Interviewing actress Gianna Simone


1-. What was your childhood like?

Many of the days and years growing up (in Boston, MA) were very challenging and painful. I was abused and dealt with all of the feelings and experiences that come along with that. When I was 13 I was put into the foster care system. During that time not only did I have to process and work though a lot of painful and challenging emotions given the circumstances, but simultaneously learned very quickly how to survive at a very young age.
However, as painful and overwhelming as it was, that time in life gave me a lot of invaluable tools, and a great deal of strength. With the help of God and wonderful people He placed around me I was able to persevere, ultimately allowing Him to heal me, helping me to forgive and thrive.
I have a lot of love and forgiveness in my heart towards those who were not kind to me in the past. I am a Christian and Jesus has shown me, though His Word and Spirit, the benefits and power of forgiveness. I trust Him, choose His way, and I’ve experienced the healing it brings about.

2. - From what age did you decide to be an actress and how did you know you had the skills to be in films and on TV?

From as far back as I can remember I loved creating. I would create characters, mimic the ones I would observe in films, I would create stages out of pillows and blankets, I would sing and dance and feel free. I would also create physical art with whatever I could get my hands on- anything I saw as inspiring. I would completely delight in the creation process. I knew this was always inside of me and there was a purpose to it. It always felt that way, I still feel it.
Additionally, growing up people would come across my path and often tell me I should model. This cultivated more thoughts and showed me that modeling was actually a thing people did. When I was 16 I expressed, genuinely, to my dad that I had been feeling, for quite some time, a very strong desire to model- he listened to me and wanted to support me. I think he could see how much desire was present and I’m so thankful he decided to encourage, support and believe in me. Whenever someone does this, they truly breathe life into you.
He suggested I reach out to the New England School of Photography to find a photographer to help with getting a modeling portfolio done. This was such a great idea! I did and found someone I was really impressed with on the school’s site. I contacted her, Shannon Michelle, booked her, and we planned out my very first photoshoot, that consisted of 10 looks. Once I had all the looks planned out and a clear vision for each, I went to town creating and shopping for every accessory, hat, stocking, shoe etc; booking the hair and makeup artists and putting together every single detail. Then, we shot it and I experienced a bliss that I hadn’t ever felt in my life prior. I felt purpose. The photographer commented to me after the shoot: “Do you really want to do this seriously? Because you have a gift. You can turn it on and off in front of the camera.” I then realized that not only could I feel this, but others could see it. Many other photographers would share similar observations with me, and became my dear friends, still to this day. I went on to sign with the top modeling agency in Boston and eventually fell in love with acting (motion picture) which made total sense considering I had a knack of taking on characters in photoshoots.
If anyone is reading this and has felt a calling in your own life with a talent/gift that God gave you, I want to encourage you to follow it and watch God open doors to accomplish His will for your life. I truly believe He sets it up this way because of His loving nature- we get to delight in and enjoy what He’s instilled in us to carry out.

3. - What was your first appearance on the screens?
My first major studio film role was Star Trek Into Darkness. I had done independent films prior.

4. - What was the role you liked the most?

Truly ALL of them!! I have some of my life’s favorite memories from each! J
Unbroken Path to Redemption’s subject matter as a whole really touched my heart. I also got to dress up in wardrobe from the 1940’s, speak Italian and swing dance!

5.- What do you think led you to fame?

Since I follow Jesus, I allow Him to lead me, and He certainly has via a very strong sense of purpose, and passion. I think there is such value in being known for the work we do, especially as a performer, because it leads to more and more work. There’s also a platform that comes with that, to speak to people about additional, meaningful topics God puts on our hearts.

6-. What types of characters you would like to interpret?

I love very gritty dramas that evoke serious emotions, I would love to do a classy Italian mob movie, I LOVE great love stories, and strong female action roles like a warrior queen and Tomb Raider esque characters.

7-. What actresses and actors do you feel comfortable working with?

Any and all who are kind, humble, respectful and talented. Authentic, joyful people are just so delightful to be around and work with in a creative space. Having fun on set with fellow actors and crew is truly one of my favorite joys in life- it’s so special!

8-. In what other genres of art would you like to participate in? (Works of theater, music, among others)

I love creating with a specific sense of purpose. In addition to acting, I greatly enjoy modeling, aerial acrobatics, dancing, creating functional art, designing, and producing.

9.- Do you have any anecdotes that have positively impacted you?

When I signed on to do Garry Marshall’s last film “Mother’s Day”, we were on a video call and he said: “Do you have any questions for me?” I said “No, do you have any for me?” He said: “I just want to tell you, don’t change a thing and just be yourself!” Which is pretty ironic that a director was telling an actress this, but I knew what he meant. I came to really understand the importance of authenticity in acting, and even in life! Authenticity comes when a person is confident and brave enough to totally be themselves. This provides a sense of comfort stepping into something venerable like performing. It also projects a believability on screen. I really think acting is so much more powerful when rooted in authentic truth, rather than a sort of lie.

10.- What has been your greatest achievement?

Learning about Jesus, choosing to follow Him, and trusting Him with my life.

11.- What projects will you make next?

I recently completed a feature, titled “All Saints Day” that was shot in the Boston area, right around the corner from an old foster home... what are the odds?! I am also working on the very beginning stages a feature, that currently must remain under wraps, but God willing, I will share about it soon! I am also publishing a beautiful and easy to follow, whole food plant-based cookbook, available for preorder now: https://checkout.giannasimone.com/pl-presell

13.- Would you like to make a movie in Spain?

Absolutely! I look forward to continuing to make movies all over this beautiful earth! Any recommendations on lovely Spanish films to check out in the meantime?


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