10 Things about Victoria Park
You’re originally from Chicago. When did you realize that you had an interest to be in the entertainment business as an actor and how did you get your start?
I’ve always grown up loving movies and storytelling. I remember watching The Sound of Music, Wizard of Oz, and Little Women until the VHS tape ran thin, haha. I thought about being a writer, like Jo (from Little Women), but ended up gravitating towards the visual aspect of cinematography and ended up studying that in school instead. By the time I moved to L.A., I ended up in an acting class with the goal of meeting new people and hopefully gaining insight that would make me a better director. But instead, I ended up sticking with it, and here we are!
Which actors body of work has had a positive impact on your career thus far?
So many! Meryl (Streep) being the obvious choice. She can do literally anything. And I’ve always looked towards women who look like me – Lucy Liu, Michelle Yeoh, Sandra Oh, Keiko Agena, Gemma Chan, Awkwafina. Though there were fewer faces that looked like mine on the screen when I was growing up, I’m so grateful that is now changing. I’m also hugely inspired by women creating content and opportunities for other women. Reese Witherspoon and her company, Hello Sunshine, come to mind. And I love that she brings comedy to even her dramatic roles. Speaking of comedy, I also look to all the comedy queens: Tina, Amy, Maya, Kate, Kristen, Rachel, Julia… these women literally don’t even need last names, they’re so iconic.
You’ve done quite a bit of television and film work. What do you appreciate about both platforms and what types of roles do you get excited to play?
Film tends to move a lot slower than TV, and that’s always a gift for an actor. But, if you can be a part of a successful show that goes for many seasons, you get to go to work with the same people for years, and I really love that. As for roles, I love anything that challenges me or makes people laugh.
Currently you’re on CW’s The Flash. How were you first introduced to the project and what made you decide to jump on board?
My agent sent me the audition (as with most opportunities), and I just felt like the character and I were so similar in a lot of ways. Plus, The Flash is such a great show with an incredibly loyal fan base. To be able to play in the well-known, well-respected, well-loved Arrowverse seemed like a dream.. and it has been!
On the show, you play the role of Kamilla Hwang. What can you tell us about her personality and what you enjoy most about bringing her character to life?
Kamilla is a fun character for me. She has a dry, spunky sense of humor that’s really fun to play with. But, I also really love the more heartfelt scenes that showcase how much she cares for others.
What can viewers and fans expect to see from Kamila and the rest of the cast on this season?
Well, we are officially on the other side of Crisis, so we’ll see the team dealing with and adjusting to life post-crisis. Also, we have a new villain in the back half of the season, so look forward to that!
The show has such a loyal following, especially on social media. How do you keep up with all the love you guys receive on the platform?
We have the best fans, for sure. It’s tough to keep up on social media, but I do my best to respond as I can! Either way, love and support is so appreciated, and I’m so grateful for each and every person who sends a little love our way.
If you weren’t working as an actress, what career type would you have instead?
I’d probably still be in this industry, just doing something else. But if not… When I was a kid, I wanted to be a librarian for a while, haha. I really love books.
When it comes to fashion, which designers and styles appeal most to your personality?
I love fashion, and what I love changes drastically depending on my mood or the day. I wish I could be brave enough to pull off some of the bolder looks out there, but I generally end up gravitating towards more classic styles, with a fun twist. Some of my favorite designers right now are Phillip Lim, Proenza Schouler, Valentino, Saint Laurent, Alexander McQueen, and Stella McCartney. I especially love McCartney for her commitment to sustainability.
We look forward to seeing more of you on CW’s The Flash. What other projects do you have coming up?
Thank you! We’ll be wrapping up season 6 of The Flash for the next few months. I also just finished a short film I co-directed called, “To Borrow To Keep”, and hope to direct more this year. Stay tuned!
Photos: Christine Choi, Paul Smith & Kassia Phoy
Instagram: @HeyBVP