Again, I applaud the Hallmark network for continuing to feature young film and TV industry professionals in their projects, and that is exactly how I stumbled upon the gifted Kathryn Kohut. To date, her credit list is rather short because she is relatively new within the business. However, Hallmark fans are bound to remember her from Christmas Scavenger Hunt this past season, and they may have seen her in her Lifetime feature debut, Mistletoe & Menorahs. Recently, I was able to interview Kathryn, and I am happy to share our virtual chat with my readers today.
© Hill Peppard Photography
RH: Why/How did you decide to pursue a career in acting? What kind of training have you had to prepare you for this career?
© Alex Evans Photography
KK: I loved to read when I was a kid, and I loved getting lost in stories. I grew up without a TV, so when I started watching movies and getting lost in film, I found myself more and more just wanting to be a part of them.
I was working on a pipeline somewhere in the middle of Saskatchewan when I decided that life was too short to not go for it. So I applied to the Lee Strasberg Institute in New York City, and that’s where I had my first acting class.
I train frequently because I always want to be better.
It looks like your first roles in film/TV are in Christmas movies that premiered this past season. Are there any other professional roles you had before these?
Actually, my very first film was an indie thriller called Spare Parts, but I shot both of the Christmas movies right after that and all three projects were back to back! My career is just starting, and I am excited for what the future has in store.
Matt Stefiuk, Kathryn Kohut Credit: ©2019 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Johnson Production Group
You made a Lifetime and Hallmark Christmas movie this past year. What did you know about these networks before making these movies?
I knew that both of those networks were very successful and that a lot of people watch and love the films that they release. After working with both of those networks, I saw that there was a really amazing team of people behind the scenes that work really hard, and they made filming those projects I did really special.
Please tell us about your experience on both Christmas movies and feel free to share anything from behind-the-scenes.
Kevin McGarry, Kim Shaw, Tom Arnold, Kathryn, Kohut Credit: ©2019 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Johnson Production Group
I remember feeling really nervous, especially on my first day. It was my first time on a set that big, that moved so quickly and with so many moving parts. I just kept thinking “don’t mess up” Ha-Ha!
Specifically the karaoke scene in Christmas Scavenger Hunt. It was terrifying to sing in front of the entire cast and crew and about 50 extras! Everyone on set was truly great though and made me feel as comfortable as possible – and I made some amazing friends.
Any other upcoming works you can mention?
Christmas Scavenger Hunt
I recently finished filming a romantic comedy called Love at Look Lodge and it should be coming out this year! I am really excited to see it; we filmed in some really beautiful places and again the cast and crew were amazing to work with. I’ve been auditioning – so fingers crossed that my next project isn’t far away.
What are your hopes for the new year/new decade?
Photo by Hill Peppard
I am really exploring different characters this year and darker film genres. I know that the work I do will continue to become more grounded and meaningful and I hope to just keep pushing myself to become a better actor. Actually, I know I will!
As an actress who is just getting started in film/TV, what is the most important advice you have received? How have you implemented that into your career and the way you approach acting?
I have gotten so much good advice, but what’s had the most impact so far when it comes to acting was being reminded that I have everything I need to succeed inside of me already and that it’s up to me to have to courage to explore it, understand it and then let it be seen. I work on this every day.
What is your favorite season of the year and why?
Summer!! I love the heat and summer nights are the best.
Photo by Alex Evans
Even though this is a but a brief look into the life and work of Kathryn, it is a joy and an honor to be able to highlight her at the very inception of her career. While the film and TV industry is currently on hiatus, I have no doubt that not only will we soon see this film she mentioned that has already been completed, but I am convinced that once our current crisis ends, she will be able to pick up right where she left off so that we can watch her in many more films and shows. If you did not have the opportunity to watch her in Christmas Scavenger Hunt this past season, be sure to pick up the DVD or stream it on Amazon Video and elsewhere. From what I can deduce, her Lifetime Christmas movie, Mistletoe & Menorahs is also available to purchase or to stream on Amazon (and other retailers/services as well), so be sure you check it out if you’re interested. While we await her next offerings, be sure that you visit her links below and consider following here where applicable. Although we have no idea what Kathryn’s future in the industry may ultimately be, I think it’s safe to state that she has made more than a positive impression on Hallmark and I hope to see her in more projects with this network (and others) in the days, weeks, months, and years to come!
FOLLOW KATHRYN
Christmas Scavenger Hunt
Christmas Scavenger Hunt
