Check out our interview with young actress Antonella Rose, who can be seen on her stellar and critically praised performance in Hulu’s “Candy” opposite Jessica Biel. Rose’s talent will once again be front and center in her feature film “A Sudden Case Of Christmas,” directed by Peter Chelsom and filmed in Italy. The role sees Antonella starring alongside absolute Hollywood icons Danny DeVito, Andie MacDowell, and Wilmer Valderrama. Beyond this joyous holiday flick, Antonella recently concluded a six-episode arc on AMC’s smash hit television show “Fear Of The Walking Dead,” which is now streaming.
Follow Antonella @littlemissantonella
Hi Antonella, please tell us a little about yourself.
A very ordinary 11-year-old. You can find me with my friends, going to the mall, and crocheting. I love writing songs and playing my ukulele
Describe yourself in three words.
-Loyal
-Caring
-Energetic
How did you get started in acting?
I was about 5 years old when I booked my first national commercial. My mom is a former actress, and one day she noticed I was playing pretend with my dolls, she found me a random monologue on the internet, which I can still remember to this day, and she recorded it and sent it to the agencies. I got signed right away.
How has this changed your life?
I would say it changed much as in, I cannot make long-term plans anymore since my schedule suddenly can get a little crazy, as a result, we always ended up going on vacations at the last minute.
What is the best and worst part of being an actress?
The best part is the amazing people that I get to meet along the way, and that some of them become family. The worst part is to say goodbye to them.
How do you prepare for a role?
When preparing for a new role or character, I start by thoroughly analyzing the script and understanding the character’s backstory, motivations, and relationships with other characters. This helps me build a solid foundation for my portrayal of the character.
Tell us about your work in Hulu’s “Candy” opposite Jessica Biel?
Filming “Candy” was an incredible experience for me. Christina Gore, the character I played in the mini-series, was my first big theatrical role, so I was still figuring everything out. I worked opposite Jessica Biel, Melanie Lynskey, and many other talented actors, and it was an amazing learning experience and taught me many of the things I know now. They were both very kind and mind-blowing actresses. I also made lots of friends and became best friends with my co-star Aven Lotz. There was always lots of fun behind the scenes moments after the sad scenes which I found quite therapeutic. It was an amazing experience and I will never forget it.
And about your work in “A Sudden Case Of Christmas?”
I can’t disclose much since the movie has not come out yet, but I will say this. I took this film as a masterclass for acting. I never thought I would get a lead role being so young. Sharing screen time with Danny Devito, Wilmer Valderrama, and many other very talented and well-known actors felt surreal.
Now tell us about AMC’s smash hit television show “Fear Of The Walking Dead?”
Where to start… First of all, filming FTWD has been an absolute dream, I still can’t believe all of this is real! I was cast after a long process of auditions and meetings. Playing Tracy Otto was an experience I will cherish forever. I’ll never forget all the people who helped me to get there. I had a lot of heavy scenes, and my castmates helped me to get me back on my feet. I remember one time, I was feeling very vulnerable doing a very emotional scene, and Kim Dicksen held me for a few minutes when it was over, like the momma bear she is. Colman Domingo is the funniest guy I ever met in my life. It’s impossible to be around him without having a good laugh. He’s such a vibe. Me and my Mom spent almost 4 Months in Savannah. I really enjoyed my time there exploring the city and going on a lot
of ghost tours.
What other projects have you been part of?
I played Jillian on Ravens Home (Disney). It was really cool to meet the cast and get to know backstage scenarios.
What kind of roles do you like or would like to play, and why?
I don’t really know — I enjoy doing all types of roles, honestly. I would love to play a superhero one day, but I think the type of roles I seem to attract are the more dramatic roles, I like these roles especially since they tend to show my range, but every now and then I do enjoy a spazzy/spunky type of role.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
The fans have to be the most rewarding part of my work, especially when they tell me that I made them cry or smile.
What’s your advice for the newer actors?
Never give up! There are always going to be haters putting you down and you shouldn’t listen to them! All you need to focus on is believing in yourself, and that is all that matters! As long as you believe it you will achieve it!!
What would you say are the greatest lessons you have learned so far in this business?
Be a good listener.
How would your best friend describe you?
I’m the type of person to never give up!! I’m very energetic and I never stop moving, and sometimes I bring up the most random facts you could imagine!
If you were a book, what would be the title of the book and why?
“I don’t have problems. I have challenges and opportunities”. Because every audition for me is a challenge. And as I said, I do love challenges.
What book should every entrepreneur read?
I read “How to Win Friends & Influence People” and I found that quite helpful.
What’s next for Antonella Rose in 2024?
I would love to know!!!!! I guess, we all just have to wait and see together.
What is your own definition of happiness?
Brazil, so I can be spoiled by my grandma.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
Anne Hathaway and Emma Stone. I really admire these actresses and I hope to work with them one day.
Best advice ever given?
“Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”
Do you support any charities?
I donate on a regular basis to The Salvation Army and Humane Animal Rescue. There are so many others I want to get involved with.
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years?
Doing what I love the most, which has to be entertaining!!! I’d love nothing more than to create new projects, giving life to different characters, but I don’t get to make those calls yet!
Favorite song? Why?
I really like Lana Del Rey, Olivia Rodrigo, and Billie Eilish… I’m a really big music person. I think that music is just such a big part of my life and just every part of it, even with acting, I always listen to music to get into character.
What do you think of social media?
A scary place, and a happy place at the same time.
Where can we follow you?
I’m more active on my Instagram @littlemissantonella
Book: A Series of Unfortunate Events
Quote: “Acting is behaving truthfully under imaginary circumstances.”
Movie: Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children, The Secret Garden.
TV Series: A Series of Unfortunate Events
Favorite Food: Ramen noodles.
Travel Destination: Tokyo, Paris.
Sports Team: LA Lakers, or Miami Heat.
