Pop-Culturalist.com

Meganne Young is one of Hollywood’s most versatile young actresses. She’s quickly made a name for herself with the dynamic characters she’s brought to life in film and television, but she’s best known for her breakout role in Netflix’s The Kissing Booth.

Pop Culturalist had the pleasure of speaking with Meganne about her career, the final chapter of The Kissing Booth, and Meganne shares some parting words to her character.

PC: How did you discover your passion for the arts?
Meganne: I’ve always felt drawn to performing. I really enjoy exploring different characters from different walks of life that go through different experiences. It felt like a natural path for me. It’s not easy, but I can’t imagine doing anything else.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Meganne: My friends and family. I’ve had a lot of dips in my career, and those are the people who have encouraged me and supported me. Acting is a solo sport. Writers have their writing partners. Directors have their DOP. It’s important for actors to have a strong support system and a team who believes in them and respects them.

PC: You’ve had a lot of success already in your career. When you look back, is there a particular moment that stands out?
Meganne: I think back to Black Sails. That was the first time I played a character with a full story arc. It was the first time I worked on sound stages and a studio lot. It was an amazing opportunity. I almost didn’t get it. I totally bombed my audition. I remember sitting on the stairs afterward and thinking, “Oh well, this just isn’t the one for me.” Luckily the casting director felt I could do it better and kindly invited me back to try again a few days later. That doesn’t happen in the industry. It’s very rare. You usually get one chance, one take, to make an impression. I look back and realize it was just such a clear turning point for me.

PC: What can audiences expect from The Kissing Booth 3? What’s ahead for Rachel?
Meganne: I honestly think this is a perfect way for us to say goodbye to the films. It’s everything you would want in your perfect summer. There obviously will be lots of tears and laughter. It’s the most fun. Rachel has grown from strength to strength, and I would imagine that continues for her.

PC: When you look back at the experience filming The Kissing Booth 2 & 3, what’s been your favorite behind-the-scenes moment?
Meganne: This probably isn’t a favorite moment necessarily, but when I see that scene of us by the pool and I walk out with drinks on a tray—you know, the scene they used for the teaser? We’re all so happy in that scene. I remember I’d actually injured my back, and halfway through shooting that day I had to head down to my trailer in my bikini and have a very lovely physiotherapist stick very long needles into me!

PC: What is on your Beach Bucket List for the summer?
Meganne: I keep thinking I want to get a tattoo, but I can never decide what I want. I’d love to hike to a mountain top and then camp out under the stars for a few nights. That would be fun.

PC: If you could share some parting words with your character, what would they be and why?
Meganne: I would just tell her that I admire her and that it’s been a privilege to play her. She’s taught me a lot, and I think she has been an important voice for young women.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: Guilty pleasure TV show?
Meganne: Friends.

PC: Guilty pleasure movie?
Meganne: Legally Blonde.

PC: Favorite book?
Meganne: Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.

PC: Favorite play or musical?
Meganne: Wicked.

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Meganne: Alice Cooper.

PC: Dream role?
Meganne: A boxer or villain.

To keep up with Meganne, follow her on Twitter and Instagram. Watch The Kissing Booth 3 on Netflix today.

Photo Credit: Tom Belding