Heléne Yorke

Heléne Yorke, an accomplished actress, stars in HBO Max’s critically acclaimed comedy series “The Other Two.” She portrays Brooke Dubek, a former professional dancer, who is trying to find her place in the world together with her aspiring actor brother. Yorke starred in “American Psycho” and “Bullets Over Broadway” on Broadway and is also known for her roles in “The Good Fight” and “Masters of Sex” on television.

Coat by Maison Atia
Skirt by Richard Radcliffe
Scarf by Stylist Own
Jewelry by Erickson Beamon

When did you realize your passion for performing? 
When I was little, I watched my Dad at dinner parties in complete awe. He always had everyone in the palm of his hand, and I wanted to be just like him. My parents signed me up for dancing at the age of three. Having an AUDIENCE? I was hooked.

Who have been your biggest role models throughout your career in the performing arts? 
I did a show called Bullets Over Broadway on Broadway and was absolutely enraptured by working with Brooks Ashmanskas. He is the funniest person I have ever met while also making work fun for everyone in the room with him. I was deeply inspired by his generous spirit and unparalleled sense of humor.

You received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre from University of Michigan. What are some of the most important things you’ve learned from that program?
The power of collaboration. I went to school with the most incredible group of people, and we spent much of our time creating together, lifting each other up. It’s hard as a young performer, feeling like those around you are surpassing your own creativity and having confidence in your own work. The University of Michigan really taught me the power and value of my voice.

Left:
Suit by Vintage Chanel
Scarf by Stylist Own
Gloves by Carolina Amato
Jewelry by Erickson Beamon
Shoes by Steve Madden
Right:
Coat by Maison Atia
Scarf by In Earnest
Gloves by Carolina Amato
Jewelry by Erickson Beamon
Shoes by Aldo

After having been involved in theatre for so many years, what made you decide to switch gears and go into Film/TV acting? 
I was doing a production of Bring It On in Atlanta and broke my ankle! I went home to LA to rehabilitate with my parents, and my Mom had to drive me to all my TV auditions. Theatre is incredibly physically demanding and after getting injured I was like...I need a job I can limp around in. Thank G-d, because before going back to shoot The Other Two I tore my ACL and shot half the season in a knee brace that I was taking on and off for wide shots! I really need to get better balance.

How has your musical theatre experience served you in the realm of TV acting and what have been some of the struggles you’ve faced in this transition? 
They are such wildly different creative processes. When I started trying to work with a camera work, I felt so constricted trying to tailor my performances to a small screen instead of a theatre filled with people. It was a crash course in trusting small nuances.

You have talked about your own experience with being an injured performer, much like your character on “The Other Two.” How has your firsthand knowledge of such a traumatic incident helped you connect with your character?
Nothing goes according to plan, and it is so daunting to have to pivot. What I love about Brooke is that she won't be slowed down. She is determined to enjoy her life and roll with the punches.

Left:
Suit by Catou
Coat by Maison Atia
Blouse by Stylist Own
Scarf by Stylist Own
Jewelry by Erickson Beamon
Shoes by Steve Madden
Right:

Coat by Maison Atia
Top by Prabal Gurung
Trousers by Vintage Giorgio Armani
Gloves by Carolina Amato
Jewelry by Erickson Beamon

Your character on “The Other Two” has been widely praised for being one of the most realistic and relatable characters currently on television. How do you believe that you have contributed to this characterization, and what do you think makes her so beloved? 
Well, that’s nice to hear! I think in this day and age, of social media and the "curated life," it’s easy to think everyone around you has it all together. And literally… NO ONE has it together. I think what Chris and Sarah (the show’s creators) did so well was create characters who speak to who we all actually are and how out of place and all over the map we feel. It's refreshing even for ME to read the episodes and feel seen.

Which of your projects would you say you have enjoyed the most, and why?
The Other Two. I work with not only the funniest people in the world, but the most loving. I'll be laughing my ass off one minute and connecting over family and relationships the next. It’s pure magic.

Coat by Aknvas
Jewelry by Erickson Beamon

What kind of projects do you foresee yourself doing in the future?
I don't know! That's what is amazing about this life: there are incredible surprises around every corner. I started writing with my friends Max Jenkins and Mary Adkins during the pandemic, mining a new side of my creativity. So, who knows where it'll all lead! Just putting myself on the life raft through all this white water.

What is your Social?
@HeleneYorke 


CREW CREDITS:
Creative Director: Mike Ruiz
Art Director + Fashion Stylist: Alison Hernon at Agency Gerard Artists
Photographer: Michael Creagh
Talent: Heléne Yorke
Hair: Seiji Yamada at Forward Artists
Makeup: Lisa Aharon at The Wall Group
Flower Designer: Laura Clare
Photography Assistant: Felicia Abban
Fashion Stylist Interns: Grace Polk, Maelle Eugene, Julia Gastone
Tearsheets: Daniel López, Junior Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview: Julia Gastone, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine


Shop Heléne’s look