Exclusive Interview: Celestina Harris Talks Dr. Death Season 2, Embodying Her Character, Working with Mandy Moore, and More

Celestina Harris stands out as one of the most promising young actresses of her generation. In the early stages of her career, she has secured coveted roles in projects like Chicago P.D., Special Ops: Lioness, and Angelina.

Currently, she can be seen starring opposite Mandy Moore and Edgar Ramírez in Season 2 of Dr. Death. Her captivating and nuanced portrayal as Lizzi, the fashion-forward daughter of Mandy Moore’s character, has audiences in awe.

Pop Culturalist recently caught up with Celestina to delve into topics such as Dr. Death Season 2, her preparation for embodying her character, the experience of working with Mandy, and much more!

PC: You are just getting started in this industry. How did you first catch the acting bug?
Celestina: I started in local commercials, and my favorite one was for Kinder Joy because I absolutely love that candy and the cute toy surprises. After a year of doing commercials, I decided I wanted to try movies and TV shows. I tested it out by doing a short film for a college nearby, and I loved it. It’s been fun!

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Celestina: My big sister Deja was a musical theater major, and she has been my biggest inspiration ever since I was little. Watching her act was a significant part of my love for acting.

PC: You’ve had a lot of success already. What’s been the biggest pinch-me moment so far?
Celestina: My biggest pinch-me moment was getting to work with Zoe Saldana and Mandy Moore. They are such amazing women, and I got a front-row seat to seeing them act in person. I was amazed at how incredibly good they are.

PC: You’re starring in Season 2 of Dr. Death. What should audiences know about Lizzi, and what was it about this script and role that resonated with you?
Celestina: Lizzi is super sweet and loves fashion, just like me. Her personality is basically me in real life because we love chatting with our moms, and I would basically wear anything from her set wardrobe in real life.

PC: What is your preparation like when you’re getting ready to embody a new character? How were you able to connect with Lizzi?
Celestina: A few days before I arrived in New York City, I went around Brooklyn to get a feel for her daily life as a New Yorker. I also would think, “What would Lizzi do?” in simple situations in my life, like what would she wear? How would she respond to situations?

PC: You and Mandy have such fantastic chemistry on screen. How were you able to build that bond so quickly? Did she share any words of wisdom with you as a fellow actor?
Celestina: Before our first day of filming, we had a set photoshoot for family photos, and we really bonded then. I told her how much I loved Rapunzel, and we connected immediately. She is a mom and a great one, so it was easy to chat with her. It’s easy to get along with kind people.

To keep up with Celestina, follow her on Instagram. Watch Season 2 of Dr. Death today.

Photo Credit: Cristina Harris