Ruth Connell
With an impressive career that spans genres, Ruth Connell has garnered a dedicated following for her magnetic presence on screen. She is best known for her iconic portrayal of Rowena, the Queen of Hell, in the CW beloved series “Supernatural.” She recently starred in the acclaimed film, “Nandor Fodor and the Talking Mongoose” alongside Simon Pegg. In her latest venture, she will reprise her role as the enigmatic Night Nurse in Netflix’s “Dead Boy Detectives,” a thrilling series that delves into the supernatural, ghosts and mysteries. Helmed by a stellar creative team including Steve Yockey, Greg Berlanti and Neil Gaiman, the show promises a fresh twist on classic detective tales, blending darkness with quirky charm.
Beyond the spotlight, Connell has embarked on a new chapter as a first-time mother. Her journey to motherhood filled her with boundless joy and gratitude. Balancing her successful career with the responsibilities of motherhood, she continues to inspire fans around the globe. Her capacity to portray intricate characters on screen while also navigating the intricacies of real-life parenthood highlights her depth as both an artist and an individual.
What attracted you to acting when you were young, and how did you get your start in the industry?
I remember watching a movie with my Mum at at the age of seven and thinking I wanted to be the character so much. A few years later, around the age of 12 or so, I had the notion that if I could be Judi Dench or do some great work as an actress, that my life might mean something— there was value in that. I don’t think we credit children with those types of feelings or knowing, but subconsciously at least, I think it happens to lots of people. I was inspired to act because of how much I loved films and books for sure, my imagination was plentiful, but it also seemed highly unlikely for a plain-ish wee girl on a farm with no connections in the industry. I was a good dancer (having been sent to ballet lessons to keep my cousin company) but was not a loud stage type kid. It took me until I was 15 to say I wanted to be an actor out loud. I felt self- conscious about it. I stammered at times with nervousness in general.
I had however danced the lead children’s role in “The Nutcracker” for Scottish Ballet [at] age 13, which was a pivotal life experience for. I loved being in the company (the adult dancers were kind to us) and it sealed the deal as far as wanting more of whatever magic it was that happened there on stage, whilst life outside of it was challenging.
You’re known for your long-standing role as Rowena in The CW’s “Supernatural.” Looking back, what aspects did you enjoy most about playing the Queen of Hell?
I relished playing Rowena as much as the character absolutely relished the naughtiness of whatever she was always up to. It was delicious at times to play someone who feels glee with little moral compass! Often it would be teeny me (barely 5 feet 2 inches) going up against the “gigantic” lead fellas. It was usually humorous on set with them. There was so much to enjoy. I recently found out that the overall cost of the throne I eventually had as Queen of Hell cost around [$30,000]. So, I can say my bum has sat on a large expense, if only for a short period of time.
What can fans expect from your character, the Night Nurse, in “Dead Boy Detective?” How does this role’s journey continue from “Doom Patrol” into this new series?
It will be interesting to see what people feel as they discover the Night Nurse’s journey in real time. There is a character for everyone on the show—a strong ensemble with lots of surprising moments all round. There is an essence of what began in “Doom Patrol” with my part, but “Dead Boys” has its very own sharp, distinctive style I think fans will love.
Please share any on set secrets from “Dead Boy Detectives?” Is it a secret how much UK actors curse compared to American actors?
We have to be better mannered in public. It’s something we proudly bond over. I’m lucky to have landed on another set where humor is about.
How does it feel to work with such a renowned creative team on “Dead Boy Detectives,” namely Steve Yockey, Greg Berlanti, and Neil Gaiman?
It’s a highlight of my life so far that Neil Gaiman retweeted a lovely tweet Steve Yockey said about me. It keeps me warm at night! I really want to meet Greg Berlanti as I have enjoyed working under the ethos of the company a lot. Coincidentally, Neil Gaiman voiced Gef in a film I did last year with Simon Pegg, “Nandor Fodor and The Talking Mongoose.” I feel we too are destined to meet! I owe a debt of thanks to Steve Yockey for creating the role of the Night Nurse with me in mind after we worked together on “Supernatural.”
Congratulations on being a first-time mom. Transitioning from acting to motherhood can be quite a journey. What has been the most surprising aspect of this transition for you?
That a lot of my life right now involves night doulas to help with my newborn baby. Doulas are women employed to provide guidance and support to the mother of a newborn baby. Honestly, doulas have saved our sleep, sanity, and have allowed my partner, Rob Benedict, to continue working away at times on location. It has genuinely given me insight on what it takes to be an actual “Night Nurse.” Life imitates art and art imitates life.
Reflecting on your journey to motherhood, what were some of the biggest challenges you faced, and do you have any advice for women facing the same situations?
It’s been a long journey, and I couldn’t begin to list the number of challenges. People are becoming more open in general to the overall discussion around fertility and women’s health. I wish it had been on the table more when I was younger. The only advice I would dare to give anyone is to talk about it with people you trust as soon as you can. The only conversation I remember when I was young was about not getting pregnant.
As a multifaceted artist, you’ve worked across television, film and stage. Do you prefer one medium over the others? What draws you to each?
I like to work, so I embrace voice-overs, plays, TV, film and recently, meditation (“Anomalie”) and crime podcasts (“Consumed”). I love the time you can have in film, the discipline of TV, the thrill of theater and the sheer creativity of voice work.
Are there any upcoming projects or roles that you’re particularly excited about? Please share any details?
“Dead Boy Detectives” could be 2024’s answer to “Stranger Things” or “The Umbrella Academy.” A bold statement! Let’s see! I am an eternal optimist, but I think my hopes are well founded with all the talent around me in the series. Everyone involved in the production has put so much into it.
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PhotoBook Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
PhotoBook Creative Director: Mike Ruiz
Photographer: Ben Cope
Talent: Ruth Connell
Fashion Stylist: Becky Thompson
Hair: Nancilee Santos
Makeup: Kindra Mann
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by Makenna Tourville, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
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