10 Things about Monique Green
Your career as an actress is just taking off. When did you decide to get into the entertainment industry and how did you initially get your start?
I’ve always been interested in acting, singing, and dancing ever since I was a little girl. When I was 14/15 years old I found this week-long program where I was able to sing, dance, and act all day during the summer. There was an acting showcase at the end of the program and that’s how I found my managers. Finding representation so quickly inspired me to get into the entertainment industry and start the process.
Which actors body of work impressed you and has made a positive impact on your career thus far?
As a little girl, I remember watching Dakota Fanning in I am Sam and thinking that she was amazing and that I wanted to do what she could do. She not only continues to work but also continues to do good work. She’s inspiring to watch because she creates such depth with her characters. Another person who inspires me as Meryl Streep. She’s obviously an icon, but for very valid reasons. Watching her work is a masterclass and she inspires me to be creative and genuine with the characters that I play.
Currently, you’re on the Disney+ series, Big Shot. How were you first introduced to the project and what made you excited to be a part of it?
I auditioned for Big Shot in 2019 and I immediately felt connected to the script. I felt like it had a lot of heart and I thought it was great that it had women sports a part of it. I was excited about being a part of something that could shed light on the greatness of women sports.
On the show, you play the role of Olive. What can you tell us about her personality and what you enjoyed most about bringing her character to life?
Olive is a very friendly, technologically-savvy, passionate person. She is not afraid to speak her mind or stand up for what she believes in. She’s also a really good friend and will stick up for any of them if she needs to. I’ve really enjoyed embodying Olive’s happiness. I feel like she has such a joyful spirit that it becomes contagious and that’s something I love the most about her.
What was your experience like working on set with John Stamos and the rest of the cast?
All of the girls in the cast had a connection when we first met while testing for the show and I feel like that chemistry is what determined how we all booked our roles. We also had basketball practice for a couple of months in preparation for the show, so we all got really close from that. We built a real “team-like” relationship with each other. I first met John at our first table read and he was so friendly and genuine. He maintains that while we’re on set as well. He’s always open to hearing other perspectives and he always brings a positive energy whenever he’s around. He definitely made working on Big Shot easy and fun.
As things get underway, what can viewers expect to see on Big Shot, in this first season?
Viewers can expect to see transformation not just with John Stamos’ character but from all of the girls on the team. As viewers watch, they will see that every girl is dealing with something, which is very relatable. How we deal with what we’re going through is something that is thoroughly explored throughout the series. On a lighter note, viewers can also expect to laugh because there are a lot of funny moments. I think viewers will leave a little lighter after watching Big Shot.
If you weren’t working on your acting career, what other career options would you consider?
I majored in Psychology with a double minor in Mandarin and Asian Pacific studies, so if I wasn’t acting I think I would be interested in Marriage and Family Therapy or being a business liaison between China and the U.S.
When you’re not working on set, what do you typically do to relax and care for yourself?
I really like to read, so it’s often that I can be found doing that. I love spending time with family and friends. I also can be found watching reality t.v. to let my mind unplug for a while.
With respect to fashion, which designers and styles appeal most to your personality?
I don’t have one specific designer that appeals most to my personality, but I love classy form-fitting dresses when I’m dressing up. When I’m off the clock and relaxing I would describe my style as chic casual.
We look forward to seeing you on Disney+ Big Shot. What other projects do you have coming up in the near future?
I definitely have more projects in my future, but my lips are sealed…for now!
Instagram: @MoniqueGreenOfficial
Photos: James McCloud
In-character Photos: Courtesy of Disney/Gilles Mingasson