learning from others and promoting your work. My advice for anyone who is debating whether to post their artwork on social media. Do it, at first it will be scary but once you start following other artists, take notes from them.
For inspiration as a starting point, I'd say look at Pinterest or artists. Do not fear posting your work because at the end of the day it is a starting point. I feared posting my art because I felt like I wasn't good enough. Once I started posting and being invited to (artist) group chats, it builds confidence. We all have unique styles; they may look the same but it’s your own style.
I love that, it takes courage, but the feedback from other artists is crucial! What is your favorite medium? As an artist do you enjoy exploring differentways to create art?
I am not a major fan of painting, yet I paint a little sometimes. My favourite medium is mix media, I love combining paint, digital, texture to create abstract work. I am the type of artist that likes to challenge myself and use that skill in the future or anything with upcoming projects. I enjoy exploring different ways to create art, from drawing on walls (when I was little), to a sketchbook, to digital drawings. To me, personally, it’s good not to limit yourself to one style or medium,explore to get creative!
Yes, you never know which discovery you might make and what you might end up loving! Where can people go to request prints or commissions?
If anyone is interested in commissions or for any prints that I have posted, they are welcome to drop me a message and we can go from there. @mars.designs_
What is your vision of a perfect world?
That is a good question and to be honest, a perfect world to me isn’t perfect. My vision is to build communities and help people grow. We all come from diverse backgrounds and beliefs. To embrace and revere.
I love that! Is there anyone that you look up to, that truly inspires you?
Apart from the authors and artists that have inspired me. The person that I look up to is my dad. I have always been inspired by him when it comes to drawing. The texture, the timing, the techniques. Everything about it makes me smile and I appreciate everything. My dad has inspired me to chase my dream goals. Every failure was a learning mistake, a way to improve and better myself. I challenge myself to better myself, to improve and build confidence.
That's wonderful, and who has been your biggest supporter in your career and how have they impacted your journey?
There hasn’t been just one person, if I got to be honest. There are quite a few people that have been supporting me throughout this journey. From the day I started my art page to now. They have been a part of my journey through the highs and the lows of my career. They have supported me throughout my art page to encourage me to create an Etsy shop. Having people around you when you are feeling insecure about showing your work can really help you a lot. It pushes your limits to explore the impossible.
To explore the creative industry, to be a part of a community.
I am grateful to have that support from them for always being there from the beginning.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve received from my teachers was to push my limits to be who I want to be and discover myself as a creative person. This advice has helped me develop my confidence to display my work and to put myself out of the world.
What are your big plans for this next year?
My plans for 2022 are to not doubt my abilities to progress as a young creative illustrator when it comes to my university projects and my small business. To explore new opportunities in creative projects and give a chance to speak out. Mainly SELF LOVE, we all need it!
My plans for 2023, to graduate!! Im- prove my small business- adding new commissions and start new projects (that I have been planning). Right now, I will enjoy 2022 first!
And last, but not least, what would you do if you came home and found a penguin hanging out in your refrigerator?
What should I do!? I love penguins, my third favorite animal.
Haha! I don't know! We can't wait to follow you and your art in the new year! Thank you again Marianne!
ART BY MARIANNE @mars.designs_
Meet: Kylie Rose
Apr 10, 2022
Kylie, you are an amazing dancer located in Southern California, who studies at the Evoke Dance Movement studio. Your dancing is so powerful, so filled with emotion that you captivate anyone who looks at you dance. How did you get started with dance?
I started at 8 as a gymnast and they wanted me to take ballet for balance and flexibility. Once I stepped into the classroom and took ballet I never looked back. I knew I wanted to dance, I loved it and started competing a year later.
I love when you can find your passion early in life! What is your favorite style of dance? And what do you wish you had to do less of?
I love all genres of dance, but I’m most passionate about contemporary and jazz, I would want to do a little less hip hop if I had to choose but it is still fun to do.
You truly shine when you dance contemporary! You are not only a talented dancer, but you are also an amazing model, is there anything else that you love to do?
I love eating and cooking international foods, going to the beach and shopping.
Oh that all sounds like so much fun! I also love trying all kinds of different foods. What are your top 5 songs that you’ve loved dancing to?
I have so many playlists on Spotify and like finding unique songs.
These are my top songs right now in no specific order Seventeen, Do You Feel Real, Adele songs, Broad Daylight, and Keep Breathing.
Ok, a more serious question now. What is your vision of a perfect world?
It starts with my generation to create real change finding more ways to lift each other up vs tear each other down. To do better taking care of the world we live in, to use more biodegradable and sustainable products. Do less of what is harmful to our planet.
That is indeed so important, I love that you are focusing on being the source of change rather than just imagining a world that heals itself without our involvement.
Is there anyone that you look up to, that truly inspires you?
No one specifically, but living in California I am so blessed and very fortunate to be able to take from so many talented dance choreographers and dance along side of so many amazing dancers. I literally can drop into a studio in LA take classes from and with the best of the best whenever I want, it is so inspiring.
I can imagine how wonderful that feels! We have so many amazing studios and teachers.
Who has been your biggest supporter in your career and how have they impacted your journey?
My mom is definitely my biggest supporter and nothing would be possible without her.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I have received was to always go full out and give over 100 percent in everything you do.
That is the best advice! What are your big plans for this next year?
My plan for 2022 is to continue to build on what I believe in. Embrace kindness and positivity, support sustainable companies, always grow, and help others to grow also.
Those are all exciting goals!
And last, but not least, what would you do if you came home and found a penguin hanging out in your refrigerator?
What a hilarious question, I would hang out for a while with the penguin eat some food than make sure he gets home safely.
Awww you are so kind! Thank you Kylie! It was a pleasure to get to know you. Can't wait to see what this year will bring for you.
Meet: Victoria Rose
Apr 10, 2022
Victoria you are such an elegant rider, when did you start working with horses? And what do you focus on?
I started working with horses at age 2. I am focusing on training for my first big eventing show. Also looking to purchase a horse.
That sounds like so much fun! Buying your own horse must be so exciting. You are not only an amazing equestrian but you are an actress, a model, an influencer, are there other talents that we do not know about?
I love to read, draw, and go to animal shelters. I like to help promote them. You can check out my youtube channel for more info.
Yes, I've seen your amazing youtube videos promoting many animal centers. One of them was the Shea Center which is a wonderful center that offers hippo therapy, what do you enjoy the most there?
Shea center is an amazing center. They are dedicated to improving the lives of people w/ disabilities through therapeutic horse-related programs. I can’t wait to volunteer when I am 13, I look forward to that day!
Do you have any advice for beginning riders? What is something that you wish you had known when you first started the sport?
Heels Down- Eyes Up. Work on the basics. Also listen to your trainer. It’s hard work! If you don’t fail you are not learning. I wish I would've known that it’s not like the movies.
You don’t become an amazing rider overnight. How much it’s not about you. So much of what we do is teamwork with the horse.
I love that: if you don't fail you are not learning... so very true, and it stays true for the rest of your life.
Ok, more seriously, what is your vision of a perfect world?
Horses would be affordable! World peace!
Yes, those are two super important things!
Is there anyone that you look up to, that truly inspires you?
I am inspired by amazing actresses, like Emma Stone and Idina Menzel. My coaches at the barn, of course.
Who has been your biggest supporter in your career and how have they impacted your journey?
There have been so many people that have supported me. My parents are the biggest!
They have motivated me to be a better version of myself. To never give up!
Family is so important, I love that they are always motivating you. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
It’s not about how hard you FALL it’s about how Fast you get up!
So true! What are your big plans for this next year?
I am planning on purchasing my first horse this year. Also I am working really hard on my acting.
I can't wait to see how the year shapes up for you! And last, but not least, what would you do if you came home and found a penguin hanging out in your refrigerator?
I would keep it has a pet, and name it Sir Penginton The III.
That is the absolute best name for a penguin! Thank you so much Victoria!
Meet: Coby Bird
Apr 2, 2022
Coby, you are an amazing actor, we know you best as Rufus Whedon on Netflix’s Locke & Key, but you’ve also starred in Speechless and on The Good Doctor, tell us a little bit about your acting journey!
I am so fortunate because acting professionally kind of came out of nowhere. At 14, I was offered a chance to audition for a touring company of a play, given sides and a script (I didn’t know what either were at the time) and decided I wanted to try it. The director wanted to cast me, but found out I was only 14 and they needed someone over 18. The agent who the audition went through called to ask who I was, and she booked me as her client, and the rest is history. She is still my Agent to this day!
Oh how wonderful! It's amazing how things work out isn't it? What is your favorite thing about acting?
My favorite thing about acting is that it has really helped my sensory issues. Sound. Lights. Movements. Even the clothes I wear. When I get on set or on stage, I’m so focused on my job and filling committing to my character, that in some ways, it closes off all of sensory issues. It’s helped me a lot in my day to day life as well. Before I played Liam on The Good Doctor, I couldn’t wear long sleeves. I decided to try it for the show, and now I wear them in my daily life.
That is really great! It is interesting how work makes us focus on our lives in a very different way. I'm so glad to hear that you are getting so much positive results when it comes to your sensory issues. I know how crazy those can be!
As an actor with Autism, you make sure to be a voice for all who have Autism. I love that you always make a point to tell people that while two people might have Autism, and while there might be similarities, they will not be experiencing life in the same way. Too many times people put sprawling labels on people with disabilities without truly understanding the nuances that are involved in a diagnosis. What is the main thing you want people to know about Autism? ?
I want people to know that it’s a misconception that people on the Spectrum do not want to connect or have friends. It’s the complete opposite. I want to have a friend or friends so badly, but my social anxiety makes it very hard for me to do so with people my age. It is very hard for me to be in a group of people who are talking. I don’t know if I should say something or interrupt. I also stutter and that can be hard for me because I want people to understand what I'm saying, but then it makes me freeze. People with Autism are just like everyone else. They sometimes need a little patience and understanding, but doesn’t everyone?
Yes! Everyone does! Conversations can be so difficult, giving everyone the time to talk and connect is so important, I love that you share your feelings about this!
When it comes time to decompress from work, what are your favorite things to do?
After I’m done with work I listen to music to relax. Sometimes it’s Soft Jazz. Sometimes it's City Pop, which is Japanese pop from the 80’s. I also love movie scores as well. It helps me focus back to who I am, and leave my character I’m playing on set. I usually have a snack and take a nap or read. Sometimes work days can be really long hours so there are times when I fall asleep in the car as soon as we leave the Location!
On a more serious note... What is your vision of a perfect world?
I think my vision is in a way a view of a healthier world. Mentally healthy. Where everyone accepted for who they are. Where they are, and they are not judged by being themselves. Just so that they can be their authentic self. Wait, was this a trick question, should I have said World Peace? 😊
Haha! No! That was absolutely perfect! So, Is there anyone that you look up to, that truly inspires you?
I was asked in an audition a few years ago, who is someone like me, in my profession, that I look up to. At the time, there were no other actors on the Spectrum that were actually Autistic. It’s just recently that people are being authentically cast. I want to be someone who can inspire others to live their dreams.
My Uncle Scotty passed a way in 2020. He was a paramedic in Hawai’i and the way he served people always inspired me. It still does. I will always look up to him.
He sounds amazing! Who has been your biggest supporter in your career and how have they impacted your journey? ?
My mom has always been my biggest supporter. From the moment I have wanted to act she has been there by my side helping me, teaching me, filming my auditions, working with me and supporting me.
They way she has impacted my journey is just always being there with me. When she tells me, “You did it, Coby,” I always tell her, “We did it, Mom. Both of us. Together.”
I got to meet her, and I love that you guys are such a wonderful team! Ok, and this might be tricky, but what’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
I have received some really good advice from a few of my cast mates who I look up to on Locke & Key. But I’m going to keep that to myself for now. I think one thing that sticks with me, is something my Agent Gail Williamson told me when I went in to my very first Audition. She said, “Have fun.” So every time I go into and audition, and now self tapes, I give it my best, but I also remember to not take myself too serious, and to “have fun.”
Yes! So important to realize that without the fun, the work will not come either!
What are your big plans for this next year?
I’m the kind of person who likes to not get too stressed with, whats next. In this Industry you never where you are going to be. You can book a role and be in another state or country in the next week sometimes. So, right now I feel like I’m floating on a lazy river and I am so excited to see where this journey takes me this year. I can’t wait for my next job.
That's an amazing attitude! And last, but not least, what would you do if you came home and found a penguin hanging out in your refrigerator?
I would jump right in the refrigerator, turn on some music, eat some snacks with it and call it, “PenPen.”
Best name ever! Well we can't wait to see what next year holds for you and are really excited to share all of your wisdom with everyone today, on National Autism Awareness Day. People should go follow you on instagram @thecobybird to follow you and learn more about Autism.
New Music Out: Adil C and Trinity rose "I Promise"
Mar 28, 2022
Congrats to Adil C and Trinity Rose on the recent release of their new pop single, "I promise"!
The collaboration between Los Angeles based singer songwriter Trinity Rose, and Canadian pop singer Adil C was a match made in heaven, and both artists are thrilled with the results.
The duo also spreads the word about Pencils of Promise, a wonderful charity that wishes for education to be accessible to everyone globally. Click on the link below to learn more about their endeavors.
And don't forget to have a listen to this new sound!
Photographed by Darian DiCianno @darian_chloe
Meet: Julian Lerner
Jan 10, 2022
Julian, you are such a wonderful actor both on screen and on stage! Between acting for television, acting in movies, and being on Broadway, do you find that you have a preference?
Thank you! I am fortunate to be able to pursue my passions through many different outlets. It is a great challenge to go from more exaggerated facial expressions and gestures which theater requires to the small, more natural expressions and movement required for tv and film. I hope to keep doing all of it throughout my entire life.
Tell us a little bit about the upcoming episode of The Wonder Years, anything that you can share with us before it airs on the 12th?
My character, Brad, works through his nerves preparing for his Bar Mitzvah speech while Dean ends his friendship with Keisa when Charlene, Dean’s girlfriend, says he can’t be friends with other girls. It all comes to a head when the group comes together to celebrate at Brad’s Bar Mitzvah.
Oh wow! So many plots! Can't wait to watch it!
Last year you starred in Yes Day and Wonder Years, what are you looking forward to this upcoming year?
I am looking forward to filming more Wonder Years episodes! I am also really excited about a new film I am currently working on called Boys Of Summer which will be out later this year. Boys of Summer is set in Martha’s Vineyard and one kid from a group of four best friends disappears so the remaining three set out to solve the mystery. The movie is reminiscent of Goonies, Stand By Me, The Sandlot… really fun!
Oh that not only sounds amazing to watch, but also super fun to act in! Congrats! So, you act, you sing, you play guitar, what other talents do we need to know about?
I also love to do tap and hip-hop dancing and I play tennis competitively.
Wow, that's wonderful. On a more serious note, what is your vision of a perfect world?
A world where no one is hungry, and everyone gets to pursue their passions.
I love that! Is there anyone that you look up to, that truly inspires you?
I have had amazing teachers and worked with unbelievably talented performers and mentors and I am inspired by all of them. On the set of “Yes Day,” Jen Garner showed me how a movie family can become a real family and Jenna Ortega taught me what it means to be young, generous, focused, and professional. One the set of “Wonder Years” Fred Savage helps me navigate the acting process in such a kind way. He and Saladin Patterson have amazing experiences but also huge hearts. They not only help me be a better actor, but are helping me be the best young man that I can be.
You have such amazing mentors, how wonderful to be able to do not only what you love, but to spend that time with people who make you better in every way. So, who has been your biggest supporter in your career and how have they impacted your journey?
I am a really lucky to have a Dad who not only loves me (a LOT) but is a mental conditioning professional who works with musicians, actors, athletes and other folks to help them focus, deal with stress and expectations and be their best on stage and off. I am so much better at dealing with these things because of the discussions that I am able to have with my Dad.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
When I was filming Yes Day, Netflix, I was having a challenging time with a scene and getting frustrated with myself. Edgar Ramierez took me by the shoulders and said, “It is ok to stop and take a breath and gather yourself even in the middle of shooting with lots of people around. No need to apologize. Close your eyes, take a breath, and center yourself. I do it all the time.” To hear that even big-time actors need to stop and take a breath during filming was so helpful to hear and is something I bring with me to every job.
Yes! Taking that time for ourselves can be so difficult when we feel that we can't disappoint anyone around us, but it is vital. What are your big plans for this next year?
I have some really exciting news but I cannot share yet….
Oh... We can't wait to hear!
Ok, last, but not least, what would you do if you came home and found a penguin hanging out in your refrigerator?
I would immediately fill the bathtub with icy water so my new penguin friend would have more space. Then, I would get the penguin something to eat and we would hang out in the bathroom telling jokes!
That sounds like a blast! Well we can't wait to see what next year holds for you and can't wait to hear more from you when you are able to share.
Photographed by James Hicks
Meet: Morgan Mcgill
Jan 10, 2022
Hello Morgan, you just starred in the fantastic Christmas movie “A Loud House Christmas", in which you portray Lynn Loud. What did you think of your transformation?
I absolutely loved my transformation. Hair and makeup did a fantastic job transforming me into Lynn Loud. They had to dye my hair three times to get the right color because my hair is naturally so blonde that it wouldn’t hold the color. I think my character had the most comfortable outfit. Who can say no to wearing athletic clothes all day?!
Right? Sounds like my dream come true!
Now, a Loud House Christmas was quite the departure from Lovecraft Country, in which you were playing a part before filming Loud House, what did you think of the two very different types of acting? And did you have a favorite?
My characters in Lovecraft Country and A Loud House Christmas were both incredibly different and the movies were set in very different time periods. It was an absolute honor and blessing to be able to play both characters, but Lynn was definitely more challenging for me. She is similar to me in that she is the athlete of the family and quite competitive, but different in that she is definitely more tomboyish and gross. Her voice is deeper than mine and more “bro-ish,” so I had to make sure that I was always in character.
You aren’t only an actress, you also model and sing. Do you have a favorite medium for your art?
Acting is my favorite because I love to be able to play and create different characters.
I also love to sing and have an awesome voice coach in Lisa Rosemond that I have been working with for 4 years. Singing is a fun outlet for me, but it can be a bit intimidating to sing in front of others. Modeling is fun too. Who doesn’t like to get dressed up and take pretty pictures?! But overall, acting and singing bring me the most joy.
Any other talents that we should be aware of?
I am also an avid athlete. I’ve played competitive sports since I was 4 years old. I played soccer for 8 years and basketball for 6 years. I have played tennis since the age of 5 and still play competitively in USTA tournaments. I started playing academy volleyball 2 years ago and love the team aspect of it. Plus, the skills that I have in tennis transition very well to volleyball. Oh, I have another cool talent. I can wiggle my eyeballs!!
That is... quite the talent! :) Ok, on a more serious note, what is your vision of a perfect world?
My vision of a perfect world would consist of a world that is peaceful; every person has access to a quality education, food, and shelter; every person has value and respect; there is no death; animals are treated kindly; and I could teleport anywhere in the blink of an eye. Basically Heaven!!
Oh I love it, and yes, teleportation is a must! Is there anyone that you look up to, that truly inspires you?
My grandmother inspires me so much. She is the most selfless person I know. She has an incredible work ethic and has the most gentle spirit. She always puts others needs first and is also amazing in the kitchen.
Oh, she sounds absolutely amazing. Who has been your biggest supporter in your career and how have they impacted your journey?
My biggest supporters along my acting journey are my mom and my acting coach, Julia Jones. My mom has sacrificed so much in helping me memorize my scripts, driving me to acting lessons and auditions, taking me to LA for callbacks, etc.
Julia is so incredibly generous and always goes the extra mile to ensure that I understand my character, the plot, and turn in a great audition. If I have a question or need reassurance while I’m on set, she will take my call at any hour. And there have definitely been some late night phone calls!! She is seriously such a wonderful influence on me and is always patient with me, even when I act crazy in the taping room. But most importantly, we have a lot of fun together.
Oh that is a wonderful thing to have on this incredible journey. Support is always needed when you are putting yourself out there continuously. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve ever received is nothing fancy, but to just put in the work and always give your best effort. The more hard work that you put into your craft, the more success you will have. Plus, when you are at a callback, an athletic tournament, on stage, or even taking a test in school, you will have more confidence when you know that you have done your best to prepare for the challenge at hand.
I love that. What are your big plans for this next year?
I am going to continue to put in the work in my acting journey, in tennis and volleyball, and in school. I would love the opportunity to be in another “Loud House” movie or Nickelodeon production. I relish being able to stretch myself in acting and would like to be able to play another meaningful character..
And last, but not least, what would you do if you came home and found a penguin hanging out in your refrigerator?
I would probably take the penguin out and play with it!!
Me too! We can't wait to see where your career takes you Morgan.
Stunning Editorial photography by James Hicks
H/MU: Gabriella Biangel
Stylist: David De La Cruz