Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Rachel Redleaf

Actress Rachel Redleaf rose to fame after appearing as Beth Chapin in Netflix’s Atypical. Audiences instantly fell in love with both her and her character who’s best known for her one-liners and terrific baking skills. It was Rachel’s first big break and helped prepare her for her role in the highly-anticipated Quentin Tarantino film, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.

Pop Culturalist sat down with Rachel to chat about the project.

PC: How did you discover your passion for acting? When did you make the decision to pursue it professionally?
Rachel: I’ve been doing musical theatre since I was four, and I got interested in film during high school. I’ve wanted to be a professional actress since I knew it was a thing.

PC: What’s been the biggest lesson you’ve learned being a part of this industry?
Rachel: If you love what you are doing, you will be successful. There’s a lot of downtime in this industry, and you have to fill it with things you’re passionate about. Make auditioning fun [and] find classes you love because when rejection comes you’ll still be happy. You’re ultimately doing what you love.

PC: What is your dream role or project?
Rachel: I’d love to be in a musical movie or TV show like Glee or Crazy Ex-Girlfriend.

PC: Tell us about Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, your character, and what drew you to this project.
Rachel: It’s going to be a wild film! I know about as much as you all do. Everything was kept very secretive. I play Mama Cass of the Mamas and the Papas.

PC: How similar or different are you to your character?
Rachel: Cass Elliot and I have a lot of similarities, and it was an honor to play such a legendary woman! We are both proud, singing, dancing, and over-the-top ladies!

PC: In Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, you star opposite Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, and Margot Robbie. What was the biggest takeaway from that experience?
Rachel: I primarily got to work with Margot Robbie. It was a privilege to watch her work, and she was a friend to everyone around her. I hope to be like her one day. It was very humbling.

PC: You’re best known for your role in Atypical. Did that project help prepare you for Once Upon a Time in Hollywood?
Rachel: Being on set for an amazing series like Atypical has definitely prepared me for Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. My confidence has grown and I’ve gotten better at auditioning, but this movie was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced before! I’ve been so lucky to be a part of such amazing projects!

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: Guilty pleasure TV show?
Rachel: Grey’s Anatomy

PC: Guilty pleasure movie?
Rachel: 27 Dresses

PC: Favorite book?
Rachel: The Mysterious Benedict Society series. I really think they should turn it into a TV show!

PC: Favorite play or musical?
Rachel: Wicked

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Rachel: No surprise here, it’s all Broadway.

PC: Last show you binge-watched?
Rachel: Sex Education

PC: Hidden talent?
Rachel: I can do the worm.

To keep up with Rachel, follow her on Instagram, and catch Once Upon a Time in Hollywood in theaters on July 26, 2019.