Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Willa Skye About Godmothered

Dreams do come true—just ask Willa Skye. At the age of ten, the talented young actress is now a part of the Disney family.

Her new film, Godmothered (out now on Disney+), tells the story of an unskilled fairy godmother who ventures out to prove her worth by tracking down a young girl whose request for help was ignored.

Pop Culturalist caught up with Willa to learn more about Godmothered, her character, and what it was like working opposite Isla Fisher and Jillian Bell!

Career

PC: How did you discover your passion for the arts?
Willa: I’ve always loved comedy and performing for my family. When I was little, I would do special Willa shows in my room with hand-drawn paper tickets!

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Willa: My parents have been the biggest influence on my career because they have always helped me and supported me.

Godmothered

PC: Tell us about Godmothered, your character, and what drew you to this project.
Willa: The character Mia and I have a lot in common. We both have older sisters, are very caring, and love animals, especially Gary the raccoon—you’ll get it if you watch the movie! Working on the set was so amazing, and I got to work with people who were literally the nicest people on Earth! From the cast to the crew, everyone was so kind. It felt like we were family. Disney has always been one of my dreams, and I can’t believe it came true!

PC: You’re starring opposite Isla Fisher and Jillian Bell. What was it like collaborating with them? Did they share any words of wisdom with you?
Willa: Working with Isla and Jillian was amazing. Isla took care of me like I was her own daughter! Jillian was so fun and kind. We even went to the aquarium together on our day off! Jillian Spaeder, who plays my sister Jane in the movie, is my sister from another mister! Even though she’s eighteen, she’s definitely one of my BFFs!

They all shared a lot of wisdom with me. When we wrapped, and I was super sad because I would miss them so much, Jillian said, “Don’t think of it as goodbye; think of it as ‘see you later,’” which helped me because it made going home easier because I knew I would see them again! Isla told me to always be myself because everybody loves the true you!

PC: This is a breakout role for you. Did anything surprise you about the experience? What was the biggest takeaway?
Willa: I was surprised by how much work goes into making a movie and how many people were involved! Making magic was so interesting—especially working with the exploding marshmallows! I was so grateful for the whole crew because they worked so hard. I’m so proud that I got to be a part of it. I was really nervous when we got there, but everyone was so nice and I wasn’t nervous anymore because I made some great friendships.

PC: Joining the Disney family is a huge accomplishment for any actor. What does it mean to you to have done it so early on in your career?
Willa: When I got the role, I was so excited, happy, and surprised that I could barely think straight! I never thought that I would ever get a role this big; especially this early in my career! I can’t wait to see what comes next! I hope people like the movie and enjoy it!

PC: What do you hope audiences take away?
Willa: I hope the audience will think, “Wow! I now know that I should be proud of who I am and try to live life to its fullest every day!”

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: Guilty pleasure TV show?
Willa: The Office.

PC: Guilty pleasure movie?
Willa: Frozen 2.

PC: Favorite book?
Willa: The Warriors series by Erin Hunter.

PC: Favorite play or musical?
Willa: Lion King on Broadway!

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Willa: Lizzo, Katy Perry, and Kesha. Go girl power!

To keep up with Willa, follow her on Instagram. Watch Godmothered on Disney+ today.

Photo Credit: Emily Assiran