Check out our interview with talented TV personality, actress, and activist Vanessa Papa who took the world by storm when she first appeared on Netflix’s hit reality series “The Ultimatum: Queer Love” alongside her then-girlfriend Xander. The series documented the couple’s story, challenges, and ultimately their individual journeys of self-discovery. Vanessa’s story resonated with viewers, especially those who have experienced similar struggles.
Today, Vanessa is embarking on the next chapter of her life following the show. Currently in her “Eat, Pray, Love era,” Vanessa would love to speak on her own path to mental health and self-discovery, her fitness and diet, her recent world travels, and her advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community.
Follow Vanessa @itsvanessapapa
Hi Vanessa, please tell us a little about you.
I’m a Jersey girl at heart, but I now live in LA. I have wanderlust all the time, so I am constantly traveling and exploring new places. I love cooking, reading, exercising, and socializing.
Describe yourself in three words.
Adventurous, fun, and loving.
How did you get started into acting?
My parents used to film me and my sister every day when we were growing up. I was always a sassy, loud kid, and I loved making up characters and voices for the camera.
I acted in plays in high school and loved it. I felt alive when I was on the stage. But I got caught up in thinking I needed to have a traditional career, and I was sidetracked. After years of being frustrated by trying to fit into a workspace outside of the entertainment world, I finally made the decision recently to go after my true passion. I moved to LA in 2020 and started my pursuits, but then, of course, the world as we knew it changed completely. Two years later, I moved back to LA again and have been pursuing an acting career ever since. Acting isn’t an easy career to get into, and I know I’ll be struggling for a while, but it’s so much fun to me, and I don’t see myself stopping.
How has this changed your life?
Being in the entertainment industry lets me put my creative mind to use, and I never get bored. It’s a great feeling.
What is the best and worst part of being an actress?
The best part is that it allows you to tap into your creative mind in a way that most jobs never give you the freedom to do. The worst part is the feeling of rejection for roles you really wanted.
How do you prepare for a role?
I read the entire script a few times so that I could really see the full picture. Then I find quirks in my character and really focus on bringing humanity to the role.
Tell us about working on Netflix’s hit reality series “The Ultimatum: Queer Love?”
Being on The Ultimatum really wasn’t working; it was just living. Our days were structured for us, and we just kind of existed within those boundaries while also being filmed. Some days felt like fun, but mostly it was emotionally draining and very confusing. It’s an experience no one can prepare you for and the effects of it definitely stick with you for years after.
How challenging was the casting for this project?
Since it was a reality show, the casting process was just focused on letting the producers get a glimpse of our true selves so they could see if we were a good match.
What other projects have you been part of?
I recently filmed an indie movie that I’m hoping will be released in 2024.
What kind of roles do you like or would like to play and why?
I love characters who are very different from me. Finding that connection between me and them and bringing them to life is such a fun challenge.
If you weren’t acting, what would you be up to right now?
Renovating a villa in Tuscany and perfecting my Italian.
Which fictional character would be the most exciting to meet in real life?
Plankton
Can you name three actors or actresses you would love to work with?
Florence Pugh, Maika Monroe, and Jim Carrey
What’s your advice for the newer actors?
Send in as many auditions as you can. It’s all about getting your face out there.
What is your favorite food?
Homemade pasta.
Best advice ever given?
“Let them.”
What is your favorite song to belt out in the car or for karaoke?
I’m a huge karaoke fan, and I’ve actually been a karaoke host multiple times in my life. I love belting out A Whole New World.
What do you think of social media?
Social media has connected the world in a way that seemed impossible ten years ago. I’ve made friends all over the world simply by looking up a hashtag and finding like-minded people. I’m a very open and social person, so I love using social media to share my life with the world and find people who inspire me. It’s just important not to let it consume your life.
Where can we follow you?
I’m on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube under the name @itsvanessapapa
