IN CONVERSATION WITH BRIANNE HOWEY

interview by JANA LETONJA

Brianne Howey will star in Netflix and Happy Madison’s highly anticipated rom-com 'Kinda Pregnant', premiering on 5th February. This summer, she will also reprise her fan-favorite role as Georgia in the long-awaited third season of Netflix’s smash-hit dramedy 'Ginny & Georgia'. Her past roles include recurring roles on FOX’s 'The Passage', Hulu’s 'Dollface', The CW’s 'Batwoman' and Showtime’s 'I’m Dying Up Here', and her feature debut in Warner Bros.’ 'Horrible Bosses 2', amongst others.

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In 'Kinda Pregnant', you star alongside Amy Schumer. What was it like working with Amy, and how did her comedic style influence your performance in the film?

Working with Amy is a masterclass in comedy. I just wanted to be a sponge and soak it all up. Her timing, improvisation and input were all inspiring to see in action and be a part of. The energy she brought elevated the entire experience and really allowed us to play and have fun with our characters. Amy gives you so much to play off of, it made carving out Megan and Lainy’s friendship organic and easy. 

What drew you to the role, and what do you think audiences will enjoy most about the film?

I was 3 months postpartum when I first read the script and I’d never related to a story more. It was exactly where I was at in my life, navigating the balance of motherhood, work and identity. I think audiences will be drawn to the characters, not only because they are truly hilarious, but because they’re so authentic and endearing on their journeys towards finding themselves and their communities. 

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With your role in Netflix's 'Ginny & Georgia' being so beloved, what can fans expect from the third season? 

Buckle up peaches, Season 3 Georgia has been exposed so we inevitably see the breakdown of the Miller family and discover how they each pick up the pieces of their lives in their own way. We see surprising sides to each character and of course Wellsbury is in for another rude awakening. Stay tuned. 

How do you feel about reprising the character of Georgia Miller, and how would you say she developed throughout the seasons?

Getting to play Georgia has been an immense privilege and I feel insanely lucky every season we get to go back. It’s changed my life, pushed me and allowed me to grow in ways I hadn’t expected. Georgia has also changed over the years in unexpected ways. Ginny’s mental health journey has been the biggest awakening for Georgia and her catalyst for change. Realizing her behaviors and actions have catastrophic consequences for her children is her first step in her own journey towards self-awareness and hopefully healing her own trauma. 

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The series has a massive fan following, and has broken several records. What do you think makes it so relatable and successful with audiences?

We’re blessed with an incredible writers room, creator, cast and crew who truly give every inch of this series their all. I’ve never seen people work harder and it inspired me every day on set. Knowing how meaningful this show is to the fans also gives us the motivation we need to deliver. I’ve always felt the more personal the material, the more universal the themes. Grateful to our fans for giving us this continued opportunity to bring these characters and stories to light.

You’ve worked on multiple series and films throughout your career. How do you manage the transition between projects, especially when working on multiple projects at the same time?

I’d say this is where the expression “it takes a village” comes from. I’m fortunate to have an incredibly supportive family and team who help me make it all possible. I’ve had to learn that asking for help is okay and being diligent with my time, especially now that I have a child, is important. But nothing’s more important than remembering I get to do what I love for a living. Staying present and grateful. Deep breaths. 

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Looking back at your decade-long career, is there a particular role or project that stands out as a turning point for you?

'The Exorcist' on Fox will always hold a really special place in my heart. Gina Davis played my mom, I still can’t get over it. Alan Ruck played my dad and I learned so much from everyone around me. It was a really creative and empowering experience that gave me the energy and confidence to continue to take on this industry. 

With the rise of streaming services and global audiences, how do you see the future of television and film evolving, and how do you want to be part of that evolution?

Storytelling is one of the oldest art forms. While the landscape keeps changing and evolving, I think storytelling will always hold a sacred space. It’s how we process life. I just always want to be a part of the storytelling. 

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Tell us more about yourself outside of acting. What are your absolute favorite guilty pleasures in your free time?

It’s no secret I love reality TV and a good true crime documentary. Throw in some wine. Sign me up. Seeing my friends and family is a must. I desperately need those connections for my own self-care. I also have a toddler now so it’s really her world and I’m just living in it. When I’m not working, I’m just soaking her, and the dog, up.

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What kind of roles or projects would you love to explore next that you haven’t had the chance to dive into yet?

The most important thing to me is growth. I want to take on roles and work with people that push me to explore and grow. Beautiful things can happen outside of your comfort zone. I’d love to start to play a hand in things behind the camera as well. Whether it’s a psychological drama or a romantic comedy, if the characters and circumstances are compelling, I’m there. 

talent BRIANNE HOWEY

photography TYLER PATRICK KENNY

styling MICHAEL HANDLER

makeup JEN TIOSECO

hair BRIDGET BRAGER

lead styling assistant FRANCELESLIA MILLIEN

styling assistants HANNAH DAMP, TALI MAIO

video MEECH

studio THE DREAM FACTORY

editor TIMI LETONJA

interview JANA LETONJA

cover design ARTHUR ROELOFFZEN

special thanks EVAN DUNNING