Havana Guppy Interview

Our interview with talented actress from Hulu’s “Shut Eye” Havana Guppy.

Born and raised in Vancouver, B.C., Havana had an early start to her thriving career as an actress. Inspired by her father’s love of creating home videos, as well as the feeling of being in front of the Biography camera, she decided to pursue a career in acting. Recently Havana has had recurring roles in Netflix’s “Haters Back Off”, and SYFY’s “Aftermath”.

She can also be seen in a range of horror films including Nicholas Treeshin’s 2013 short film, LEAVE US ALONE, Philip Granger’s 2015 film, BAD BUILDING, and Larry Kent’s Leo Award-winning 2015 thriller SHE WHO MUST BURN.

Describe yourself in 3 words?

Quiet, happy, serious.

How did you get started acting?

It had always been something I was curious about. Then one day when I was four, I met my best friend whose mom was a casting director. She helped me get an agent, and the rest is history.

Did you go to acting school?

I train off and on at Railtown Actors Studio in Vancouver.

What’s the best part of being an actress?

The best part is being able to play all these different, interesting characters, and meeting some pretty amazing people along the way.

Any other family members in the business?

All three of my sisters are actors as well, and my dad has been a scenic artist for tv and film since before I was born.

What inspired you to become an actress?

At first I thought it’d be fun. As I got older I really wanted to be able to tell people stories and make others feel the same way I’d feel when I watched a moving performance.

How did you start on Hulu’s hit drama series “Shut Eye”? And what is the series about?

I auditioned for Shut Eye in February of 2016. I immediately loved the character. I felt like I knew exactly who she was just from reading one scene. The show itself is about Charlie Haverford, a con artist, running a small chain of fortune-telling shops, working under a gypsy mafia family, the Marks, in Los Angeles. He eventually experiences trauma to the  head leaving him with these weird visions. It’s definitely worth checking out.

And about your character Drina Marks?

Drina is Fonso’s eldest daughter. She’s eventually forced into marriage at the age of 14, and struggles to break free from her family’s old traditions.

What other projects have you been part of?

While I was shooting season one of Shut Eye, I was also working on SYFY’s Aftermath and Netflix’s Haters Back Off, which were both so fun to work on.

Your idea of a perfect Sunday is?

Sleeping in till 11, having a big breakfast, then going shopping later in the day.

What do you do in your free time?

Lately my free time consisted of Christmas shopping for my big family, mixed with learning lines for plenty of auditions.

What do you like to watch on tv?

I’ve been loving watching the show 24 lately. But unfortunately I’ve just found out it will be leaving Netflix on January 1st, so I’ll be on the hunt to find some new content.

3 things you can’t leave your house without?

My wallet, phone, and my headphones.

What music do you like?

I’m more into indie music over everything.

Your favorite song? Why?

I don’t think I’ve ever had a favorite song. There’s so many great ones. But if I had to choose, it would have to be Yellow by Coldplay.

Who would you love to work with?

I’d love to work with Jake Gyllenhaal.

Who is your favorite Actor/Actress and why?

Julia Roberts is definitely one of my favourites. She is such an amazing talent.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years from now?

I see myself living somewhere else, maybe L.A. or New York, and continuing to pursue my acting career.

What charities do you support?

I don’t support any charities at this moment, but I’d love to in the future!

How important is Social Media for you?

Social media honestly isn’t that important for me, however I do enjoy Instagram because I like sharing photos with my friends.

Where can we follow you?

You can follow me on Instagram: @havana.guppy or on Twitter: @HavanaGuppy

Lightning Round

Quote: “The most wasted of all days is one without laughter”- E. E. Cummings
Food: Sushi
Movie: Little Miss Sunshine
Sport Team: Vancouver Canucks
Song: Yellow – Coldplay
Restaurant: Mimi Sushi
Travel Destination: Anywhere in Europe

Photo Credit: James Branaman