Check out our interview with Netflix’s “The Baby-Sitters Club” actress Momona Tamada.
Based on Ann M. Martin’s beloved books, the show follows a group of girlfriends and their homegrown babysitting series. Momona shines as Claudia Kishi, the vice-president of The Baby-Sitters Club and an all-around fashion maven.
Momona burst onto the scene in early 2020, appearing as a young Lara Jean (Lana Condor) in Netflix’s global sensation “To All The Boys: P.S. I Still Love You.” She is set to reprise her role in the third film, “To All The Boys: Always and Forever, Lara Jean.” Additional credits for Momona include a supporting role in Netflix’s family film “The Main Event,” AMC’s award-winning series “The Terror,” and Amazon’s “The Boys.”
Raised in Vancouver, Canada, Momona was born to Japanese immigrant parents. Her name aptly means ‘hundreds of beaches,’ inspired by her hometown of Vancouver. Aside from acting, Momona is an award-winning dancer and has been competing since the age of four. She has performed in the B.C. Summer Games Opening Ceremonies, and with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet. Commercially, Momona has modeled in the ivivva campaign for Canadian powerhouse athletic wear brand lululemon.
Follow Momona at @momonatamada
Hi Momona, please describe yourself in 3 words?
Creative, Determined and Fun
How did you get started into acting?
I was signed with my talent agency when I attended their open call for dancers and was chosen out of over 200 artists. My agent began sending me to acting auditions and although it was a very different form of expression than I was used to, I loved it and wanted to do more! I booked my first job and was flown to Montreal for my first project. I haven’t stopped since!
How has this role changed your life?
This role has changed my life because this is my first lead in a series and will always be special because of that. It is such an honour to be part of such a beloved series.
What is the best and worst part of being an actress?
The best part of being an actress is all the new experiences and meeting new people that share the same passion as I do. The worst part is that I’m not a morning person! When I’m working, I have to get up really early. It’s a good thing I can sleep anywhere…
Tell us about your work in Netflix’s series “The Baby-Sitters Club,” and your role as Claudia Kishi?
I play Claudia Kishi in “The Baby-Sitters Club” which is based on the book series by Ann M. Martin. Claudia is super fun and creative, she loves fashion and will always stand up for her friends. She is Japanese-American and breaks stereotypes.
And about your work in “To All The Boys: P.S. I Still Love You?”
I got the chance to play the younger version of Lara Jean in both of the sequels. It was super exciting for me, because I loved the first movie and I look up to Lana Condor a lot!
How do you prepare for a role?
I read the script multiple times and make sure I am “off the book” which is an industry term for having the script memorized. I research the story line, the history of the character, and what makes the character tick. I also think about how the character would deliver the lines and try them in different ways, so that I’m prepared for any quick changes from the director. Depending on the role, my preparation is always different.
What kind of roles do you like or would like to play and why?
I would love to play roles in different genres since I always want to choose roles that challenge me. An action role would be amazing!
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
The most rewarding part of my work is seeing all of the love and support from fans and getting to meet so many different, lovely people!
How would your best friend describe you?
Loving, Supportive, Energetic
What is your definition of happiness?
Living with positivity and doing what you love!
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
My Grandpa Takashi. I miss him and was really young when he passed away, but I have so many sweet memories with him and would love to make more.
Best advice ever given?
My mom tells me to never give up and always do my best with the best attitude!
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years from now?
I hope that in 5 years we’ve completed many more seasons of The Baby-Sitters Club (fingers crossed), and that I am successfully continuing my career in acting.
Favorite song? Why?
“Imagine” by John Lennon is very special to me! I remember dancing to this song when I was about 6 years old, and I don’t think I really understood how powerful the lyrics of the song were until I grew up more. I eventually realized why John Lennon and Yoko Ono wanted to deliver the message through the power of music.
What do you think of Social Media?
I think social media is a great tool to connect with people. I don’t use it as much as I probably should, but I’m trying to use it more now and hopefully connect with fans of The Baby-Sitters Club. I think there are of course some cons to social media, and we have to be responsible with what we post, share and comment. It could inspire and influence many in a positive way, if used correctly.
Where we can follow you?
You can follow me @momonatamada on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook!
Favorite Quote:
“You were meant to be here. This is your time”
– Herbert P. Brooks Jr.
And
“Be the change that you wish to see in the world”
-Mahatma Gandhi
Favorite Singer/Artist: I have a ton but a singer that always ends up on my playlist is Beyoncé! She has such a great variety of songs, so I can always listen to her, no matter the situation or mood I am in.
Favorite Movie: One of my favorite movies is “The Secret World of Arrietty” by Studio Ghibli
Top Travel Destination: Japan! I have been to Japan many times since my parents are from there. I always have so much fun exploring, shopping and trying delicious Japanese food! Of course, visiting my relatives and spending time with them is always the highlight of the trip!!
I would love to go to the Maldives too. I have seen so many beautiful photos, so it is my dream vacation destination right now.
Favorite Sports Team: I do not have a favorite sports team. I love watching rhythmic gymnastics though! I guess that’s my type of sports!!!
Favorite TV Show: “Outer Banks” on Netflix!
Favorite Book: One book that I have loved since I was in grade 3 is called “Happiness Is” by Lisa Swerling and Ralph Lazar. It’s a pretty simple book with one sentence answers, but the book gives you examples of all the things you could be happy about! It is a wonderful reminder of how many things makes you happy every day and how to live life with gratitude.
Photo Credit: Jenna Berman at Mandisa Photo
