Arica Himmel
Arica Himmel an actor, writer, aspiring filmmaker, and entrepreneur, was born and raised in New York City. She is best known for her role as Rainbow “Bow” Johnson in the ABC comedy series, Mixed-ish. Season 2 premiered on January 26th, 2021 and appears Tuesdays at 9:30/8:30c on ABC.
What encouraged you to move from the theater stage to a TV studio?
I love the theatre, but I started to gravitate toward TV because I liked the idea of performing new material on a daily basis. There are so many new stories that unfold for your character, which helps you understand your character and develop that person. However, I am excited to return to NYC eventually and do more theatre.
Who is the person who inspires you? What about that person inspires you?
Tracee Ellis Ross a successful actress and entrepreneur, inspires me. She’s also a social activist and is unapologetically herself. She inspires me to come out of my shell and be myself.
How did you go about preparing for the role of Bow after seeing Tracee Ellis Ross portray her in Black-ish?
I watched clips of Bow Johnson on Black-ish and selected little “Bow-isms” to mirror. I try not to focus on nailing the older Bow Johnson. I aim to show her evolution and the development of her character, episode-by-episode.
Are you currently in production for season 2 of Mixed-ish?
We wrapped filming season 2 of Mixed-ish at the end of January. I’m so thankful that we didn’t have to shut down production due to Covid. Although there were a lot of strict rules to follow and PPE, we still had fun while shooting.
Is there a certain genre of film/TV you would like to explore more in the future?
Yes. Definitely drama, sci-fi, and horror. I would also love to do an episode of Law and Order: SVU.
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, I love to read, and I’m obsessed with all things associated with beauty. I watch a lot of Vogue Beauty Secrets, as well as other beauty related content. I also love spending time catching up with my friends in NYC.
If you could work with any actor/filmmaker, who would it be? Why?
Part of my dream list includes Regina King, Ava Duvernay, Octavia Spencer, Jordan Peele, Steven Spielberg, Ryan Coogler, Angela Bassett, Will Smith, Jamie Foxx, Scarlett Johansson, and Charlize Theron. They all inspire me, and I love their work.
What is your all-time favorite movie? What about it do you like the most?
My favorite all-time movie is Coraline. I’m in love with the story concept and one day I hope to be a part of a live-action version.
Have you written/produced any scripts or stories recently? What are they about?
I’m currently writing two animated series with my sister. Supernatural and sci-fi themes.
What is your life motto?
“This is only the beginning for you” and “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”
Can you link us with your social media’s?
Instagram: @arica.himmel
Twitter: @AricaHimmel
TikTok” @aricahimmel
CREW CREDITS:
Creative Director: Mike Ruiz
Photographer: Sequoia Emmanuelle
Talent: Arica Himmel
Fashion Stylist: Melvin Sanders
Hair Stylist: Michael David Warren at The Wall Group
Makeup: Roshar
Videographer: Niko/Video Production
Tearsheets: Caitriona Moran, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview: Maya Wilson, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine