Madeleine McGraw Interview

At only 7 years old, actress Madeleine has quickly made a name for herself as one of the most-watched young stars on the rise in the entertainment industry today. In 2016 she can be seen co-starring on the upcoming drama television series “Outcast” on Cinemax.

“Outcast” from the creator Robert Kirkman (“The Walking Dead”) the show follows Kyle Barnes (Patrick Fugit), a young man who has been plagued by possession since he was a child. Now an adult, he embarks on a journey to find answers but what he uncovers could mean the end of life on Earth as we know it. Madeleine is a scene-stealer as Kyle’s daughter Amber Barnes, and her performance is already garnering acclaim from reviewers. “Outcast” has already been renewed for a second season, ahead of its season one premiere.

Hi Madeleine, please tell us a little about yourself?

I am 7 years old.  I have a twin brother, an older brother who’s 9, and a baby sister who is 5. We all like to act and model. I LOVE my family!

Why and how did you get started in acting?

I got started in acting totally by accident.  My baby sister who was 1 at the time had her picture hanging up in a mall photo store and someone from the industry said she should model and left information for my mom.  When the agency met my sister they were excited to know she had brother’s and a sister.

Do you have or had acting classes?

No.  I haven’t had any acting classes.  I have taken some improv classes and I like to coach before most auditions.

Are you going to school or you are full time in this business?

I still go to regular school.  When I am on set my teacher from school sends me all of my schoolwork and my onset teacher teaches me and makes sure I do all the work.

What roles do you like to play? And why?

I like all kinds of roles.  They are all fun in their own way.  I really like comedy and being goofy, but I also like the serious roles too.  I didn’t really know I liked serious until Outcast.

Now tell us about “Outcast” and about your character?

Outcast is a creepy show about demons. My character Amber Barnes loves her dad so much and is really confused why she has to stay with her mom and not see her dad.  She wants what every kid wants, happiness, love and family.

What we can expect for season 1?

You can expect to see amazing performances by the entire cast.  I am so grateful I get to work with Patrick.  I am learning so much by spending so much time with him on set.  Outcast will scare you and surprise you.  Wait until you see the season finale! OMG!!
 
How is working with Bradley Cooper in a very successful film like “American Sniper”?

Working with Bradley Cooper and Clint Eastwood was super amazing.  It was my first feature film and my mom and dad couldn’t believe I was getting to act with such amazing people.  Bradley Cooper stayed in character the whole time and was really nice.  He was always so super focused and super cute too! I learned so much by watching him and watching Mr. Eastwood.  I will never forget that whole experience!

How did you get selected for the role?

I was living in San Jose at the time and my mom would drive all of us back and forth to LA for auditions.  We had already been back and forth to Los Angeles a bunch of times that week.  I will never forget that day, it was a Friday and I had been on set that day in LA and on our way back to San Jose the audition for Amber came in late for a next day (Saturday) audition back in Los Angeles.  My mom was so tired and didn’t want to drive back the next morning (we would do day trips-there and back in one day -12 hours minimum) I begged her to take me after we looked at the sides.  Amber sounded like a very interesting girl. So she said yes, and drove me back to LA the next morning.  Boy am I grateful I begged her to take me!

Who is your favorite actor/actress?

Patrick is definitely my favorite actor. I think he is super honest in his acting and because he acted when he was young, he shares such important life lessons with me.  I also love Megan Park.  She cast me in the first film she ever wrote and directed.  I hope I grow up to be a successful working actress, writer and director, just like her.

Best advice ever given? 

To always just be myself.

What are the five things you can’t live without?

The five things I can’t live without are 1. My family  2. Shrimp  3. Lip gloss 4. Soccer and 5. Star Wars movies

What are the most useful tips you could give to someone who’s just starting in the acting world?

To work hard and have fun.  To always be grateful for every opportunity and it’s okay to make mistakes as long as you learn from them.

What’s one of the funniest things that have happened to you on set?

My first day on set for Outcast I had a scene where I was supposed to be sleeping.  After several takes our director Howie Deutch said cut and said that was some good sleeping Maddy.  Maddy? After a few seconds my mom went over and said, I think she’s really sleeping.  When I woke up everyone was laughing.

What’s your favorite show on T.V. right now?

My favorite show on TV right now is (I should say Outcast, but my parents won’t let me watch it. I only get to see my parts) So, I would have to say Star Wars Rebels.

What do you do when you have some time off?

When I have time off I like to play soccer and I like to play with my sister and my brothers.  We play legos and dressup and we like to go swimming.  We spend a ton of time in Disneyland, which is my favorite thing to do!!

Idea of a perfect Sunday?

Have a yummy breakfast (I love waffles and pancakes), go to church and then spend the day with my family.

Do you support any charity?

My dad went to West Point and was in the army, so we like to give to the Wounded Warrier Project.  My mom’s parents died of cancer, so we also like to give to cancer research.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years?

Hopefully still acting and playing soccer.

How important is Social Media for you?

Social Media is fun for me, but I am never allowed to be on it alone.  My mom is always with me. I love saying hi to my friends and seeing what they are up to.  With school and acting, I don’t always get to see all the people I love, so social media helps me keep in touch. My favorite emoji is the shrimp btw!

Where we can follow you?

Twitter: @maddygmcgraw
Instagram: officialmadeleinemcgraw

Quote: Treat every job like it’s your first and possibly your last, so you always stay in an attitude of gratitude. – my mom always says that to me

Book: I just started reading the first Harry Potter.  My mom said I can’t go to Harry Potter World until I understand how special it all is.

Food: Shrimp, chinese food and California rolls

Movie: Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Song: Right now I love the new Justin Timberlake song, “Can’t Stop The Feeling”

Tv Show: Star Wars Rebels
 
Holiday Destination: Disneyland, all day, everyday!

Credits

Photographer: Alexandra Kruk
Hair + Makeup: Daniel Chinchilla
Styling: Heather Rome