Interviewing actress Nicole I. Butler

1. How was your childhood?

Picture this: a small town in the Midwest, where everyone knows your name, your dog’s name, and what you had for breakfast. I grew up in a place where autumn smells like pumpkins and everyone’s related to everyone (no joke, I probably have a cousin running a pumpkin patch somewhere in the Midwest). Speaking of which—The Great Pumpkin Patch—yep, that’s my cousin’s thing. (yes, it’s exactly like Charlie Brown’s, and yes, I wanted to pretend I was Lucy trying to sell tickets to it). That farm has been in our family since the 1800s. My mom was a psychotherapist and my dad a real estate guy—perfect mix of deep thinking and business savvy. And they’re still married and in love. Can’t get more down-to-earth than that.

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

So, this whole thing started when I was 14, just casually waiting in line at McDonald’s (yes, McDonald’s), when an agent came up and said, “Hey, have you ever thought about modeling.” And that was it. Next thing I knew, I was doing photoshoots. But acting really hit me when I took an improv class while I was living in New York as a graduate student at NYU. There’s just something about the fun, freedom of improv that made me go, “Yep, this is my jam.” Comedy grabbed me by the heart, and I was hooked! I realized I could really make people laugh—and that’s when my agent said I was ready for TV.

3. Did your parents support you in the decision you made to be an actress?

Oh, 100%. They were all in. But funny enough, they’ve always been more excited about my speech therapy career. Our family is all about helping others, and I totally get that. But acting? They’re super proud of that too, especially because I get to bring joy to people while doing something I love. They’re like, “Go make ‘em laugh, but don’t forget about that speech therapy thing too!”

4. What was your first appearance on the screens?

My very first appearance was on Boss, the show with Kelsey Grammer. It was a fun and nail-biting experience, however, I definitely learned a lot just from first being on a set with that cast. And hey, it’s Kelsey Grammer—he’s a legend (Frasier!), so I just soaked it all in.

5. What was the role you liked the most?

Hands down, it was playing Miss Carrier in A Perfect Christmas List. Why? Because I got to be in this super cozy Christmas movie with Marion Ross (yes, Marion Ross—think Mrs. C from Happy Days). We filmed the Christmas movie (in July) in LA, and I’m pretty sure we both ended up with a sugar high from all the candy canes and hot cocoa. It was so festive; I still have glitter on my face from it.

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

Comedy, comedy, and more comedy, although I do often get casted in dramas so can get on board for that too. I want to play the type of character who gets all the awkward moments and delivers the punchlines with just the right mix of charm and chaos. My dream role? Let’s see, something playing the love interest of a former SNL cast member such as in an Anchorman-type film with Will Ferrell. I’m ready for the one-liners and absurd situations! It would be chef’s kiss.

7. In what other genres of art would you like to participate?

I’m all about live theater, sketch comedy, and improv. There’s just something about live performance that gets your heart pumping. The thrill of being in front of a crowd and making them laugh or throwing out a random improv line and seeing where it goes—there’s nothing like it. Plus, I think it helps sharpen those acting skills keeping me on my toes, you know?

8.- What has been your greatest achievement?

It’s gotta be my work as a speech therapist. Seriously, I can’t tell you how full my heart feels when you assist someone find their voice—literally. It’s like being a superhero, but with less spandex and more flashcards. Supporting someone going from barely being able to communicate to confidently expressing themselves? That’s everything. It’s such a rewarding feeling and an honor knowing I’m making a difference in people’s lives.

9.- What projects will you make next and which ones do you have in mind?

Ohhh, the suspense! More will be revealed soon. I’ve got a few things cooking, but nothing’s quite ready for the spotlight yet. Stay tuned, though. 😉

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

YES, YES, YES! I would be grateful to make a movie in Spain. Picture me sipping sangria, getting lost in the cobblestone streets, and doing serious Spanish cinema. The food, the culture, the people, the vibe—it’s all so dreamy, and I’d love to be part of that. Plus, who wouldn’t want to be part of Spanish cinema? Sign me up.

11.- Do you like Spanish cinema?

Oh, absolutely! Penélope Cruz is a total goddess, and I’ve loved everything she’s done in the Spanish cinema world. Spanish films have such a raw, emotional depth about them that you just can’t find anywhere else. It’s dramatic, it’s beautiful, and it has a way of hitting you right in the feels. Plus, those plot twists? I’m in. If I could, I’d live in the world of Spanish films just to see how intense and artistic everything is.