10 Things about Bella Podaras
You’re originally from Texas. When did you decide that you would make your career in entertainment and how did you get your start?
I’ve always known I wanted to be in the entertainment industry. I’ve been acting most of my life but now, I’m at a place where I see myself directing and producing in the future. I got my start doing theater in Houston. It’s definitely something I’d love to get back to doing.
Which actors career made a positive impact on the decisions you made as a young actress and how so?
I love Jennifer Lawrence and Margot Robbie. I can see myself playing roles similar to what they have done. Leonardo DiCaprio and Joaquin Phoenix are also some of my favorites. They’re all so interesting to watch and the projects they choose are always really cool. They all have a way of giving an extremely nuanced performance, while staying free and in the moment.
Like you, more and more young women have been interested in directing. Sofia Coppola happens to be one of your favorite directors. How has she motivated you to develop your skills in this new space?
I’m a big fan of the Coppola family. I grew up watching the Godfather movies. I think the first movie I saw directed by Sofia was “The Virgin Suicides.” I really just loved how the movie was shot. Everything she does is so pretty to watch. I’m really into aesthetics, so immediately I had to watch her entire filmography. It’s inspiring to watch a female director who has such a prominent and specific style of movie making.
Currently, you’re on the Netflix series “The Expanding Universe of Ashley Garcia”. How were you first introduced to the show and what made you ultimately decide to take this on?
I auditioned for the show like everyone else. I got a few callbacks and honestly just got really lucky. I understood the humor and had a lot of fun auditioning, so when I got the role, I was beyond excited!
On the show, you play the role of Brooke. What can you tell us about her personality and what you enjoy most about bringing her character to life?
Brooke is full of this fun chaotic energy. It’s really enjoyable playing someone who’s so upbeat and positive. She’s a million things, and a role model is definitely one of them. Brooke has this great entrepreneur thing going on; she’s one of the lucky ones who knows exactly what they want.
Music is something that’s very close to you. What type of music do you enjoy and are there any plans for you develop anything musically as your career progresses?
I listen to all types of music, mostly older music though. I grew up on Downtempo like Moby and a lot of the Hotel Costes records. Recently, I’ve been listening to more 70s and 90s rock. I’m not sure that I’d ever pursue anything in music, but who knows? I’m always trying new things.
Another thing that you’re passionate about is bullying. How are you using your platform to help move this conversation in a positive way?
I feel like most kids get bullied for just being themselves. It’s important for young people to know that they don’t have to change for anybody. I think Ashley Garcia is a prime example of a show that displays a very diverse friend group with different interests. All of our characters are proud of who they are and what they are into. It’s good for kids to see such strong and driven teenage characters. Our show really captures that.
If you weren’t in the entertainment industry, what other career type would you get into instead?
I’d probably be a writer or do something with interior design. It would have to be something creative.
When it comes to fashion, which designers and styles appeal most to your personality?
I take a lot of inspiration from other time periods when I’m putting together an outfit. Alessandro Michelle is one of my favorite designers. He brings this fantastic retro flare to Gucci which I think is really great. Saint Laurent as a whole just does the rock-n-roll thing so well. I’m super drawn to that side myself.
We look forward to seeing you on “The Expanding Universe of Ashley Garcia”. What other projects do you have coming up?
Part 2 of Ashley Garcia will be airing in a few months!!
Instagram: @BellaPodaras
Photos: Ben Cope
Styling: Karen Raphael
Makeup: Angie Mikaelian/ Exclusive Artists Management
Hair: Felicia Rials/ Tabb|Sparks Salon