Rival Magazine Issue 6: Featuring Shannon K

Letter from the Editor RIVAL Fam, it has been a hell of a year; we lost loved ones, income, careers, our mental health took a huge hit…. and just so on and so forth. It truly felt like a year that would never end.

But you know what else? .... This year has also shown us the resilience of the human spirit and the lengths we will go to celebrate life.

We got creative, we got knowledgeable and we learned new techniques to stay connected from afar.

The RIVAL team wants you to take this time to celebrate YOU and all of the amazing accomplishments you tackled this year.

The Frontline Workers: We thank you for taking on this monster of a virus head on. Without your caring hands and the compassion to your calling we would have lost so many more loved ones. For those that have lost a family member or friend this year, we wish you peace and health as the new year approaches us.

To the teachers, “heroes amongst men”, you all inspire so many students every day. Our youth are beyond lucky to have such innovative and compassionate educators who have adjusted to a new way of teaching while still showing patience, lending a guiding hand, and sharing your infinite wisdom with the next generation. You guys are Rockstar’s.

To the RIVAL TEAM members who have put their ALL into creating 6 Issues this year despite the setbacks, shutdowns, budget cuts, cancelations, and beyond… you all are truly gifted, and I could not ask for a better team to stand beside me through this adventure.

And finally, to you, the fans, whom I fondly refer to as the ‘Rival Fam’, because that is who you are to me. My family.

I love sharing this journey with you; thank you for sticking by us during our VERY FIRST year as a Magazine.

2020 has given us the time to reflect on the core values of life; family, love, art, creativity, music, nature, health, and living each day like the blessing it is. Let’s take that Positive Energy into 2021!

We are so happy to call you our family and we look forward to seeing you in the New Year!

Heather Rival Graphic Designer Liat Halmos Alexa Nisenson

Interview: Sandy Aziz Photographer: Heather Koepp Stylist: Lo VonRumpf MUA: Anton Khachaturian using MAC Cosmetics Hair: Ryan Richman

Miya Cech

Interview: Sandy Aziz Photographer: Heather Koepp Stylist: Enrique Melendez MUA: Renee Loiz Hair: Clayton Hawkins

Chrissie Fit

Interview: Ashley Dawson Photographer: Heather Koepp Retoucher: Brianna Waltman Stylist: Amia Serrano MUA: Anton Khachaturian using Shiseido Hair: Rolando Aqui assisted by Erik Garcia

Liam Booth

Interview: Ashley Dawson Photographer: Heather Koepp Stylist: Alannah Jones

Shannon K.

Interview: Sandy Aziz Photographer: Heather Koepp Retoucher: Brianna Waltman Stylist: Amia Serrano MAU: Anton Khachaturian using Shiseido Hair: Rolando Aqui assisted by Erik Garcia Location: The Urban Jungle Studio

Emma Norton

Interview: Ashley Dawson Photographer: Heather Koepp Stylist: Amia Serrano Grooming: Rolando Aqui assisted by Erik Garcia

Hailie Sahar

Interview: Adeline Berry Photographer: Heather Koepp Retoucher: Brianna Waltman Stylist: Heather Koepp courtesy of Maison Privèe PR MUA: Dion Xu Hair: Leo Valentino

Gerald Isaac Waters Interview: Ashley Dawson Photographer: Ethan Ingram assisted by Micha Addams Stylist: Benjamin Holtrop Location: Concrete Studios

Bayardo De Murguia

Interview: Ashley Dawson Photographer: Heather Koepp Stylist: Irena Iverson Grooming: Ashley Francisco

Letter from the Editor

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Alexa Nisenson

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Liam Booth

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Hailie Sahar

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Miya Cech

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Shannon K.

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Gerald Issac Waters

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Chrissie Fit

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Emma Norton

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Bayardo De Murguia

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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Alexa

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Alexa Nisenson Fears Nothing

by Sandy Aziz You have nothing to fear, we got Alexa Nisenson here and she has an escape plan for the zombie apocalypse: “a sick escape route playlist”, snacks, and teamwork.

The rising actress has already made a name for herself as the 9-year-old singing “I Don’t F*** with You” in the iconic scene with Charlie Day in Fist Fight. Since then, the actress continues to flourish with her latest role as Charlie in AMC’s spin-off series, Fear the Walking Dead.

Nisenson spoke to Rival about zombies, her goals and dreams, and what is next.

Where you were raised and where you consider to be home?

AN: Ok! Fun (hopefully) fact...I have lived in three states since I was born. To be really specific, 9 different cites!

3 cities in each state. So, you could definitely say I’ve moved around a bit! I was born in Boca Raton, FL. When I was six, we moved to Atlanta, GA and when I was ten, we moved to Los Angeles. I would have to say that I consider LA to be home. It’s definitely where I have felt the most at home of all the places I’ve lived. LA is a big city and can sometimes feel lonely when you first move there. But like anywhere, if you find your spots, your routine, and your people, it makes all the difference in the world. I mean come on.... you can’t beat Cali weather and the beaches!

If you weren’t acting, what do you think you would be doing instead and why?

AN: I honestly don’t know. I can’t picture my life without this part of it in it, you know? [I guess if] I weren’t acting, I’d want to be a contestant on Master Chef Jr. I am obsessed with cooking and baking and have always loved that show. Does that count?

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Tell us more about your style. In three words, how would you describe it?

AN: It’s definitely evolving all the time. Right now, I think if I had to describe it in three words only, I’d say...feminine, minimalistic but with a twist of edginess.

Tell us more about your iconic scene in Fist Fight with Charlie Day. AN: I think what’s so amazing about that movie and that scene is that it turned into something that people still talk about 3 years later. That just kind of makes me so happy and also amazes me. I knew when I auditioned for the movie, that scene was going to be pretty epic, but we didn’t even have the exact song chosen at that point. Charlie and I spent weeks while we were filming, rehearsing with the choreographers and the sound engineers. We had ear wigs which are like custom monitors specially made and fit for our ears so we could listen to the music while we filmed. I sang the RENT song and the Big Sean song live in every take. Charlie Day has amazing stories from his journey that he shared with me and I will never forget them. He was just so humble and kind. I met Ice Cube the first time when we did our table read, and right away, I knew he was special. He definitely has a

presence about him. He walks into a room and no matter what you are doing or what’s going on, everyone kind of just stops and takes notice.

He’s a freaking legend.

Did you learn anything new from working on that movie?

AN: Everything. I learned everything working on that movie and I truly mean that. It was my first big movie, and I don’t know how I got so lucky that it was THAT cast and crew. THAT director.

THAT script. I have loved every experience I have ever had as a young actress and am always learning with each project I do. Working on that movie taught me so much it’s hard to even list. Richie Keen was our director, and I don’t know if I can even put into words how special he is. He treated me like I was valued, like I belonged there and had something to offer.

I felt truly heard and that’s so special when you

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What a lot of people don’t know is, when I am on set and filming or working in some way, I am the calmest and most myself that I ever feel.

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are a kid on that kind of set. I was only nine and yet he treated me the exact way he treated every actor on the set. I remember I was doing a fitting on my very first day at production and he came in to see one of the looks and he looked at me and just said, “Alexa, do you like this?

I mean... do you really like it? Because if you don’t, we will strike it and just know, you don’t have to say yes if you aren’t totally comfortable with it”. I remember just being in such shock that he truly wanted my opinion and genuinely cared how I felt and even offered me a chance to be heard. I learned the true meaning of collaboration working on that movie. It was by far the one of best experiences of my journey and my life!

the head while multitasking, but that definitely wouldn’t be me in the real world. I can’t even go to Halloween Horror Nights at Universal. I am so scared of being scared.

First of all, how do you feel about zombies?

AN: On a personal level? I’d feel absolutely terrified [if I saw one face to face] and probably just totally pass out. I’d be the first one in a group to go down, trust me! I love being able to play a character that literally is fearless when it comes to them and she can just stab one in

Ok, let’s talk “Fear the Walking Dead”. Tell us more about your character, Charlie, and how you got involved with the show.

AN: I auditioned for the show when I was eleven. It was just like any audition process but maybe a little more secretive than some auditions I had done in the past. The entire

What would be your “escape route” if the zombie apocalypse broke out right now?

AN: Luckily, I have friends who are totally fearless and complete daredevils! Some of them would actually thrive in a real-life apocalypse.

My escape route would be whatever theirs are! I’d most definitely be in charge of bringing snacks though. I’m your girl when it comes to packing snacks. Oh, and playlists. I’d definitely have a sick escape route playlist on Spotify for everyone to listen to!

Dress: Hayley Paige Boots: Vince Camuto

Walking Dead universe is like that and most of the time when you are auditioning it’s with material that’s not even from the actual show.

They don’t give any story lines away. I didn’t know much about Charlie and what her journey would be. When I got on the plane to fly to Austin to film my very first episode on Season 4, that made the whole experience pretty different than any others I had done before. Charlie wasn’t really supposed to be part of the show for longer than 5 or 6 episodes at first and then my journey kept going. Here I am in season 6 and I am so beyond grateful.

AN: I think there are definitely similarities! Of course, we are both teenage girls and we both have had instances where we have struggled to fit in and find our place in a situation! I’d like to think that we are similar in the sense that we both persevere at all costs. Charlie lost everything. Made choices she regrets that caused people a lot of pain. Even though I don’t relate at all to that exact scenario, I know what’s it like to feel totally defeated or heartbroken but make the choice to just pull yourself up and keep persevering no matter what.

Charlie is definitely complex. She’s a teenager in an apocalypse who has been through the unimaginable and is trying to survive and in some ways, she’s also trying to thrive too. She has grown so much over the last three seasons which I truly love.

But we are different in many ways too. Charlie knows loss and pain and terror in a way that fortunately I don’t at this point in my life. Charlie is definitely braver than I am. She has become fearless in a way I don’t think I will ever be.

She’s not very trusting of people. Who could blame her? I think personally I am probably just a little more of a trusting person.

How are you similar or different to Charlie in real life?

Do you have any funny stories from behind the scenes while filming the show?

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AN: So many!! After three seasons on the show, you definitely start to have some stories to tell. Especially if you are filming with Colman Domingo. He can just give a look or say one word and it sends everyone into the kind of laughing that makes your stomach hurt. Same with Mo Collins. We were on set together recently and we just had a moment back in our cast chairs where all I did was ask her a question about coffee, and we all just ended up in hysterics over her response.

What are some themes from the show that you can take and plug into the world we live in today?

AN: Hope. That was a really big part of the show’s theme last year in Season 5. In a world full of darkness and despair, having hope can make all the difference. I think before the pandemic, that theme was something that was talked about a lot about with the fandom.

Family [is another theme]. Family is my everything! My amazing dad is a cancer survivor, so he is immunocompromised. I will do anything I can right now to protect him make sure he is healthy! My mom is truly one of my best friends and is the one with me on set every day. She travels with me and takes me to auditions. I have the most amazing grandparents who love and support me always.

How have the character changed or developed over the seasons and are there any in particular who you think have obviously changed?

AN: Charlie has changed so much in the three seasons we have seen her. She went from being a truly damaged and lost little girl who was being manipulated and used by the vulture group, to becoming a teenager who loves her people and would do anything to protect them.

She could survive on her own if she needed to.

She’s gotten smarter and wiser and knows more about how to survive in this world. I think we will see that she starts to make some decisions for herself too more. It might be the apocalypse, but in her mind, I think she has a lot of living to do still and experiencing of things still. I’m excited to see where Charlie’s journey takes her next.

Out of all the roles you’ve played, which has been the most challenging and why?

AN: Charlie has definitely been the most

challenging. I mean, the fact that she was so controversial and divisive was a tough adjustment after coming off of two movies where the characters were so likable and embraced by fans. I was only eleven when the episode aired where Charlie takes Nick’s life. Not only were fans super angry at the character, I was getting actual death threats and people found my address somehow. They would send me letters or messages on social media that they were going to find me and hurt me. So, it was scary at first. Charlie was a villain, and I don’t think I was emotionally ready for what came with that. So, yeah definitely Charlie, but challenging to me isn’t a bad thing. I love a challenge and every single one I have encountered so far playing Charlie has been life changing for me in such an incredible way.

What are some of your goals?

AN: Aside from just being able to continue my goal of being a working actress, I want to be as multifaceted as I can be and as creative as the world will allow me to be. I want to make a difference in this world!

I have had a dream of writing books geared towards young and pre-teen girls that would deal with issues like anxiety and insecurity. I want to produce, and I have my eye on some books that I’d love to adapt to screenplays. Also, I am obsessed with fashion and hair and make-up and dream of creating my own line of cosmetics one day or possibly even a fashion line. Finally, I want to find ways to give back in a world that has given so much to me, so getting involved in more charitable organizations is a personal goal for myself.

What do you think is your message to the world?

AN: Gratitude is everything. I’ve learned in the last two years that sincere gratitude can change your whole entire life and your perspective on everything. I have always been thankful for my life, for my family and for the opportunities that have come my way. This past year, I have learned what true gratitude is and how it can really just change everything for you. You get through the rough times with a greater sense of purpose and positivity. Of course, also having a deeper understanding of gratitude has helped me appreciate the people in my life. I’m lucky to have them and grateful for the life I get to 19

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live. I never take it for granted and spend every moment I can present and appreciative. So, my message would be - live and lead with love and gratitude, always.

What is something that fans may not know about you?

AN: For starters - I battle anxiety. What a lot of people don’t know is, when I am on set and filming or working in some way, I am the calmest and most myself that I ever feel. People are always surprised to hear that I do what I do because for people who aren’t in the industry, they think being in the business would actually cause anxiety. It’s the complete opposite for me. Other things fans may not know - I can’t whistle, I have a photographic memory, and am obsessed with TikTok even though I have never posted one.

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Can you share any details with us about what are you working on next?

AN: We are back to work on Season 6 for Fear the Walking Dead - which has been amazing!! It feels so great to be back filming the rest of the season for the fans. There are some exciting things I’m working on now for the future that I can’t quite reveal details to yet. But soon, I hope!

Right in this minute, I am loving being back in Austin, TX! It’s all pretty exciting right now.

For more on Alexa, be sure to follow her @alexanisenson.

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Liam Booth Actor and Animator

Rival Magazine sits down with the actor and animator to talk show business

by Ashley Dawson Actor and animator Liam Booth is known for his current role as Elliot in the film The Yellow Rose.

The young actor helps bring life to the film, which highlights biculturalism in America and the dreams of a young Filipina girl to become a country music star in her small Texas town.

Booth grew up watching the industry work and now that he’s decided to join it, he isn’t slowing down for anyone. His passion for film, paired with his knack for animation, make him one of Hollywood’s fastest rising stars. Rival had the chance to sit down with Booth and chat about his acting, art, and career and where he sees himself going in 2021.

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“I’ve always loved watching movies and getting lost in stories,” Booth tells Rival editors. With family in the industry, he decided at seventeen that he, too, wanted to pursue acting as a career. “I booked five weeks on a pilot,” he says, “and I had the absolute time of my life and worked with some great people.” After that, he was all in. His mom’s side of the family was entangled in the entertainment industry, so from a young age Booth was surrounded by sets and writers and scripts. “There was no pressure to carry on any kind of legacy, and my family was very open and supportive to whatever career choices I made,” the actor says, “but they did play a big part in me wanting to go into the

industry.” He says that watching his mom in movies and TV shows and watching his uncle write shows and direct made the idea of being in the business obtainable to him.

Of course, that journey to the screen culminated in his audition for The Yellow Rose. Booth says that the audition for the film was a wild one, and that when he read the script he loved the story immediately. After the audition, he admitted that he wasn’t sure of himself. “A couple of weeks passed and I had given up on it,” Liam says, “but then they surprised me by calling my work and my manager announced that I got the role over the PA system.” An entire Men’s Warehouse full of customers applauded him and it was off to the races for Booth, who landed the role of Elliot Blatnik, the main protagonist, Rose’s, good friend: Elliot is Rose’s friend in the film and he’s just an all-around solid guy that wants to help any way he can. He’s very selfless and is concerned about Rose and her future. I think the way he develops throughout the movie is - the more Rose is in danger, the more concerned he is and tries anything to help. As her life becomes more complicated, Elliot becomes more deeply invested.”

Liam says that getting into character was almost instinctual for him, since most of the ways that Elliot wants to help Rose are actions he would take to help a friend, too. “He’s just wanting to help out and lend a hand to his friend who is facing a horrible situation,” he says. In fact, the movie does an amazing job of highlighting bicultural representation, and the trauma of ICE and the lives of undocumented immigrants.

“I think this film actually opens a door for more ‘non-white’ country singers,” Liam says.

His character helps and supports Rose by encouraging her to pursue her singing career and acting as an emotional support when her mother is captured by ICE. “Elliot helps to give Rose the nudge she needs that gives her the confidence to perform,” he states.

When asked how the film eerily reflects today’s political landscape, Liam says that, surprisingly, when the film was written the director had no idea it would reflect such relevant current topics.

“The timing couldn’t be more perfect to tell Rose’s story, and the movie helps to emphasize how compassion must be shown to one another, and that at the end of the day we’re all just human, not divided by skin color,” the actor says. In Liam’s eyes the movie opened him up to the human side of what we don’t often see in the news, and has made him more aware of the struggles that immigrants face in this country every day.

“Even people that have been here their whole lives can still have a risk of losing everything.

That is beyond shocking and horrific.”

Of course, another hot topic in the news right now is the COVID-19 pandemic, and we wanted to know how Liam is coping as an artist and creative. “I’ve been working on drawing, writing, and just overall creativity in general,” he says. Booth is also a 3D animator, and in his quarantine free time has been working to hone his craft. “When I was little I always watched animated movies and TV shows, and I quickly took to drawing and started to pause the TV and sketch out the characters I loved,” he says. The more he drew, the more impressed he became with how animators could tell a story through visual effect. “To me, that was the greatest magic trick,” he says, “and I wanted to know all of the secrets.” He hopes to one day make cartoons so that he can help people, just like they helped him as a kid. That process of art and creation has been a huge passion project for Booth, especially during the pandemic. He also says that, since the pandemic started, it’s been too risky to get someone to film his auditions. So he decided to turn his office into a part-time audition room complete with backdrops, lights, a phone stand, and a shotgun mic. “I’ve also gotten familiar with editing and turning in my own auditions over time,” he states.

And as for 2021? Booth says that he’s focusing on improving his art, trying to draw and do as much animation as he can, and is doing as many audition as he can while he looks to the future.

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Favorites Who is your favorite animated movie?

LM: Toy Story, I would watch it on repeat while in the hospital.

What is your favorite food?

LM: Pepperoni Pizza, classic!

What is your favorite stage play?

LM: Haven’t watched a lot of stage plays but I would say The Book of Mormon. Also really love Hadestown, Eva killed it!

What is your current favorite Netflix show to binge?

LM: I just finished Avatar: The Last Airbender, and it was amazing from front to back. If I had to choose a show however to always go back to, it would probably be Daredevil.

Who is your favorite author?

LM: A. Lee Martinez What is your favorite brand of clothing/fashion designer?

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When I was I always wa little animated m tched TV shows, ovies and a took to dranwd I quickly started to p ing and TV and ske ause the t c characters h out the I loved.

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Hailie Sahar

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Hailie Sahar

is making history!

by Adeline Berry Anybody that has witnessed powerhouse Hailie Sahar working her magic as larger than life Jazmin Martinez in Good Trouble, or appropriately named Lulu Ferocity in the slice of history in the making that is television series Pose, has certainly felt the lure of her siren song. Holding one’s own, and even shining, in the midst of spellbinding performances by talents such as Indya Moore, Dominique Jackson, MJ Rodriguez and Billie Porter is no small feat. Hailie Sahar has a captivating magic all of her own that is difficult to define. She sat down with us recently and we leaped at the opportunity to learn more about her.

When not involved in entertainment or charity work, Hailie loves to spend time with her two dogs, Yoshi and Cookie. “If I’m not with them I’m always cooking! I love to cook things from scratch and learn new recipes. You could say I’m a family person at heart who loves to laugh and be silly.” She is also a perfume collector that loves few things more than experiencing new fragrances.

As a child she used to dance for the WNBA Sparks. Hailie always knew what she wanted and had a clear vision of what it looked like. “I believe to achieve something you have to first envision it and then get to work at achieving it. I’ve been on my journey working in Hollywood since childhood.”

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When she speaks about her elevated exposure from recent roles on Pose, Good Trouble and Transparent, she is refreshingly humble and down to earth. “I know this is only a new beginning for my career. The word “famous” still sounds surreal to me. I guess there are some aspects of fame that I’ve become accustomed to and other aspects of fame that still feel slightly strange. However, I’ve always been more of a private person so not going out often is something I naturally do.”

Growing up, stars such as Michael and Janet Jackson, Prince, Meryl Streep, Grace Jones, and Angela Bassett were her idols. “I’ve always admired artists who have that special spark that lives in them. Those who took chances and let the art use them.”

Life wasn’t always glitz and glamour for Hailie. Her grandfather was the pastor of a Baptist church, and later her father followed in her grandfather’s footsteps by becoming a Preacher himself. Her early years were governed by the strict rules that come with growing up in a religious environment.

“As I grew to know God for myself, I have chosen to be a spiritual person, I practice love and kindness for everyone. To any child growing up in a religious background that doesn’t accept them, I would say look into your heart and follow your heart. Stay strong and treat people with kindness despite their inability to return the same gestures. In the end, you will find great strength within yourself.”

Given the opportunity to travel back in time from where she is today, she would tell little Hailie she is so proud of her for her bravery. “I would then tell her that Sometimes in life, you will have people that will treat you unkind, not because something is necessarily wrong with you, but because they actually see how brilliant you truly are. I would tell little Hailie to hold onto her light and remain happy because life will eventually get better.”

Fortunately for young Hailie she had positive, nurturing and accepting childhood role models in her Mother and her former dance instructors, Karen McDonald and Ms. Hula. “From all three women, I learned humanity, grace, and a hard work ethic.” A role model herself to so many, she chooses not 47

to allow herself to focus on the pressure that can bring, “because pressure would take me out of my element of authenticity. The way I see it is I’m just myself and I’m being myself. I will naturally make mistakes or do very well either way. I pray others to see a genuine human being who’s not afraid of living honestly.”

When asked to share with us the secret to the energy and electricity she brings to the unforgettable roles she breathes life into, she revealed that her artistic expression comes from the passion deep within her. “When I’m in my element I dedicate myself to my art both physically and mentally. Losing myself and becoming something else. Often times I feel myself transforming into each performance.”

Her character on Pose, Lulu Ferocity, vibrant with both fearlessness and vulnerability, was inspired by people Hailie has met throughout her life including versions of herself through time.

“The beauty of Lulu is the variations of depths she carries. Lulu is you and me. Sometimes she’s happy, sad, mad, or funny. She’s what I call real because, like everyone else, Lulu expresses many emotions and I like that about her.”

There has never been a television show with such a wealth of trans representation as can be found on Pose. The historical significance doesn’t seem to have slowed her down. “I’m honestly doing so much work behind the scenes with my work in activism that I haven’t stopped to take it all in. I know that I will one day, but on that day, I pray that my work would have opened millions and millions of doors for more marginalized people of all genders and backgrounds.”

Before Pose, Madonna’s hit song Vogue and the film Paris is Burning were the only windows into ballroom culture for many people. Hailie herself came directly to Pose from ballroom culture as a real-life house mother. “Because I come from Ballroom, I know that one of the goals for me was always to bring the underground Ballroom to the mainstream floor. In my opinion, being a part of “Pose” is still sort of Ballroom. We have come through so much adversity as an LGBTQ+ community and we still have so much more to 48

go. I want to personally acknowledge a recently fallen star in Ballroom. The icon who I always knew had that special gift of talent that deserved to be seen on the mainstream stage. Her name was Daesja La Perla.”

Increased visibility for Hailie and the success of Pose has not been paralleled by an improvement in quality of life for persons of trans experience in the US or elsewhere, especially if they are Black or a person of colour. To the contrary, trans people and trans rights are under attack now more than ever before, and violence against women of trans experience is currently at an all-time high. “I wish someone would ask me what it feels like to be a person of trans experience and live in a world where you’re constantly reminded that you don’t matter. This road is not carved out for someone like you. I would like for someone to ask me what it feels like to have to fight for the basic necessities that any human being should be given simply for being a fellow human being.”

In the future, Hailie will be producing more and creating space for talent of all backgrounds. “I think the industry could use some new indicative creativity and I want to see more storylines from a different perspective than what we have become accustomed to.”

Her work in charity helping battered women and children originated from her own personal experiences of abuse. “It’s a subject that I know first-hand and I know what that life looks like.

I’ve decided to use my power to help someone else who may not have the platform I carry. I’ve never publicly spoken about my own abuse, but I am currently writing my book in which I will cover these topics.”

It is clear that the world has been ready to see more actresses and actors of trans experience playing mainstream roles in cinema and on television. “Two of my dream roles would be playing a Superhero or a Supervillain! I love the fantasy of it all. I’d also love to be a Bond Girl.

There has always been something sexy and timeless about James Bond Films. I have so many roles I’m excited to dive into.”

We asked Hailie if she were granted three wishes what would she ask for. “I would wish

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Dulce Bestia courtesy of Maison PrivĂŠe 50

Dulce Bestia courtesy of Maison Privée

that people would laugh and enjoy life more; that people would love each other more and people would remember the importance of what life really means, and how short time is for us all.”

For those hoping to follow in Hailie’s footsteps, she offered, “I would first say to love what you do and give it all you have each time. There is great beauty in the discipline of perfecting your craft. Always challenge yourself to be better than before.”

Thank you, Hailie, for taking time away from your busy schedule to talk with us.

You can follow Hailie’s continued meteoric rise to stardom on Twitter https://twitter. com/213Sahar and Instagram https://www. instagram.com/hailiesahar Stylist: Heather Koepp courtesy of Maison Privèe PR Hair: Leo Valentino MUA: Dion Xu 51

Dulce Bestia courtesy of Maison PrivĂŠe 52

Dulce Bestia courtesy of Maison PrivĂŠe 53

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Dulce Bestia courtesy of Maison PrivĂŠe

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MIYA CECH 56

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Miya cech

Navigating her way through space, life, and teen fame

by Sandy Aziz Sky’s the limit, but Miya Cech is taking us out of this world in her newest role as space girl Samy in the series The Astronauts. And if you don’t follow the young actress, she previously controlled electricity as Zu in the show The Darkest Minds and was cool girl Akiko in Nickelodeon’s mini-series remake, Are you Afraid of the Dark?

for GAP, Old Navy, Skechers, Gymboree, Target.

I even modeled with Gwen Stefani 3 times for her various kids’ brands. When I was about 8, I asked my parents if I could try acting. My first audition was for Hawaii Five-0 and I booked it. I spent 10 days in Hawaii filming and was immediately hooked. I haven’t stopped since

Born in Tokyo, Japan, actress Cech was adopted at 6 weeks old and brought to Davis, California where she considers to be home.

Because of her experiences, one thing Cech is super passionate about is representation in the TV and Film industry. “The coolest compliment I can get is when a young AsianAmerican kid watches something I am in and they see themselves in my character – everyone deserves to see themselves represented,” explains Cech.

If you weren’t acting, what do you think you would be doing instead and why?

Aside from being passionate about representation in the industry, Cech has dreams of directing one day. The actress, who describes herself as “unique, quirky, [and] fun” caught up with Rival to give us the details on superpowers, outer space, and what is next.

How did you first get involved in acting and what was your first acting experience like?

MC: I started print modeling and commercials when I was a toddler because I loved taking pictures. My mom’s friend introduced us to a great kid’s agent in San Francisco, which led to an LA agent as well. I modeled pretty regularly 60

MC: I really love art and photography. I also love dance (mostly KPOP). So, I would probably be doing a little more of those things.

Tell us more about your style. In three words, how would you describe it?

MC: I have a very casual style most of the time.

I like big sweatshirts and comfy jeans. I love vintage band shirts and Levi’s from the ’90s. I’ve been known to raid my dad’s t-shirt collection because he used to be a radio DJ and has some really cool old band shirts from the ’80s. But I also love to dress up for special occasions. So, for events, I’m always up for something fancyLike Gucci, Fendi, and Burberry.

Whenever you are not working/filming, what do you like to do?

MC: I like to cook and bake. When I’m not working, I love to get up early and make breakfast for my family. I’m always up for trying new recipes. I also love art and crafting so my

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desk in my room is usually covered in various artwork and supplies. I also love to travel with my family and be outdoors.

Zu could control electricity but could not talk. If you had a superpower or some type of supernatural power in real life, what would it be and why?

Let’s talk “Are You Afraid of the Dark?” … I actually grew up watching that show! Love it.

I understand you are Akiko in the latest miniseries. Tell us more about your character on the show.

MC: I would probably want to be able to teleport so that I could travel wherever I’d like to at any time.

MC: Akiko was such a cool character to play!

I really love that she is just a boss, she has her own style and attitude and doesn’t follow the crowd. It was really incredible to be a part of such an iconic tv show and I loved the experience.

How would you describe the mini-series in your own words?

MC: The new Are You Afraid of the Dark was definitely scarier than anything Nickelodeon has done since the original series. It’s a great way for younger audiences to get introduced to the horror genre and I think they did a really great job with it.

You were “Zu” in The Darkest Minds. Tell us how you got involved in that.

MC: The Darkest Minds was my first movie audition. I was 9 when I auditioned, and I was so nervous. After the callback, I had a chemistry read with Amandla Stenberg and found out I booked it a couple of weeks later. It was such a great experience all around. Everyone loved each other on that set, and I couldn’t have asked for a more positive first movie experience.

What was your favorite moment as Zu or what did you learn, if anything, from playing that character?

MC: Since Zu didn’t talk, I really had to figure out how to communicate with my facial expressions. Filming an entire movie that way really helped me for future roles because as an actor, your subtle facial expressions and reactions are so important, even when your character does speak.

You are going to be Samantha in the new series The Astronauts. Can you tell us more about the show in your own words?

MC: The Astronauts is unlike anything on kids’ television. I play Samy Sawyer-Wei who is the daughter of the Mission Commander of the Odessey II spaceship. A few days before The Odessey II is scheduled to launch, Samy and her friends sneak on board the ship and accidentally launch into space. There is a malfunctioning AI on board and the kids have to learn to work together and trust each other to try to get home. Their parents and mission control crew back on Earth also are trying to help them get back home. The show is so exciting and fast-paced and suspenseful. It’s definitely a show that parents will want to watch with their kids.

What character has been your favorite to play so far and why?

MC: Each character is special to me for different reasons. Right now, Samy is very special because it’s my first time in a series lead role. I have been able to bring so much of myself and my own ideas to this character and feel she is so uniquely different than anyone else on tv.

If you had to give this chapter in your life a title, what would you title it and why?

MC: “Six Feet Apart”. Lol! The hardest part of this whole pandemic for me has been not being able to see and hug my friends.

More generally, is there someone in the industry that you really want to work with? If so, who and why?

MC: One day I would love to work with Sandra Oh because she is just such an icon and an 63

inspiration to me. Also, Awkwafina.

What type of roles would you like to pursue acting-wise next?

MC: I would love to try something completely different. One day my dream would be to play a superhero. But I am always up for all genres.

Can you share any details with us about what are you working on next?

MC: I have a new movie coming out in 2021 called Marvelous and the Black Hole. I am in it with Rhea Perlman and it’s a coming-of-age 64

story about a teenage girl named Sammy who is really struggling with her home life and school.

She meets a magician who teaches her about friendship and magic and hope. I’m really proud of this project because it was produced by, directed by, and stars women.

For more on Miya Cech be sure to catch her in The Astronauts and follow her @miyacech Stylist: Enrique Melendez Hair: Clayton Hawkins MUA: Renee Loiz

Ruffle Top - Reformation Green Shorts - Frame Sunglasses - Fashion Nova Pearl Sunglass Chain - Olivia Henn Sequin Jacket - OTT Gold Platform Heels - Free Lance Earrings - Celine

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JR Rival Interview

by Isabel Bettencourt

When you were little, did you want to be an astronaut?

MC: I did! My dad had always been very much into astronomy and space exploration history. I loved an older movie called Space Camp (which is about teenagers accidentally launching into space) and would pretend like I was one of the characters.

MC: I started out around age 8 with guest star roles in shows like Hawaii Five0 and American Horror Story. My first feature film was “The Darkest Minds”. I was also in “Always Be My Maybe” and “Rim of the World” and I have a film premiering next month at Sundance called “Marvelous and the Black Hole”.

What made you want to star in this role?

What’s your favorite color?

MC: I am drawn to roles that are different and unlike other characters on tv or in film. I addition to Samy being a tough and strong female lead, I loved that Imagine Entertainment and Ron Howard/Brian Grazer were behind the project.

After reading the script and seeing Samy’s storyline, I knew I wanted to play her.

MC: Grey, just like Samy.

Did you get cast in the role you wanted or did you try out for something else?

MC: At the time that The Astronauts was being developed, I was working on another Nickelodeon show called “Are you Afraid of the Dark?” Nickelodeon came to me and asked if I’d be interested in playing the role of Samy. I read the script and loved her character.

What has been your favorite part of playing Samy so far?

MC: I love that she is not a one-dimensional character. She is tough to figure out which can make her fun to play. I love that I can bring a little of myself to her and that I have the freedom to make her unique.

Do you believe in aliens?

MC: Yes! 66

Have you been in any other films or shows?

What’s your favorite movie?

MC: Goonies and The Karate Kid 2.

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Shannon K.

Dress: Rivini by Rita @ritavinieris Earrings: Iris Trends @eyeofiris Shoes: Jasmine Elizabeth @jthebrand 69

Dress: Maison Dress: EzgiReema CinarNahar @maisonreemanahar Earrings: Kamal Beverly Hills @kamalbeverlyhills Earrings: Misahara Necklace: Thale Blanc @thaleblanc

Ring: German Kabirski Shoes: Chinese Laundry

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“You were made for a reason, to SHINE�

Dress: Stephanie Ruiz @stephanieruizworld Earrings: Kamal @kamalbeverlyhills Shoes: Bella Belle @bellabelleshoes 73

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Shannon K

Paves the Way for Bollywood fame in Hollywood

by Sandy Aziz Give me your hand and stand up for something…these are just two of the many inspirational tracks by alternative pop singersongwriter Shannon K. Not only has the pop princess overcome difficult experiences including bullying, but she has used her platform to raise awareness. Her own experiences inform her songs and make her an inspirational role model for people around the world. Shannon K got real with Rival about her experiences, her music, and her podcast Get Real.

Born in India, raised in London, and now an LA-local, Shannon still loves the street food and warmth of India, the views from the London Eye, and the familiarity of LA. The pop singer’s father is world-renowned Bollywood vocalist, Kumar Sanu and her family moved every summer when she was growing up. “I would say it was quite tough adjusting to a new place and lifestyle,” she continues, “but it gave me the opportunity to learn about different cultures and different lifestyles.”

Maybe the need to adapt to shifting environments is why Shannon has a way of transforming every hardship into a positive situation. Specifically, both her and her sister were bullied when they were growing up.

“Some of the comments [on social media] can affect you in an awful way,” shares Shannon.

“Some were based on the fact that I am adopted and implied that is the reason I can’t take my dad’s legacy forward… [because of all of this] I fell into depression and self-harmed.” Thankfully, her family was there to help her out of that dark space and Shannon has spoken out against bullying since then. In fact, her song “Give me your hand” is based on her experiences, and it helped her release feelings she had

been “bottling up for years.” The entire song is dedicated to sending a positive message to those going through something similar and encouraging them to voice what is happening and stand up for themselves because they are not alone. “There’s a quote of mine from the song which I think is super encouraging: you were made for a reason, to SHINE,” says Shannon. Even her advice to the younger generation centers around perseverance, patience, and a positive attitude. “There is going to be lots of people who would want to see you fail and will discourage you, but you have to keep going … take in the good criticism and throw away the bad. Stay focused and always try to do better than before. Never give up on yourself.”

Alongside her inspirational songs and messages, when she was only sixteen years old, Shannon worked with the infamous producer, Poo Bear. “He was so humble and encouraging,” laughs Shannon. “It was truly an honor. I had so much fun and I got to learn a lot of things from him as a songwriter and as an artist.” And that is not all. She also worked with Infinity, raving that she cannot wait to work with him again because it was super fun. Included in her list of musicians that she would love to collaborate with in the future are pop princes, Bruno Mars and Harry Styles.

“I love their style of music, especially their songwriting skills,” explains Shannon. And while her style is alternative pop, the singer would keep “experimenting and exploring in different genres.” Great news for Shannon’s fans worldwide! Especially because she told Rival that she would love to experiment more with foreign music – and potentially even sing in different languages. Music to our ears!

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When she is not busy raising awareness about important societal topics or recording new music, you can find Shannon watching TV or coloring.

She also hosts her own podcast, Get Real. “In the podcast we explore the reality and unheard stories of artists, actors, musicians and influencers behind their success,” says Shannon. “A lot of times people start dissing celebrities without knowing the hardships and sacrifices they had made along their way to [reach] success.”

Favorites What is your favorite place in the world?

SK: I love New York, especially during the holiday season. I also just love walking and looking around the billboards in Times

Square.

As far as Shannon’s latest single – RUN - it encourages listeners to show the world who they are.

And speaking of people showing the world who we What is your favorite food? are, Shannon told us a secret. “I am an introvert [and SK: My favorite food is Italian and Indian. actually] I am terrible at social networking and talking to people,” Shannon explains with a shy laugh.

What are you currently binge-watching?

Be sure to listen to Shannon’s latest single RUN SK: The Crown and follow her podcast Get Real. So, what is next?

Shannon told Rival that she has gone back to studying business management. Look out world, What songs do you have on repeat? because Shannon keeps showing us who is boss.

SK: Positions by Ariana Grande Stylist: Amia Serrano Hair: Rolando Aqui assisted by Erik Garcia MAU: Anton Khachaturian

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Dress: Rc Caylan Atelier @rccaylanatelierofficial Earrings: Kamal Beverly Hills @kamalbeverlyhills Shoes: Bella Belle @bellabelleshoes

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Dress: Zara Umrigar @zaraumrigar Headband: Thale Blanc @thaleblanc Earrings: Thale Blanc @thaleblanc Ring: Kamal Beverly Hills @kamalbeverlyhills Shoes: Charles David Shoes @charlesdavidshoes 79

Turtleneck: Paisley & Gray @paisleyandgray Coat: Topman @topman Jeans: H&M @hm Boots: John Varvatos @johnvarvatos Watch: Bell & Ross @bellrosswiki

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Dress: Zara Umrigar @zaraumrigar Headband: Thale Blanc @thaleblanc Earrings: Thale Blanc @thaleblanc Ring: Kamal Beverly Hills @kamalbeverlyhills Shoes: Charles David Shoes @charlesdavidshoes

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Dress: Zara Umrigar @zaraumrigar Headband: Thale Blanc @thaleblanc Earrings: Thale Blanc @thaleblanc Ring: Kamal Beverly Hills @kamalbeverlyhills Shoes: Charles David Shoes @charlesdavidshoes 82

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Dress: Rc Caylan Atelier @rccaylanatelierofficial Earrings: Kamal Beverly Hills @kamalbeverlyhills Shoes: Bella Belle @bellabelleshoes

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Authenticity & Inclusion Chatting with Gerald Isaac Waters about all things acting and Netflix during quarantine

by Ashley Dawson

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Actor and artist Gerald Waters is making a splash in the entertainment industry with his newest role in the Netflix original film All Together Now. The actor, who was in an accident five years ago that left him paralyzed and in a mobile wheelchair, portrays Chad in the movie, a supportive and eager to help friend who also happens to be in a wheelchair. Waters’ motive in life, to bring art to the entertainment world that helps broaden disabled actors’ horizons, is both moving and worthy of praise; representation, to Waters, means everything.

Rival got a chance to sit down with Gerald and talk all things Netflix, acting, and representation in the industry during quarantine.

honing his craft as he looked toward a future that included acting.

“Authentic representation in the industry through casting is very important to me,” Waters says, “and it brings such a truth and realness to not only the story but to the character as well.”

After suffering a fall five years ago that left him permanently paralyzed from the neck down, Waters chose to continue to pursue his acting career and to make it big in the industry.

“Representation allows any individual to be able to see themselves through a character, and brings such a connection and life to the story being told,” he says. Forever an optimist, the actor dove deep into Zoom acting classes and

“Having the honor of being a part of this film has literally been a dream come true.

Getting to have my first experience on a film set be this particular film is a memory I’ll cherish forever.”

Waters first got involved in the entertainment industry by working background on the Disney Channel show Live and Maddie. “I was so excited to work on set and be surrounded by the cast and crew, and I quickly gained my three SAG vouchers,” he says. He remained working background on the show for three seasons, and the entertainment bug bit him; he was obsessed with an industry that made him feel at home. Not long after, Gerald auditioned for the role of Chad in the Netflix original film All Together Now, and landed it.

He says that the moment he read the breakdown for the project he was hooked, and that one thing that stood out in particular to him as an artist was that Chad’s story was not focused on his disability. “He was just Amber’s friend who happened to be in a chair,” Waters says. This type of representation, where the character’s sole purpose and story is not

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their disability, is what makes the project so special. Representation that doesn’t highlight differences, but that weaves them into the storyline and fits them at home with the characters, is what Waters is all about. “Bringing Chad to life was such a fun process,” Waters states, “and he and I have similar goals and hold our friends in the highest regards.”

during this hectic time. “The first moment I felt like I had made it officially as an actor was walking up to my very own trailer with my name on the door,” he tells Rival editors. That was when it sunk in for Gerald; he had really made it. He hopes that the movie helps other see how much it can mean to a loved one when you do something for them that will pour into their life.

Of course, the audition process to play Chad was not an easy one. Gerald was late to his first audition by fifteen minutes, but collected his thoughts in front of a gracious director and began to read. “Once I got the call back I knew it was game on,” the actor says. He went in in front of an entire production team and the director began giving him notes and helping him to get a full understanding of who Chad really was.

Waters says that his biggest achievement so far as an actor has been breaking into the Netflix bubble. “Now to continue to audition and land another role so I can help represent the disabled community on screen,” he says. The actor says he’d love to play a romantic role, since he loves cheesy love stories. His hope for the future is to continue to normalize authentic representation of disables artists on screen and stage:

“Working one on one like that in a callback setting is every actor’s dream, and I had such a high leaving that room, knowing I showed up, did the work, and left it all in that tiny space.”

Weeks later, he was in a Ralph’s grocery store shopping when his phone rang, and his agent told him he booked the role.

Some of Gerald’s favorite memories from set were being able to lean back and get to know his castmates in the green room and having lunches with Fred Armisen. The response from the movie has been wonderful, and Waters says that people reach out via text and social media to let him know just how much they love the story of hope and overcoming life’s curveballs

“Seeing ‘regular’ roles given to people in wheelchairs or with any form of disability is important.”

He says that the best advice he’s gotten was from a casting director at an audition, and that was to simply, “trust that you are enough.” That’s his advice to any aspiring artists in the world looking to break into the business like he did, that and to do your homework and let the work, work. His plans for the future are simple, and he wants to continue to hone his craft, travel, and find love. In the meantime he leaves Rival readers with a thought:

“I think the entertainment industry as a whole needs to step up in authentic inclusion.

Allowing individuals of all walks of life to see themselves represented on screen.”

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Favorites What are some movies that made you fall in love with acting growing up?

GIW: There is one movie that had a heavy influence on my journey to acting, and that movie is Mrs. Doubtfire. I mean Robin Williams... need I say more?

Who are some artists you would love to collaborate with in the future?

GIW: I would love to work with the incredibly talented Sally Field. This is me manifesting that and putting it out in the universe!

If you weren’t an actor, what other profession would you pursue?

GIW: I, at one point, wanted to establish my own plant nursery. I love planting and growing, it truly brings me joy.

What are some books everyone should read in this lifetime?

GIW: One book that impacted me was Letters to a Young Poet. If you haven’t read it go check it out!

What are some things you hope to cross off your bucket list once everything goes back to normal?

GIW: Once things settle and we begin a “normal” routine again I can’t wait to add my first stamp to my passport. I have my eye set on visiting Rome!

Photographer: Ethan Ingram assisted by Micha Addams Stylist: Benjamin Holtrop Location: Concrete Studios

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Jumpsuit: stylist’s own Corset: Marta Miljanic @martamiljanic Shoes: Free Lance @freelance_paris Earrings: Shy Siren @shysiren

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Chrissie Chrissİİe Chriss Fit

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Jumpsuit: Nookie @lovenookie Earrings: Thale Blanc @thaleblanc 108

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“Nothing is off limits, and no goal is out of reach.”

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Chrissie Fit No Goal Out of Reach Rival Magazine interviews the actress and singer about her career and life in quarantine

by Ashley Dawson Actress and singer Chrissie Fit is no stranger to the spotlight that comes with the kind of talent she possesses. The young performer made a name for herself as a regular on the Pitch Perfect film series, and has been a featured player on shows like General Hospital, House, Charmed, and many more. Chrissie’s vivacious upbringing and large family taught her from a young age the importance of comedy, laughter, and entertainment, and she brings that background to the stage and screen every time she performs. Rival editors got to sit down with Chrissie and discuss her life, career, and upcoming projects in 2021.

“I have been performing since I was five,” the actress says, “and I come from a big Cuban family, so at every get together my parents would encourage me to sing and dance.”

Chrissie says there are so many creatives in her family, and a lot of personalities and comedians that join together to make a whole.

“Maybe it’s just a Cuban thing, but we are a lively bunch,” Fit laughs. She says that there wasn’t an “aha” moment that brought her to the entertainment industry, but that she simply was never interested in anything else as a career.

“I did work as a file clerk at a law firm while I was in college,” she says, “but it wasn’t as fun as Legally Blonde.” She realized then that all she wanted to do was play characters like Elle Woods and become a professional actress.

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Cuba. “I don’t know if it’s because I grew up in Miami and there are so many Cubans there, or if it’s because I’m so rooted in my culture, but I always say I’m Cuban,” Fit states. She loves the music, the food, and the strength that comes from the island.

“I feel like all of that influenced who I am as a person and a performer. I saw so many people in my community making it work. So resilient, so creative. Growing up, I didn’t have a lot, but I felt so, so rich. I had so much confidence as a kid because everyone around me was a dreamer, too. I think you have to be when you’re an immigrant. You have to imagine a better life for yourself and for your family. Nothing is off limits, and no goal is out of reach.”

Chrissie says that’s probably why she hopped on a plane at a young age with no money and no plan, but just a dream of making it as an actress.

Of course, that plane ride culminated in a multitude of auditions and a career in the industry that brought her to the big screen.

Chrissie starred as Florencia “Flo” Fuentes in the Pitch Perfect sequel and third film, and said that she was nervous going into her first audition. “I translated a bit of Rolling in the Deep by Adele into Spanish for my audition,” she says, “but when I got to the Spanish bit I blanked on the new lyrics. I played it off somehow and started over – I actually think my

limited experience with improve helped me a bit in that respect.” Fit says that she had to improve a monologue in character in front of Elizabeth Banks, and is always down to do a cold read on the spot. “When I found out I got the role I had to pull over on the side of the road because I was shaking with excitement,” Chrissie remembers, “and then I turned the car around, grabbed some champagne, and started packing. I was in Bella Boot Camp two days later.”

The actress says that there are too many fun moments with the cast to name, and that they all became great friends and love each other to this day. “The first memory that pops into my head is when we filmed the Worlds performance in Pitch Perfect 2,” she says, “and that was insane because there were actually thousands of people there watching us sing and dance to Beyoncé’s Who Run the World. It was electric!”

We also asked Chrissie what she does to get into character when she gets a new script, and she says that it depends on who she’s playing: “Some need more work than others. I do a lot of research. Like, a lot. No matter the role. I also write out their history and what their relationship is with the other characters in the script. I’m also

a writer so this is a fun exercise for me. I’ll end up writing out scenes that my character might’ve had in the past with other characters in the story.

It’s helpful for me and makes me feel like I really know the person I’m playing.”

Fit’s latest role in the film All My Life was a fun one to play, she says, and it will be out on PVOD December 23rd, just in time for the holidays.

“It’s a great movie to watch at home, on the couch, and cuddled up with your loved ones,” the actress says about the film. It’s a beautiful, true love story about Jenn Carter and Solomon Chau, and is definitely a tear jerker that will pull at viewers’ heartstrings. “It’s just a reminder to hold the people you love and tell them how much they mean to you,” she says.

In addition to her acting and singing talents, Fit also made her directorial debut while in quarantine this year. She says that she has wanted to direct a project for a long time, but that she never felt that the timing was right. “It was just my own doubts and fears getting in the way,” the star says. So, when her friend Courtney Knowles presented her with the opportunity, she jumped. “I wrote, directed, and starred in four mini episodes that created one

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short film called Press Pause,” Fit says. It’s a mental health initiative from the Jed Foundation and powered through PINK. “We go through a couple of mindfulness techniques that people can practice if they’re feeling overwhelmed during this very different holiday season. I wanted to make them cute and entertaining, but mostly helpful. I am so proud of what we accomplished in such a short amount of time and during a pandemic! So much for waiting for the right time; I definitely learned to just go for it. You just have to do it. The shorts can be seen on the PINK Nation App, their Instagram, or on YouTube.”

This focus on mental health and on coping during the holiday season is just what audiences need during the pandemic. We also asked Chrissie how she’s been coping during quarantine, and how she’s been staying mentally and physically healthy during the COVID-19 outbreak. “You know,” the actress says, “the Press Pause techniques have been helping. I actually started to meditate, which I was so inconsistent with in the past. I moved my dining room table so that I could exercise and dance, and joined Tik Tok.” She says that she’s found creative ways to celebrate birthdays and milestones, and that this time has been difficult, but put a lot of things into perspective about what really matters in life. Chrissie has also been an avid ambassador for the Days for Girls International group, and has been making sure to keep her work alive during this period of social distancing. “They are doing incredible work making sure women and girls around the world have access to menstrual care and education,” Chrissie states. Days for Girls creates kits and reusable shields and liners – essentially reusable pads – among other things, and have an enterprise program that represents a diverse group of leaders. “When women thrive, the whole community thrives,” Fit says, “and we’ve helped over a million women and girls turn periods into pathways.”

Lastly, Fit says that though the quarantine has been a hard road, it has brought her one very important thing: clarity.

“I mean, it feels like we have simultaneously lost and gained time. I know that’s true for some of my friends who are parents. They got so much 114

time with their kids that they otherwise wouldn’t have had. I’ve gotten closer in my relationships and also have severed some that weren’t serving me. When all these distractions were stripped away, I was able to see what maybe I was too busy to see before. I’m also just being a lot more open and honest.”

Stylist: Amia Serrano Hair: Rolando Aqui assisted by Erik Garcia MAU: Anton Khachaturian

Favorites What is your favorite food?

CF: Pasta. Omg. I just love it so much.

What is your favorite movie?

CF: Too many and definitely depends on my mood. One movie that I can watch when I’m in any mood is Clueless.

What is your favorite role you’ve played?

CF: I think I’d have to say CheeChee in the Teen Beach movies for Disney Channel. Just because so many kids love it and it brings them joy.

What is your favorite book?

CF: The Alchemist.

What is your current favorite Netflix show to binge?

CF: The Great British Baking Show. Or is it The Great British Bake Off? Why are there two names and why can’t I ever remember which is which.

What is your favorite brand of clothing/ fashion designer?

CF: I mean, let’s get fancy... Christian Dior. I just love classy, clean and timeless fashion.

Lingerie: Yandy @yandy Pants: Sorapol London @sorapollondon Shoes: Charles David @charlesdavidshoes Earrings: Shy Siren @shysiren

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Dress: Nookie @lovenookie Earrings: Noa Jewelry @noa.jewelryline Shoes: Charles David @charlesdavidshoes

Lingerie: Yandy @yandy Pants: Sorapol London @sorapollondon Shoes: Charles David @charlesdavidshoes Earrings: Shy Siren @shysiren

Lingerie: Yandy @yandy Pants: Sorapol London @sorapollondon Shoes: Charles David @charlesdavidshoes Earrings: Shy Siren @shysiren

Dress: Nookie @lovenookie Earrings: Noa Jewelry @noa.jewelryline Shoes: Charles David @charlesdavidshoes

Jumpsuit: Nookie @lovenookie Earrings: Thale Blanc @thaleblanc

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Blazer: Jovana Louis @jovanalouis Bodysuit: Stello @stello Shoes: Charles David @charlesdavidshoes Earrings: Noa Jewelry @noa.jewelryline Pantyhose: Stylist’s own

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Blazer: Jovana Louis @jovanalouis Bodysuit: Stello @stello Shoes: Charles David @charlesdavidshoes Earrings: Noa Jewelry @noa.jewelryline Pantyhose: Stylist’s own 118

Jumpsuit: Nookie @lovenookie Earrings: Thale Blanc @thaleblanc 119

Lingerie: Yandy @yandy Pants: Sorapol London @sorapollondon Shoes: Charles David @charlesdavidshoes Earrings: Shy Siren @shysiren

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JR Rival Interview

by Ila Manzanares How long did it take you to learn the lines for Pitch Perfect 3?

super cute. But even more important than that, they are both really nice guys.

CF: It didn’t take too long. What took almost a month was learning all the acapella songs and choreography!

Do people annoy you with taking your picture and asking for your autograph?

Would you want to be a different character in the movie?

CF: Hmmmm. That’s a good question. I would say no because I love Flo so much but if we’re being honest, it would be fun to be as fearless as Fat Amy and as badass as Beca.

Do you prefer sugar cookies or chocolate chip?

CF: Chocolate chip! But I always get a pimple after I eat chocolate or pizza. How unfair is that, right?!

CF: Nah. It’s never annoying. I love connecting with people! Appreciate it now more than ever!

What is your favorite candy?

CF: Anything chocolate. But again, comes with a pimple price!

Do you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa?

CF: I celebrate Christmas. Well, in my Cuban home we say Noche Buena (Christmas Eve) and Navidad (Christmas Day).

Do you have any pets?

CF: I should’ve finally got a pet this year since I wasn’t traveling for work at all. That’s kind of why I don’t have one but I want to adopt a doggy or a kitty so bad. Maybe both!

Was it fun to sing in Pitch Perfect 3?

CF: It was so fun! I got to sing a few more solo lines in the third one and not just the bass, so that was awesome. Music really bring us all together. Acapella especially cause everyone has a very important part to sing to make the song sound full.

In Pitch Perfect 3 when you’re at the airport and you meet those guys, did you think they were cute?

CF: Oh, Chicago and Zeke (Matt Lanter and Troy Ian Hall)! Yeah, of course. They were both 121

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Dress: Nookie @lovenookie Jacket: Sorapol London @sorapollondon Shoes: Jasmin Elizabeth @jethebrand Earrings: Noa Jewelry @noa.jewelryline

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Emma Norton Dress Shirt: MANTÙ @mantu_castor Pants: MANTÙ @mantu_castor Boots: Altere NY @alterreny 127

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Suit: Malan Breton @malanbreton Blouse: Nana Jacqueline @nanajacqueline Shoes: Charles David Shoes @charlesdavidshoes

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Jacket: Elliatt @elliatt Vest: Janey Lopaty Vintage @janeylopatyvintage Sweater: Talbots @talbotsofficial Shorts: Lin Art Project @linartproject Shoes: Charles David @charlesdavidshoes Earrings: Mahrukh Akuly Jewelry @mahrukh.akuly.jewelry Jacket: Elliatt @elliatt Turtleneck: Gloria @gloria_fashiondesign Skirt: Lin Art Project @linartproject Shoes: Charles David @charlesdavidshoes Ring: Mahrukh Akuly Jewelry @mahrukh.akuly.jewelry

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Suit Jacket: Nana Jacqueline @nanajacqueline Blouse: House of Cinco @houseofcinco Bra: House of Cinco @houseofcinco Pants: MANTÙ @mantu_castor Shoes: Charles David Shoes @charlesdavidshoes Sunglasses: Jida Watt @jidawatteyewear

Viral Overnight Sitting down with viral Tik Tok sensation and makeup artist Emma Norton

by Ashley Dawson The internet knew it was in for something special when it met Emma Norton. From the moment her first makeup look as Harley Quinn went viral on Tik Tok in January of this year, her fan base started to grow at an exponential rate and her star power began to shine. The makeup artist and actress has since amassed a following of over six million people on the audio based app, and has dreams of becoming a well-known film and television actress. Rival had the chance to sit down with Emma and talk all things art, creativity, and entertainment during quarantine, and the young star did not hold back.

In January when Norton posted her Harley Quinn look to Tik Tok, her third video on the platform and her first to go viral, she said it was completely unexpected. “That crazy moment gave me the confidence to continue posting on Tik Tok,” she says. She didn’t expect the overwhelmingly positive response she got, and since then she works day and night to be as creative as possible with her content and makeup creations. “There is some pressure, but I try to focus on being creative and having fun with my videos,” Norton tells Rival editors. She has no shortage of ideas, and she’ll regularly sit down to brainstorm them on paper.

“For some videos I can just turn on the camera and start filming. Others with more elaborate characters and makeup can take up 132

to seven hours to create.”

She says that her favorite look to date is her blue tiger look, which took her so long to complete that she went to get her flu shot in full face makeup because she hadn’t finished filming yet. In addition to her unique makeup looks, Emma also collaborates with other known Tik Tok creators on the app. Just recently her collaboration with friend and peer Brooklynne Webb went viral, and she said that the process was extremely fun and the synergy was perfectly matched. “My ideas tend to be darker, and Brooklynne’s were lighter, so together we generated the perfect blend,” she says.

Norton’s love of all things dark and creative began at a young age when she would take trips to New York to visit family. “That started my love affair with Broadway shows,” she tells us, “which absolutely influenced my love for performing onstage.” She moved to Denver in the second grade where the beauty of the Rocky Mountains helped to shape her creative spirit. “When I was ten years old, I made the decision to dedicate myself to the performing arts,” Norton says, “and

I’ve been acting, dancing, and singing for years.”

That Halloween she created a skull makeup look that wowed her peers, and history began to write itself. “In 2020 Tik Tok became my creative outlet for developing even more characters,” she says. If you ask her what her “perfect world” scenario would be, she’d tell you playing a misunderstood female villain in a Marvel or DC Film where she gets to do her character’s special effects makeup.

Of course, Emma says that her friends and family are a close knit group that keep her steady in her journey. “In Denver I will always have a close group of friends who have been supportive of me,” she says, “and acting and Tik Tok has exposed me to a broader community of kindred spirits. I stay in touch with that community, mostly virtually, with occasional opportunities to collaborate in person in LA.” She says that her family and friends back home are super supportive and keep her grounded, and that she keeps her orbit small. “Most comments I receive on social media are very supportive, but haters come with the territory,” Norton says, “so I’ve learned that as long as I

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feel positive about the content I’ve created, it’s easy to let the negativity roll off my shoulders.”

Now, Emma’s dreams go deep and include a long career in the arts and entertainment industry. From her first moment onstage she knew that acting and performing would be her mission in life, and she’s used this downtime in quarantine to create a Tik Tok following that can help her achieve this goal. “The number one goal I’ve been working towards is to act in film and TV,” she states, “and if I stretch my goals further out, I’d love to direct film projects.” Emma is also a huge fan of fashion and has plans to own her own clothing and makeup lines one day.

Her move to attend school in LA in 2021 will help facilitate her career and ambitions.

Of course, all of this success and achievement has come at a time in history that none of us expected. During the pandemic Emma’s notoriety has exploded and her online status as a content creator has only grown. Like many creators, Emma has utilized her time indoors to create new content, looks, and videos for her followers. “The two strongest forces helping me stay positive and healthy mentally are my creative work and access to my friends,” she claims. She’s also had numerous opportunities to collaborate with other artists safely in Los Angeles, and keeps her content pipeline constantly full with new characters and trends. “Quarantine has given me time to create content, primarily on Tik Tok,” Emma tells us, “and I created quite a few characters in honor of Halloween season. My favorite was Cinderella with her glass slipper carved into her face.”

Emma says that the silver lining to her quarantine experience has been her introduction to creating video content on social media platforms, which she’ll be doing for a long time to come.

Stylist: Amia Serrano Hair: Rolando Aqui assisted by Erik Garcia

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Favorites What is your favorite Tik Tok trend at the moment?

EM: Positions by Ariana Grande.

What is your favorite food?

EM: I love sushi. My #1 comfort food is cinnamon toast from a bakery ½ mile from my house.

What is your favorite book?

EM: My all-time favorite book series is The School of Good and Evil.

What is your current favorite Netflix show to binge?

EM: I’m crazy about Umbrella Academy on Netflix.

What is your favorite makeup brand?

EM: Morphe.

What is your favorite brand of clothing/fashion designer?

EM: Christian Dior.

Suit: Malan Breton @malanbreton Blouse: Nana Jacqueline @nanajacqueline Shoes: Charles David Shoes @charlesdavidshoes

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Suit: Malan Breton @malanbreton Blouse: Nana Jacqueline @nanajacqueline Shoes: Charles David Shoes @charlesdavidshoes

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Dress Shirt: MANTÙ @mantu_castor Pants: MANTÙ @mantu_castor Boots: Altere NY @alterreny 138

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Dress: Helen Anthony @helenanthonyofficial Tights: Stylist’s own Earrings: Debora A. Malouf Jewelry @dmjewelrydesigns Shoes: Charles David Shoes @charlesdavidshoes

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Suit: Malan Breton @malanbreton Blouse: Nana Jacqueline @nanajacqueline Shoes: Charles David Shoes @charlesdavidshoes

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Suit Jacket: Nana Jacqueline @nanajacqueline Blouse: House of Cinco @houseofcinco Bra: House of Cinco @houseofcinco Pants: MANTÙ @mantu_castor Shoes: Charles David Shoes @charlesdavidshoes Sunglasses: Jida Watt @jidawatteyewear

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Suit Jacket: Nana Jacqueline @nanajacqueline Blouse: House of Cinco @houseofcinco Bra: House of Cinco @houseofcinco Pants: MANTÙ @mantu_castor Shoes: Charles David Shoes @charlesdavidshoes Sunglasses: Jida Watt @jidawatteyewear 143

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Suit: Malan Breton @malanbreton Blouse: Nana Jacqueline @nanajacqueline Shoes: Charles David Shoes @charlesdavidshoes

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Shirt: Bugatchi @bugatchi Pants: Charles and Ron @charlesandron @maisonpriveepr_la 146

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De Murguia

Bayardo

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Leather Jacket: Dulce Bestia @dulce.bestia Jeans: Jack and Jones @jackandjones @maisonpriveepr_la

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Suit: Henri Couture Paris @henrycoutureparis @pr_solo

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Bayardo De Murguia Paciencia Y Fe Sitting down with the newest star of Netflix’s Tiny Pretty Things

by Ashley Dawson Actor and artist Bayardo De Murguia is stunning audiences as dance instructor Ramon on Netflix’s newest original series Tiny Pretty Things. The show is making waves on the streaming platform in the short time that it’s been available for viewing, and Bayardo is quickly rising in the ranks as Netflix’s newest actor to take hold of audiences with his charisma and charm. Rival had the opportunity to sit down with De Murguia and discuss all things acting, dance, and creating during quarantine.

After his family immigrated from Tijuana to San Diego when he was a child, proud MexicanAmerican citizen De Murguia went to USD to play football. A quick intro to theatre class made him immediately fall in love with the art, and he knew that was what he wanted to do and continue studying. “Growing up bi-cultural was a blessing,” Bayardo says, “and I had family close by on both sides of the border. Being able to live with both cultures in me has made me stronger as a person and artist.” He says that his family and friends have been supportive of his acting career, but that he never really had a guide to help him navigate the entertainment industry.

“Instead, my family taught me to never forget where I came from, to treat others with love and how I want to be treated, and to never lose my sense of humor,” the actor says, “and if I forgot any of that, my mom would throw a chancla at me in an instant.”

Bayardo says that the actors and artists he’s met along the way have had his back and kept him inspired:

“Paciencia y fe. The journey is different for every single one of us. Sometimes you may have doubt or feel like you are working for mothing. You take from the good and bad, learn everything you can, and keep going forward. It takes a lot of patience and faith but it is worth it in the end.”

Of course, when Bayardo found out he gotthe role of Ramon in Tiny Pretty Things he was ecstatic. “I was also very scared. I’ve always loved ballet and have so much respect for the dance community that I just wanted to make everyone proud and be as authentic as I could,” he states. His character, Ramon, is described as a “bad boy turned visionary choreographer” with abnormal methods of teaching that add a layer of complexity to the show. “Ramon is a very intricate individual,” Bayardo says, “and he is all about tough love and bringing out the best in his students, even if that means bringing out the worst, too.” The actor says that Ramon loves chaos and scandal, and he relates to him because he has also had a “trial by fire” journey in his acting career.

“Ramon is a little different because, yes, he’ll probably throw you in the water to teach you to swim, but he’ll most likely do it with your hands and feet tied.”

The character himself is Cuban-American, and Bayardo wanted to make sure he represented the culture as accurately as possible, so he immediately started researching anything he could on Latin-American styles of dance. “He lives to challenge you, to criticize you, and 151

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to humiliate you,” Bayardo says, “all for the purpose of trying to make you better.” While he didn’t agree with many of Ramon’s teaching methods, Bayardo had fun playing the chaotic character to a T. Now, in addition to the emotional load of playing the role, there was a huge physical demand that Bayardo took on in order to play Ramon. His days on set started and ended with a workout and he was constantly dancing and staying in shape for the show. “On intense shooting days I usually kept to myself and listened to a lot of music,” he says, “and Ramon’s soundtrack was a lot of Reggaeton, Trap Latino, Salsa, and Classical pieces.” On mellow shooting days he would have dance-offs with his peers, sing-alongs, games, and many heartfelt conversations with cast and crew.

“The discipline and work ethic that the dancers have is unreal. I wanted to do them justice in my physical portrayal of Ramon and hit the gym six days a week even while shooting.

If I missed a day, I would do a double the next.

There was also dance rehearsal every day for the cast. If you were not shooting, you were most likely in rehearsal for the pieces performed throughout the season. We essentially created our own dance company with Tiny Pretty Things. It was the most flexible I’ve ever been, and the most sore.”

Of course, Bayardo’s lead role in the show didn’t come about by accident. The actor got his start studying acting and improve in Spain in his early 20’s, and wanted to study abroad in order to open himself up as a Spanish speaking actor. “In my first play at USD my character couldn’t hear or speak, and I loved every moment being on stage and using other tools in my body to perform,” he says. He’s also performed Shakespeare at the Old Globe Theatre in Balboa Park, and says that there’s

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no comparable feeling to bringing work to life in front of hundreds of people. “As a college football player I knew what it was like to perform for a crowd, but the feeling of live theatre is so much more fulfilling,” the actor states. Bayardo has also worked in film, commercials, and voice over, and loves every different style of entertaining that he can get his hands on. “I love them all,” he says, “and they are all different styles that take different elements of what you can do as an actor.”

Now, the topic weighing on every artist’s mind at the moment is the COVID-19 pandemic. We asked De Murguia what he’s been doing to stay mentally and physically healthy during this time, and his answer was staying outdoors as much as possible. “Sometimes you can get so much anxiety from staying indoors, so I try to at least walk or run once a day,” the actor tells Rival editors. He’s been doing a lot of at-home workouts to stay in shape, and emotionally he’s been calling loved ones every few days just to check in. “My family and close friends are what ground me, and we are all handling the pandemic differently. It’s best to always check in and be there for each other,” he admits. He also attended the Tiny Pretty Things Zoom premier party and has been honing his skills, catching up on shows and films, and reading:

“This is the perfect time to hone your skills and take advantage of the lockdown.

I’ve caught up on shows and films I’ve been meaning to see, and am always teaching myself and learning from others. Read the book you’ve been meaning to pick up or take an online class if you can. As long as you feel that you can take a step forward each day and make yourself better, you are doing it right.”

Stylist: Irena Iverson Grooming: Ashley Francisco

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Favorites

Who is your favorite professional dancer?

B: Carlos Acosta; he was a big inspiration for Ramon and is so incredible to watch.

What is your favorite food?

B: Tacos- always tacos. A hueeeevo.

What is your favorite book?

B: Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris.

What is your current favorite song?

B: Vivir mi Vida- Marc Antony (always puts me in a great mood).

What is your favorite brand of clothing/ fashion designer?

B: Anything that reflects my love of motorcycle culture. Currently loving my SCHOTT NYC leather jacket.

What is your favorite sport?

B: Football - American to play and football/soccer to watch.

What is your favorite stage play?

B: Tie between Othello and Romeo and Juliet.

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Shirt: Charles Ball Jeans: PRPS 161

CRAFTED IN HOLLYWOOD