I Want to Play a Fish
Emma Laird, a rising star in the UK entertainment industry, reflects on a moment that changed the course of her career. Not too long ago, she found herself on the rooftop of her Los Angeles apartment, gazing at a stunning sunset skyline while shedding tears. She had just received news from her agent that she did not land a role in HBO’s “Gossip Girl” reboot after making it to the screen test stage. Feeling defeated and with her visa running out, she made the decision to return to London.
Fast forward a few years, and Laird has become one of the most promising young talents in the UK. With an impressive array of high-profile projects already under her belt and many more on the horizon, she is attending the Berlinale with her first lead role in the series “Mint.” Despite her rapid rise to success, Laird remains humble and self-deprecating, unsure of her own greatness but proud of her accomplishments.
One pivotal moment in Laird’s career came while filming Nia DaCosta’s “The Bone Temple” in Yorkshire. Portraying the role of Jimmima, a sadistic member of a murderous cult, Laird had an epiphany on set. Surrounded by the derelict set of a zombie apocalypse, she realized that she was living her dream of portraying daring and unconventional characters.
Laird’s journey to acting began unexpectedly when she was discovered at a music festival and pursued a successful career in modeling. However, disillusioned with the industry’s demands, she transitioned to acting and landed breakout roles in projects like “Mayor of Kingstown” alongside Jeremy Renner.
With a desire to take on bold and eccentric roles, Laird is focused on pushing boundaries and exploring the wild and weird side of storytelling. While she admires the work of fellow actors like Jessie Buckley, Laird is inspired by those who take risks and embrace the unconventional in their performances.
Looking ahead, Laird aims to continue challenging herself with diverse and unconventional roles. She dreams of joining the cast of HBO’s “Harry Potter” series as one of the underwater Merpeople, showcasing her love for the original films and her affinity for fantastical stories.
As Laird prepares for her upcoming lead role in “Mint,” she grapples with the fear of being watched and judged by a larger audience. However, she remains determined to embrace the challenge and bring her unique presence to the screen.
Reflecting on her journey, Laird acknowledges that missing out on the “Gossip Girl” role was a blessing in disguise. She sees it as a reminder that sometimes what we think we want may not be what we truly need. Despite the setbacks, Laird has emerged stronger and more determined to pursue her passion for acting.
As she looks back on that fateful evening on the rooftop in Los Angeles, Laird recalls it as a turning point in her career. It may have been a moment of disappointment, but it also marked a new beginning filled with exciting opportunities and unforgettable experiences. And as she lights up a cigarette, Laird can’t help but smile at the thought of how far she has come since that cinematic moment.
