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Check our exclusive interview with Lebanon-born and Montreal-raised up and coming actor Jade Hassouné who can be seen as the recurring character Meliorn in Freeform’s new television series “Shadowhunters”.
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Hi Jade please tell us a little about you?
Hi! 🙂 Thanks for taking the time to chat with me. Besides trying to be a human, I am an artist, a seeker. I lived most my life in Montreal, Canada. I come from a family of artists, but I’m the first to tackle the entertainment industry. I’ve been obsessed with becoming an actor since the age of 10. And now I feel like I can finally say “I did it!!” But I will eternally be learning and growing. And there are many other art forms that I play with.
How did you get into acting?
I remember the day that I had the realization that I could choose to become a professional actor. I was around 9 years old. “You mean I can play for the rest of my life AND that would be my job?? Yes please.” Little did I know it would change my life. At 10 years old I did a scene on a stage for the first time in front of an audience. I remember getting a huge rush of energy through my heart, and somewhat of a vision of what my future could be. It was a really incredible feeling. And I’ve been following that feeling ever since. It’s shown me now, that it was always about my path of discovery of who I am, to discover my Creative Self first, acting comes after that but is very intertwined to it.
Is there a dream role that you would like to play?
There is. And it has to do with a Disney character that people tell me I resemble. 😛 Playing a faerie (elf type being) has always been a big dream as well. So Meliorn in Shadowhunters (based on the Mortal Instruments books) is the dream role come true.
How was the support of your family when you decided to become an actor?
Hahah! Great question. People react differently to a 10 year old kid telling them with extreme confidence that he is going to be an actor, and that he is going to manifest all his dreams. The conversation with my parents, over the years, went from “You know it’s a hard profession, you should think about going to university for…” to “We are so proud of you!! Keep going, don’t be discourage, it will happen how you dream it!”. I was very stubborn, you couldn’t convince me of any other career.
How did you cast for “Shadowhunters”?
It was a month long journey. I auditioned for two other characters before Meliorn. But I was always meant for this role.When I saw what the Mortal Instruments was about, and felt the bigness of the fandom, I had to be part of it. I delved deep into the story and brought my intutive self to play, trying to channel Meliorn. And it worked. Then everything happened really fast and I was shooting within a week.
What do you like about your character Meliorn?
I love his self-mastery. The fact that he is a balanced being, angel/demon, but also balanced in terms of a centered relaxed person. He has a very cool storyline that has many twists. Those who’ve read the books will know what I mean. But for now it’s fun to play someone who can’t lie and who speaks in riddles and plays around/with the truth.
Do you have anything in common with your character?
Oh yes. Alot. I try to practice mindfulness and meditation and be as balanced as I can in my own life. And we both have long hair hahah. I’d say I’m also pretty mystical.
What’s the best part of acting?
To get into the zone where you let go of your worries and thoughts about the world. Entering someone else’s life allows to me be free of my own thoughts. When they say “action” it’s like my mind clears and I can feel the creative flow take over.
Best advice ever given?
Instead of focusing on what people think of you, focus on how you feel about them. And feeling love towards another feels way better than feeling something less than that. Then you’re free.
What do you like to do on your spare time?
Dance. Play piano and sing. Draw. Meditate. Read.
Do you support any charity?
I do. But I’m still looking for a great one that will collaborate with me.
What other hobbies do you have?
I create comics and graphic novels. I create music.
What do you like to watch on TV?
I don’t own a TV!! So Netflix is a good friend. I’m the biggest Buffy the Vampire Slayer fanboy that I know.
Any advice to new young actors?
Do not listen to what others say about how “hard” it is to become an actor. It’s not easy, sure, but if you love it, and if you keep at it, it will manifest. Do not stop!! Keep working at it. And eventually one day you’ll be where you want to be. No one else can believe in you but you. And no one else will believe in your dream until they see you living it. But by that time you will have had to keep your dream alive for a long time!
What do you think of Social Media?
I love it! There was a time when it stressed me out. But I don’t take it too seriously anymore. It doesn’t define who I am. It’s a tool. I adore connecting with the fandom on social media. I feel like we are a giant international family. Shadowhunters fans are my Shadowhomies.
Where we can follow you?
My Twitter is: @jadehassoune & Instagram is: @jadehassoune
And my Facebook page is: Jade Hassouné
Favorite Quote: “Dreams are the seedlings of realities.”
Favorite Movie: The Little Mermaid
Favorite Actor/Actress: Johnny Depp/Sarah Michelle Gellar
Favorite Book: Fingerprints of the Gods
Favorite Sports Team: Do I have to say Montreal Canadians if I’m from Montreal?? 😉
Favorite Food: Pasta
Favorite Drink: Pineapple juice
Favorite Travel Destination: Los Angeles
Favorite Song: Blue Jeans – Lana del Rey
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