IN CONVERSATION WITH AISHA DEE

interview by JANA LETONJA

Aisha Dee will be next seen starring in the highly-anticipated Netflix limited series ‘Apple Cider Vinegar’, premiering on 6th February. She is best known for her leading role as Kat Edison in Freeform’s series ‘The Bold Type’, and also played the lead role in ‘Sissy’, which premiered at the 2022 SXSW Film Festival and earned her an AACTA nomination in the Best Actress category.  

Aisha, you’re about to star in ‘Apple Cider Vinegar’. Can you tell us what attracted you to this project and the story of Belle Gibson?

Obviously, the whole story was such a huge moment for the culture in Australia, particularly for millennial women. Like so many, I find the story absolutely fascinating and perplexing. I mean, the fact that this all really happened is completely bonkers. But the biggest, most important factor in what attracted me to the project was Sam Strauss. Her writing pulled me in straight away, the world, the characters, the unique way the script gave voice to the issues of wellness and women’s health. I read the first episode and was immediately invested. 

The series is inspired by a true crime story. Given the strong themes of deception and trust, how did you prepare mentally and emotionally for the role?

Music has always been a really important tool for me, in both my professional and personal life. It’s how I get connected to the story and feel empathetically for the characters. It’s also how I reconnect with myself when it’s time to let go. Being intentional in the ways that I release the story is sometimes the hardest part, but I’m learning that the task of letting it all go is just as important as the journey in. 

The show deals with the intersection of wellness and social media. How do you think these platforms have affected our perceptions of health and reality today?

It’s fascinating to me, the polarity of the wellness space on social media. On one hand, it’s an incredible resource. It’s a place that can provide beautiful community and comfort just hearing stories that feel like your own. And then there's the darker side of things. The overload of information that isn’t always backed by research, cleanses and diet programs that are just eating disorders under a different name. It’s a minefield, and the show explores it in a way that is nuanced, and funny, and beautiful, and f***ed up. You really find the humanity at the center of it all. 

What message or takeaway do you hope viewers will get from ‘Apple Cider Vinegar’?

That's such a huge question. I’m not sure if I’m in a place to answer that just yet. It all feels so new. What I do know for sure is that I’ve never seen anything quite like ‘Apple Cider Vinegar’. It occupies such a unique space, and I’m really excited to see how it evolves once it’s out in the world. 

How important is it for you to take on roles that challenge societal norms or shed light on difficult issues like the one explored in ‘Apple Cider Vinegar’?

First thing I usually do when contemplating a new project is check in with my body to see how it feels. Sometimes that’s easier said than done, as my brain has a tendency to be very loud. Then I think about the things that are important to me, people and process. I want to be surrounded by really dope people and I want to be a part of a beautiful process. I think I’ll always be in a learning space, figuring out how to get grounded and connected in that way. But I’ve been very blessed. I get to work alongside some absolute gems and tell stories I really care about. 

You’ve had a strong presence on screen for years. How has your journey in the entertainment industry shaped your perspective on acting and storytelling?

Every time I think I know something about something, I realize I know nothing. There was a time when that really stressed me out. The Virgo in me needed there to be some answer I could put into a color-coded spreadsheet so I could have it all figured out. Now I’m in a space where I feel quite peaceful knowing that there are a whole bunch of things I don’t know yet. It’s all subjective, and it's all constantly evolving. Learning to relax and surrender has been my biggest lesson. 

You’ve had a successful career with lots of exciting moments. Is there a particular achievement or project that you’re especially proud of?

‘Safe Home’ will always hold a special place for me. The stories I’ve heard of the ways that show has been a comfort for people in the real world will stay in my heart forever. They remind me of the power of storytelling, and how lucky I am to get to play make believe for a living. 

Outside of acting, you’re known for your unique style and bold personality. How do you express yourself creatively beyond your roles on screen?

I love to make my silly little songs on my ukulele and laptop. Having the freedom of being able to create from my living room, whenever I feel like it, has brought me a bigger sense of freedom when moving as part of a team on set.

How do you unwind and recharge when you’re not filming?

I’ve been blessed with the most beautiful community of friends. They’re kind of scattered all over the world, so it feels like I’m always missing someone. But I’m grateful for the moments of downtime I get to spend with them. The best combo is time with friends while also surrounded by nature and a body of water. Chef’s kiss. That's a perfect day. 

What’s coming up next for you after ‘Apple Cider Vinegar’? Any exciting upcoming projects you can share with us?

I’ve been working on new music and collaborating with some friends to bring new elements to it that I’m really excited about. And there are a couple projects coming later this year too. But for now, I’m just enjoying my last couple weeks in Australia, getting as much time in the sun with my loved ones as I can. 

TEAM CREDITS:

photography JOELLE PARISOTTO
styling ERIK YVON
hair and makeup TAYLA ALEXANDER
location YOURS BY OURS