kaley ronayne

Starring in Disney+’s The Right Stuff, Kaley Ronayne shines as Dee O’Hara. We talked to the actress about behind the scenes moments and more!

words by VANESSA SALLES photo by ALEX PINES

Tell us about The Right Stuff! What is it

about the series that drew you in and made you want to be involved?

When I first read the script, I was struck by how good the writing was. It is a big subject to tackle, and I was so impressed and intrigued by the setup of the pilot. I also love period pieces, so that aspect was appealing to me as well.

What can you tell us about your role as Dee O’Hara? What should viewers be expecting to see from her?

Dee is a real person, and she is a total badass. She was the first nurse to the astronauts, and participated in every launch in the Mercury, Gemini and Apollo programs. She tells it like it is—the original character description was “nobody’s fool”, and I think that’s an accurate phrase to describe what you can expect from her throughout the series. She was a woman working in a world of men and she held her own. That’s not to say she doesn’t have heart; she is deeply loyal and caring. I loved playing her.

Any memorable behind-the-scenes moments from filming that you can share with us?

My favorite day was when I got to see the MASTIF that the amazing set crew created. It is an exact replica of the one that the real Mercury 7 used to train, and I was obsessed with it!

What do you hope viewers take away from the show?

The feat of going to space is one that I still can’t wrap my head around. I think the show allows viewers to get a glimpse into the all the work behind the first space mission and the entire team of people it took to pull it off. Not to mention the physical and emotional toll it took on the astronauts and their loved ones.

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

I have so many! I can’t say for sure, but I know I would love to combine my two favorite things, comedy and period pieces. So something like Mrs. Maisel—a period piece with all the trimmings, but comedic.

What has life in quarantine looked like for you lately?

Quarantine in New York City has been a rollercoaster. I have been doing a lot of decorating my apartment, cooking, volunteering, writing a feature film. I’ve also used a lot of my free time to volunteer with @knock4democracy.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned this year?

I’ve learned so many lessons in 2020, the biggest ones involving gratitude. My artistic path has been solidified and I’ve learned how to take charge of my artistry and pave my own way, rather than just waiting for something to happen.

Any special message for fans?

Hope you enjoy the show! Thanks for tuning in.