I cannot begin to tell you just how thrilled I am to see Nikki DeLoach back on our screens tonight (3/23) in Love To the Rescue (premiering on the W Network on March 30th in Canada). The fact that she is partnering with Michael Rady and being directed by Steven R. Monroe (again after a successful Christmas movie) absolutely electrifies me! Recently, I reached out to one of the supporting cast members, Haviland Stillwell, who was first seen last year on the Hallmark Network in the Hall of Fame presentation, The Beach House. Thankfully, Haviland had some time for a quick interview, and in anticipation of tonight’s premiere, I am honored to share it with my readers today!
Credit: Bryan Carpender
RH: Please tell us a little of your story and how you got involved with pursuing a career in the entertainment industry.
HS: I started working when I was a little girl in Georgia as an actress and singer in film, TV and theatre. I left for college. First, I attended Ithaca, and then I graduated from NYU with the pure intent to perform on Broadway as soon as possible. The first day of rehearsal for my first Broadway show was six months after my graduation, and on day three of rehearsal, I was upgraded to a featured role. I was definitely focused! From there, I just kept going! I have my eyes set on specific goals and just go for them!
What was your first professional job in the business and what are your memories of it?
I think my first job was a reading of a play, and then the film Fried Green Tomatoes. And then I was a stand-in on the series I’ll Fly Away for two years. During that time, I went to school on set. The actor I was standing in for would be on set school while I did the other actors’ coverage. My first acting experiences were with Sam Waterson and Regina Taylor, and that taught me to be on point, professional, and real.
I notice you’ve done some voiceover work. What are the benefits and challenges of this kind of work?
Haviland’s character Audrey from Miraculous
I love voiceover! I guess the challenge is finding and communicating the full essence of the character or product by only using your voice. My training in musical theatre and opera has been a massive help as a voice actress. Many of my characters are very strong powerhouse women, like Raquelle in Barbie: Life in the Dreamhouse, Audrey Bourgeois in Miraculous, and the Mariner in Fallout 4: Far Harbor.
The Beach House
I believe your first Hallmark movie was The Beach House last year. While your role was rather small, what was your experience like on that movie?
I had fun! Everyone was great to work with.
I also see Selma and Magic Mike XXL in your credits. What was it like being a part of those films?
Credit: FayesVision/WENN.com
Selma was a dream to be part of – what an important story to tell. I’ve been an advocate for equal rights my entire life. From being on set working with the incredible director, Ava Duvernay, to attending the premiere event at Oprah’s home, honoring Civil Rights heroes — a career highlight.
And Magic Mike XXL was a total blast! I worked closely with Matt Bomer, who is a sweetheart. Loved it.
Hallmark fans are about to see you in Love To the Rescue. What would you like to tell us about this movie?
It’s a very sweet story, and everyone was lovely. I think Hallmark fans will love this one.
Any other upcoming works you would like to share
With Andrew Russell, fellow voiceover actor
Yes! I just wrapped a film with Mira Sorvino and Richard Dreyfus called Reckoning. I am also in a new series called BIFL coming out soon. There are more episodes of Miraculous and a game I voiced just came out – Devil May Cry 5. I’m also really looking forward to playing a superhero, an international spy, and a high-powered politician.
I see you’ve also worked as a casting director. What do you enjoy about being involved in that sector of the industry?
I know how it feels as an actor when you book a job that you really want, so to give people that feeling, in turn, feels incredible! And it gives me such a good perspective as an actor, knowing how it works on the other side of the table. This is all a collaboration, at the end of the day. We all just want to make great stuff with great people, and for people to watch it and connect with it. Connection and transformation are what we are all seeking.
What is your advice to other aspiring actresses who are looking to enter the industry?
Be strong, focused and persistent in your dreams and visions, and surround yourself with people who you believe in, and who believe in you!
I simply adore the fact that Haviland has accomplished so much over the course of her career thus far and that she is a driven, persistent person with a positive perspective. She has taken full advantage of every opportunity she has been granted within this business, and within every role, she has brought her unique skillset while gleaning a deeper understanding of her craft in every way imaginable. It is amazing to witness the palpable success she has enjoyed in such a relatively short span of time, and as she continues to pursue her dreams and goals, I have no doubt that even more unique and marvelous opportunities will be sent her way.
As Hallmark viewers prepare to watch the latest network movie tonight (March 23rd), I hope that everyone will keep their eyes open for Haviland, who will be portraying Allison in Love To the Rescue. Canadian viewers will have the same chance next weekend (3/30) with the W Network premiere of this movie. Additionally, I hope that my readers will visit all of Haviland’s links below and follow her via social media where applicable. As Haviland’s career continues its steady ascent towards virtual stardom, I can only anticipate what the future holds for the impeccably gifted, dynamically enlightened Haviland!
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