The Biz Interview: Taylor Hickson
Kelowna, BC native Taylor Hickson is familiar to film and television audiences for her roles in films like Deadpool and Residue and the television series, Aftermath.
With the recent Netflix release of Residue, we spoke to Taylor Hickson about her emerging career and the rewards of both television and film work.
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Can you start by telling us a little bit about how you got started as an actor?
I was referenced to an agency shortly after I graduated early out of high school. I was 16, and a family friend whom I call my aunt is an actress out in Vancouver. She knew I had been into the arts since I was very young, (i.e. singing, tried dancing, was in some theatre productions when I was in grade 1). I had graduated early to focus on my music and songwriting. She contacted me saying an agent was looking for female teens for his roster, and had shown him my photo which peaked his interest and he wanted to meet me. I explained to her I never came down to Vancouver (4 hours away from my hometown) so it was unlikely as well as I majorly lacked in acting experience. She told me experience wasn’t needed and all he wanted was a meeting. I said I’d let her know if I was in the area and I’d ring her.
Later that week, I found out that my sister had a soccer tournament in Vancouver that weekend. I went in, read some audition material with him and he signed me that day.
The catch was I would have to drive 4 hours to and from every audition, often several times a week.
What was the moment when you knew that you wanted to act?
Probably being on the (massive) set of Deadpool. It was like watching a colony of ants run about, each with a specific role and task, yet all focused on a common goal.
Having that much attention on me was utterly terrifying yet riveting and slightly addictive at the same time. I’ve loved attention since I was a little girl and I’ve always been one to make a scene whether it be at the grocery store or making my entire family sit down during Christmas dinner so I could perform “ballet”. My whole fam has called me “Drama Queen” since I can remember, so I thought: How entirely suitable is this?! I’ll juggle both my music and acting.
You’ve acted in both film and television roles. What is your preparation like for a film role vs a TV role?
TV is very cool because I can stick with a character for 6+ months at the time of shooting. I get to grow with the character and learn more about her and myself as we both journey through dynamic storytelling. The bonds you make with crew and cast are also very intense; working alongside people almost every day from sunrise to sundown, you make a family.
That being said, some of my best experiences were on indie films. The limited amount of incredibly creative minds that come together to make art both simple and intricate blows my mind.
One of your recent projects is the film Residue, where you played Angelina Harding. What can you share about this experience?
When I had my prosthetics on, I had to be escorted around set as I was completely blind as WELL as in high heels. Double uncoordination.
What was the biggest challenge of your career that you’ve faced and how did you overcome it?
A hard one would’ve been losing the series. I was very close knit with the cast and crew, I really miss them! That being said, it opened the door to new opportunities. I directed my focus to working towards my next project and having some down time with my family.
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“Keep your ground. Remember who you are.”
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Deadpool is one of your most well-known projects. What was the highlight of that experience for you?
Definitely the creative flexibility we had. Working alongside such highly touted creative minds was what inspired me to push my career in film.
What would be your best advice for young actors in Vancouver?
Keep your ground. Remember who you are. The people you see on the way up are the same ones you see on the way down. Your safety is FIRST. Don’t let anyone walk over you. Stand your ground and what you believe in.
What acting-related books and authors have been influential in your career so far?
None have at this point but she is always open to reading and gaining new inspiration from all walks of life.
What projects are you working on right now?
I just got off G.L.O (Giant Little Ones). One of my favourite films I’ve worked on to date!
Where can people find out more about you online?
As easy as punching in my name! Anything and everything you wanna know should come up. They can also follow me on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook.
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Thanks to Taylor Hickson for speaking with us! Residue is now available on Netflix.
Photo Credit: Taylor Krause
