Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Detention Adventure’s Simone Miller

Actress Simone Miller is getting straight A’s for her breakout performance as Raign Westbrook on CBC’s Detention Adventure. The family-friendly series follows a motley crew of sixth graders who purposely get themselves thrown into detention after discovering the entrance to a labyrinth of tunnels protecting a long-lost secret. It’s Simone’s first big role, and she’s crushing it. Pop Culturalist chatted with Simone about Detention Adventure, her love for music, and much more.

PC: Tell us about Detention Adventure, your character, and what drew you to this project.
Simone: Detention Adventure is a CBC Gem Original series filled with science, mystery, suspense, and true friendships. This series is both creative and realistic, portraying young insecurities and problem solving between friends. I play the role of Raign Westbrook, a sixth grader just trying to figure it all out! She is a bit of a control freak amongst her friends. I was drawn to this project’s uniqueness and Raign herself, as she is a character who is different than any other role I’ve auditioned for.

PC: What can you tease about her arc this season?
Simone: Raign is quite sneaky. You’ll have to watch to find out.

PC: If you could choose an adventure for the group, what would it be and why?
Simone: That’s a great question! I would want to go back in time to the ’80s with this group. It’d be amazing to experience the music, hair, and fashion. This cast would rock that era.

PC: This is a breakout role for you. What was the most surprising part about this experience?
Simone: The most surprising part for me was all of the pranks/stunts we pulled off that brought us to the detention room!

PC: You’re an actress and singer. How did you discover your passion for the arts? Is there one you naturally gravitate towards?
Simone: I have always loved the arts. I am not sure how I discovered it—it was just always a part of me. I used to mimic Disney characters and sing along to the music, which was always playing in our house. I gravitate more towards music since it allows me to express my feelings easier.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: Guilty pleasure TV show?
Simone: Friends

PC: Guilty pleasure movie?
Simone: Into the Woods

PC: Favorite book?
Simone: The Hate U Give

PC: Favorite play or musical?
Simone: Dear Evan Hansen

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Simone: Queen and Led Zeppelin

PC: Last show you binge-watched?
Simone: Supergirl

PC: Hidden talent?
Simone: Hula hooping—I’ll challenge anyone! Bring it on!

To keep up with Simone, make sure to follow her on Instagram, and catch Detention Adventure on CBC.

Photo Credit: Mai Tilson