Check out our interview with “V Wars” leading actress Jacky Lai.
Jacky can be seen in a leading role opposite “The Vampire Diaries” alum Ian Somerhalder in Netflix’s newest vampire series “V Wars.”
In “V Wars”, carriers of a disease transform people into vampires and a research scientist (Ian Somerhalder) and his best friend (Adrian Holmes) find themselves on opposite sides of a burgeoning conflict between humanity and those who turned. Jacky plays Kaylee Vo, a struggling young online journalist who breaks the biggest story imaginable and soon finds herself a key part of that story with a growing list of deadly enemies.
Follow Jacky at @hijackylai
Hi Jacky, please tell us a little about you?
My name Jacky Lai and I play Kaylee Vo in the new Netflix Series – V Wars.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Passionate, Driven, and Introverted.
Who is your role model?
Will Smith, amongst others.
How did you get started into acting?
I was at a photoshoot for a condo campaign and an agent there approached me. I signed with them shortly after and started auditioning.
How has this changed your life?
It’s given every moment in my life – the good and the bad – a purpose.
Tell us about your work in sci-fi horror series “V-WARS?”
I play a journalist who runs her own forum online. With her sneaky ways and clever antics, she uncovers the biggest story of her life – and the world’s.
And about your character Kaylee Vo?
Kaylee is very resourceful, she’s witty and clever. She knows how to get in trouble as easily as she knows how to get herself out. Life has always been a game to her, until she loses something she can never replace.
How was it working in a leading role and also working with Ian Somerhalder?
It was a huge learning curve for me, a lot of things only experience can teach you, and I am so grateful to have shared it with two very lovely humans – Ian and Adrian. They’re the epitome of leading men, their presence, talent, and professionalism is to be admired. I couldn’t have asked for a better leader in Mr. Somerhalder, he is brilliant at what he does, and such a sweet and loving family man.
What other projects have you been part of?
We finished the final season of Shadowhunters this year and I just had my first lead in a feature premiere at the Whistler Film Festival in December. It’s been really exciting.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
The fans. They’ve made me realize that the work we do is much bigger than us. I definitely think bigger now, it’s not about the part, the project or the person, but how are we living and how do we affect the people and places around us.
What is your favorite healthy food?
Smoothies. I always feel so healthy and efficient when I have one and it’s such an easy on the go food.
And your favorite cheat food?
Waffles! I have an obsession with baked or deep fried carbs.
How would you explain your fashion style?
Presentable and Hide Mode. Eight out of ten times I have a baseball cap and sweats on. Then when I have to – sporty chic is more of my style.
How would your best friend describe you?
Stubborn, open, and caring.
What’s next for Jacky Lai in 2019/2020?
Just more of everything – never ready but always prepared.
What is your own definition of happiness?
Peace – know everything happens for a reason. Learn from them and have faith; what is meant for you will always be yours.
How is a normal day in your life?
It is very chill – I wake up and write in my journal, I meditate, go to the gym, eat, work, eat again, then Netflix and chillllll.
What is your idea of a perfect Sunday?
Sunrise on a balcony overlooking a body of water, wrapped up with your loved one.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
Marilyn Monroe. I read a script about her this year and have been fascinated with her ever since.
Best advice ever given?
When you know better, do better.
Do you support any charity?
I have supported the WWF, IJM, and women centers in Vancouver. I also organize charity trips back home in Vietnam, we donate supplies and food for orphanages, temples, HIV/AIDS centers, and senior homes. I have done this twice now and plan on making it an annual thing.
Name 3 things you can’t live without?
My senses, my people, and good food.
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years from now?
I started writing my first screenplay at the end of this year, I want to direct and produce as well, so in five years, I better have done all of that.
Favorite song? Why?
Drew Barrymore by Bryce Vine. It’s a feel good song that never feels intruding at any moment.
What music do you like?
Hip Hop & RnB
What do you think of Social Media?
I think it’s a great platform to connect people but with everything in life, balance is key.
Where we can follow you?
Twitter & Instagram: @hijackylai
Quote: What would you do if you knew you could never fail?
Favorite Singer/Artist: Alicia Keys, Rhianna, Beyonce
Movie: The Notebook
Travel Destination: Nice, Monaco, Positano, Amalfi Coast
Sports Team: Raptors
Tv Show: The Morning Show
Book: Emotions by Osho
Photo Credit: Noah Asanias