Holly Taylor
Holly Taylor, born in Middleton, Canada, is a Canadian American actress who began her career at the early age of eleven, starring in a Broadway production of Billy Elliot. She is best known for her roles as Paige Jennings in the thriller-drama series The Americans, available on FX Television, and Claire in the horror film The Witch Flies. Recently, Taylor starred in NBC’s thriller drama series, Manifest. Taylor plays the role of Angelina, one of the passengers on Flight 828, which the series is based around.
Blouse by Vivienne Hu
What motivated you to start acting at such a young age? What are your motivators today?
I booked a role in Billy Elliot on Broadway mostly because of my dance training. While I was in that show I saw my cast mates going on auditions for film and TV, and I wanted to give it a try. I’d say telling meaningful stories and always learning something new are my motivators today. And being employed is nice!
Who are your inspirations in the entertainment industry? Why?
From working with Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys, they will always be inspirations to me because of how kindly they treat everyone on set, how professional they are, and the consistently impressive talent they have. I learned so much from working with them.
What was your favorite part about playing Angelina in Manifest?
My favorite part about playing Angelina was the extreme transformation she has in just one season. It was interesting to make the character feel like the same person while also showcasing such stark personality differences. She does some, VERY questionable things at the end of season 3, but she really believes she is acting with the best and most genuine intentions. That kind of villain portrayal is unique and fun to play.
Left:
Shirt by Vivienne Hu
Vest by Marie Saint Pierre
Earrings + Ring by David Yurman
Shoes by Cougar Shoes
Right:
Top + Bow by Agnes B
Ring by David Yurman
Season 3 of the series was produced during the pandemic. What, if any, were some of the challenges that came along with that?
It was challenging because it was harder to get to know the cast and crew with so many restrictions. But everyone on Manifest is so welcoming and dedicated so we made it work.
Many actors/actresses have a special relationship with each of the characters they play. Would you say you have that with the role of Angelina? If you do, what would you describe it as?
I’m not sure that I have a special relationship with her because she is crazy. Although I do really sympathize with her for all the trauma she goes through. I really appreciate that I had the opportunity to play a character like Angelina who was so different from any other character I’ve played.
Left:
Red Jacket by Dolce & Gabbana
White Dress by Marie Saint Pierre
Shoes by Cougar Shoes
Right:
Dress by Marie Saint Pierre
What was your day-to-day life like being on Broadway as a child? How did you balance being an actress while in school?
When I was on Broadway I was doing eight shows plus at least three rehearsals a week, plus middle school in New Jersey. So, my Mom would drop me off at school, then depending on show time either pick me up early or leave school regularly to head to the city for rehearsals, warmups, and the three-hour show. I’d do homework backstage in between numbers and then around 11:30 or 12 at night she’d drive me home while I did more homework in the car. I’d get home around 1 am and do even MORE homework and then do it all again the next day. It was an intense time of my life, but I wouldn’t do it any other way. I’m so thankful for that experience and my parents support through it all.
You have been a regular in the series The Americans. What were some of your favorite memories from starring in that show?
I learned so much from being on The Americans, so the whole experience feels like a ‘favorite memory’ for me. But I would say a major highlight was when we won the Golden Globe for Best Drama Series. Starting off as a newbie to the business in season 1, I didn’t even have the bandwidth to imagine the show ending up where it did or giving me the opportunities it gave me.
Left:
Jumpsuit by Adam Lippes
Shoes by Aldo
Right:
Jacket by Marie Saint Pierre
Dress by Dolce & Gabbana
Shoes by Aldo
Jewelry by David Yurman
Where do you hope to see yourself as an actress in the next five years?
I don’t really think about the specifics, but I plan to see myself working on some films and TV shows that I’m genuinely proud and excited to be a part of. Hopefully some movie festivals, some work in European locations, and maybe even back to some award shows! I’ve also spent a lot of time playing sad characters the past few years so I’d really love to book a comedic role where I can smile every once in a while.
Do you travel a lot? What would you say is your favorite place you have traveled?
Yes! I love traveling and I’m itching to do it again since the world shut down. My favorite place I’ve traveled so far is Ireland. I love my family there and I feel really connected to the country in an unexplainable way. I also spent a couple weeks in Rome before the pandemic started for a study abroad program and it was so, so beautiful. I would love to go back soon.
Left:
Blouse + Pants by Dolce & Gabbana
Right:
Jacket by Marie Saint Pierre
Corset by Chiara Boni
Shirt by Nili Lotan
Pants by Chiara Boni
Shoes by Aldo
Jewelry by David Yurman
You have a real dedicated to cats on your Instagram and support Best Friends Animal Society. Could you tell us a little more about this organization and how more people can help to #SaveThemAll?
Best Friends Animal Society is a non-profit with the overarching goal to make all shelters in the U.S. no kill by 2025. They work in grass roots movements with many partners and organize larger events nationwide that save all kinds of animals every day. I’m super proud to be a supporter. Anyone can help on their mission to Save Them All by donating to Best Friends or volunteering at one of their shelters near you.
Can you link us with your social media?
Instagram: @holly_taylor
Twitter: @HollyTaylor97
CREW CREDITS:
Photographer: Joshua Pestka at Judy Casey
Talent: Holly Taylor
Fashion Stylist/Fashion Editor: Alison Hernon at Agency Gerard Artists
Hair + Makeup: Theo Kogan at Judy Casey using Pat McGrath Labs and R+Co Hair Products
Tearsheets: Daniel López, Junior Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview: Kenisha Seth, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Fashion Styling Interns: Kenisha Seth, Bridget McDonald, Charlotte Mercado, Vanessa Zuluaga
