Natasha López
Natasha López is an actress first known for her appearance on “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” as Gabriela Montes. She was cast as a flight attendant in Ben Affleck and Justin Timberlake’s 2013 thriller “Runner Runner.” Recently, she appeared as Charisse in HBO’s new series “The Time Traveler’s Wife.” The show follows a husband and wife, played by Theo James and Rose Leslie, navigating their marriage and time travel. The series is in its first season and premiered May 15.
Tell us about your character in “The Time Traveler’s Wife?”
My character Charisse is Clare's best friend, she is funny, loves with her whole heart, and is that friend who has no filter. You will see her care and protect the ones she loves, naturally get into detective mode about anyone who gets close to her bestie.
Did you connect or relate to the character?
Yes, certainly more in my early 20s when I would do anything to love and be loved no matter what the circumstances were. Right now, I can relate to how direct she can be because I also don't have a filter with my loved ones.
How did you prepare for the role?
To be honest, this one felt close to home, she's Puerto Rican and a creative like myself, so it was more about being prepared when I got to set and with an open mind to play.
What did a typical day on set look like for the series?
We shot in the middle of Covid, so it was very structured starting with testing everyday then masks on until they said action. We started shooting with episode 4, and it was great because most of us are in this one, so we did have some down time to get to know each other. We were also able to rehearse, which is such a privilege in film/TV land and allowed us to connect prior to shooting. But with Covid that time was limited so back to our trailers it was.
When did you start acting, and what made you decide to pursue it as a career?
I started acting a bit later than most. I was 28 when I decided to move to New York City and fully pursue this passion of mine. Acting was my first love, but I grew up in Puerto Rico, and I did not see how I could make that dream a reality. Later, I decided to pursue music and after eight years of trying, I decided to switch gears and pursue my first love.
What excites you about acting?
Being able to tell stories and it excites me to try different ways to do so. Meeting more people with the same passion and learning every step of the way. The way I study acting is through behavior and any time I can find a new or different kind of physicality it excites me.
Who or what inspires you, both as a person and as an actress?
JESSICA CHASTAIN. Hopefully, I can meet or work with her someday. Her talent blows me away and her work always inspires me. Also, I'm inspired by anyone who follows their dreams. There is no bigger inspiration or fuel for me to keep going.
What are your goals for the coming years? Do you have any dream roles or projects?
I want to be in action movies or an action series kicking booty. I would love to do animated movies and musicals like "ENCANTO." The goal is to work continuously while challenging myself and my craft.
If you could give your younger self, or any young person considering acting, a piece of advice, what would it be?
Get ready and stay ready because your time will come. I wish someone would have emphasized the importance of being in class and really developing that acting muscle. Find the method or way you feel comfortable working and practice. Don't try to imitate anyone because you will book the job by simply being yourself.
When you aren’t working, how do you spend your time?
I love working out, going to escape rooms, and exploring New York City.
Social Media.
Instagram and Twitter: @natashalopezpr
CREW CREDITS:
Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
Creative Director: Mike Ruiz
Photographer: Danielle Sax
Talent: Natasha López
Fashion Stylist + Producer: Alison Hernon
Hair: Denis Perani
Makeup: Deney Adam @blondeandconyc
Fashion Stylist Interns: Jessica Bally + Sahar Kariem
Studio: Blonde Studios
BTS Video: Skylar Miller
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Associate Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by Flora Medina Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine