Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Gabriella Martinez

Gabriella Martinez is an exciting up-and-comer who’s ready to make her mark on the industry while managing a full college course load. She’s equally comfortable in front of and behind the camera and has starred in projects such as The Immortal Wars, Young Sheldon, and Penny Dreadful: City of Angels. Pop Culturalist caught up with Gabriella to learn more about her and her career.

PC: How did you discover your passion for the arts?
Gabriella: When I was little, I put on shows for my family. When I say shows, I mean an entire production. I would force my brother to be my emcee. He would announce my act and I would come out behind the curtains of the living room and start singing songs from whatever movie or musical I had found that week.

I would often come home from school and sit down in front of my TV and turn on Wizard of Oz or Annie on the VCR. This catapulted me into my love for the arts. I knew I had to be a performer. There was no question.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Gabriella: It’s hard to say what has exactly influenced me and motivated me because there are so many. My family is so supportive and has been there for me every step of the way. Every year since I could remember, we would all sit down and watch the Oscars. I would light up at the thought of being there one day. To this day, I have watched the Academy Awards every year, and I am more inspired each time.

PC: In addition to acting, you’re also a producer. How has your work behind the scenes helped your on-camera work, and vice versa?
Gabriella: Working behind the scenes has helped me understand my craft in a way that I didn’t understand before. I believe producing and helping behind the scenes helps my storytelling abilities. I am more capable of seeing what will go on with the camera and what the director is searching for in a scene, not just for my character but for the whole scene to flow.

PC: You’re also currently in college. How challenging is it to manage your career and your course load?
Gabriella: I am going to be honest. I have had moments of stressful scheduling. I had semesters where I could only have classes at 7 a.m. and night classes at 8 p.m. With auditions, filming, and meetings, my day has to be open to whatever will come my way. It hasn’t been the easiest road, but it has taught me so much about patience and managing my time as efficiently as possible.

PC: You’ve had a lot of success already in your young career. When you look back, is there a particular moment that stands out?
Gabriella: Thank you. I have had such wonderful moments in my life being able to use my creativity and do what I love. Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to work with a handful of my favorite comedians of all time. It was surreal and I was so excited to be on set with them. I learned so much from seeing them work, and they brought something different to the table each time “action” was called.

PC: You also have two upcoming projects that you’re working on. Is there anything you can share about either at this time?
Gabriella: I am looking forward to getting back to work. Since quarantine started, I have been able to work on my own creative projects, but I definitely miss putting work into characters that others have made. I can’t say much about what is coming, but I can say that it will be new and exciting for the future of filming.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: Guilty pleasure TV show?
Gabriella: Sex and the City.

PC: Guilty pleasure movie?
Gabriella: Anything Steven Spielberg.

PC: Favorite book?
Gabriella: The Secret History by Donna Tartt.

PC: Favorite play or musical?
Gabriella: Dear Evan Hansen!

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Gabriella: The Cars. I love ’80s music.

PC: Who would play you in the story of your life?
Gabriella: A young Angelina Jolie would be ideal!

To keep up with Gabriella, follow her on Instagram.

Photo Credit: Austin Martinez