The Acting Life Of Mikaela Phillips

Written by JJ Barnes

www.jjbarnes.co.uk

I interviewed actress Mikaela Phillips about her career, what she loves about performing, and her advice to inspire other actors.

Tell me a bit about yourself.

My name’s Mikaela Phillips and I’m a Producer and Actress with multiple TV and Film credits under my belt. I grew up on the sandy beaches of Australia and later on in Los Angeles, California and have just completed working on three films in the last year, with 2022 set to be another big year for me.

When did you first realise you wanted to be an actor?

I’d say the realization was already there from a very young age however I didn’t know at that stage, it would shape into what’s become a rewarding, fun and interesting career I’ve had so far. The first real production I was cast in, was around age five… so once I was older probably around high school, is when I realized I wanted to continue pursuing acting and that I could invest in myself and becoming an actor.

What classes or training sessions have you taken to support your acting career?

I’ve studied and trained both in Australia and Los Angeles with the likes of Margie Haber Studio who have trained A-list actors such as; Brad Pitt, Tiffany Haddish, Madelaine Petsch and Gregg Sulkin to name a few.

I’ve also had training in American accent, which I picked up very easily and have been complimented on by many industry professionals and peers for how authentic and good it sounds.

What was your first professional acting job?

The acting job that really solidified me as a professional actress and coincided with putting me on the map was the TV series Counter Play.

I had a series regular role, appearing in every episode for two seasons. Recently I came across old photos from when we filmed the series about five years ago and it brought a smile to face and so many wonderful memories!

Tell me a favourite experience in your career. Something that stands out in your memories and makes you want to find more experiences like it.

One of my favorite experiences of being in this industry was the day I got to visit Warner Brothers Studio in Burbank for the first time. The first time it wasn’t actually for any acting specific gig but to visit a good friend who works on one of the shows that films on the lot. It will always stand out in my memory as one of the best days ever!

I got to experience and see WB through the eyes and textile experience of someone who works on the lot and had an unrestricted chance to see the stages, walk around the lot freely and check out the interactions and activations they offer – yes including Central Perk haha – not as a tourist on a ticketed guide. I can’t explain it but the energy there was so serene yet fast-paced and inspiring and it really did feel a little magical… 

I would be so grateful and excited to call WB home and create on their studio lot!

Have your family and friends been supportive of your acting career?

Yes. Mum is my biggest supporter and I have a few core close friends who are always supportive and have shown me what it truly means to have good and supportive friends in my life

Tell me some career goals. What would you like to achieve?

I can humbly say, that I have already achieved some of the goals I set out for myself in this industry. I believe it is wise to re-evaluate your goals every so often to reflect your progress and current climate and at the moment I’m on track to complete some of the goals I set for myself this year earlier than anticipated, which is so exciting!

That being said, one of my career goals is to work on a studio film whether that be in an acting or producing capacity – as I produce too.

What are words of advice you have for other aspiring actors?

I think if I can impart any wisdom, it would be that I have found the most hardworking, diligent and humble actors are the ones who not only succeed but are loved by all. If you look at some of the most revered actors, they don’t boast to ‘know it all’ or to not need help from experts in their field when approaching a new role… they delve into the characters oftentimes undergoing physical training, coaching or drastic body transformations.

As an actor, not every experience will be the same, we are constantly mastering… so I think being open to learning and taking direction is my advice this time around. Bring enthusiasm and teamwork to the table, without ego and a willingness to always learn.

Give me your social links so people can come and find you!

Sure! @mikaelaphillips on Instagram and @miki_phillips on Twitter

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