zolee griggs

zolee zolee griggs griggs

words by VANESSA SALLES photos by THE RIKER BROTHERS

Best described as a force to be reckoned with, Zolee Griggs has quickly become one to watch. Through the powerful, diverse, and dynamic characters that she’s brought to life on screen, the talented starlet is a scenestealer in every project she takes on. We talked to the rising actress about her latest film, Archenemy, the upcoming season of Hulu’s Wu-Tang: An American Saga, and more!

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Tell us about Archenemy! What is it about

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

I was really interested in the movie because of how realistic and natural it seemed. I could really relate to Indigo because of the city that she grew up in. She’s a product of her environment and that’s relatable to a lot of people out in situations they personally wouldn’t choose to be in. I love her relationship with her brother because she wants to be a provider even when they

don’t get along. I also liked how much of a free thinker she was, from her outfits to apartment design, food choices... she was also open minded and willing to do whatever she needed to make ends meet while staying true to herself.

What can you tell us about your role as Indigo and what viewers can expect from her?

Indigo is a free spirit. She’s eclectic, she likes the color blue, bright colors, and being expressive. I would think she lives two different lives, like in the outside world where she had to put on a front and be hard so people don’t mess with her, and then the real her where she can be soft and a bigger sister to Hamster and more maternal. she’s definitely got an innocence to her because she has the spirit of a child but she goes through very serious situations that makes her mature.

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

I don’t want to give away any spoilers but the harness scene that we did was a lot of fun. I had never been in a harness before, and I had never been that high up before. I was asking the stunt coordinator if I could do backflips to which they said no, but if they would’ve allowed me, I would’ve done it!

How would you describe the vibe on set?

The vibe was cool because Adam, our director, is really cool. He is very upbeat and great at giving direction. He’s fun and free spirited as well so he really brings that energy to set and into each character. Most of my scenes would be with Skylan and Joe and they were extremely professional and just a lot of fun to be around and we would just have a lot of fun in general, even during serious scenes. Afterwards, we would break away, laugh, grab a snack and keep it going.

Tell us about your time on “Wu-Tang: An American Saga” – what was that

experience like for you?

It’s a lot of fun because we are telling someone else’s life story. It takes a lot of research and time to play those characters authentically and to pay homage and show respect. It’s fun because we’re kind of a part of history by sharing WU TANG‘s life story publicly. This is their first time really telling people with visuals, rather

than just the art of storytelling through music so it’s an honor.

What would you say was the most important lesson you learned on that set?

I really learned from working with a bunch of different directors. I believe we had seven different directors on the first season, so I learned how to take notes, take different directions from different people from their point of view, but also stayed true to who the character is in this scene, their surroundings, and the relationships that you have with them. Somebody might give direction one way that they think would be better this way but that might not be true to how you’ve been playing the character and what the previous episodes have in mind, so just knowing who your character is is something important that I’ve learned.

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

I really want to play Erykah Badu in a biopic, so that is the goal.

With the crazy year we’ve all had, what would you say has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned this year?

The biggest lesson I learned this year is that you can’t plan for life. Ever. Therefore, you should always be authentic with the things that you do and with the people you love, as well as the intentions you set and how you treat others. Of course, I knew these things already but it’s easy to get swept up in other worries of the world like your career and bills. This year allowed me to go deeper within myself to see what fulfills me and makes me feel like I have a purpose in life.

What are you loving on TV lately?

I loved the new season of Big Mouth because I love cartoons, especially adult cartoons.

What do you want to see more of?

More original stories! We’ve seen a lot of remakes and reboots and there’s so many cool stories that should be told, just waiting for production companies to give them the green light!

Working in such a chaotic field, what are some ways you practice self-care and prioritize your mental health?

I journal, I meditate, I make candles, and make time for myself when needed. Also, going outside when I can helps a lot. Getting a breath of fresh air with my dog is the best.

What kind of advice would you give to someone looking to pursue the same career?

To not be afraid to take classes! I was afraid because it seemed intimidating and I wasn’t ready to feel uncomfortable with myself yet. It was the best decision I ever made because not only did I learn a lot, but I made new friends and connections.

What’s something on your bucket list for 2021?

I learned in 2020 that you can’t really plan for life, so I have an overall bucket list. I really just want to travel and experience the world. I think it expands your wisdom and makes you a better person. Tokyo, Lagos, Bali and Lake Como are on the top of my list currently.

Outside of acting, what are some of the passions that fuel you?

Giving back. I really want to take my mentorship program GRL2WMN on the road to public schools and reform the way young women and children interact with each other. I want to introduce them to new perspectives, ideas, and luxuries at a young age so they know they’re worthy of those things from a young age.

Any special message for fans?

Wu-Tang season 2 is coming soon! :)