If the Cypress sisters had a wrestling match, who would win?
Between the Cypress sisters, Em, only because of super strength and because Dana would probably not even fight back. Between Mel and Romy… Mel would win, especially if wearing a leather jacket.
What was it like filming in New Brunswick? Any NB recommendations?
Filming in New Brunswick was a dream come true. It was my first time on the East Coast, and I LOVED every bit of it. My biggest recommendation is Catapult Coffee. It is the cutest little local coffee shop, with delicious drinks and pastries, specifically their oatmeal chocolate chip cookie. Additionally, the environment is welcoming and comfortable. The perfect place to do work on a day off!
Other recommendations would be Pomodori (amazing Pizza and Gelato) & Union House (burgers)!
How did it feel stepping on set for the first time?
Stepping onto the set of Revival for the first time was, truthfully, a little nerve-wracking, but then within minutes, the set became home away from home. The first day we shot for Season 1, I was working with Mel and Andy, and as soon as we started getting into it, everything just fell into place.
What made you laugh most during the shoot?
Mel… Need I say more?
Revival blends noir drama, horror and dark satire. How did you approach balancing these elements in your performance?
Being a part of such a large ensemble cast helps blend the different elements of Revival together. There are so many fun characters in Revival that show up, especially when things are getting dark. As humans, numerous elements shape who we are and influence how we cope with various aspects of life. Sometimes, you need to laugh when you say something sad, just to avoid crying, and the same goes for the people in our show!
What do you consider Em’s best and worst traits?
Ems’ best traits are easily her resilience, passion and determination. She would do anything for the people she loves! Em could work on her communication, setting boundaries and not letting those around her change the way she views herself.
What are your fave sci fi & genre series & films?
I am super indecisive so asking me to choose favourites is hard. I love the sci-fi world because anything can happen at any time. Some consistent favourites include: Sweet Tooth, Surreal Estate, Alien, Back To The Future, and Stranger Things. I could go on and on, but I love how all of these shows have completely different stories and tones, but all share the common element of fun and gore.
Who is your fave Revival character? Why?
AHHH I DON’T KNOW. The answer to this question really does change every episode!!!
The Check Brothers are consistently among my favourites. Matt, Joe, and Phill all do an incredible job of making those men into boys, and their chemistry with each other is remarkable. The details of them picking belly button lint and little bits like that always make me laugh. Plus, whenever the Check Brothers appear, I just KNOW Dana is going to school them and badass Dana is the best.
I have a soft spot for our friendly giants who portray such unsettling characters on screen. I also can’t help but have a soft spot for Wanda and Diane Dillisch; I want to protect them at all costs. I promise, if you ask me again tomorrow, I will go on more rants about other characters.
If you woke up as a Reviver tomorrow, what’s the first thing you’d do?
I’d probably try subway surfing. I know that sounds a little nuts but keep in mind – the consequences aren’t the same for a Reviver.
Any charming anecdotes you’d like to share?
In episode 4, there is a scene in Dana’s house where Rhodey and Em are going to her to report some new information that they have remembered. That scene was one of the first scenes we ever shot for the whole season. Kaleb and I both had no idea that Mel was going to improvise some of the lines that she did, and we both couldn’t believe what was going on – it was too funny. To this day, when Dana says “don’t fling my sister,” to Rhodey, I will forever remember biting my tongue soooo hard so that I wouldn’t ruin the take.
In episode 8, Em runs to hug Dana after being reunited. Mel was blindfolded and in one of the takes, I ran and JUMPED into Mel’s arms only to hear a BANG. My head went straight into her jaw. The “love aggression” was accidental but real.
There were only a couple of days when Mel, Andy, David, Steven, and I had the opportunity to work all together in the same scene. The days in the Church will always be memorable to me for so many reasons. The prime reason was that I was just in awe of everything going on around me. When tied to the cross and watching the 4 of them talk, I just kept thinking to myself, “wow, I get a master class every day on this set.” Additionally, I had the opportunity to meet some people who have become like family to me.
Is there anything you were apprehensive about in taking on this role/project?
nnnooopppeeepe no000000 nothinnnnnnnnng. was refreshing my email for 3 days straight waiting to hear back and screamed the second I did!
Advice on how we can support the show and where to find you?
The best way viewers can support the show is by watching every week at 10PM on SyFy. If you want to go the extra mile (which we love) rewatch on Peacock every week! @roweltman for live tweeting <3