Interview With Evan Daigle!
Photo Credit: Akeem Biggs
1. Can you tell us about your role in the new show “Claws”?
Of course! “Claws” is an hour-long dramedy airing June 11th on the TNT network. The show is about five women who work at a nail salon in south Florida. There’s a lot more going on in the salon than just manicures – the women launder money through the salon. The show is beautifully diverse, not only within the cast, but with the stories that are told in the show as well. It’s hilariously dramatic, visually stunning and wonderfully acted.
2. What was the audition process like?
I was studying theatre in school and auditioning full time for about two years before I got the audition for the “Claws” pilot. I went in for an initial audition with the casting director, then a week later had a call back with the creator and producers. A few weeks later my agent called me and told me I booked the pilot! Toby was originally only going to be in one scene but after my call back and our series order, they decided to develop the character further!
3. How is this role different from others you’ve played in the past?
Toby is very different than most roles I’ve played previously. I can’t give away too much about the character with out giving away plot points, but Toby is gender queer, which is something very different to any of the characters I’ve played. Gender identity is very important when building a character’s psychology. Therefore Toby was a unique challenge for me but one I’m insanely grateful to have the opportunity to tackle.
4. In what ways are you similar to your character?
Toby and I are very different. He’s pretty shy and reserved; he doesn’t talk much but is always around. I on the other hand am outgoing and love to talk! We are similar in a sense that we view gender and sexuality as fluid and we both love swimming and the beach.
5. What inspired you to pursue acting?
Acting has always been something I felt as though I was supposed to be doing. It was a feeling that followed me into college where I started taking acting classes. I did my first play and fell completely in love with the craft. I decided that I was going to dedicate my life to the craft and the business. I’m an artist at heart; I grew up painting and drawing. I thought I would maybe end up being a visual artist, but ever since I found acting it’s been the most satisfying way of creatively expressing myself.
6. Do you have any upcoming projects?
I have a short film I had a small part in called “Dvrker” which will premiere later this summer at the San Francisco Black Film Festival. I’m also gearing up to shoot a short film with an actress friend of mine, Marisa Nieto. Be sure to follow my Instagram for updates on all my current and upcoming projects!
7. What are your social media accounts?
Currently my only active social media account is my Instagram: @evandaigle