actress Archives - Toronto Guardian

“A Day in the Life” with Actress and Filmmaker Sheronna Osbourne

Tosin Ajogbeje — Wed, 10 Jul 2024 07:33:10 +0000

Sheronna Osbourne, an accomplished Canadian actress, director, writer, and producer, seamlessly weaves her multifaceted talents on and off the screen. Her journey into film commenced in Toronto’s IATSE costume department, contributing to top shows since 2009. In 2020, she garnered the Canada Arts Council Digital Creatives Grant, directing her first short film, “Silence Of The Land,” a poignant exploration of Black experiences in Toronto. Her subsequent film, “Roni,” earned the Audience Award at the Toronto Short Film Festival, propelling Osbourne towards a burgeoning interest in directing. Influenced by artists like Issa Rae and Ava DuVernay, she aspires to spotlight Black female leads in genre films. In 2021, her award-winning short film “Out of Order” showcased her prowess as a co-writer, director, and actor. Osbourne, a Black woman filmmaker, aims to create space for genre films reflecting the Black experience, utilizing her skills in costume, acting, and direction. Osbourne’s trajectory exemplifies a commitment to pushing boundaries, enriching perspectives and fostering meaningful conversations that celebrate Black voices and the artists behind them. Currently, Osbourne is thrilled to be writing her first feature film.

Canadian International Fashion Film Festival

Directing on set of Remote Paradise

Hair and makeup on set of A Christmas Serenade

Directing on set of Toronto The Good

On set of A Christmas Serenade with Skye Townsend

On set of Pretty Hard Cases with Adrienne C. Moore

Thirsty AF film poster

***

Which ’hood are you in?

I moved to Scarborough right before I started middle school so I definitely consider Scarborough my hood. Some of my fondest memories, core friendships and many wild adventures are rooted in the East end of the city.

What do you do?

I am an actress, director, writer and producer but my career in the film industry began as a costume buyer, a role I still occasionally undertake. So, when I’m not in front of the camera or directing actors, you could say I’m behind the scenes dressing them! It’s a unique blend of skills and experience that I’m proud to bring to every project.

What are you currently working on?

As someone who wears many hats, I’m often in pre-production or post-production on any given day. As an Actress and Executive Producer, I am currently submitting Thirsty AF: The Adventures of a recovering sex addict to film festivals worldwide. This project, written and directed by L.A. Wade delves into the life of Cali Church (portrayed by myself) as she navigates the potential of her future while dealing with the traumas of her past. I’m extremely proud of this work and the collaborative efforts of the team and I cannot wait to share this compelling series with audiences worldwide. As a director, I am currently in post-production for my latest short film Remote Paradise, a comedy based on the woes of returning back to the office after the sweet life of working from home. As a writer, I am currently writing my first feature film… yay!

Where can we find your work?

My IMDB and Instagram are the best places to keep up with my projects.

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“A Day in the Life” with Toronto Actress, Writer and Producer Olunike Adeliyi

Tosin Ajogbeje — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 08:33:28 +0000

Olunike Adeliyi is the real deal—she’s a Canadian powerhouse with a knack for rocking the entertainment world in all the best ways. Not just an actress, writer, and producer, she’s a true lover of the arts and culture. You might remember her as Officer Leah Kerns from Flashpoint, where she lit up the screen from 2008 to 2012. Fast forward, and she’s been making waves in Workin’ Moms, Revenge of the Black Best Friend, The Porter, and the must-watch series Mike.

Movies? Oh yeah, she’s got those covered too—She Never Died, Darken, The Parting Glass, Boost, The Prodigy, Chaos Walking—the list goes on. And hey, she snagged a Canadian Screen Award for “Best Lead Performance” in Revenge of the Black Best Friend. Nominations? Yeah, she’s got those too, proving she’s as versatile as they come.

What’s next? Olunike is on fire with Rachel Morrison’s Flint Strong and the buzzworthy series The Porter. Plus, catch her in Hulu’s latest hit, Mike, rubbing elbows with some top-tier talents. With an impressive track record and more in the pipeline, Olunike Adeliyi is owning the entertainment game.

Olunike Adeliyi – actress, writer, and producer

Olunike Adeliyi and author and filmmaker L.A. Wade

Olunike and the Black Girl Magic Makers at the Legacy Awards

Olunike and the Cast of The Porter

Olunike at a Nigerian School

Olunike in a shop in Jamaica

***

Which ’hood are you in?

I live in Toronto but grew up in Brampton. My background is a blend of Nigerian and Jamaican heritage, emphasizing the significance of community in my life. While there’s a perception that Toronto is among the loneliest cities globally, my passion for the arts has been a source of connection and grounding for me. I find joy in the vibrant arts scene here, appreciating the city’s proximity to cultural experiences. A particular favourite of mine is Soulpepper Theatre, where their inclusive and diverse programming offers immersive forms of storytelling that I deeply cherish.

What do you do?

My roles as actress, writer, producer, mentor, and philanthropist, allow me to showcase my versatility. My passion for storytelling, and commitment to mentorship, along with my dedication to making a positive impact beyond the realms of entertainment is intricately tied to the question “What do you do?”

As an actress, I bring characters to life on screen with depth and authenticity, but beyond acting, I am also recognized as a writer, contributing to the creation of engaging narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.

In addition to my work as an actress, I have been getting more into producing where I am able to demonstrate my Capricorn tendencies of being extremely organized. Being a part of the development and execution of projects and showcasing a different side of myself allows me to show up in my commitment to shaping compelling stories.

Beyond my creative pursuits, I also serve as a mentor to up-and-coming as well as to more established artists. Sharing my knowledge and experiences with aspiring individuals in the industry, allows me to dedicate myself to fostering talent and providing guidance to the growth and development of the next generation of creatives.

As I continue to grow and expand my reach, I recognize the importance of being a philanthropist. I intentionally look for ways to leverage my platform and resources to make a positive impact on various social causes. My involvement in charitable activities reflects my desire to contribute to the betterment of society and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

What are you currently working on?

My current focus includes taking on the lead role and executive producer duties for “Morningside,” navigating the film festival circuit with “Thirsty AF,” and working on a personal TV series.

I am currently gearing up to take on the lead role and serve as an executive producer for “Morningside.” Simultaneously, I’m making my debut as an executive producer with a small cameo in “Thirsty AF: The Adventures of a Recovering Sex Addict,” a project created by the talented L.A. Wade. Our collaboration doesn’t end there; we have plans for more joint ventures in the future. In 2024, we’ll be taking “Thirsty AF” on the film festival circuit, pitching to networks, and seeking distribution for this compelling project.

Moreover, “Thirsty AF” won’t be confined to traditional screenings; we’re planning a dynamic tour of colleges, universities, and community organizations. This tour aims to not only showcase the film but also to bring attention to L.A. Wade’s book series, fostering important dialogues through uncensored Q&A sessions following the screenings.

On another creative front, I’m currently participating in the Ubuntu Decolonial Arts Centre in Costa Rica. During this residency I am actively engaged in writing and producing my own television series, drawing inspiration from my life experiences. This endeavour allows me to explore new dimensions of storytelling and bring unique narratives to life.

Where can we find your work?

To explore my body of work, the most comprehensive source is my IMDb page. Notable performances of mine can be witnessed in “Mike,” part of The Mike Tyson series available on Hulu. Additionally, you can catch me in “The Porter” and “Revenge of the Black Best Friend” on CBC and CBC Gem, as well as BET Plus. For a glimpse into some of my earlier projects, you’ll find me in “Working Moms” on CBC and Netflix.

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“A Day in the Life” with Toronto-based Actress Lily Kazimiera

Demian Vernieri — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 08:33:59 +0000

When I first met Lily Kazimiera, she was a stand-up comedian, musician/composer, and recovering poet. In the nearly half a decade I’ve known her, she has added actress, screenwriter, and editor to that list. While her time spent on each of these practices ebbs and flows, she has a commitment to art that infuses the rhythms of her daily life.

When Lily got cast in I Hate People, People Hate Me, she had never acted before, and threw herself into lessons and character studies perfecting the Daria-adjacent voice of Tabitha. When she decided to return to school for film editing, she disappeared for months on end, spending 12-hour days on campus honing her abilities. Her dedication to her many crafts is only surpassed by her dedication to her friends, family, and community.

Lily has found and realized the power of her voice, and the responsibility she has to platform and amplify others, challenging the tired stereotype of the hyper-individualistic artist and infusing everything she does with care and connection. Even provinces apart, my home and life are filled with reminders of our friendship: my shelves are filled with books she has given me, my “watched” list with movies we have seen together, and my phone with our chats.

-Written by Dr. Madison Trusolino, PhD

One of the ironic things about working in film and television is that it renders your life extraordinarily visually uninteresting (perhaps that’s what keeps us so drawn to working through images). Still, I’ll endeavour to combat this with as much pretentious 2012-era Tumblr energy as my little heart can muster.

With series creator Bobbi Summers, playing Tabitha and Jovi on the set of our series I Hate People, People Hate Me (CBC Gem, photo courtesy of Lauren Newman Photography).

…and when I’m not on a set, the vast majority of my work involves bouncing from desk to desk and screen to screen, much to the chagrin of my many doctors. For today, here is a glimpse into what the early phase of cutting a short film looks like. The fun thing about editing (and I do mean that sincerely) is how it’s usually a lot of file management until all of a sudden it’s filmmaking.

When you mostly work from home and spend a lot of time indoors, it’s important to put aesthetically pleasing things on your walls so that their emptiness no longer reminds you of the emptiness within yourself.

That said, I do actually manage to go outside every now and then. Unless it snowed the night before, it can be difficult to make High Park look photogenic this time of year, so please accept this actually nice-to-look-at photo from late September as a stand-in.

Once the day’s work is done, I usually try to play an instrument for at least a little bit as a way of cleansing my brain and allowing me to fully relax back into myself. Not that I ever play very well, mind you, but that’s fine! These last few years I’ve been trying to approach music as a mindfulness exercise and a way of physically conditioning myself, like yoga or something, as opposed to the very product-based exercise I thought of it as when I was younger. Leaning into the presence and expressiveness of it all regardless of the outcome has been very freeing and joyful (I should note here that I don’t usually photograph myself with glasses on but did so today without really thinking about it, so if I’m giving unusual amounts of “librarian” in this article, that’s why.)

The nice thing about capitalism is that it allows us to spend the vast majority of our waking hours earning money to cover the outrageous costs of what, in any actually functional society, would be considered inalienable human rights. If you’re fortunate enough to have anything left over after that, you can then choose to invest it in tiny boxes of plastic with which to pass the remainder of your waking time on this earth, and put them on shelves that, should anyone else see them, communicate the message: “These pieces of plastic are me, and I am them. They will outlive me, and you may use them to remind yourself of who I was once I am gone.” For me, this is one such shelf.

I’ve lived with chronic illness for the last four years, so most of my days end with a salt bath and some pain-relief patches to keep my symptoms from worsening overnight, and combat what we here in the sick-person business call “post-exertional malaise.” I tend to treat these baths as a sanctuary to get my mind away from screens and art and work, and cultivate a bit of the presence and reflection that I seldom slow down enough to allow during the day. Does that stop me from not-infrequently watching tv in the tub anyways? That’s between me and God! Also, I shaved my legs for this picture. You’re WELCOME, readers; I’m SORRY, feminism!

***

Which ’hood are you in?

I’ve lived in the Junction for the past two and a half years now. As both a relative outsider and newcomer, I’ve been fortunate to remain immune to the cynicism about Toronto that develops in a lot of lifelong residents, and still find myself enamoured with just about everywhere in the city. When I first moved here from Alberta, I ended up living off Spadina and College, which was an amazing way of being thrown into the deep end of downtown Toronto life, as it were. Now that I’m a bit older though, the slower and more pastoral energy of the Junction’s hidden corners feels much better suited to this stage of my life. Still, I don’t feel any further removed from the city itself here than I did living smack in the middle of it. That balance between feeling insulated in your own little pocket of your neighbourhood without having to sacrifice your sense of immediate access to everything the city has to offer is something I’ve always found really special about this place.

What do you do?

A lot, yet very little! It seems like that’s increasingly everyone’s answer in this age of multi-hyphenates and material scarcity. Most notably, I act and write on the CBC Gem series I Hate People, People Hate Me, which is a dark, raunchy, cartoonish comedy about two hapless 20-somethings, Jovi (played by Bobbi Summers) and Tabitha (myself), who go on journeys of self-discovery after finding themselves ostracized from Toronto’s broader queer community. I also work as a freelance film editor and A/V artist, and enjoy writing my own screenplays, poetry, creative non-fiction, and criticism, as well as making music whenever I’m able (perhaps some of it will be made public at some point, but no promises yet). You see what I mean now about being afflicted with multi-hyphenate-itis!

What are you currently working on?

Right now, Bobbi and I are planning for a second season of I Hate People, which aims to crank the dial-up on everything about the first season. That same hilarity, sadness, strangeness, and visual ambition, only more so. Otherwise, I’m in a real short-film era! I’m currently developing two of my own; one is a non-narrative experimental piece called “Bruise Echo,” which seeks to abstractly explore the oppressive structures imposed on the queer, disabled body. The other, “Hours of Operation,” is about the politicization of trans life in public spaces, and follows a young trans woman who discovers an unexpected source of joyful rebellion lurking in the depths of her new apartment complex. I’m also editing a horror short called “Delicate Creatures,” co-directed by Francis Melling & Al Frankson. Hopefully, you will see some combination of the above on a screen near or in your house next year!

Where can we find your work?

The first season of I Hate People, People Hate Me is now available to watch for free on CBC Gem in Canada, with the first two episodes also available for free on YouTube worldwide, where you can also watch an experimental short of mine, “Reel 413 [1952-1976]”. Otherwise, you can witness my digital existence and any future activities on Instagram and Letterboxd.

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“A Day in the Life” with Toronto Actress Kim Roberts

Emilea Semancik — Wed, 03 Jan 2024 08:33:08 +0000

I’m not sure if this will even do justice to sum up the force that is in Kim Roberts. I first met Kim on a random warm night 7 years ago, I had no idea where to begin or how to break into the acting business. I heard an actor lived in that house there and I literally knocked on her door on a whim not sure what to do if she answered. She answered and gave me her time, her knowledge and her encouragement. Every time I see Kim it’s always a burst of sunshine. Her smile is just what I need whenever I’m down about the uncertain acting industry or just having a bad day. I remember the first time I got to walk on a set was when Kim invited me to a film she was working on and getting to see her light up the entire set with her contagious laugh made me feel so honoured that I could call her a friend. Anytime I meet new people on sets our conversations often end up with us professing how much we love and adore Kim as most people I’ve met have had their hearts touched by her in some way. Kim’s extensive work in the TV/Film/Theatre worlds has solidified her as a legend already, and she is still building her legacy. I owe Kim a lot but I’m sure she will say I never have to pay. And for what it’s worth Kim makes the best Lobster Roll in all of Canada and I stand by that statement.

-Written by Carlisle J Williams, friend

Presenting an award at the 2023 Vaughan International Film Festival

With Eugene Levy on the set of Schitts Creek

Kim Roberts

On set with Marla Gibbs, Amber, Stevens West, and the cast of Love Jacked

Accepting the Independent Leader award at the 2022 Vaughan International Film Festival

At the CANIFF tribute to fashion in film, TIFF, 2023

With Michael Chambers, photographer, and Russell Peters, comedian

At the launch of Fashion Magazines, September issue

***

Which ‘hood are you in?

Oakwood and Vaughan

What do you do?

I am an actor

What are you currently working on?

I’m in Paw Patrol the Mighty Movie. I play Mayor Goodway in the movie and in the continuing television series. I play Alice, in The Changeling, currently streaming on Apple TV. And I’m working on a new play that will debut at Stratford.

Where can we find your work?

IMDB | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn

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“A Day in the Life” with Toronto-based Actress Kimberly-Sue Murray

Emilea Semancik — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 07:33:24 +0000

I first met Kimberly-Sue Murray in theatre school: she was a small-town girl with a French Canadian accent and a ton of talent. I immediately wanted to be her friend.

Kim never ceases to inspire me. I have yet to meet someone as resourceful, and willing to learn new things and put in the work to master them. She can tile a bathroom floor, knit a baby blanket, do hair and makeup that would rival a professional, put in a wood ceiling, take stunning photography, cook a wicked meal, produce a film on a shoestring budget and coach artists to bookings. Still, she is rightfully most well-known as an excellent actor with a striking range.

Kim is also one of the most loyal friends you will ever meet. She is profoundly generous. She is the kind of person who shows you what friendship can be – a sister, a straight shooter, a connector and a giver. She will fight for you to achieve your dreams. She is also the first person to share an embarrassing story or laugh at one of her mistakes.

In theatre school, Kim and I used to pour through acting books and coach each other on scenes. We became obsessed with deepening our work together. Now, it’s only natural that we are partners in creating Level Up, a self-tape masterclass that empowers actors to bring their unique artistry to auditions. It has been one of the greatest joys of my life spending the past 16 years growing alongside her.

-Written by Mikaela Lily Davies, actor, creator, director, acting coach and lifelong friend

Kimberly-Sue and her little Palate, her 8.5-year-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, who travels with her wherever she goes. This is them in LA earlier this year.

Doing self-tape auditions are a regular part of Kimberly-Sue’s days. If she’s not putting herself on tape (like in this photo), she’s helping a friend do the same.

This is Kimberly-Sue coaching actor Philippa Dwyer through some emotional preparation during their LEVEL UP Self-Tape Masterclass.

Kimberly-Sue and her fiancé love, love, LOVE coffee shops. Whenever she has computer work or needs to learn lines, she goes and sits in a coffee shop. It calms her and helps her focus.

Kimberly-Sue is very close to her mom and baby sister, they call//FaceTime each other daily.

Kimberly-Sue loves to travel whenever she can. She and her partner rented a camper van and traveled around the Grand Canyon. It was epic!

Kimberly-Sue and her partner bought a house this year and turned it into a triplex. This is a photo of her dad showing her how to tile the shower. She did the whole thing herself. She caught the Reno bug and can’t wait for their next project – a laneway house.

Kimberly-Sue loves photography. She has an old Pentax K1000 and a sweet little Fujifilm X100T. She’s always taking photos on set or portraits of her friends.

***

Which ‘hood are you in?

My partner and I just moved from Parkdale to Dovercourt Village and we love it. We were a little uncertain at first, but the area is growing on us. Casemiento has the best tacos in the city! I’m also a big fan of Contra, Rooms Coffee and Housecoat Coffee (owned by my dear friends Chad and Holly), three lovely coffee shops in our neighbourhood that I go to on a daily basis.

What do you do?

I’m a Toronto-based actor. I primarily work in film/TV, but I do dabble in video games and voice work as well. I also co-developed and teach the LEVEL UP Self-Tape Masterclass with my best friend Mikaela. It’s been one of the most fulfilling roles I’ve ever played.

What are you currently working on?

I just wrapped a post-apocalyptic / post-pandemic “zombie” love story/thriller directed by Lowell Dean – we shot in Regina and Katepwa, Saskatchewan. It stars Carrie-Anne Moss (The Matrix), Frank Grillo (Kingdom), Douglas Smith (Don’t Worry Darling) and myself. It was a dream of a project and I’m so grateful I got to work with these amazing people.

I’m also currently working on a horror film called Love is the Monster by writer/director Alex Noyer. His last film Sound of Violence went to SXSW and did really well. I absolutely loved everything about it; the performances, director, music and production design. If you love horror, make sure to check it out. After watching, I was sold. I’m thrilled to be collaborating with him on his new project.

Where can we find your work?

TRADER, a single-room/single-actor psychological thriller about a manipulative sociopath who sets out to conquer the financial world – she won’t stop at anything in order to get what she wants, is now available on VOD in Canada. Brendan Jesus from Horror Obsessive wrote, “TRADER is an unnerving assault on your brain” and I couldn’t agree with him more. Don’t miss it. You can rent it on platforms such as Apple TV/iTunes Store, Google Play, Microsoft Store, Rogers on Demand, Telus on Demand and Cogeco on Demand.

You can follow my work on Instagram or Linktree.

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