Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Annette’s Devyn McDowell

Devyn McDowell is a fast-rising star to keep your eye on. At the age of four, she made her Broadway debut in Waitress, and she hasn’t looked back! Since then, she’s gone on to share the screen with Hollywood legends including Jessica Chastain, Eddie Redmayne, and Kim Dickens.

This August, she can be seen as the title character in Annette, working alongside Adam Driver, Marion Cotillard, and Simon Helberg.

Pop Culturalist was lucky enough to speak with Devyn about the project!

PC: How did you discover your passion for the arts?
Devyn: I’ve been performing concerts and plays at home since I was a baby. My mom’s friend told us about an audition for a small role for the Waitress national Broadway tour and she took me. I got the part, and after my first night on stage, I fell in love! I immediately told my mom to find me more work.

PC: Tell us about Annette and your character in the film.
Devyn: I don’t want to say too much because it will spoil the film, but my parents are both really famous and use me in different ways—good and bad—as I have a special gift.

PC: What was it about this project that caught your eye and made you want to be a part of it?
Devyn: I was almost not a part of it because I didn’t get the audition until the very last minute! I had only thirty minutes to prepare both the script and a song. I was able to get it done, and I think the rest of it was written in the stars!

PC: How similar/different are you to your character? How did you prepare to step into her shoes?
Devyn: We are very different, but I spent about three months working with my wonderful vocal coach Fiora and then with the cast and crew on set.

PC: You’re sharing the screen with Adam Driver and Marion Cotillard. Did they share any words of wisdom with you?
Devyn: Adam taught me to be humble. Marion taught me to always follow my dreams and eat my veggies. Leos [Carax], our director, helped me to better understand the scenes. He taught me how to imagine myself as the character in them.

PC: What do you hope audiences take away after they see the film?
Devyn: Fame can be dangerous. Substances can make situations worse, and never use someone, especially a child.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: Favorite TV show?
Devyn: Gabby’s Dollhouse.

PC: Favorite movie?
Devyn: The Emoji Movie.

PC: Favorite book?
Devyn: The Diary of a Wimpy Kid series.

PC: Favorite play or musical?
Devyn: Cats.

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Devyn: The Beatles.

PC: Dream role?
Devyn: Being a superhero and doing my own stunts!

To keep up with Devyn, follow her on Twitter and Instagram. Watch Annette on Amazon Prime.

Photo Credit: Aiva Genys