Exclusive Interview : Rhonda McKnight for @ouchmagazine
Danika, how are you? I love the series 'Shameless' on Showtime. How did you land this role and was this your first big role in a hit series?
I went through a pretty intensive audition process. I had several callbacks with casting, and all the producers and writers (including John Wells) before getting the part. Yeah, I would say this is probably one of my bigger roles as it’s been more of a challenge and change of pace than anything else I’ve done. It’s been such an incredible experience. The entire cast and crew is so unbelievably talented, and the writing is absolutely brilliant. I’m really proud to get to say that I’m a part of such a great show. Also, the fans are the best! They’re all so supportive, which is awesome.
Please subscribe a day and the life taping for the show ‘Shameless’. Filming days almost always start out in the hair and makeup trailer at 6:30 am. Then I’ll do school for a bit or read a book while they’re setting up the scene. Then we’ll shoot! It’s a really fun show to be a part of. Emma and I always are goofing around and having the best time in between takes.
Who's your go-to person when you need inspiration?
I wouldn’t say that there’s one specific person who I look to for inspiration. My family is my biggest inspiration. They’re always encouraging me and pushing me to be the best I can be.
What other shows that are out are you currently into?
Right now I’m really into Game of Thrones, Freaks and Geeks, and House of Cards.
What’s your ideal role of a lifetime?
Ooh, that’s a tough one… I have no idea. It’d be super cool to play a galactic alien warrior princess. Maybe that or a sociopathic super-villain.
Do you enjoy Old Hollywood movies?
If so what’s your favorite? Yes! I love classic Old Hollywood films. I’d have to say my favorite is probably Casablanca.
This is the 'It Girls' Issue of ouch magazine. You’re one of them. How do you stay grounded with all the success you have at such an early age?
Well, I mean I act because it’s my passion and I walk carpets and wear dresses to support my work and the work of those around me but at the end of the day I’m still this sort of a goofy 16-year-old dork. When I’m hanging out, my resume and the industry are the last things I’m thinking of. I know the importance of being mature and professional in this industry, but I also know the importance of being a regular kid and hanging out with friends and not taking myself too seriously.
Who or what inspires you?
My family and my work is what inspires me. With acting, I’m always trying to work on my craft and better myself and be the best I can be, so I’d have to say my work (and my love for it) is a huge motivator for me.
What is your beauty or exercise routine if any?
In terms of my beauty routine, the most important thing to me is to always keep moisturized. I like shaking things up, so I go back and forth between a few products. Some of my favorite products are Live Live Bee Yummy Skin Food, Orogold Bio-Brightening Skin Tone Moisturizer (with SPF 30), and CeraVe Facial Lotion AM (with SPF 30). I also like to use a sink-in moisture mask once a week. In terms of my exercise routine, I love boxing, yoga, hiking, and dancing. What other projects do you have lined up for 2015 that we should look out for? I have a few pretty exciting things on the horizon, but I can’t say much about them right now.
How did you get started in acting? What are your other hobbies or talents that fans may not know about you?
When I was four years old, they were shooting The Stepford Wives in my hometown. My mom was one of the Stepford Wives in it and since they needed some child extras, she brought me and my siblings along. As we were filming, I found myself absolutely loving it so I asked my mom if I could try out acting. She initially said no, but I still continued to ask and she finally agreed to let me take a class when I was seven. Some of my other hobbies include archery, dancing, singing, and eating my weight in Irish Soda bread.
Do you have a Hollywood crush? If so who?
Tom Hiddleston, Theo James, Kristen Stewart, and Cara Delevingne.
What makes you angry about boys sometime?
I can’t stand when guys try to play games. Also, indirectness can be pretty frustrating as well. I like when guys don’t mess around and are straight up with how they feel. What’s the best thing about being an actress? Everything! I love being in front of the camera and getting to live as someone else, walk in their shoes, and tell their story. I also find that because it’s such an extreme version of expression, I’m continuously learning new things about myself and the people around me, which is super cool.
How can fans reach out to you on social media?
I’m on Instagram and Twitter at @danikayarosh.
Thank you so much and we’ll be watching out for your future projects. Best, ouch! magazine