Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with BH90210’s Natalie Sharp

Natalie Sharp is an exciting actress and singer-songwriter who’s stepping foot into one of the most iconic zip codes in pop culture history. Yes, that’s right, she’s one of the newest stars joining the 90210 reboot, BH90210. In the series, she plays Anna Blakemore, a sassy and witty writer with a tough exterior. But, could a potential love interest bring out her softer side? Pop Culturalist sat down with Natalie to chat all things BH90210.

PC: Tell us about BH90210, your character, and what drew you to this project.
Natalie: It’s such an honor to be a part of a show that is so iconic, legendary, and important to so many people. I actually never watched it growing up, so I feel like a bit of a traitor, [laughs] but I plan on watching it! This reboot is not a true reboot. It doesn’t follow the characters of 90210, but the actors, their lives, and their attempt to “reboot” their beloved series of 90210. I think fans will love to see them all back together again!

I play the role of Anna Blakemore, one of the writers for the show. She’s a young, fiery, witty, and confident woman with a beautiful blend of sass and sarcasm. A certain someone may bring out her soft side, but alas, I have to hold my tongue!

I was drawn to this project the second I heard they were doing a reboot. I grew up on One Tree Hill and The O.C., so I know how 90210 fans feel about this reboot. I’m so grateful to be a part of it. It feels like magic.

PC: What is it like working alongside the original cast? Did anything surprise you about the experience?
Natalie: I really had no idea what it was going to be like. It was incredible to work so closely with the original cast. I was intimated at first with their level of “celebrity”, but once I got to know them as people, it all went away. They’re so supportive, funny, and it feels like such a family. It’s really cool to be able to see them all together and be a part of the ride. If I were part of the original 90210 generation, I definitely would not have been able to keep my cool. [laughs]

PC: What can you tease about Anna’s arc?
Natalie: She may or may not get close to a character on the show…may or may not. Stick around and find out.

PC: How did you prepare to step into Anna’s shoes? Which of your previous roles helped prepare you the most for Anna?
Natalie: All of my previous roles have been vastly different. Anna was the first professional I’ve had to play. She’s also the first character that is actually older than me. I’m very similar to her, though! Our humor is very similar—I love sarcasm. She is my most confident, empowered self. She loves to challenge people, which is what I shy away from, so I loved learning from her! Watch out world.

PC: How did you discover your passion for acting and music? Do you naturally gravitate towards one over the other?
Natalie: I have always wanted to be an actress since I was a little girl. I was very stubborn about my dream and fully decided that my future was going to be acting and didn’t see any other option. My parents put me into dance at two-years-old, singing at five, and then musical theatre naturally followed. I loved performing live, and it really built up my confidence and performance skills. Once I was in high school, I started getting serious about film and TV.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Natalie: Going to Loyola Marymount and studying with incredible, inspiring people! I have a BA in Theatre and a business minor. It’s amazing what happens when you are in an environment where the sole mission is to connect, grow, and cultivate creativity. I feel so lucky to have had that experience; I really do think it opened my eyes to all of the possibilities life has to offer and made me fall even more in love with the art of acting.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: Guilty pleasure TV show?
Natalie: Bachelor in Paradise

PC: Guilty pleasure movie?
Natalie: Grease

PC: Favorite book?
Natalie: I read a lot of scripts, but I’m in desperate need of suggestions for books!

PC: Favorite play or musical?
Natalie: Company! I saw it while studying at Loyola Marymount University and it blew my mind.

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Natalie: Pink Floyd

PC: Last show you binge-watched?
Natalie: Suits

PC: Hidden talent?
Natalie: I’m an incredible whistler. I know, I know! I need to audition for America’s Got Talent.

To keep up with Natalie, follow her on Instagram, and catch new episodes of BH90210 every Wednesday at 9/8c.

Photo Credit: Ashley Ross