Interview With “Young Sheldon” Star Ava Cantrell! (@TheAvaCantrell)
- How did you get your start in the entertainment industry?
I got my start in the entertainment industry at a really young age. My dad who was also a kid actor saw my passion for acting and performing, found me an agent and the rest is history. It has been longer than a decade in the industry and I am so grateful to do something I love so much for so long.
- What was your first project?
My first two projects were at the same time. I booked a Dell commercial and a short film that got Variety mention called Pals. The Dell commercial was filmed in the desert in a vintage van with Disney star Austin North. It was also his first big job and we played siblings. One of my most memorable shoots for sure. Pals I played an antiquated android. Both jobs were so fun and really made an impression on me that this was something I really wanted to do. I went from auditioning a few times a week and not booking for a few months, to working back to back.
- Who are your inspirations?
I just met an inspiration at an Oscar event. I couldn’t believe to be sitting next to director Donald Petrie that directed my favorite movie “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days” It was pretty epic that he gave me tips on my directorial debut “Detention Boys”. My latest inspirations are not only the actors, but the directors and creators of projects. I am not only directing but have another big project that I am creating, and I really am inspired by visionaries.
- What was the audition process like for “Young Sheldon?”
I booked “Young Sheldon” off one audition. Some roles are just meant to be yours. I really went for it in the room. I love to see if I can get a reaction out of casting, and this particular audition, I really had them laughing.
- How would you describe your character?
I am one of the star drama students that recur with Jason Alexander who is Mr. Lundy, the drama teacher. I would say Molly is a very sincere drama club student who is also entertained by her teacher. I mean who wouldn’t be entertained by Hollywood’s greatest!
- How is she different from others that you’ve portrayed in the past?
I have played comedy before but on Nickelodeon as Penelope Pritchard. Kids comedy is more over the top then prime-time comedy. I actually love playing both types of comedy.
- What was a typical day like on-set?
My day started on the Warner Brothers Lot. I worked for Warner Brothers for “Lights Out” but that was on location. It was really cool to work on set. Breakfast is great, cast is amazing, crew is so kind, and the studio is epic.
- What can you tell us about “My Fathers Joy?”
“My Fathers Joy” Is a psychological thriller about a girl and her mom trying to escape their violent past. My character Abigail falls in love with Lucas and leads him down a dark path.
- Who do you play?
I play the lead Abigail.
- What was your favorite scene to film?
We start filming in Spring 2019.
- How is this project different from those you’ve worked on previously?
This project is similar to my “Lights Out” character. Abigail is pure evil and we realize how much who we are, can stem from where we came from.
- What do you think fans are going to take away from the film?
I think my “Lights Out” fans will really love it. I also think my non horror fans will love it as there is romance in the movie. I think they will walk away scared and unnerved as well as talking about the twists and the turns.
- Are you working on any other projects?
I am directing my first project “Detention Boys” that is a mockumentary. I also have a really cool project that I will be sharing about soon. It is unlike anything I have done before. This year is about stepping into the unknown, taking risks and banking on myself.
- What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?
I have been surfing for over a decade and that is my favorite thing to do in life. I love photography, and am always snapping photos. I really like to stay in when I can. I am always running around and have so many commitments, so I love lounging in sweats watching Netflix.
- What are your social media handles? I am @avacantrell on Instagram and @theavacantrell on Twitter and facebook. Hope to see you guys on my pages!
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