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Our latest interview with the sweet, but outspoken Haley Tju, a fresh face to the Nickelodeon network & tv movie star of “Rufas”. Opposite David Cleveland as Manny and Jace Norman as Rufas, Haley’s character Paige serves as the main love interest as the film follows Manny’s transition to a new school.
Haley can also be seen on their number one television series “Bella and the Bulldogs” which has been renewed for a second season! Since the launch of the show in January, it has reached more than twenty million total viewers and they can’t get enough of Haley!
Check our exclusive interview with Haley!!
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Hi Haley, please tell us a little about yourself?
My name is Haley Alexandra Tju. I am half Chinese and Indonesia. I have 3 sisters and an older brothers. I love acting, drawing, photography, and making short films.
How did you get into acting?
I began acting at the age four because my older sister Brianne was an actress. I thought I’d give it a shot. After a couples years of auditioning, I fell in love with it and haven’t stopped since.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Creative. Unique. Independent.
Anyone in your family is also in the business?
My sisters and brother used all tried their hand at acting. Although, Brianne and I are the only actors in the family now.
Who is your biggest supporter?
My biggest supporters are my family and my friends. My family has always been there for me in the best and worst of times. My friends are extremely supportive and keep me grounded.
Best advice ever given?
You can’t get book every job and success, most of the time, isn’t immediate. All you can do is work hard and strive to be better.
What’s your favorite part about acting?
My favorite part about acting is being able to touch people’s lives and become these unique characters that bring out different sides of myself.
How do you prepare for a role?
I prepare for a role by understanding the character, doing some research, and experimenting with different choices.
Now tell us about your character “Pepper” in Nickelodeon’s “Bella and the Bulldogs”?
Pepper in Bella and the Bulldogs is an ball of energy. She is charismatic, loyal, creative, and prone to panic attacks, which her friends help her through.
Are you anything like her in real life?
We are both outgoing and share a love for fashion.
How did you got selected for the role?
I auditioned just like everybody else. Throughout the process we tried out many different versions of Pepper until we found one that gelled well with the rest of the show.
What’s one of the funniest things that have happened to you on set?
I think some of the funniest moments that happen on set are the bloopers. Our blooper reel is full of us saying the wrong lines, tripping, and being silly. Luckily we don’t take ourselves too seriously.
Do you have any great memories with your co-stars that you’d want to share?
One of the co-stars on the show was a friend I met two years ago and hadn’t talked to since, but when I saw him on set we picked up right where we let off and became really close friends.
And now about your character Paige in the Nick TV movie “Rufas”?
Paige is intelligent, independent, and an aspiring reporter. She isn’t afraid to be her dorky self. Due to her devotion for news and reporting she isn’t very socially active. Although when she meets Rufus and Manny, she finds that their friendship is very important to her.
Do you have a favorite actress or actor that inspires you?
So many actors inspire me, but to name a few I’d have to say Saoirse Ronan, Jake Gyllenhaal and Cillian Murphy have had a major influence on me.
What would your dream role be?
My dream role would be to play an assassin. A really cool, string, female like Nikita.
What are your favorite TV shows?
I have seen the show Friends a thousand times and it never gets old.
Your favorite song? Why?
My favorite song lately has been “Space Song” by Beach House. It’s really calming and beautiful. I’ve been obsessed with the he whole Depression Cherry album.
Who has been the biggest inspiration in your life? Why?
My biggest inspiration in my life ismy sister Brianne. As cheesy as it sounds it’s true. She is an incredible actor who helps me everyday to stay happy and be the best I can.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In five years I see myself acting in movies and pursuing some of other passions like filmmaking and photography.
What is your favorite healthy food?
My favorite healthy food is cherimoya. It’s a tropical fruit that tastes like a banana and peach smoothie.
And your favorite cheat food?
My favorite cheat food is a quality burger, but not a fast-food burger.
What music we can find in your iPod?
I love alternative, electronic and some rock music. Lately I’ve been listening to a lot of Sylvan Esso and Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds. I like to have a variety.
Any future plans you would like to share with us?
I’m focusing on just enjoying everyday and having fun. This is an unpredictable business so I try not to plan too much.
Best advice ever given?
If you want to do something just do it. Don’t let your insecurities keep you from being true to yourself.
Any advice for upcoming actors?
If you stay passionate and determined you can do anything. Just work hard and stay positive.
Something people don’t know about you?
I love taking photos and making shorts films with my friends.
How did you stay fit?
I like to cycle and dance like a crazy person. It’s a big calorie burner haha.
Any other hobbies?
I like to sew, sing, dance and take photos in my free time. I also love vintage shopping and going to Flea markets.
Where we can follow you?
My Instagram is @haleytju and my twitter is @haley_tju
Book: A self help book. I haven’t read any but I assume, if I did, it would be my favorite.
Quote: The greatest thing you’ll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.
Drink: Water
Movie: Violet&Daisy
Tv Series: Gilmore Girls
Holiday Destination: Anywhere the family can agree on.
Sports Team: I’m not really a fan of sports.
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