Check out our exclusive interview with Canadian actress Kara Duncan who can be seen as Tanzy on FOX’s much anticipated series, PIVOTING which stars Ginnifer Goodwin, Maggie Q, Eliza Coupe. A very fun, bright, lesbian who “may or may not” have some sort of relationship with one of the main characters in the series. Which can lead to some life changing decision making on both sides in their personal, romantic relationship.
You might recognize Kara from some of her credits which include, Warehouse 13 (SYFY Network), Full out (Netflix), The Young and the Restless (CBS), to name a few. She has also performed in Mamma Mia at the Hollywood Bowl! On top of PIVOTING, Kara is also starring in a drama, mystery film called, The Uprising which comes out sometime in 2022.
Follow Kara @karaanneduncann
Hi Kara, please tell us a little about you?
I am a originally from Toronto, Canada. I have been acting since 8-years-old. I grew up with an amazing support system: mom, dad, sister and brother. I actually started dancing competitively at age four after watching my sister at the dance studio. I trained in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Modern, Contemporary, Hip-Hop and Acrobatics. I was also into Musical Theatre. In high school I started to branch into TV and Film. I moved to NYC after I graduated from University and shortly after went onto tour with West Side Story the International production. After tour I moved out to LA to continue to pursue TV and Film where I live with my adorable puppy Sir Louie.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Personable, Fun, Spontaneous.
How did you get started into acting?
I always had a knack for theatrics and had good comedic timing. Because of this, my parents put me in the Musical Theatre program at my dance studio when I was 8-years-old. I soon became known for my stage presence. At 10- years old, I got signed with an agent that saw me performing. I did commercials and guest-starred in TV sitcoms all while still dancing competitively throughout high school. Between acting, dancing and singing, Let’s just say my social life was close to non-existent. But my passion for performing never felt like work and always felt rewarding.
How has this changed your life?
This role has been great for my career as it’s opened up many opportunities. I am looking forward to the future and seeing what else is in store!
What is the best and worst part of being an actress?
The best part about being an actress is the ability to play different characters. Being able to jump from comedy to drama with multi-dimensional roles is very exciting. The worst part about being an actor is sometimes you get so invested and really love a character you’re auditioning for and if you don’t get the part it may take you a while to shake it. But I have learned to now leave it all on tape and keep moving forward. Onward and upward. That way you don’t feel too much disappointment if you don’t book the role.
Tell us about your work on FOX’s series “PIVOTING?”
Pivoting airs Thursday’s at 9:30est on FOX. Or it can be streamed on HULU the following day. It was such a fun project to be a part of. The cast and crew were amazing and the writing is hilarious. (Written by Liz Astrof). Pivoting is centered around three women (Eliza Coupe, Ginnifer Goodwin and Maggie Q) who lost their 4th friend. Due to the unexpected passing of their close friend, they decide to “pivot” their lives and make major shifts. One wants to become a better mom, one wants to get into better shape and the other decides to quit medicine and try something completely different. So, she ends up taking a job as a bagger at Fields supermarket. They all agree that life is too short and that they need to start living happier lives.
And about your character TANZY?
My character Tanzy is introduced in episode 5 and she will return again in episode 7. Tanzy plays Maggie Q (Sarah)’s love interest. Tanzy and Sarah both work at fields and Sarah has a crush on her. Tanzy is the fun, carefree girl who is known for dating ONLY younger girls. This strikes a cord with Sarah as she feel like she is still young and hip too. So Sarah takes the initiative and shows her confidence and goes for what she wants…which is Tanzy. Find out in episode 7 what happens with their relationship.
How was working with big names like Ginnifer Goodwin, Maggie Q, Eliza Coupe?
Working with Eliza Coupe, Ginnifer Goodwin and Maggie Q was nothing short of amazing. We had a scene together that I am so excited for everyone to see. It was so funny and we all just bounced off each other. They have such great chemistry already between the 3 of them, so when I joined, I was over the moon that I also connected with them. They are veteran actors and have starred in numerous TV shows and films and it was such a great experience working them and seeing how they play. I respect them not only as actors but they are standup people as well, which is always nice.
What other projects you have been part of?
You can find out all my latest projects on IMDB. You can also keep up to date with my website karaduncan.com where you can find all my socials. I filmed a romantic comedy feature film at the end of last year that will becoming out Spring of 2022 called For The Love of Pasta. Also catch me during the commercial break when you’re watching this year’s Super bowl. You can also catch me on Jimmy Kimmel performing a skit with Jason Alexander.
What kind of roles do you like or would like to play and why?
I like to play various roles from drama, comedy, syfy and period piece. For example I will be playing an evil head Vampire in a new show. I can’t say the show name yet, as it’s still in pre-development but I am excited to embark on this. I have always wanted to play a “dark” role and I am looking forward to it. I will be guest starring in Letterkenny on HULU where my character is a hilarious influencer photographer. So keep an eye out for that.
What’s your advice for the newer actors?
The advice I would give someone pursing acting is to be prepared and put in the work. Take classes, read books from various playwrights, watch classic movies with renowned directors and take workshops. But first and foremost you must have a passion for it. If you are thinking of pursing acting as a “hobby”, than you’re never going to reach your full potential. You have to treat it like a craft. And with any craft it’s important to hone your skills. So when you do get opportunities you are prepared. As I mentioned before, this business is a tough business to be in. You will face a lot of rejection even if you may think you are the “best” person for the job. So you have to keep your confidence up while staying grounded and continue to find your way in the process.
What would say are the greatest lessons you learned so far in this business?
I had to learn that life is not a race but a journey. To be in the moment and to trust the process and the timing of everything that life will unfold. I feel like we as humans set such a high expectation for ourselves where we expect our careers and/or life to be a certain way at a specific time or age. However, that is not realistic. While we are focusing on where we “think” we should be, we are missing out on where we currently are. And relishing in all the progress, we have made thus far. We are not being in the moment but rather focused on the thought of what we perceive to be a “failure” if you have not reached your goal YET. I say yet because it will always happen with perseverance, hard work, passion and dedication. We just have to trust the timing. So while you’re aiming for whatever goals and ambition you have set, remember to enjoy the in between moments because that’s where the magic happens. Stay in the present, stay humble and stay grounded. Accepting rejection is another key element in this industry.
How would your best friend describe you?
My best friend who describe me as outgoing, a ball of energy, funny, ambitious, hard working and loyal.
If you are a book, what would be the title of the book and why?
“The Kara Road to Happiness”. The book would describe the road I have travelled on with all the bumps, ups and downs and how I was able to find happiness in all of life’s wild moments.
What book should every entrepreneur read?
The Secret by Rhonda Byrne. I am a big believer in manifesting what you want in life. Envisioning your goals and seeing them should always be implemented in your daily lives.
What’s next for Kara Duncan in 2022?
I am filming a Hallmark Christmas movie in a couple weeks along with starting the new Vampire show I briefly mentioned. The Vampire show is set to be on Apple TV, Amazon CA and OUTTV. I will be recurring in 5 episodes. I have always been into writing so I have started writing a feature film along with other pilots. I am also in the process of starting my own active wear clothing line called Kikiwear. Starting my own business is something I have always wanted to do and this venture aligns well with my extensive background in dance. So this was definitely something I am knowledgeable about and I have practically always lived in active wear. I also choreograph and train young aspiring dancers to help them to realize their dream.
What is your favorite healthy food?
My favorite healthy foods are salads and acai bowls. I actually really love salads and love trying new ones. I am not sure if acai bowls are considered healthy, but it’s a fruit so I like to think it is!
And your favorite cheat food?
My favorite cheat foods are burgers and fries!
What is your own definition of happiness?
My definition of happiness is to feel a sense of pure joy. Whether it is around family or your loved ones. Or a big accomplishment in your career. It can even be small moments in life. A feeling of euphoria that makes you truly grateful and at peace. A positive feeling that you never want to let go.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
I would LOVE to meet Oprah. I have always loved and followed her story and I feel like she is such an inspiration to many. It would be nice to chat with her for a bit to pick her brain one on one.
Best advice ever given?
The best advice someone has given to me about acting is a quote by Winston Churchill:
Do you support any charity?
I have supported the children’s charity foundation before in the past. I actually put on a Fashion Show to raise money for the cause. This year I am looking into getting into a charity with Autistic children. My nephew is autistic and it something I have always wanted to dive more into.
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years from now?
I see myself doing many things in 5 years. Career wise I would love to play a role in a Marvel film. I would even love to incorporate some of my acrobatic training into the character and perform my own stunts. I also see Kikiwear line is not only doing well online but also we have some stores across North America. I would also love to travel with my family and create more memories together.
Favorite song? Why?
I listen to a lot of different kinds of music. So I don’t have one particular favorite song. I did however, loved listening to “You and Me” by Shallou. It was on repeat for quite sometime and I loved listening to it.
What do you think of Social Media?
Social media I like to call a “highlight reel”. It’s not really a mirror to real life. It only shows and highlights parts of your life that you choose to share. I always like to say the best moments in my life don’t make it onto the Internet. These are the moments that are dear to you. Like being surrounded around your loved ones forming amazing bonds and memories. I do like how social media has a wide exposure however. You can learn a lot of interesting facts and a lot of things are easily accessible. Some creative videos can also make you laugh! Social media is a good way to network and share parts of your career and or life.
Where we can follow you?
You can follow me on Instagram and Twitter: @KaraAnneDuncan. You can also check on my IMDB to see my latest work along with my website for up to date information: www.karaduncan.com
Book: Afterparties byAnthony Veasna
Quote: “Live your life full out with feeling”
Movie: So MANY! But I love Devil Wears Prada
TV Series: PIVOTING! HA! And Euphoria!
Favorite Food: is Cotton Candy considering a food? Or SUSHI! Travel Destination: Maldives
Sports Team: Toronto Raptors!
