Fola Evans-Akingbola

fola evansakingbola

Best known for her role as Maddie Bishop on Freeform’s hit series Siren, Fola Evans-Akingbola shines both on and off screen. We talked to the actress about set secrets, what’s to come, and more!

words by VANESSA SALLES photo by ANDREW MACPHERSON

Let’s talk Siren! Without giving too much

away, what should fans be expecting from the rest of season 3?

A lot of irreversible change! By the end of the season, let’s just say things will never be the same. I think the audience will be interested to see how the divide between Ben, Maddie and Ryn increases.

Are there any memorable behind-thescenes moments from filming that you can share with us?

We are mostly very professional but occasionally, we get the giggles and just can’t stop laughing during a scene! Alex and I having to pretend to enjoy Ryn’s marshmallow chicken in episode 1 was pretty hilarious, but luckily our character’s were allowed to find the whole thing funny too.

Being three seasons in, what’s been your favorite part about Maddie’s evolution/ development and bringing her to life?

I have enjoyed exploring how much Maddie has learned from Ryn. Ryn is the perfect demonstration of what it means to fully inhabit your power and stand up for yourself. She exudes confidence whilst still being loving and sensitive and I think Maddie has had to learn that you can still be loving and patient whilst protecting your own boundaries. In season 1, Maddie was loyal, almost to a fault. She had no problem putting everyone else’s needs and desires in front of her own. This season, I think we see that Maddie is starting to draw a line in the sand. There are certain things that just don’t sit with her and she won’t go along with them. She’s now comfortable with distancing herself from what she isn’t okay with, even if that means losing something she loves.

How would you describe the dynamic between Maddie and Ryn this season?

I feel Maddie and Ryn shift into a deeper friendship this season. Difficulties between Ben and Maddie force a change between Maddie and Ryn. Maddie and Ryn have to trust that they have a solid foundation and friendship that will always be there even if they are no longer in this ‘throuple’.

How would you describe the vibe on set & how you all bond off screen?

We’ve all been on this wonderful journey together and have seen each other grow as people, as actors and as characters. It really is like a family on set and I’m including the crew in that. We have the most amazing crew, most of whom have been with the show since Season 1 and they are integral to creating the relaxed and supportive vibe on set. We all really care about doing the work and I think that helps keep us all focused on what matters which is telling the story in the best way we can.

During these unprecedented times, how are you dealing with staying sane at home?

I have to acknowledge that I have the luxury and privilege to be able to embrace this situation and fully relax. I’m reading lots of books, watching movies, binging TV shows and taking a step back from the depleting ‘grind’