Millicent Simmonds
Millicent Simmonds, a deaf American actress, who had her breakout role on the big screen in 2017. She followed that with two back-to-back films and was named in Variety's “2021 Power of Young Hollywood Impact List.” She was also nominated for the 2022 BAFTA Rising Star. At the age of 20, she made her Broadway debut in "Grey House" directed by Tony Award winner Joe Mantello. She appeared opposite Tatiana Maslany and Laurie Metcalf.
Left:
Deura Jacket in 'Hypnotic Pinstripe' Print by Chiara Boni La Petite Robe
Venusette Pant in 'Hypnotic Pinstripe' Print by Chiara Boni La Petite Robe
Davea Top by IRO
Crystal Encrusted Collar Necklace by Alexis Bittar
Ring by Laruicci
Right:
Blue Jacket by Alice & Olivia
Ruffled Stripe Button-Down Shirt by Subin Hahn
Earrings by Laruicci
Broach Stylist Own
Shoes by Stuart Weitzman
Denim Pants by Alice & Olivia
Rings by Laruicci
Small Molten Bangle Bracelet by Alexis Bittar
What was your first acting experience?
I started the drama club at my deaf school when I was in 3rd or 4th grade. I loved acting and performing. When I was 12, my drama teacher saw an audition asking for a deaf girl. I auditioned for the role and ended up getting it and I've never looked back!
When did you know you wanted to become an actress?
When that movie opened in Cannes, I remember being on the red carpet and seeing people respond to the movie and my performance. So, I thought "this is what I want to do."
What was it like to act professionally at a young age?
I didn't appreciate the significance of it at the time, but looking back, it was to my advantage that I wasn't too much in my head and could focus on my performance. I tend to overthink things now that I'm older.
Left:
Blue Jacket by Alice & Olivia
Ruffled Stripe Button-Down Shirt by Subin Hahn
Earrings by Laruicci
Broach Stylist Own
Shoes by Stuart Weitzman
Denim Pants by Alice & Olivia
Rings by Laruicci
Small Molten Bangle Bracelet by Alexis Bittar
Right:
Outfit by Laruicci
Earrings and Ring by Laruicci
Boot by Steve Madden
Sunglasses by HauteLife World Eyewear at Flying Solo
What are some of your hobbies?
I love to read. I always have a book with me. I love rock climbing, coffee, yoga, saunas, and I'm just getting into cold plunges.
What would you be doing if you weren’t an actress?
I'm really interested in psychology: the mind, how it works, and what makes people tick. I would love to get a degree in psychology if I had the time.
You have acted in several movies and television shows before acting on Broadway. How is acting on the Broadway stage different from acting for film and television?
Broadway is so much bigger. The acting is bigger. The camera can pick up the slightest movement and emotion, but with Broadway, people sitting in the balcony need to see what you're doing. That and having a live audience every night to respond to was such a rush. I loved every second of it.
Deura Jacket in 'Hypnotic Pinstripe' Print by Chiara Boni La Petite Robe
Venusette Pant in 'Hypnotic Pinstripe' Print by Chiara Boni La Petite Robe
Davea Top by IRO
Crystal Encrusted Collar Necklace by Alexis Bittar
Ring by Laruicci
Do you enjoy acting for film, television, or the Broadway stage the most?
They're so different. I'm not sure I could pick. With film and TV, every day is different. You film a scene one day and you're done and move on to a different scene or part of the story the next day. It feels fresh. With Broadway, you're telling the same story from beginning to end every night, but with a live audience and the instant gratification that you don't get with film.
What advice would you give to a young deaf person who wants to work in the entertainment industry?
I would say learn to advocate for yourself and don't be afraid to let people know what you need to do your job. It can be daunting, but I've found that people are receptive when you're confident and can tell them what you need.
What do you enjoy the most about acting?
I love collaborating with creative, artistic, and brilliant people. I feel so fortunate to have worked with some of the brightest minds in this business. It inspires me to keep learning while staying grounded.
Dress by Pillz N Poizn at Flying Solo
Earrings by Laruicci
Who is one of your biggest inspirations?
My biggest inspirations would be my mom and dad. Honestly, I've learned more from them than from anyone else. They are the hardest working people I know. Both as individuals and together, I'm incredibly lucky and grateful to have them to look up to and emulate.
What is your dream role?
It would be to be a part in a film that makes people shift their thinking in a way they never have before. For me, the films that have stayed with me are ones that completely challenged what I believed in and made me question things. It could be any kind of genre: horror, comedy, romance, action, anything. I love films that educate while at the same time telling a story.
What actors would you like to work with in the future?
A lot. Greta Gerwig, Saoirse Ronan, Rosamund Pike, Cate Blanchett, or Lupita Nyong'o. I look up to them so much and really love their work. I think they all pick brilliant films and complex characters. I would be over the moon if I had a chance to work with any of them.
Dress by Pillz N Poizn at Flying Solo
Earrings by Laruicci
What advice would you give to your younger self?
I would tell my younger self to enjoy the process more and to be more present. I think I stressed out about things that in the bigger picture didn't matter that much.
How would your friends describe you?
They would describe me as silly and an entertainer. I try not to take myself too seriously.
What do you see yourself doing in the future? Is there anything else you would like to do other than acting?
There are a couple of projects in which I have been involved in the writing and producing aspects, and I've enjoyed those experiences. I love seeing a project come together, starting with an idea and watching it take form and take shape through collaboration and conversation. It has been extremely gratifying. I would love to do more of the behind -the-scenes work.
Social Media.
https://www.instagram.com/milliesimm/
CREW CREDITS:
PhotoBook Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
PhotoBook Creative Director: Mike Ruiz + @mikeruiz.one
Photographer: Eric Hason www.erichason.com
Talent: Millicent Simmonds
Fashion Stylist: Alison Hernon at Exclusive Artists
Hair Stylist: Laura Costa for Exclusive Artists using Authentic Beauty Concept
Makeup Artist: Chelsea Gehr for Exclusive Artists using Skinned Care and Charlotte Tilbury
Retoucher & Post Production: Anna Papikyan
Editorial Assistant: Skylar Elizabeth
BTS: Kathryn Johnston
Fashion Stylist Interns: Mia Fyson, Kiyaa Bagla
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by Mariana Apostolatos, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
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