11 minute read
Blanca BLANCO VERSATILITY & DEDICATION
Blanca Blanco is a name that has become synonymous with versatility and dedication in the entertainment industry. With an impressive array of roles in both film and television, she has captivated audiences with her profound performances and striking presence. From her award-winning portrayal in "Eye For Eye" to her compelling role in "Tale of Tails," Blanco 's ability to embody complex characters with authenticity and depth is truly remarkable. Her latest project, "Finding Nicole," sees her stepping into the role of therapist Katarina Lopez , a character that drew her in with its depth and resilience. In our exclusive interview, Blanco shares how she prepared for this role by drawing on her background in psychology and social work, and how this preparation allowed her to bring a genuine and compassionate portrayal to the screen.
ACTRESS: BLANCA BLANCO @blancablancoactress
PHOTOGRAPHER: FILIP SHOBOT @filipshobotphotography
FASHION DESIGNER: ANAHIT BEVERLY HILLS @fashiondrug_by_anahit
MAKEUP ARTIST: GILBERT MORAN
HAIR STYLIST: VLADIMIR SIMIC @vladimirsimic1
RETOUCHER: IVANA SHOBOT @ivanashobot
JEWELRY PROVIDED BY LEON´S FINE JEWELRY BEVERLY HILLS @leonsbeverlyhills & ANAHIT BEVERLY HILLS @fashiondrug_by_anahit
Blanca, you've played a wide range of roles in both film and television. What has been the most challenging role for you so far, and why?
One of my most challenging roles was playing Melanie in “Betrayed." Melanie was a complex villain, dealing with deep emotional trauma and inner conflict. Bringing her to life required me to tap into intense emotions and experiences. The preparation involved understanding her psychological state and undergoing rigorous physical training. It was exhausting but gratifying. The challenge pushed me to grow as an actress and taught me the importance of empathy and resilience. I was honored to receive multiple Best Actress awards for this role. This role will always be special because it pushed my boundaries and expanded my horizons.
Your performance in "Eye For Eye" earned you a Best Actress award. Can you tell us about your preparation for this role and what it means to you to receive this recognition?
Being considered for an Emmy was surreal and incredibly validating. It felt like a recognition of the hard work and passion I poured into the character. It's such an honor, and feels great for my work to be recognized by the Television Academy.
As an actress with a background in psychology and social work, how do you think your education has influenced your acting career?
Preparing for my role in 'Eye for Eye' was a profound experience. I immersed myself in the character's background, motivations, and emotional struggles to make the performance as authentic as possible. Winning the Best Actress award was deeply humbling and gratifying. It affirmed my hard work and dedication in the role resonated with others. This recognition motivates me to continue challenging myself and taking on diverse roles.nse in all of these locales and more.
You were an Emmy contender for your role in "Tale of Tails." How did you approach portraying Lola, and what was it like being considered for such a prestigious award?
Portraying Lola in 'Tale of Tails' was an enriching experience. I delved deep into her character, understanding her complexities, strengths, and vulnerabilities. I aimed to bring authenticity and depth to her, making her relatable yet unique.
My background in psychology and social work has profoundly influenced my acting career. It has given me a deeper understanding of human behavior, emotions, and motivations, which I apply when developing my characters. This education allows me to portray complex, multi-dimensional roles with authenticity and empathy, helping me connect more deeply with my characters and make my performances more resonant and impactful.
Your book "Breaking the Mold" became a bestseller and won the Literature Award in 2021. What inspired you to write this memoir, and what message do you hope readers take away from it?
I wrote my book, "Breaking The Mold," during the devastating COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown. In it, I share my personal experiences and struggles. I aimed to be completely transparent and vulnerable about my past to offer guidance and strength to others during difficult times. If I had not experienced trauma in my life, I would never have known how resilient and capable I am of overcoming challenges. It gave me the determination necessary to break the cycle of poverty. Through my pain and challenges, I have learned to thrive, and I wanted to share my story to inspire others.
I hope readers take away a sense of empowerment and the belief that they can break free from societal molds and carve their paths. I want them to feel that, despite obstacles, they have the strength to pursue their dreams and embrace their true selves.
You are a regular on the red carpet at major award shows and film festivals. How do you choose your outfits for these events, and what does fashion mean to you?
Choosing outfits for the red carpet is a collaborative and thoughtful process. I find pieces that reflect my personality and the event's tone. I love bright colors, and I avoid black clothing. I also consider the latest fashion trends. Each outfit is a statement, blending elegance with a bit of boldness.
Fashion is a powerful form of self-expression. It’s not just about wearing beautiful clothes but also about conveying confidence, individuality, and sometimes even a message. It's a celebration of artistry and a way to connect with people without saying a word.
You've collaborated with top luxury brands like Versace, Chopard Christophe Guillarme, Chiquelle etc.. What have been some of your favorite fashion collaborations, and why?
Collaborating with luxury brands has been incredibly rewarding. Each brings unique creativity that allows me to explore different styles. Working with Christophe Guillarmé provided a unique charm with his elegant and contemporary designs. Each collaboration brought its flair, blending creativity and excellence in unforgettable ways. Working with Chopard was also an incredible experience. Chopard ’s exquisite craftsmanship in jewelry added a touch of timeless elegance to my fashion on the red carpet. Being the face of Chiquelle for the Elle magazine campaigns was equally rewarding. Collaborating with Chiquelle was exciting due to their fresh, trendy approach to fashion. Their innovative and dynamic style brought a youthful and contemporary edge. I like to push fashion boundaries, and the outfits I put together with brands often result in best-dressed lists. These experiences have enriched my red carpet-presence and allowed me to express diverse facets of my personality through fashion.
Your social media presence is strong, with viral posts and significant engagement. How do you balance maintaining authenticity while managing such a large following?
I focus on sharing content that genuinely reflects who I am, engaging personally with my followers, and prioritizing quality over quantity in my posts. Transparency about both successes and challenges helps keep my presence relatable. I balance authenticity with an engaged following by setting boundaries to maintain privacy.
Philanthropy is clearly important to you, with your support for organizations like the LA Mission and Stand Up to Cancer. Can you share more about your involvement in these causes and why they are important to you?
Philanthropy holds a special place in my heart, and supporting organizations like the LA Mission and Stand Up To Cancer allows me to contribute to causes that deeply resonate with me.
My involvement with the LA Mission stems from a strong belief in giving back to the local community and addressing homelessness. I've seen firsthand the transformative impact a supportive community can have on individuals struggling to get back on their feet. Through volunteering and advocacy, I aim to raise awareness and support for the vital services the LA Mission provides.
Stand Up To Cancer is another cause close to my heart due to my connections to cancer. I've witnessed the challenges faced by loved ones battling this disease, and I am committed to supporting cancer research, education, and patient services. By participating in fundraising events and public awareness campaigns, I hope to contribute to the fight against cancer and support those affected by it.
Both causes are important to me because they address crucial human needs—offering hope, relief, and a path to recovery. Through my involvement, I aim to make a tangible difference and inspire others to join these efforts.
Your role in "Betrayed" opposite John Savage earned you a Best Supporting Actress award. and how did you develop your character for this film?
Developing my character for 'Betrayed' was incredibly immersive. First, I thoroughly absorbed the script, tapping into every nuance and relationship. Research played a significant role. Creating a detailed backstory grounded my performance. Collaborating with our director, John Savage , and fellow actors enriched the character, adding layers and depth through consistent discussions.
The emotional connection was vital. Relating her feelings to my life made the character's emotions more authentic. Rehearsals allowed us to experiment, finding what resonated most. Finally, focusing on her physicality— posture, gestures, and speech—brought her to life.
Winning BestSupporting Actress was the ultimate reward for our collective effort. I'm proud of what we achieved together!
As an international model, you often appear on Best Dressed lists. What are your top fashion tips for looking stylish and sophisticated?
From my experience as an international model, the key to looking stylish and sophisticated is all about fit. Clothes that are tailored to my body make a world of difference. I’ve learned to invest in high-quality, timeless pieces and to stick to bright colors. Accessories play a huge role, too, and can elevate any outfit. Confidence is everything; wearing what makes me feel empowered is crucial. Lastly, attention to grooming and small details, like polished shoes and neat nails, always ensures a polished, sophisticated look.
In "Finding Nicole," you play the role of therapist Katarina Lopez. What drew you to this character, and how did you prepare for the role?
I was drawn to the character of therapist Katarina Lopez in 'Finding Nicole' because of her depth and resilience. Katarina ’s role in guiding others through their challenges while navigating her complexities resonated deeply with me. My background in psychology gave me a solid foundation for understanding her mindset and the therapeutic process. I used my previous therapy work experiences and techniques to bring authenticity to the role, which immensely helped with my portrayal. This preparation allowed me to embody Katarina with the empathy and strength she needs to support her clients, reflecting the true spirit of a dedicated therapist.
Can you share any insights into the storyline of "Finding Nicole" and how your character, Katarina Lopez, fits into the narrative?
I’d say try to find your own niche and make it special. Find what you’re passionate about, envision it, develop it, and improve it. As a designer you naturally love everything you create; but often designs ripen over time, in a sense they need to simmer. That process can’t be rushed. Play around with prototypes and ask yourself if that’s the best version of your initial idea. There are no shortcuts when it comes to jewelry.
Therapists play a crucial role in their clients' lives. How did you approach portraying a therapist authentically, and did your background in psychology help you in this role?
Portraying a therapist authentically was essential to me. I focused on empathy, active listening, and professionalism.
My background in psychology helped. It gave me a deeper understanding of the therapist- client relationship and its complexities. It also enabled me to grasp therapists' emotional nuances and ethical responsibilities.
Combining thorough research with my psychology knowledge allowed me to create a genuine and compassionate character, helping to connect with the audience.
Looking ahead, what upcoming projects are you most excited about, and what goals do you have for the next phase of your career?
I'm excited about a few upcoming projects that showcase diverse storytelling. I can't reveal much yet, but one involves a thriller film that delves into complex human emotions, and another is a heartfelt drama about overcoming adversity. Check out the Finding Nicole film release at the end of 2024.
For the next career phase, I aim to tackle more challenging and varied roles that push my acting boundaries.
Ultimately, I aim to continue growing personally and professionally and contribute to projects that resonate deeply with audiences.
