Olivia Cooke: “I try to stay attuned to my gut as much as possible”
- PhotographerRankin
- WriterJordan Rossi
Olivia Cooke may have had an unconventional start to her acting career. Unlike most adult actors, she didn’t claw her way onto a film set after three years of study. It’s for that reason the English actor says, “I’ve got some catching up to do.” But the 30-year-old House of the Dragon star is just being humble. The best way to learn is to do, after all. And while she might “hope to God” that her acting skill set has improved since her first big role in the TV series Bates Motel, she has worker-bee-like dedication to her craft that has more than earned her a spot on our screens.
Jordan Rossi: Before we get into your specific projects, tell us about your shoot. How was it?
Olivia Cooke: I loved it. Rankin and the team have such a unique and specific vision, so it felt really special to come along for the ride. I also loved the juxtaposition of wearing something as beautiful and renowned as Chanel while being immersed in a backdrop of cardboard.
JR: You’ve played a real variety of roles. How do you pick your next project?
OC: It’s just gut instinct really – I try to stay attuned to my gut as much as possible. It’s like, “Does the character speak to me? Is the story something I would want to dive into? How did I feel when speaking to the creatives involved?”
JR: You’ve achieved remarkable success in the industry without attending drama school. How do you think your unconventional path has shaped your approach to acting?
OC: I can only go on my particular experience, but I was really lucky to be able to learn on the job from the age of 18. I was able to shape myself and my craft while learning from incredible professionals who have had years of experience. Being able to soak up that wisdom was, and still is, invaluable. But, God, I still feel like I have so many blind spots, especially when it comes to theatre.
Not having had that three-year immersion in acting training does mean I’ve got some catching up to do. I hope to God I’ve gotten better since Bates Motel.
JR: Do you almost prefer the fact that you didn’t train to be an actress?
OC: I wouldn’t change anything, that’s for certain. But of course I wonder what my life would have been like if, from the ages of 18 to 21, I could have stayed in education with my peers and been able to be a kid for a bit longer.
JR: Can you share any insights into your character in the new series of House of the Dragon?
OC: So, Alicent has just put her son on the throne, usurping Rhaenyra’s rightful claim. And, in the midst of that, he has just killed her other son. So, from the jump, we’re embarking on chaos and uncertainty. But I think where Alicent is concerned, she underestimated how becoming the Dowager Queen has bled her power and her influence – she’s clinging to her prior position and wondering where she stands in the castle since she can’t rule from the shadows any more.
JR: Can you share any memorable moments or anecdotes from the set of House of the Dragon? What can we expect from the season?
OC: A stuntman had to throw something at my face. I later found out he was an ex-professional cricketer, and I could tell. Ouch. Other than that, you can expect an exchange of power dynamics, uprising, war and lots of fire.
This excerpt was taken from HUNGER Issue 31: The Dreamers. Full story is available in stores worldwide now.
- Fashion and Beauty DirectorMarco Antonio using CHANEL summer 2024 make-up collection and N°1 de CHANEL Skin Care
- Hair EditorNick Irwin using SCHWARZKOPF PROFESSIONAL Session Label
- Nichole WilliamsNichole Williams at Stella Creative Artists using CHANEL Le Vernis in 185 Faun and CHANEL La Crème Main
- Photographic AssistantsMarcus Lister, Eliza Roberts
- Hair AssistantAlex Sarghe
- ProducerAbby Rothwell
- RetouchingTrue Black Studio
