The Daily Shuffle: February 2020

THE DAILY SHUFFLE FEBRUARY 2020

EMILY TOSTA

contents 05. Gabriel Darku 07. Anja Ellam 09. Emily Tosta 15. Zahra Bentham 17. Stephen Oyoung 19. Merit Leighton

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

CREATIVE DESIGNER

@xonessa

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Vanessa Salles

Karla Silva

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February Playlist canvas AISHA DEE sad tonight CHELSEA CUTLER what a man gotta do JONAS BROTHERS conversations in the dark JOHN LEGEND diamonds MEGAN THEE STALLION & NORMANI rare SELENA GOMEZ wherever you are KODALINE

letter from the editor Hey, readers!

Happy February! I’m so excited to share our brand new issue with you and even more excited that Party of Five star Emily Tosta is gracing this month’s cover! It was such a joy to be able to talk to her about all things representation, immigration, and what’s coming up on the hit Freeform series. Be sure to check out her cover story to read all about it!

In this issue, you’ll also find a roundup of this month’s musthear albums and must-watch films. As always, let us know who you’d like to see featured in future issues! We’ll always try to make it happen!

Be sure to follow TDS on all social platforms to keep up with everything!

XOXO

Vanessa Salles Editor-in-Chief

gabriel darku

Starring on Netflix’s thrilling new series, October Faction, Gabriel Darku has cemented himself as one-to-watch. We talked to the actor about behind-the-scenes moments, his onscreen persona and more! words by VANESSA SALLES photo by MEGAN VINCENT

Tell us about October Faction! What is it about the show that drew you to it?

October Faction is, at its core, a compelling story about family. That’s what I immediately loved most about the script. Fred and Deloris are among Presidio’s current generation of field agents hunting monsters, operating under the guise of insurance agents. A secret they’ve hidden from their children their whole lives, which has undoubtedly caused issues within the family. Despite the presence of vampires, werewolves and all manner of supernatural craziness, it’s really centered around very strong themes like family, morality and unconditional love. And with a love for both sci-fi and drama, what’s not to like about it!

How would you describe Geoff Allen?

Geoff is very charismatic, to say the least. He’s very blunt, and has a tendency to come off as a jerk, but in reality, he’s quite harmless, and just wants to be accepted. He mostly uses his wit and high self-esteem to keep the world at bay. Definitely likes to be in control whatever he currently has going on in his life.

What should viewers expect to see from him?

He’s definitely a wise-guy, making jokes out of just about any situation you’ll find him in, so you can expect to see him frustrate a lot of people that way. However, although he’s VERY good at it, he can’t always avoid being in uncomfortable situations. You’re going to see the guy who usually never lets things get to him, have some very vulnerable moments.

Are there any memorable behind-thescenes moments from filming that you can share with us?

My mind goes right to when we were filming overnight for episode nine. Not for any

particular moment or happening; just because it was indeed a memorable night. Since it was an overnight shoot, you could detect some loopiness in some people by the end due to fatigue (myself included). It was also cold, so everyone was constantly huddling or running back to the tent for warmth. It just made for an amusing day with funny conversation, and lots of pictures of cast falling asleep in their chairs.

Classic.

What do you want to see more of on TV? I would love to see more stories that aren’t centered from the point of view of North Americans. This side of the world is represented and made up of so many different cultures and backgrounds, it would be wonderful to see that represented not just in casting and through the inclusion of certain character types, but by those very real people getting to create and share their stories with the rest of us, stories that no one else would be able to tell. And many will also argue that the industry is seriously lacking in originality; well, try telling me this wouldn’t solve that problem.

When you think of your ultimate dream role, what comes to mind?

It’s not so much a dream role, as a dream collaboration. Getting to act alongside Denzel, or being directed by the likes of Scorsese, that would be a dream come true for sure.

Any special message for fans?

You can follow me on Instagram @ GabrielDarku to keep up with what I got going on and remember to watch October Faction on Netflix! And of course, thank you, for all the support. It’s a great feeling knowing that your work is being enjoyed and appreciated, and I can’t wait to give you all more!

THE DAILY SHUFFLE

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anja ellam

m

As the head story creator for Awesomeness TV’s Malibu Surf, Anja’s talent is evident in each episode. We talked to the talented screenwriter about the series’ newest season, upcoming projects and more. words by VANESSA SALLES photo by RIO SAGE

Let’s talk Malibu Surf! How would you describe the upcoming fifth season and what’s to be expected?

Well, the word that the cast and crew always use to describe the new season is “juicy”. Of course, drama is to be expected but there’s a lot more of it this season because of new cast members. You can also expect disloyalty in a relationship but you’ll have to watch to see who I’m talking about!

Being the head writer/story creator, do any memorable behind-the-scenes moments come to mind that you can share with us?

There are almost too many stories from behind the scenes moments because we’ve all been together for so long. But, if I had to pick some of the crazier stories, it would be when Joey popped all his tires leaving set, the time we saw a police chase on foot, and the rapid change in tide that has messed up a few scenes over the years.

Take us back to the beginning; when/where did you discover your love for screenwriting?

This question is always funny to me because I absolutely hated creative writing in high school.

But, I learned in film school that I never hated writing, I just hated the short stories I wrote because I didn’t actually know how to write them. When I learned about screenwriting as a way to tell stories, it just really all clicked and ever since it’s been my favorite way to be creative.

How would you describe your creative process when brainstorming new ideas?

My creative process is different depending on the project. If there’s something that I have to write for a show, I’ll just jot down story lines and then read them out loud to someone,

seeing or hearing their reaction really helps me know what’s interesting to other people. If it’s a project that I’m just working on for myself, there really is no process - just whenever inspiration strikes I’ll start writing things down, which is usually late at night.

When dealing with writer’s block, what are some ways you get the creative juices flowing again?

For me, when I have writers block, I just think to myself, what’s something really interesting and entertaining that’s happened to me? Then, I just pull stories from my own experiences until I have something that works.

When you think of ultimate dream project, what comes to mind?

The ultimate dream project would be working on a show like The Office because it’s so memorable and it looks like being in the cast or crew would have been the best time. But, the ultimate dream would be to show run my own sitcom someday.

What advice would you give to aspiring screenwriters?

My advice would be just to live your life because that’s where all your inspiration and stories are going to come from. The things that might hold you back now could be the story you write that makes your career. So just keep going!

What can you tell us about any upcoming projects of yours?

I have an upcoming project that I co-wrote with Tara Anaise called “Trimmigrants” that I’m really excited about. We just signed on Jason Perlman to produce so I can’t wait to see what happens with it!

THE DAILY SHUFFLE

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emily tosta words by VANESSA SALLES photos by ROWAN DALY

A fan-favorite on Freeform’s Party of Five, Emily Tosta shines as the passionate, tell-it-how-itis Lucia Acosta. The series, which follows the Acosta siblings as they struggle to stay together in the wake of their parents’ deportation, tugs at your heartstrings while simultaneously inspiring you to help make these heartbreaking realities a thing of the past. “Throughout the series, you can expect a whirlwind of emotions, life lessons, laughs and tears,” Emily shares.

“Though the circumstances are less than ideal, I love the voice that Lucia starts developing for herself. She is not afraid to speak her mind and she starts growing into who she is and learning to embrace her identity.”

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With the Acosta’s struggles being one of truth for many families in this country, audiences have flocked to the show to find solace in the fact that their stories are now being represented. “The reaction to the show has been incredible so far,” Emily says.

“We’ve gotten messages from people that are either going through a similar experience or know someone who is. They have told us that they are so happy to finally feel represented and to feel like there is hope.

We have also gotten messages from people who weren’t aware of truths like these, and are so glad that the show has opened their eyes and brought perspective.”

Like her onscreen persona, the actress has found that there is power in numbers and there is power in channeling your anger and frustration at the political climate and turning it into something productive and meaningful. “That’s exactly what Lucia is trying to figure out,” she explains. “She had so much anger towards the things that were happening to her family and other families, and she was trying to find an outlet in which to release that. What she discovered was that with frustration or negative emotions, things won’t get resolved. Instead, she found a way to fight for justice through activism.”

With a personal connection to the immigrant struggle, Emily describes her Party of Five role as one of the most significant projects she’s been involved with. “It means the world to be able to be part of taking the right steps towards representation and diversity onscreen,” she says. “I am lucky to be apart of a project that is so culturally diverse, in both cast and crew. Being so honest about my immigration journey has definitely been difficult and continues to be because you never know how things can be perceived or the repercussions that could come from being so honest about my status.

However, that won’t stop me, because at the end of the day, I want to show people that if I am able to do what I love and be in the position that I am, they can do it too… no matter what your ethnicity, skin color or background is.”

“I am a strong believer in the strength of unity,” Emily adds. “Find likeminded people and get to work. Start those important conversations, always stay educated, use your platforms/voices to stand up for what you believe in, find ways to volunteer in your community or with your favorite organizations. Anything and everything is important and it’s always a step in the right direction.”

Recalling her time on set, the rising starlet has nothing but happy memories. “There are so many memorable moments that took place,” she gushes. “I am so blessed to work with people who have become my real family, both on and off screen.

Niko, Brandon, Elle and I’s relationship consists of constant new memories, laughs, handshakes, advice and a very strong board

THE DAILY SHUFFLE 12

game rivalry! There’s never a dull moment with us.” Working alongside such a talented cast and crew, Emily credits the safe space as a reason why they’re always on their A game. “On set, I’ve learned the importance of communication amongst everyone,” she notes. “The creators of the show have done such an incredible job at letting us feel free to express ourselves. It’s been so important to work with people that I feel comfortable voicing my opinions with.”

Moving to Los Angeles at the age of 15, Emily’s big break has been years in the making. “My experience in Hollywood when I first got here is very different to my experience now,” she explains. “Coming to Los Angeles at that age brought with it a lot of negative comments from casting directors or people in the industry about my body, accent, the way that I looked.

It took me quite some time to learn to block all of that out and to believe/love/have faith in myself. At the end of the day, it made me stronger and now I am excited and so blessed to represent my culture on screen.”

As for what’s up next, the actress has got a lot on her bucket list. “I’d really love to travel some more,” she says. “I also want to dive deeper into the film industry and just continue to use my voice/platform to help make the world a better place. That’s what matters to me.” Her special message to fans? “Thank you for being so supportive and incredible throughout my journey. Stay strong, be kind, chase your dreams, have faith and work hard. Anything is possible. Trust me.”

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zahra bentham

Set to star in the highly anticipated limited series, Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J Walker, Zahra Bentham is opening up about what’s to come, behind-the-scenes set moments and more! words by VANESSA SALLES photos by JAH GREY

Tell us about Self-Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J Walker! What made you want to be involved with this series?

The story is what really drew me to be so motivated for the role. When I was first told about the series, I did a bunch of research on Madam C.J. Walker and her story. It was mind-blowing that I didn’t even know who this remarkable woman was. I mean, why didn’t I learn about her in school?

When I received the audition for the role of Nettie Ransom, I declared that the role was mine. Being on set was a whole other experience. Seeing the amount of dedication Octavia Spencer brought to Sarah Breedlove aka Madam C.J. Walker, as well as everyone else, was moving. I feel blessed to have been a part of making history in sharing this with the world. Allowing Madam C.J. Walker’s hard work and her life reverberate through myself and our future generations.

What’s been your favorite part about bringing Nettie Ransom to life?

It would have to be the times in the hair and makeup trailer and also doing the fittings!

Getting on set and seeing everything come to life obviously helped bring Nettie to life, as well.

It’s thanks to all the hard work everyone poured into the long hours, the costume designs, the set decoration, the writing, etc. for Self-Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J Walker to be what it will be.

What do you hope viewers take away from this show?

I hope it’s a learning lesson. A lesson of history that many of us don’t know and/or weren’t taught.

I hope it inspires other black women to continue in pushing for greatness within their careers as a businesswoman. I think the generation of ‘Millennials’ has cracked the code on sustaining a “Self-Made” life and I hope this can motivate anyone who is starting a business, old or young,

that it is possible to do and have whatever you put your mind to.

Working alongside Tiffany Haddish and Octavia Spencer, what’s the biggest lesson you learned on set?

Number one thing: come to work prepared.

Octavia stood by this strongly with her demeanor and conversations we shared on set. She always liked to be ahead of the game, even with the scenes she had to learn. Sometimes, as an actor, we can do all the prep work we want of how we want the scene to go, but once you get there, everything can change. Working on Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J Walker made me realize that there are so many moving parts – you just have to do your part as the actor so that you can make everyone else’s life easier. I was always taught that it’s not about you, it’s about the team.

What do you want to see more of on TV? When you think of your ultimate dream role, what comes to mind?

I want to see more of anything that is breaking the norm of what we see on our screens. I want to continue seeing our stories and also seeing stories that have been written for Caucasian actors, for ethnics. I would love to see an Asian superhero, mainstream, Marvel, BOOM. Would that not be amazing? I think times are changing but we still got a long way to go.

Any special message for fans?

I’m currently working on my EP and plan to be releasing it in the coming months. It will be my first time releasing anything written of my own so I’m happy and excited and nervous all at the same time. I don’t want to say too much but it’s going to be a very special project. If you want to stay connected, add me on Instagram @ ZahraBentham! Stop by and say what’s up!

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stephen oyoung

Starring on AppleTV’s For All of Mankind, Stephen Oyoung shines as the scene-stealing Harrison Liu. We caught up with the rising actor to talk behind the scenes moments, future projects and more. words by VANESSA SALLES photos by SERGIO GARCIA

Tell us about For All of Mankind – what is it about the show that made you want to be involved?

I’ve always wanted to do a series set in space.

I’m a huge fan of Ronald D. Moore’s Battlestar Galactica, so this was something I jumped at.

For those who haven’t streamed it yet, how would you describe your role as Harrison Liu? He’s the funny one. He’s worked his way up, faced a lot of societal obstacles on the way, but he’s not afraid to make the joke and still get the job done.

Are there any memorable behind-the-scenes moments from filming that you can share with us?

The first time I saw the giant Mission Control Center, I just about fainted. I also almost choked while sipping on my little space-approved juice box on the first take because I squeezed too hard. Not very astronaut-like!

Next up, Jupiter’s Legacy! Tell us about your experience on set; how would you describe the vibe?

It was like summer camp in Toronto. Maybe it’s just Canada, but everyone was so nice! We trained together for weeks for our huge battle sequence, so that helped our chemistry. By the time we filmed, we were having a blast running around in our super-suits, beating each other silly.

Without giving much away, what should viewers be expecting from the highlyanticipated series?

The stunt team put in an incredible amount of

time, care, and frankly love into designing all the action sequences. And as for the story, this show puts a new spin on the American superhero mythology that’s going to turn all the old cliches upside down.

Having spent your fair share of time on sets, what would you say has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned?

Be Nice. The biggest names are always the nicest. Denzel, Clooney, Jennifer Garner, Viola Davis, Keanu Reeves, Adam Driver, etc.

They are the nicest people. That’s the recipe for success.

What are you loving on TV lately? What do you want to see more of?

Watchmen and The Mandalorian. I grew up devouring comic books, so the fact that we have such high-quality fantasy and sci-fi is giving me life right now. Give me more!

When you think of your ultimate dream role, what comes to mind?

I am the biggest fan of both David Lindelof and Denis Villeneuve, who I worked with previously on Sicario, so I’d love to be a part of anything they do. I think they create exciting, beautiful, unexpected stuff. And they work in genres that get my imagination going.

Any special message for fans?

I’m lucky to have the support of a passionate comic book and gaming fanbase. Thank you so much for sticking around. And watch for something big that’ll be announced in the next year or so!

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merit leighton

A fan favorite on Netflix’s Alexa & Katie, Merit Leighton delivers both hilarious and heartfelt moments. We caught up with the actress to talk about the latest season, future goals and more! words by VANESSA SALLES photos by GLITTERGURU hair & make up by JAMI COX

Tell us about season three of Alexa & Katie!

What should fans be expecting to see this season?

The girls are officially in their Junior year! It’s so much fun to watch these characters grow up and get into some crazy, funny situations!

Look out for the episode with the play, it’s my favorite!

Any memorable moments from set that you can share with us?

It’s a big family vibe! Being on A&K this season was like my second home! I turned 17 on set this year, and to celebrate, the show got me a dairy-free gluten-free cake that tasted amazing. I had a blast hanging with my bestie Finn Carr who plays Jack every day; our families are really close.

What kind of storylines do you want to see be explored for Hannah?

Oh, I could see all sorts of things happening.

I think it would be great if Hannah got glasses (because I wear glasses and that would be easier lol). If she got to babysit Jack regularly, that would mean more scenes with Finn, which would be fantastic.

If you could have anyone guest-star on the show, who would it be, and what kind of role would they have?

I’d say it’s a tie between Baekhyun from EXO and IU. They are both very talented idols and actors. Baekhyun could guest star as a Korean teacher, and IU would make a great rich and overly eager friend to Jennifer.

The show definitely showcases the power of friendship; how would you describe the power and importance of friendship during difficult times?

Friendship during difficult times is a test.

If the friendship survives it, then you are fortunate. Having people that stand by your side through sickness and health are hard to find, and I have been disappointed when people I thought were true friends turned out not to be when I needed them most.

This is one of the reasons why this show is so important. When someone is battling an illness or having hard times, they need so much love and support to get through.

So I hope that when the audience watches this show and sees what it means to be a true friend, then maybe more real-life Alexa and Katie friendships will exist. That would make the world a kinder place.

Any big things on your 2020 bucket list?

To focus on health and relaxation and, hopefully, do a LOT of voice-over work.

Voicing Frosta on She-ra and The Princesses of Power has been a magical experience, and I can’t wait to do more, so that’s a big goal. Also, starting a regularly scheduled Twitch channel is on the list too!

Any special message to your fans?

Take care of yourself, eat well, stay warm, and be happy. Thank you so much for supporting my dreams. I am so grateful to each one and every one of you, sending virtual hugs to all.

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FEBRUARY 2020

What to watch ...

Birds of Prey, 2/7

To All the Boys: P.S. I Still Love You, 2/12

The Photograph, 2/14

What to listen to ...

Oh Wonder - No One Else Can Wear Your Crown 2/7

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Tame Impala - The Slow Rush 2/14

BTS - Map of the Soul 7 2/21

TDS IS ALSO AVAILABLE IN PRINT!

THE DAILY SHUFFLE JANUARY 2019

MACKENZIE PORTER

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