SATURNE #30 ft. Asha Banks

ASHA BANKS Photographed by David Reiss

#30

MAY / JUN 2024

FRONT COVER EDITORS-IN-CHIEF CERENA HAMMANA LYNA ALLET

ART DIRECTOR CERENA HAMMANA

PUBLIC RELATIONS DIANE MARCHETTI LYNA ALLET CERENA HAMMANA

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS ANAIS DA SILVA FLORIAN ADÉ

ASHA BANKS IN THIS ISSUE

Photographed by David Reiss

TALENTS ASHA BANKS GIRLI HARRIET CAINS JILLIAN SHEA SPAEDER PHOTOGRAPHERS DAVID REISS EMILIA STAUGAARD CLARYN CHONG GRACE WETHOR PUBLICISTS / AGENTS LEAH PERRY (icon publicity) HEATHER BESIGNANO (icon publicity) HAYLEY STUBBS (ace pr) JAMIE WILDE (wma) SHANE HAWKINS (wma)

BACK COVER

IN THIS ISSUE

6 Asha Banks

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14

Harriet Cains

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GIRLI

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Tenniscore

30

The Role of Pop Culture in Political Movements

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Jillian Shea Spaeder

PLAYLIST Any Way L’IMPERATRICE ft.

MAGGIE ROGERS

Houdini EMINEM

Fine JILLIAN SHEA

Crush Me Up GIRLI

Good Luck Babe CHAPPELL ROAN

The End HALSEY

Matriarchy GIRLI

Please Please Please SABRINA CARPENTER

I Can Do It With A Broken Heart TAYLOR SWIFT

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Interview by Diane Marchetti Photography by David Reiss Styling by Sarah Harrison Make up by Anna Inglis Hall Hair by Emma Small

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ASHA BANKS SATURNE MAGAZINE - Can you introduce yourself for people who may not know you?

ASHA BANKS - Hello! My name is Asha Banks and I’m a 20 year old actress and singer/songwriter.

SM - What made you want to become an actress? Was it a passion since childhood? What is your journey with acting?

AB - I started acting really young and I guess it kind of just happened. I must’ve been one of those kids who loved to dress up and tell stories, but it properly started at about 6 when my friend asked if I wanted to try out a weekend theatre class that had acting, singing and dancing. I was doing ballet (which I hated) at the time- so if it got me out of that, i’d try it. Obviously I ended up falling in love with it and ran home telling my mum that’s what I wanted to be when I grew up - so that was the beginning and I still feel the same way now!

My journey started in theatre, as I’ve always loved singing and acting it felt like the perfect place for me.

I’ve been working in the theatre professionally since I was 7 when I was cast in Les Mis in the west end.

Since then I’ve been lucky enough to have been in a bunch of incredible west end and touring productions. The most recent of which was Spring Awakening at the Almeida, directed by Rupert Goold- a part which I got at 15 but due to the pandemic wasn’t put on until I was turning 18! So theatre was my first love but I’d always desperately wanted to try out screen so when it happened I was so excited. It’s only been a few years but now I love it just as much. I feel so blessed that I’m able to do both theatre and screen as they’re so different in many ways that I’m always on my toes- but it’s the same passion and fun that makes this industry so exciting.

SM - Do you have a go-to ritual when you’re feeling nervous before an audition or filming?

AB - This is going to sound so silly but I’ve done this since I was little! I always read my lines just before I go to sleep before an audition and then put them under my pillow. I always wake up the next day knowing them better! I don’t know if it’s the reading them before sleeping (the most likely) or the magic of them being under my head and being absorbed into my brain through the pillow, but either way it works so I shouldn’t ask questions!

I always love making character Spotify playlists with what I think they’d listen to, or what I’m listening to while I’m filming. So if I’m nervous for a day on set i’ll just shove my headphones on and play the playlist or play it in my trailer as I get ready. Music is such a big part of my life and brings me comfort so it always calms me down or on the flip side gets me energised and ready for the day.

SM - Can you describe your character in A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder ? Do you feel close to her ?

AB - My character, Cara is so cool. She’s witty, smart, sarcastic, thoughtful and my favourite thing about her is what a good friend she is. She’s so loyal- almost to a fault, but I love that about her. I feel super close to her. Holly Jackson (The author of the book) has made her so relatable and I definitely felt that whilst reading the book and the script. You really feel for her and her friendship with Pip is so sweet. I want a friend like Cara - actually I do have friends like Cara.

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SM - “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder” is based on a best-selling novel. Did you read the book before or during filming to better understand your character?

AB - I read the book as soon as I found out I got the part. I had heard so much about it that I didn’t want to read it during auditions and love it, like I knew I would, before finding out if i’d got the part, otherwise I’d have been even more gutted if I didn’t get it!

Once I found out I read it SO quickly! The moment I started I didn’t want to put it down. I had to finish it to find out what happened- it’s so gripping. I deliberately didn’t search the ending whilst auditioning so that I could have the reveal when reading and I’m so glad because it was such a shock. I’m so excited to watch the show as a viewer and see this put to life- I’ll probably still be shocked, even though I know exactly what happens.

SM - What do you hope audiences will take away from your portrayal of Cara Ward in “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder”?

AB - I hope they see themselves in her. She’s such a great character and has such good morals and values in her life and relationships. She doesn’t have it easy at all yet she’s still such an optimist and takes it all in her stride. She cares so deeply and I think that’s admirable.

I also think the way she’s written is so realistic, and the way she speaks made her easy for me to inhabit.

The whole friendship group’s dynamic feels so relatable and the way they communicate is so true to how I talk with my friends that I felt aligned with Cara from the offset. I think we have the same place within a friend circle- so I immediately found her very funny haha. I feel that in a way we all kind of morphed into our characters during the shoot because they are so accessible to people of our age and they all feel so real.

I remember meeting Holly Jackson at the read through and getting on with her so well that when I asked her who she feels most similar to in the book and she said Cara it made perfect sense. We have the same sarcastic humour, so I think Cara exists somewhere between us.

SM - If you could give Cara Ward one piece of advice, what would it be and why?

AB - Just to keep being her I think. I sound like her biggest fan- and I think I am- but she’s just great.

I think it would be to believe in herself and her abilities. She adds so much value to people’s lives and I think she needs to see how much joy she brings to people around her.

Also to stay best friends with her sister Naomi. Family is very important!

SM - What is your approach to remaining authentic and true to yourself in a field as competitive as film and television?

AB - I’ve always wanted to be an actor ever since I was little so I think it’s important to keep honouring that part of myself and always remember that I’m fulfilling younger Asha’s dreams. This industry is definitely competitive but I think I’ve come to believe that what’s meant for me won’t pass me by. I have the most wonderful family and friends and just spending time with them makes me happy and keeps me grounded. I also think it’s always important to not make one thing your whole life. I love music and songwriting too and that’s a massive creative release for me and a whole different passion of mine. I am so grateful that I get to spend my time doing things that I love, whether that be acting, music or seeing my friends and I think that keeps me in touch with how lucky I am.

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SM - You were also cast in the UK remake of “culpa mia” can you tell us more?

AB - Yes, it’s so exciting! We have finished filming now and Im just so glad it has been announced. My Fault: London is a British remake of the Prime Video Spanish Original film Culpa Mia, based on the best-selling book of the same name by the brilliant author Mercedes Ron. It follows my character Noah who moves from America, and is discovering London for the first time in the midst of balancing an electric relationship with Londoner Nick played by the amazing Matthew Broome. Nick is a bit of a bad boy, and there is an immediate attraction. Noah spends the summer adjusting to life in London, making new friends but her estranged father is released from prison and starts tracking her every move. She’s then forced to deal with her past, while falling in love for the first time. It’s a dramatic romance that takes the audience on a wild ride and I hope people are going to love it!

SM - Do you have any apprehension knowing that a version of the Spanish film already exists ?

AB - What’s so wonderful about this story is that it has such a passionate existing fan base already from the success of both the book and the original Spanish movie. This is both exciting, but also I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t daunting to come into, the characters are known and loved! But I had the most amazing time making My Fault: London, I’m so proud of what we have created and can’t wait for people to see this version of the story!

SM - What are your aspirations for the future of your acting career and what types of roles or challenges do you hope to take on?

AB - Wow, I’d love to give everything a go haha! I’ve got lots of aspirations in acting for sure. It’s so exciting looking to the future and not really knowing what’s coming next.

I really love psychological thrillers, they’re so intense and I love being an audience member watching them- I feel like you’re really taken out of the real world as they’re so captivating so i would love to explore working in that genre more. I would also love to play a character that’s very different to me - so maybe the villain. I think so far I’ve been lucky to play characters that feel similar in ways to me, so I think doing the opposite would be a challenge i’d love to try, get out of my comfort zone.

I just played a character that had an American accent so a different accent than mine and I really enjoyed it! I had an amazing dialect coach and the team were so helpful that feel like I learnt so much from it, which was really rewarding. I’m just starting my career in screen and I do feel like I’m learning so much so i’d love to continue this in different genres and styles to really push myself. And also to work with some of my favourite actors, writers and directors would be a dream!

SM - How do you see your career evolving in the long term and what are your professional goals to achieve?

AB - Hopefully I can carry on doing what I’m doing. Work with more inspirational people and women in the industry and hopefully be a part in creating things people love. Long term i’d love to work in film more. I’ve just had my first lead surrounded by such a brilliant mix of exciting young actors as well as those that have been in the industry for years and two incredible young female directors. I find the film making process so interesting, there so much to it. It’s been a baptism of fire in so many ways but also incredibly stimulating and I’ve hugely enjoyed late night discussions about the technical side of filmmaking- it’s been so eye opening.

I also can’t wait to release music. I’ve always loved songwriting and it’s something that’s a massive part of my life. I’ve been working on it for a while now so I’m definitely excited to jump into that side of my career too! The dream would be to combine the two in some way and I’m looking forward to seeing how that’s possible!

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ASHA BANKS

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Harriet Cains 14

Words by Diane Marchetti Photography by Emilia Staugaard Make up by Anna Inglis Hall

Styling by Nathan Henry Hair by Emma Small

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SATURNE MAGAZINE - Can you introduce yourself for people who may not know you?

HARRIET CAINS - Ayup I’m Harriet, I’m an actor and I’ve been playing Philipa Featherington on Bridgerton for 3 seasons now.

SM - Can you describe your character in Bridgerton? Do you feel close to her? What are the similarities and differences between your character and you as a person?

HC - She’s a funny little regency thicko really. I feel very close to her insomuch as I am protective of her. She’s pretty harmless and she’s had a quite a dysfunctional start so she does well for herself considering. I’d like to think I’m switched on in comparison and hopefully a lot kinder!

SM - Bridgerton is based on the novels by Julia Quinn. Did you read the books before or during filming to better understand your character?

HC - I didn’t, no. P-dog doesn’t really feature much in the books so there wasn’t much reason to. This season the writers could go kinda rogue with her storyline and that’s cool.

SM - The Featheringtons’ costumes are often very eccentric and colorful. What was your reaction to seeing your costume for the first time and how did that influence your interpretation of the character?

HC - Yeah they’re nuts really. Season 1 particularly for us lot. I remember my first fitting ever was about 4 hours long and I was just wrapped in a million fabrics and jewels and I was like what the fuck is going on here? But then I realised oh this show is bordering on a fantasy. Which helps with pitching I guess.

But yeah costume and hair and make-up does most of the characterisation for you on this job.

SM - The series addresses contemporary themes despite its historical setting. Do you think this is one of the reasons for its immense success?

HC - I think so. I think it again goes back to bordering on fantasy that gives a more abstract scope.

People could see themselves represented in a way that hasn’t been done before and that’s refreshing.

SM - What was the atmosphere like on the set of Bridgerton? Were there any funny moments or amusing anecdotes that happened during filming that you could share?

HC - It was such a vibe everyday. The crew are the most fun and we all spend so much time together it’s hard to say bye at the end. I remember sewing Neil from props a birthday message into my tapestry during one scene. It said ‘fuk u neil’, I love that guy.

SM - What are the main lessons you learned as an actress from working on a series of this scale?

HC - Bring ya gameboy. No but there’s a lot of downtime so keeping occupied is a skill. I think I’ve learnt how to work in an ensemble and to work under pressure. It can be difficult to stay in your body on a set like that. It’s an overstimulating environment.

SM - If you could choose any role, past or present, which character would you like to play and why?

HC - Juliette Lewis’ character in Natural Born Killers. Just to go on a fuckin rampage and be paid to do it would be so fun.

SM - Can you tell us about the projects you’re currently working on and what excites you most about them?

HC - There’s fun things in the pipeline but I can’t say anything right now, sorry!

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Girli Interview by Lyna Allet Photography by Claryn Chong

Meet Girli, the unapologetic pop-punk sensation redefining what it means to be a modern artist. Bursting onto the scene with a distinctive blend of raw honesty, infectious beats, and a rebellious spirit, Girli has carved out a unique space in the music world.

Girli’s latest album, «The Matriarchy,» encapsulates her journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and community building. Written over a transformative six-month period, the album explores heartbreak, healing, and the quest for identity, all set against a backdrop of queer joy and rebellion.

With «The Matriarchy,» Girli invites us all to join her on a journey of self-empowerment and joy, with her trailblazing album. Meeting with the future queen of pop-punk.

SM - Your music often explores themes of identity, individuality, and self-expression. What drives you to incorporate these themes into your songs and why is it important for you?

GIRLI - I think, to be honest, it’s kind of a, not much thought or intention behind it. It’s kind of what happens when I write songs. Because writing songs is kind of my way of coping with things that are going on in my life, and you know, themes that I am experiencing with sexuality, health, and identity and stuff. It sort of happens very naturally. I write songs in a very honest way. Some artists are very good at writing songs about imagined scenarios or made-up characters. I’m not really the best at that. I find it easiest to just go off my own experiences.

SM - Your stage name, Girli, is so distinctive and original. What inspired you to choose this name, and how does it reflect your artistic persona?

GIRLI - The name Girli kind of came from... I was inspired by the band ‘Blondie.’ Because that word was often used in a derogatory way because she was blonde. A lot of the time, men would call her Blondie instead of her name or they would shout it in the street. And she took something that was used to objectify her and mock her. She empowered herself by reappropriating that word for the band. I loved the idea of reclaiming a word that was used... You know, similar to how the word ‘queer’ has been reclaimed by the gay community that used to be a slur. You know, similar in ways that I guess marginalized groups take words that were used to demean them and say, «I’m gonna take the power back.» I think for me, I was like, okay, what’s a word that feels mocking and something referred to femininity in a weak way. And I thought of the word ‘girly.’ I remember being young, and if something was ‘girly’ it meant that it was kind of lame, or weak, or silly. So, I wanted to take a word like that and empower it. You know, femininity is powerful, and yeah, I was inspired by the queen of all queens, Debbie Harry.

SM - Your forthcoming album, «The Matriarchy,» is slated for release later this May. Could you expand on the concept and inspiration driving this new album?

GIRLI - Songwriting-wise, all of the songs were just written in a six-month period of my life. From November 2022 to April 2023. It was just that period. It was about heartbreak and healing and questioning my identity and falling in love again. And kind of finding a community and feeling more connected to the queer community. It was about, overall, finding oneself, reclaiming power back. -

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- The song ‘Matriarchy’ was written first, before I decided to call the whole album ‘Matriarchy.’ The song is about queer joy, sex, and expression and that being a rebellion in itself. The concept overall, when it comes to the album, it’s like, community, bringing people together who don’t thrive under the patriarchy. I try to do that with my shows, my shows are a safe, welcoming space. I want the music to feel like a safe space for people. There are so many other visual references along the way with the videos and the artwork… I wanted to represent image and reclaiming image and healing and all that kind of stuff. But overall, that’s what ‘Matriarchy’ means.

SM - Your forthcoming album, «The Matriarchy,» is slated for release later this May. Could you expand on the concept and inspiration driving this new album?

GIRLI - Songwriting-wise, all of the songs were just written in a six-month period of my life. From November 2022 to April 2023. It was just that period. It was about heartbreak and healing and questioning my identity and falling in love again. And kind of finding a community and feeling more connected to the queer community. It was about, overall, finding oneself, reclaiming power back. The song ‘Matriarchy’ was written first, before I decided to call the whole album ‘Matriarchy.’ The song is about queer joy, sex, and expression and that being a rebellion in itself. The concept overall, when it comes to the album, it’s like, community, bringing people together who don’t thrive under the patriarchy. I try to do that with my shows, my shows are a safe, welcoming space. I want the music to feel like a safe space for people. There are so many other visual references along the way with the videos and the artwork…

I wanted to represent image and reclaiming image and healing and all that kind of stuff. But overall, that’s what ‘Matriarchy’ means.

SM - Your song «Matriarchy» is an ode to the sapphic and a celebration of the female gaze. Why was it important for you to have it as a single and even as the title of the album?

GIRLI - I think that song just felt very powerful and felt like the right thing to lead the new era of music with. Purely because all of the songs to follow on the rest of the album, even though they’re topically different and sonically very individual, but the idea of a celebration and rebellion of the female gaze was very relevant for the whole album.

Whether it’s about the female gaze in a queer feminist way or whether it’s about my gaze on myself, the way we see ourselves, I feel like it’s all quite relevant. I knew I wanted to make the most fabulous music video for ‘Matriarchy.’ I feel like once we made the music video, all the visuals would fall into place. Yeah, I’m very happy I led with that song.

SM - You’ve mentioned that «Matriarchy» is all about community, and for this occasion, you’ve set up «The Matriarchy Mansion,» a place where fans can catch a glimpse of your room and your diary. Why was it important to create this space, specifically for this album?

GIRLI - I think because a space for expression doesn’t have to be physical as we’ve seen over the last decade. But especially since COVID, with, you know, the online, digital world, TikTok, Instagram, or social media really blowing up.

It’s like most people don’t have the privilege or the luxury to be close to a physical community. So most people find that people online and that’s kind of the place where they can be themselves and feel the safest. Especially for LGBTQ+ people, especially for a lot of women. You know, the world outside is a really threatening, scary place. I wanted to, I guess, make this world and also represent the idea of Matriarchy in an artistic way, in a digital world. I’ve got this mansion, digital mansion, and there are pictures on the wall with really cool women in history, there’s my diary, I always say my songs are my diary entries. You can go on my computer and you can see behind the scenes, the photos and it’s kind of inside my little digital world.

SM - Your lyrics are often very personal and raw. How do you navigate the line between being vulnerable in your music and maintaining a sense of privacy?

GIRLI - I definitely found a good balance recently. When I started releasing music, that line was definitely crossed, I would post everything online. I overshared and I realized that I really wanted to protect and keep things for myself.

To be honest, my songs are so open and honest, I feel like I’m already real in my lyrics and stuff. When it comes to my personal life, there are definitely things that I don’t post: some of my other hobbies, when I’m being me, like my downtime, I don’t really share that. When I’m releasing music, I’m very honest online about what it’s about, when I’m playing shows I love talking and telling stories on stage. I feel like that’s something I learned from the last seven years online, basically.

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SM - You describe this album as a «Rebirth.» How does it differ from your previous EP, «Why Am I Like This?» And how would you describe your evolution between these two bodies of work?

GIRLI - In «Why Am I Like This?» I was very lost and confused about who I was, artistically, what my sound was, what my visuals were. I just wanted to put out music and try to figure it out. As soon as I put out that EP, I did my first ever tour in America and I did a lot of shows and I kind of realized I was getting close to an identity I was really attached to. My personal life blew up, and I had this very big life-changing event that happened and that inspired so much music. And from that, this album was born basically. I think it was like, events that happened sort of forced me to make music without feeling like ‘this music has to be a hit, it has to sound like that.’ I had to make music to get through what I was going through. And then the fans, doing shows, and sort of feeling that sense of community, that’s where the whole ‘Matriarchy’ thing came from.

SM - You’re renowned for your energetic and engaging live performances, and you’re embarking on a tour later this year. How do you feel about being on stage while fans scream along to your songs?

GIRLI - I love it! Oh my God, I love playing shows so much. I think that’s my favorite part of being an artist. I love the songwriting obviously. Being able to perform the song, spread the message, to feel a lot of people experiencing the lyrics, that is just so special and, the community element, I feel that at the shows.

SM - As an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and mental health awareness, how do you utilize your platform as a musician to promote these important causes?

GIRLI - I think, just representation is the key really. Just talking about things. For me, I’ve always been open about mental health struggles, about, you know, whatever form they may take, I think that for me, in the past, seeing people going through similar things and sharing their experiences has helped me to feel less alone so I think that is what I’m trying to do, just by talking and writing songs about it and sharing. I do get DMs and a lot of people at shows telling me ‘I was going through a hard time and I found your song and it really helped me’. That makes me so happy because I feel like someone has seen themselves in my story and that made them feel better.

SM - Has it happened to you? Did you ever go to a concert or listen to an artist and realize this artist especially helped you to get better?

GIRLI - Yeah, so many artists. The first big one for me when I was a teenager was Tegan And Sara.

They were like huge inspirations. Their songs really connected with me in a way. It was the first band where I really was like ‘Oh my gosh, these songs healed me in some ways’. Even though I was fourteen and they were twenty-five and writing songs about their experiences, I still connected, I still interpreted their lyrics to be applied to my life. I think it’s the beauty about music, everyone has different experiences and we connect through art in similar ways, we relate to it, to our experiences.

SM - What message do you hope fans will take away from listening to the album?

GIRLI - I hope it will bring them joy, I hope it will make them feel like they’re not alone. Whatever stage they’re at, whether they’re heartbroken, struggling with their identity, self-esteem, or they’re feeling healed or they’re on their healing journey. Whatever mindset they’re in, there is a song for them. I just hope they feel understood and a part of something, that’s the whole idea of «Matriarchy.»

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TENNISCORE Words by Diane Marchetti

Zendaya recently sparked a buzz on social media with her tennis core outfits, drawing inspiration from her latest role as a tennis champion in the film «Challengers.» Tenniscore, an emerging style, consists of adopting the dress codes of the world of tennis, without necessarily practicing the sport.

However, the marriage between tennis and fashion is not new. The Miu Miu house particularly captivated attention during its fall-winter 2022 fashion show by offering a collection inspired by tennis. From pleated mini-skirts to sportswear polo shirts, the brand has revisited the emblematic elements of tennis to integrate them into its clothing line.

Likewise, the Lacoste spring-summer 2024 fashion show took place at the legendary Roland Garros stadium, a place steeped in history for tennis fans. This decision recalls the deep connection between the brand and this sport since René Lacoste himself was a renowned tennis champion in the 1920s.

Another notable trend in tennis is the use of jewelry, particularly tennis bracelets. Initially worn by players on the court to absorb perspiration, tennis bracelets have evolved to become essential fashion accessories. Indeed, the 1978 US Open marked an iconic moment in the history of tennis and fashion. Chris Evert, one of the most famous tennis players of all time, attracted public attention by wearing a diamond bracelet at this major tournament.

Chris Evert was not only known for her on-court prowess but also for her distinctive sense of style. Her choice to wear a diamond bracelet during the 1978 US Open caused a sensation and became an iconic moment in tennis fashion history. This gesture added a touch of glamor and elegance to her appearance, demonstrating that fashion and tennis could combine harmoniously.

This fusion of tennis and fashion is a testament to the sport’s timeless appeal and lasting influence on culture and clothing trends

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Words by Cerena Hammana

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THE ROLE OF POP CULTURE IN POLITICAL MOVEMENTS Pop culture, encompassing music, film, television, fashion, and social media, plays a significant role in shaping public opinion and influencing political movements. Throughout history, artists, celebrities, and cultural phenomena have both reflected and driven social and political change. From protest songs of the 1960s to viral social media campaigns today, pop culture serves as a powerful tool for raising awareness, mobilizing supporters, and effecting change.

The Soundtrack of Resistance Music has long been a powerful medium for political expression and resistance. In the 1960s, artists like Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and Marvin Gaye used their music to protest the Vietnam War and advocate for civil rights. Songs like Dylan’s “Blowin’ in the Wind” and Gaye’s “What’s Going On” became anthems for social movements, capturing the zeitgeist and galvanizing public sentiment.

In recent years, musicians like Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar, and Childish Gambino have continued this tradition. Beyoncé’s visual album “Lemonade” addressed issues of race, feminism, and black identity, while Kendrick Lamar’s “Alright” became a rallying cry for the Black Lives Matter movement. Childish Gambino’s “This Is America” starkly depicted gun violence and systemic racism, sparking widespread discussion and debate.

Shaping Narratives and Perspectives Film and television are influential in shaping societal narratives and perspectives. Movies like “Selma,” “12 Years a Slave,” and “Milk” not only entertain but also educate audiences about historical struggles for justice and equality. These films bring critical issues to the forefront, fostering empathy and understanding.

Television shows also play a pivotal role in reflecting and challenging societal norms. Series like “The Handmaid’s Tale” offer dystopian reflections on contemporary issues such as women’s rights and authoritarianism. Meanwhile, shows like “Orange Is the New Black” and “Pose” highlight the experiences of marginalized communities, contributing to greater visibility and acceptance.

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Statements of Identity and Protest Fashion has always been a form of personal and political expression. Throughout history, clothing styles have symbolized various movements and ideologies. The flapper dresses of the 1920s, the hippie attire of the 1960s, and the punk rock style of the 1970s and 1980s all reflected broader social and political currents.

In the modern era, fashion continues to be a platform for political statements. The 2018 Golden Globe Awards saw stars wearing black to protest sexual harassment and support the Time’s Up movement. Similarly, the pink pussy hats of the 2017 Women’s March became a symbol of resistance against gender inequality and the Trump administration.

The New Frontier of Activism Social media has revolutionized the way political movements are organized and communicated.

Platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok enable activists to reach millions of people instantly, bypassing traditional media gatekeepers. Hashtags like #BlackLivesMatter, #MeToo, and #ClimateStrike have mobilized global movements, fostering solidarity and collective action.

Celebrities and influencers use their massive followings to amplify social and political issues.

Figures like Greta Thunberg, who began her activism with solitary school strikes for climate change, gained international prominence through social media. Thunberg’s #FridaysForFuture campaign has inspired millions of young people worldwide to take action against climate change.

Pop Culture as a Reflection and Driver of Change Pop culture does not merely reflect political and social issues; it also drives change by shaping public consciousness and attitudes. When popular media addresses taboo or controversial topics, it can challenge prevailing norms and inspire dialogue. For example, the normalization of LGBTQ+ relationships in television and film has played a significant role in changing public attitudes and advancing LGBTQ+ rights.

Moreover, pop culture can humanize complex issues, making them more relatable and understandable. By telling personal stories and depicting real-life struggles, artists and entertainers can foster empathy and support for various causes.

The intersection of pop culture and politics is a dynamic and powerful force. Through music, film, television, fashion, and social media, pop culture shapes and reflects societal values and movements. By leveraging their platforms and influence, artists and celebrities can raise awareness, inspire action, and drive political and social change. As we continue to navigate an increasingly interconnected world, the role of pop culture in political movements will undoubtedly remain a vital and transformative element of activism and advocacy.

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Jillian Shea

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Spaeder

Interview by Lyna Allet Photography by Grace Wethor

You might recognize her, as she was one of our previous cover stars. This multi-talented artist, known for her acting roles, is ready for the music industry. Funny, witty, and talented, the young star talks to Saturne about her music, what the industry has taught her, and her many inspirations. Read below the interview with the future superstar.

SATURNE MAGAZINE - You starred in, produced, and wrote the short film ‘The Noise’ about your experience with eating disorders. Why was it important for you to create this short film, and was the process cathartic for you?

JILLIAN SHEA SPAEDER - It was really important for me to create this because I feel like it’s something people don’t talk about very much. There’s a huge stigma around mental health, especially eating disorders, and I just wanted to create more of an open conversation about it. The process was kind of cathartic; it was weird. Filming it was a little bit too close to home, but when it came out, it was really nice hearing the positive feedback!

SM - How was the critical reception of ‘The Noise’? Did you receive any inspiring feedback from people who have gone through similar experiences?

JSS - It’s really cool! I’ve gotten great comments; nobody has been negative about it, which is really cool! I’m sure that’s to come but… (laughs) Yeah, I’ve gotten tons of messages from young people and parents, and even older people who have struggled. They’re saying that they felt seen for the first time ever, which is a really cool thing to hear.

SM - You are very outspoken and don’t hesitate to express your views on issues such as sexuality, the presidential election, and your eating disorder. Do you hope to inspire others by speaking up?

JSS - I think it’s really important for us to use our voices, especially with stuff like the elections.

Getting out there and voting and knowing that our opinions matter is really important, especially for our generation, who is so big on social media. It makes us think that we’re minuscule. But our opinions really matter.

SM - You have been acting in various projects since you were a teenager. What have you learned about yourself from being on set?

JSS - Ooh… That’s tricky! I think I’ve learned in recent years to be less of a people pleaser! It definitely taught me that because you grow up in the acting industry and everyone says, ‘Be the easy person to work with,’ and you end up putting yourself in sometimes scary situations to be easy, and it’s not at all what we should be doing! Being on set taught me to be more self-aware.

SM - ‘Godmothered’ is a fan favorite on Disney+. Can you tell us more about your experience working on this movie?

JSS - ‘Godmothered’ was really cool. We got to film in Boston for a couple of months, which was really cool. I actually have a fun tidbit about that: the choir behind me in that last scene was actually a choir from Berklee College of Music, which is where I ended up going to school three years later.

After working with them, I was like, ‘This is where I need to go to school!’ And it was the reason I went to Berklee, so, kinda fun!

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SM - How do you balance your time between your acting projects and your music career?

JSS - I’ve kind of been just working on music when I’m not acting; that’s kind of how it’s been.

But now I’m trying to prioritize it a bit more, so if opportunities come up in music, I’m like, ‘Yeah, why not, let’s do this!’

SM - Speaking of new music, you have a new EP on the way. Can you tell us more about it?

JSS - It’s called ‘Fall At My Feet.’ It has six songs, and it’s fun! It’s mostly upbeat songs; there’s only one slower song on it because I kind of wanted to put out some bops. I’m kind of over the sad music right now; I don’t want to listen to it, so I’m not putting it out! No shade to sad music, but it’s not for me! It’s pretty upbeat, touching on topics like love and breakups and all that nonsense.

I’m excited; it should be cool.

SM - Your three singles focus on the young adult experience and relationships. What made you decide it was the right time to write these songs and create an EP? JSS - I was just missing music so much. I haven’t professionally done music since I was sixteen or seventeen, and I just missed it. I needed to be back into it.

SM - ‘Fall At My Feet’, why this name for the EP? JSS - In the song ‘Serious,’ there’s a line: ‘When I try to leave, you fall at my feet, you make promises, all of them you’ll never keep.’ I really liked that because it sounded like a conceited title. It’s giving Chappell Roan energy when she’s like, ‘I’m your favorite artist’s artist!’. It’s that energy! But when you listen to the song, it’s actually kind of heavy. It summed up the EP for me because the songs are like bops, and then you listen to the lyrics, and you’re like ouch…

SM - My favorite song on the EP is ‘Fine.’ Can you tell us more about the story behind it, and which song is your favorite?

JSS - The story behind ‘Fine’… I was on a trip to Australia because my boyfriend, who’s also my co-writer and producer on the EP, is Australian. We were in Sydney in a studio because we were sleeping in said studio that night, and he was asleep on the couch. He made this beat and then fell asleep. And I was like, ‘I’m gonna record my own vocals.’ So I recorded the choruses for it and woke him up like, ‘This is dope!’ And we ended up finishing it together in LA. It was kind of a ‘Let’s vibe out.’ And then my favorite on the EP is probably ‘What’s On Your Mind,’ which was the first song we actually wrote for the EP. It’s pretty chill, it’s straightforward and easy, but there’s something about it that I think is nice.

SM - What do you hope people will understand about you when listening to this EP? JSS - Hopefully, that I’m just a normal teenage girl (laughs)! I’m just figuring out life.

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