Is that why you’re so private?
Yeah, absolutely. I’ve always felt like that. My life is my life and my work is my life so I’m happy to be known for my work. But in terms of my privacy, it’s something I have been very protective about from the start. It’s just always felt like it needs to be protected as much as possible to keep a sense of normalcy.
Is it easier that you and Dan are both actors when it comes to rejections?
Totally. People can understand to a point, but unless you’re actually living it, it’s hard to know. There’s certainly a deeper understanding of the ups and downs and the madness of our industry. I’m grateful I have a partner who does understand it.
What is it like auditioning in the US?
It’s different and the same. It’s a much bigger industry with much more opportunity but then of course the pool of talent they are pulling from is that much larger. In Australia, it’s a much smaller industry but with fewer opportunities. It’s certainly harder if you’re not known over there; if you don’t already have an established profile it’s harder to get seen.
What do you think the secret is to making it work in LA?
A lot of it has to do with the people you surround yourself with. If you find yourself living in a great area, surrounded by people that become your family and your support network, you’ll have a great time. It’s a cool city. There are great opportunities. It’s exciting. We’ve loved it and it certainly has felt like a second home to us, but it is really hard. You can’t deny that.
How are you finding it being back in Australia?
It’s amazing! We’ve been based overseas for a while but we move around so much for work that I’m back here a lot. It feels like I’ve had an extended period of time here, which is always lovely because you get to see more of your family and friends.
“Everyone is just so gorgeous. There’s so many of us and there are so many different storylines shooting at the same time, we’re all crossing over at different times. Everyone I’ve worked with has been absolutely gorgeous.”
What’s it like filming at Palm Beach?
Every single day there are bus-loads of fans who come and watch and take photos. It’s an odd thing to get used to because it’s not the way a normal set would work. It is an incredible reminder that people really love this show. They’re really invested in this show and really care about it, which is really incredible to be a part of.
Home and Away airs Mon. to Thu., 7pm, on Channel Seven.