Katheryn Winnick

Katheryn Winnick has been acting in film and television for more than 20 years. Her television experience includes roles on “Bones,” “Student Bodies,” “Wu Assassins,” and “Vikings.” She currently stars in the hit ABC drama series “Big Sky,” in which she plays detective Jenny Hoyt. In addition to her role as Lagertha on “Vikings,” she directed an episode for the show’s sixth season. Her portrayal of Lagertha earned her the Women’s Image Network award for Best Actress in a Drama Series in 2018 and a Critics Choice Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress in a drama series. Her film credits include “Love & Other Drugs” with Jake Gyllenhaal, “Killers” with Ashton Kutcher, and “The Dark Tower” with Matthew McConaughey and Idris Elba. She also co-produced and starred in Sean Penn’s “Flag Day,” released in the Summer of 2021.

When did you start acting?
I started acting as a young girl at my community center in Toronto, Canada. I always knew I wanted to have a way to express my voice. I broke into the film industry by teaching Martial Arts to actors on movie sets. That experience gave me the confidence to pursue acting in a more professional setting where I got my first series regular role at the age of 17 on a series called “Student Bodies.”

Did you know you always wanted to direct/produce?
I started to direct before I was an actress. I directed plays at my high school and was fortunate to win a scholarship for drama and directing while attending Richview Collegiate Institute. I have always wanted to direct. My love of producing came from the desire to work with other female writers and directors so their stories can be told. The goal is to continue to produce scripts about authentic, interesting, and strong women with which the next generation can identify.

Tell us about your Influential roles.
I've had a few influential roles in my career. One was a guest starring on “House,” where I played a character who went head-to-head with Hugh Laurie. Of course, I have to mention Vikings. This role was a huge turning point in my career. I always felt Lagertha was meant for me. With my martial arts background playing a shield maiden came second nature to me. The love I have to represent empowered female characters has been such a driving force for me in the roles I choose.

Dress by Alina Anwar
Shoes by Enrico Cuini
Gold and Silver bracelet by Georgina Jewelry

Do you have a preference among directing, producing, or acting?
I like all of them for different reasons. When it comes to producing, you get to be involved from the infancy of the project. Developing the script, working with the writer, collaborating with producers, and shooting your story. All play a key role in the making of a film and TV show.

I love directing because you get a chance to work with different actors knowing what it takes to get the right performances from them. Getting behind the camera and working with the director of photography to tell your story visually excites me. Collaborating with a great editor allows you opportunities to shift the audience's perspective and it's extremely challenging yet rewarding when you are deeply moved by a performance piece.

Acting is a constant reminder to be in the present moment and to stay connected with yourself and your character. One of my favorite things is when I am pleasantly surprised by an actor's performance, and it raises the bar in a scene unexpectedly.

What do you like most about playing Jenny Hoyt on “Big Sky?”
Jenny is a fierce and independent women who has a strong sense of moral compass and is driven to keep Montana safe. She’s got no problem taking the law in her own hands and doing what she feels is right. She’s partnered up with Cassie Dewell, her partner in crime, and together they are an unstoppable duo.

Dress by CD Greene
Earrings by DM Jewelry Designs

What can viewers expect this season?
Jenny is working to take down the Bullar family cartel, which has brought laced drugs into Montana. Her complex relationship with an undercover cop named Travis, and working with the Sheriff’s department, has kept her on her toes. This season we have incredible cast and more drama ahead for the town of Helena.

What is the biggest thing you have learned?
What I've learned in the entertainment industry is that it’s a constant evolving journey. Every day is different. Working in an industry where I’m constantly around people with different backgrounds and perspectives is always an inspiration and is an opportunity to learn something new.

What is your biggest dream?
My dream is to continue to wake up every day and get excited to go to work. I’m so fortunate to be doing it! When work doesn't feel like work it doesn't get much better than that.

If you weren’t acting or working in entertainment, what would you be doing?
I would be involved in business ventures. Currently, I’m an investor in a few different companies: Vuori, a leisure activewear brand, Junshine, a hard kombucha company, and Fightcamp, an at-home kickboxing program. I’m looking forward to investing in more companies I believe in.

How do you spend your free time?
Unfortunately, I don't have much free time when you're shooting a network show, but the little I get I spend with friends and family. I love being outdoors, working out, traveling in Europe, and learning new hobbies.

Who or what inspires you?
People who strive to be the best they can be inspire me. The citizens of Ukraine who are tirelessly putting their lives on the line for their country are heroic and an inspiration for us all. Being a proud Canadian Ukrainian has propelled me to create The Winnick Foundation, where, I am happy to say, the proceeds go to helping Ukraine. You can go to my Instagram @katherynwinnick to learn how you can donate, or you can go to our website, www.thewinnickfoundation.org