Earlier this year, I was introduced to one of the most gracious, gorgeous and talented up and coming actresses I have encountered on the Hallmark Channel–Sandy Sidhu. She made a tremendous splash with Frozen In Love, her first real supporting lead in a Hallmark movie. And from her success with that film, she has gone on to even more roles on Hallmark and elsewhere. This past weekend, Sandy was seen in her first Hallmark Christmas movie, Mingle All the Way. One of her co-stars, Casey Manderson, suggested I interview Sandy again because he so enjoyed sharing the screen with her in this film, and indeed, I am honored to now share this interview we did right before the premiere.
RH: Since seeing you in Frozen In Love, Hallmark fans also caught a glimpse of you in The Wedding March 4. We’re you familiar with this movie series before getting cast? What did you enjoy about your role and filming this movie?
SS: I wasn’t familiar with the franchise before joining! Playing Abby’s best friend Lena was refreshing to play. Lena has an unwavering positive outlook and keeps Abby from spiraling into her fears. She uplifts her and reminds her of her worth and value. My favourite part about playing Lena was her incredible loyalty to Abby.
You also were in the now-canceled series Six. What did you enjoy about being a part of this series?
Six was an incredible opportunity to stay still as a character. Sam was a watcher–someone who could read people through their subtle mannerisms. She was ferociously protective of Robert Chase’s well-being (played by Edwin Hodge). Working with director Steve Schill was amazing. He has this amazing ability to relax actors and encourages us to make new discoveries in every take. It’s a gift when you work with directors like that.
You were also on an episode of Legends Of Tomorrow. What was it like to be a part of that popular show? Any special memories?
I was invited to be apart of the show because of a resemblance they felt I have to Tala Ashe. They asked if I would like to play the role of her mother in a flashback. I am delighted to be apart of Legends and my favourite part is knowing Tala. She’s a gem of an actress and a human being. She’s thoughtful, kind, and extremely generous. It’s hard not to leave set without a meaningful conversation with her.
Hallmark fans recently saw you in your first Christmas movie. Please tell us about your role and how it fits into the overall storyline of the film. Any special behind-the-scenes moments?
I play the role of Lisa Turner. Lisa is a successful owner of a tech company and best friends to the lead played by Jen Lilley. Lisa is bubbly, a little quirky, and most importantly unafraid to be herself. Without revealing too much, there may be some Christmas magic in the air for Lisa and unexpected feelings in her life.
My favourite behind-the-scenes moment was experiencing fake snow being blown into the air for our scenes. It was pretty magical and a surreal dichotomy to the warmer weather we were actually experiencing. And I also wish everyone could know Casey Manderson’s deadpan jokes. I was beside myself on set. He was a wonderful co-star to work with.
Are there any other upcoming works you would like to mention?
I’ll be recurring on a new series for Apple. I can’t say much more than that presently.
Any special holiday traditions you would like to mention?
Our family always opens one gift on Christmas Eve. We stay up until midnight to open one gift.
Holiday Favorites
Favorite holiday color: But of course, red!
Favorite holiday scent: I love the smell of rosemary
Favorite holiday movie: Love, Actually
Favorite holiday song: Anything Michael Bublé
Favorite holiday food: Stuffing!
Sandy has an uncanny ability to take what could be considered a minor and seemingly insignificant role and imbue the character with charm, wit, and authenticity. When Sandy graces the screen, you cannot help but be drawn to her effervescence and ardor. It has been an absolute delight to watch her glittering star soar this year, and I tend to think that even more incredible opportunities are headed her way due to her obvious giftedness, her collaborative nature, and her unpretentious, dynamic spirit. She is a breath of fresh air whenever she is on the screen, and I am thrilled for all the amazing things headed her way.
If you have not had the chance to watch Mingle All the Way, I cannot recommend this film highly enough! While Jen Lilley and Brant Daugherty are brilliant and hilarious, Sandy’s role injects even more pleasure into what is already a captivating experience. If you are in the U.S., this movie should replay more than once on the Hallmark Channel before the end of the year, and if you are in Canada, be sure to check out the W Network on December 8th for the premiere. In addition to all this, don’t forget to click on all Sandy’s links and consider following her where applicable. I tend to believe this young lady is on the precipice of virtual stardom (fingers crossed for a Hallmark movie with her at the helm), and it is such an honor to be able to support her every step of the way!
FOLLOW SANDY
1 Comment
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So glad you interviewed Sandy. Have been wanting to know a little more about her. She was so great in Frozen in Love. Hope to see more of her.
Thank you Ruth for your always excellent interviews.
Linda Winfield