IN CONVERSATION WITH CHLOE LEA

interview by JANA LETONJA

Chloe Lea can be seen in HBO's highly anticipated series ‘Dune: Prophecy’, which premiered on 17th November. Previously, Chloe starred in the title role of BBC's ‘Katy’, for which she was awarded the Children's BAFTA Award for her performance. 

You’re starring in ‘Dune: Prophecy’. Tell us a bit about your role in the series and the story itself.

I play Lila, who is a student of the Sisterhood, and her story mainly consists of her contending with the mystery of her ancestry and her place within the school. As for the rest of the series, fans who haven’t watched it yet can expect everything from intimate drama to vast action sequences.

What drew you to the role in Dune: Prophecy? Was there something specific about the character or the story that resonated with you?

The series being set in the ‘Dune’ universe was a huge draw for me because I knew that the book series and films already had an amazing reputation. The more I got to know Lila, the more I wanted to be a part of the show. Her feeling kind of like a lost teenager really resonated with me. She’s just trying to figure out herself at the start of the show and that really hit home.

‘Dune: Prophecy’ is set in such unique, immersive worlds. What was it like working on a project with such vast, fantastical settings? Did it change how you approached your character? 

I think because the sets were so immersive and detailed, it made it easier to remember that this is all happening in a completely different world from our own. When it came to approaching Lila as a character, the incredible sets just enhanced the work I had already done because it means you don’t have to fill in too many blanks on the day, and you can focus more on your character.

How do you feel this highly anticipated project will impact your career?

I’m not too sure, to be honest. I just hope people like the series and what I’ve done with the character. I’m just taking each day as it comes with no great expectations. It would be nice if it helps me continue the privilege of doing what I love for a living.

Your performance in ‘Katy’, for which you won a Children’s BAFTA, was widely praised for its emotional depth and authenticity. How did you prepare for such a challenging role at a young age?

Because I was so young, I don’t know if there really was a methodical approach to preparing for the role. But I think that helped me produce the performance that I did. At that stage, I really wasn’t overthinking it, I was just doing what felt right.

Looking back, what are some of the most memorable moments from your early roles, such as playing Rosie Medford on ‘Scott and Bailey’? How did those experiences shape how you approach acting today?

I mainly remember the fun I had with the other actors on set. That was my first role and I was shooting very high stakes, serious scenes, but all the actors and crew were making sure that I was having a good time and felt safe. I learned that sometimes it doesn’t have to be so serious, and for intense scenes, it’s easy to get caught up in that seriousness. I like the idea that having fun can lead to a better performance, so I think that’s influenced my current approach.

As someone who has grown up in the industry, how do you view the changing landscape of television and film, especially with streaming platforms? Does it impact the types of roles available to you?

Honestly, I think streaming has increased the variety of projects being made, so in turn probably means that there’s more niche TV and film than there ever has been before. Right now, I see it as a positive because it hopefully means more interesting projects will come around.

How do you balance the demands of an acting career with other aspects of your life, especially given that you started so young?

When I was younger, I think it was more difficult because school and exams were a factor. Now when I’m not actively working, I’ll mostly be at an acting class or auditioning. At this time, I’m not sure if I want balance. I only really think about my family, friends and acting. When I’m working, I get all three.

What can your fans look forward to from you in the near future, beyond ‘Dune: Prophecy’.

I’m not sure what I’m actually allowed to say, but as far as ‘Dune: Prophecy’ goes, I just hope people enjoy the show and leave it wanting more.

photographer PIP
hair and makeup NOHELIA REYES