Check out our interview with actress Danielle Larracuente who can be seen in “Bosch: Legacy” as Paulina Calderon. Danielle will also be recurring in NBC’s hit drama This Is Us’ Final Season with her episodes airing this month. Danielle shines as Mandy Moore’s nurse Laila who helps her with her Dementia diagnosis and aiding the family through this tough time.
“Bosch: Legacy” comes off the heels of the wildly popular Amazon crime drama “Bosch”, which ran for seven seasons and concluded last summer. Larracuente joins Titus Welliver (Harry Bosch) , Madison Lintz (Maddie Bosch), as well as Mimi Rogers (Honey Chandler). The series follows Harry Bosch as he begins a new chapter as a private investigator while his daughter gets into the family business as a rookie patrol officer. Danielle’s character, Officer Paulina Calderon, is another rookie who quickly befriends Maddie.
Follow Danielle @DanielleLarracuente
Hi Danielle, please tell us a little about you?
Hey guys! Well, in a nutshell, I am an actress living in LA pursuing my creative dreams! I was born and raised in Westchester, NY and I am of Puerto Rican descent. Because of my upbringing, a huge part of my mission in the entertainment industry is to help create and facilitate opportunities for Latinas like me.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Intuitive—A Leader—Positive
How did you get started into acting?
I started at the age of four. First in beauty pageants, which led me to landing one of my first commercials.
How has this changed your life?
The opportunities I received have helped my growth tremendously as an actress, but more importantly as a human. Throughout my career, I primarily focus on staying grounded, as during busy times, this approach has made me much stronger when focusing on where I want to go next in my career.
What is the best and worst part of being an actress?
The best part hands down is being able to take part in amazing stories. I really enjoy bringing life to my individual character, while expressing the theme of the storyline and connecting with the audience. This dynamic is very powerful and can be uplifting depending on the type of show.
The worst?
Ahhh! Honestly, that is how I know this career is truly for me. Even at challenging moments, like 5am call times, I have such a drive to do it! I believe every chosen career is hard, yet when you love it, challenging times don’t feel as hard.
How do you prepare for a role?
Based on my own experiences, every role is different for me. Some roles I automatically feel closer to, while others I find myself working to achieve that connection. I have learned to measure the amount of preparation for each role, as they are all so different. For example, Paulina Calderon in Bosch Legacy fit like a glove as both my parents were in law enforcement, so the role felt very familiar.
Tell us about your work on hit TV show “Bosch: Legacy?”
Bosch: Legacy is the next chapter of the hit series Bosch, which followed Harry Bosch as a LAPD officer. He now has left the force and is starting a career as a private investigator (PI). In Bosch: Legacy, Harry’s daughter, Maddie, decided to enter the academy and become an officer herself. What is great about the show, whether you were a follower of the original Bosch or not, Bosch: Legacy stands alone where you are able to jump right in as a viewer. But it is so addicting, you are going to want to go back and watch the original series!
And about your role as “Paulina Calderon?”
Sure. I play a LAPD officer named Paulina Calderon. I am what they call a “boot” or “rookie cop,” fresh out of the police academy. I am a friend/ally to Maddie played by the talented actress, Madison Lintz. My character is very interesting and was inspired by an incredible actor named Paul Calderon. Recently, quite amazingly, I got to meet him on a different set! What an honor!
What other projects you have been part of?
I just recently was a part of the last season of This Is Us. I play Laila, Rebecca’s nurse, and caretaker.
What kind of roles do you like or would like to play and why?
I love different types of roles that expand my skills as an actress and can showcase me in different lights.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
Yikes! It’s hard to pick one! I will pick two. For one “the story!” I think that it is important for actors not to forget the story of your character as well as the overall story of the project. It is important not to get so wrapped up in the industry stuff, and what you think people want from you. We are all inspired to act initially by seeing a beautiful story that touched you or you identified with. These concepts are what keep me going, as I dive into the character and story and make it come to life. The second, is that it is important to keep in mind my audience-who I touch and inspire. Just knowing I made a difference for someone else with my storytelling and performance is moving for me.
What’s your advice for the newer actors?
My advice to newer actors is to work at your craft every day, whether it is auditioning, going to acting classes, workshops, networking, or personal care, it all makes a difference. Also, don’t give up. Stay in line and eventually your number will be called.
What would you say are the greatest lessons you learned so far in this business?
1. Have faith! ALWAYS KEEP GOING!
2. Always make it a point to continually reassess what you are doing in your career. Ask yourself, how can I proactively improve in my career? For instance, working on your acting craft, learning more camera techniques, improving your business skills (updating reels, acting websites, etc.), getting your social game on, or the biggest thing for me was knowing when to let go and trust the process!
3. Come from a knowing, confident place as there is no other YOU in the industry, and they are waiting to see you shine!
How would your best friend describe you?
I thought I would just ask her myself lol. “Danielle is one of the most dedicated, determined, loving person I know. I admire her unconditional support to all the people around her, as well as charming personality!” -Ivette Huerta.
If you are a book, what would be the title of the book and why?
“The Latina who kept trucking” lol! That is one of the greatest gifts I learned recently. Enjoy the journey and keep it moving.
What advice would you give to your younger self and why?
You are exactly where you need to be in this moment, everything will always work out!
What book should every entrepreneur read?
Dave Ramsey: Total Money Makeover
Wayne Dyer: Change your thoughts Change your Life
What’s next for Danielle Larracuente in 2022?
I would love to be a part of more organizations with inspiring women and women of color. Also, of course working on more fascinating roles that I get to bring to life.
What is your own definition of happiness?
My definition of happiness is being truly in the moment, doing something I love. Whether it is acting, being a mom to my kid, or enjoying the day outdoors.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
I would be honored to meet Viola Davis. I love how she carries herself with such intelligence, grace, and poise!
Best advice ever given?
Trust your gut, it will never steer you wrong.
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years from now?
From here, I see myself continuing to work on exploring different roles for television, specifically, where the roles expand my range as an actress. I also see myself moving into the movie world, and one day, on the silver screen! I also really want to make an impact on the Latino community, specifically in the entertainment community. I want to especially focus on Latina moms, because I feel like we need more of a presence in the entertainment community.
Favorite song? Why?
“Brown Eyed Girl” by Van Morrison. One of the first songs I learned with my mom.
What do you think of Social Media?
I believe it is a great platform to connect with the world and show self-expression!
Where can we follow you?
On Instagram @DanielleLarracuente
Photo Credit: Kelsey Hale
