[vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”24721″ img_size=”large”][vc_column_text]Check our exclusive interview with Multi-talented, acclaimed actress, director, writer, and gorgeous producer Carly Sullivan who returns to television portraying ‘Gala Scaramucci,’ Mr. Blue’s wife, in Syfy’s Christmas Carol-esque dark comedy, “HAPPY!” (Wednesdays @ 10pm).
This gruesome, unique tale is based on the graphic novel by New York Times best-selling author Grant Morrison and Darick Robertson. The series follows Nick Sax an intoxicated, corrupt ex-cop turned hit man – who is adrift in a world of casual murder, soulless sex and betrayal. After a hit gone wrong, his inebriated life is forever changed by a tiny, relentlessly positive, imaginary blue winged horse named Happy (Patton Oswalt).
Outside of her successful television career, Sullivan spends her time fostering rescue animals, along with caring for her two cats, Leo & Rabbit. Every Sunday she lends her time to local Los Angeles initiative, Food on Foot, providing clothes and food for homeless, and stays active with hiking and yoga[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”24720″ img_size=”large”][vc_column_text]Hi Carly please tell us a little about you?
I am originally from Florida and recently moved to LA after living in NY for the past decade. Outside of my career, I consider myself to be a very grounded, happy person. I am on this path of self growth and expansion, and being a good person is really my main priority. I love to laugh and make people laugh. I am madly in love with my cats, my family, and my friends. I appreciate the little things and love my life. It’s been such a thrilling experience crafting my own life, following my heart and getting to utilize my talents in this lifetime. It’s unreal.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Authentic, Quirky, Resilient
Who is your biggest supporter?
Undoubtedly my parents. They have always given me the freedom to be creative and expressive. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their endless support.
How did you get started in the industry?
I moved to NY after graduating from the University of Florida to study at the Maggie Flannigan Conservatory. After I graduated I started auditioning and booking small commercials, voice-overs and co-star parts on shows. My career didn’t happen overnight, it’s been a slow burn, and only now do I feel like it is really getting started. I am so thankful for this journey and the lessons I have learned thus far.
What is the best and worst part of being on TV?
Best is craft service. I kid, I kid. I do love craft service though. For me, the process of the job is the most exciting. I love being in my trailer, going into hair and makeup, getting to set and working. Along every step of the way I get to work with my co-workers, and there is nothing more enjoyable than working with other artists. I love my work so much that I usually spend a fair amount of time in shock that I am actually living my dream. There is nothing I don’t enjoy about it, although sometimes it is difficult for me to watch my work.
Best advice ever given?
Life is school and everything is a lesson. When I look at every experience as a teaching mechanism, it helps me relax into situations rather than try to push them away. Some lessons are incredibly uncomfortable and painful, but imperative for growth.
How is working on Syfy’s hit dark comedy “HAPPY!”?
Truly, it was one of the best moments of my life. Not only was it an incredible experience working with my cast mates, but I fell in love with the crew. We were a united team. The hours were long, there was a tremendous amount of shooting that had to get accomplished in a short time, but we made it happen together. I’ll never forget my time on set with them.
What is your character Gala Scaramucci about?
My character is basically a trophy wife stuck in an emotionally abusive marriage, and is doing her best to keep it together if you will. She puts up a front, but underneath is incredibly unhappy and in pain, but because her husband Blue is the head of the mafia, I think she’s afraid to get out. I don’t think it was ever her intention to end up in the situation she has found herself in, but has a son Gerry and does everything to can to protect and care for him.
If you could choose, what three actors would you really want to work with?
Michael Caine, Idris Elba, Catherine O’Hara
What other projects you have been part of?
I’ve worked on various shows and movies over the years. Happy! was the most memorable, but I also thoroughly enjoy working on my own projects because they usually allow for the most artistic freedom when I don’t have anyone else telling me what I need to do. It’s incredibly freeing.
What are your makeup bag staples when traveling?
To be honest, I don’t wear much makeup. My staples when traveling are an SPF, concealer by 100% Pure, mascara and Glossier Mint All in One Balm. I try to use Organic products on my face.
Who is your favorite Actor/Actress? And why?
Terry O’Quinn. His work on “Lost” impacted me in such a profound way, and I remember watching him thinking, I want to do that. He is such a talent and the span of his career really motivates me.
3 things you can’t leave your house without?
Water bottle– I drink a crazy amount of water. I think I have an addiction. Headphones, because I listen to music and podcasts all day, and a book. If I have auditions or breaks in my schedule, I am usually reading or writing. I always keep the creative juices flowing.
What music do you like?
I love all types of music but have a serious obsession with all things Hans Zimmer. I love his music scores and even work out to him at the gym. I got to see him on tour this summer in LA, and I almost passed out. I am his biggest fan.
Your idea of a perfect Sunday is?
Pancakes, eggs, hike, farmer’s market, meditation and a bath. I try to keep Sunday a designated self care day.
How’s a normal day in your life?
It really varies. I have never had a 9 to 5, and sometimes I wish I had a more set schedule, but I also thrive off of the flexibility. I make sure that I keep myself disciplined. Even if I have nothing going on, you will never find me sitting home watching TV or staying in bed all day. I didn’t even own a TV for 4 years until I moved to LA this summer. I am always keeping myself busy whether or not I am working. In general though, I live a very simple, grounded life.
What is your favorite healthy food?
Olives! I hated them as a kid, and I can eat an entire can as an adult. I have a real problem.
And your favorite cheat food?
Do I have to name just one?! I love French fries and cheese. I don’t eat dairy, but every now and again I need some cheese in my life, otherwise I am not sure it’s worth living.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
There are so many women throughout history who have inspired me that the list is long. Alive, I would say Pema Chodron or Oprah, who are both so special in their own ways and incredibly empowering.
How do you see yourself in 5 years?
Working on a project I love, married, with a baby and my 2 cats living a simple, happy life.
Do you support any charity?
Food on Foot, which is an LA based program for the homeless and my own personal work with animals. I help rescue and foster stray cats around the LA area. Animals are my heart.
Where we can follow you?
You can find me on Instagram @officialcarlysullivan or Facebook at Carly Sullivan
Favorite Music: I’m either all about the movie soundtracks or I love some classic hip-hop from A Tribe Called Quest.
Quote: “Suddenly you’re ripped into being alive. And life is pain and life is suffering and life is horror, but my god you’re alive and it’s spectacular.”
– Joseph Campbell
Holiday Destination: The French countryside
Food: I love all types of cuisine, it’s most important that it’s high quality sourced food.
Restaurant: Crossroads or Sugarfish
Drink: Spicy margarita or a glad of Grüner
Celebrity Crush: Chris Meloni
Song: “When Someone Great is Gone” by LCD Soundsystem
Sports Team: I don’t watch sports, but I do cheer on my Florida Gators
Movie: The Matrix, It’s a classic.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
