IN CONVERSATION WITH KATJA HERBERS
interview by MARIE-PAULINE CESARI
Dutch actress Katja Herbers stars as the lead in Paramount+ series ‘Evil’, which is currently airing its fourth and final season. Most recently, Katja was also seen in Peacock’s acclaimed mini-series ‘Mrs. Davis. Her other credits include HBO’s Golden Globe nominated series ‘Westworld’, HBO’s ‘The Leftovers’, Discovery Channel’s ‘Manhunt: Unabomber’, RTL Entertainment’s ‘Divorce’, WGN America’s ‘Manhattan’ and FX’s ‘The Americans’.
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Where does your passion for cinema come from, and what inspired you to pursue acting?
I come from a family of classical musicians and spent a lot of time growing up in the wings of concert halls, surrounded by beautiful music, even though I never played professionally myself. I’ve always been fascinated by observing people’s behaviour and figuring out what motivates them. I was a sensitive kid, always picking up on emotions around me. Discovering acting was a blessing—it became a way for me to make sense of life and express everything I observed and felt.
Who were some of your early influences in acting, and how have they shaped your career?
I loved going to the theatre, even more than the cinema. Growing up in Amsterdam, I saw great stage actors who later became my teachers at the Academy of Arts. They eventually invited me to join their theatre company, where I worked for 10 years before venturing to the United States.
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What drew you to the role of Kristen Bouchard in ‘Evil’, and how have you seen the character evolve over the seasons?
What initially drew me to Kristen was the Kings’ writing. I had been a fan of theirs and was very interested even before reading the pilot. Kristen turned out to be the role of a lifetime—she has so many different facets and is constantly evolving. She also has an alter ego, Demon Kristen, and a Dutch doppelgänger. Who gets to play three different roles on the same show? It’s a dream, and working with the Kings has been a match made in heaven. We’ve inspired each other every step of the way. I’ve been incredibly lucky.
The fourth and final season of ‘Evil’ was highly anticipated. What can fans expect from these last episodes, and how does it feel to bring this story to a close?
It’s bittersweet. None of us wanted to say goodbye to the series. We always envisioned 6-7 seasons, which is what the Kings originally planned. We still hold out hope that another streamer might pick us up now that the show has become such a massive hit, staying in the Top 10 for months. The final episodes will be very satisfying, and I think the finale is one of our best yet. But we’ve also left the door open for more stories, should another streamer want to take a chance on us.
Can you share a particular moment or scene from the series that left a significant impact on you as an actress?
The entire show has left a significant impact on me—it’s become such a big part of my life. My on-screen kids, my buddies Mike and Aasif, the crew—we were all one big, happy, goofball family. There are too many memorable scenes to mention, but one that stands out is the ending of Season 2, where Kristen confesses to murder to David, who has just been ordained, and somehow that turns into a kiss. The scene had so many layers and demanded everything from me as an actor. I’ve given Kristen my heart—it was the only way to do her justice.
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How would you describe your personal fashion style, both on and off the red carpet?
My personal style is a mix of vintage pieces, things I’ve kept from roles I’ve played, and items I’ve loved for years. I try not to buy too much new stuff because we already have enough clothes in the world to dress the next five generations! I’d describe my style as relaxed but cute, with personal touches. On the red carpet, I work with a great stylist, Alicia Lombardini, who I adore. She’s French, and I think we can say we dress me a bit French or European, which suits me well!
You’ve had roles in many acclaimed series like ‘Westworld’ and ‘The Leftovers’. How do these experiences compare to your work on ‘Evil’?
Leading a show in the United States was a completely new experience for me—being on set all the time was a big adjustment. Previously, I had been a supporting character in great shows, which, in some ways, is even harder. Being the lead keeps your creative juices flowing constantly, whereas waiting around can be the toughest part of acting.
Coming from a family of classical musicians and being a singer yourself, how has your musical background influenced your acting career?
Growing up, I was surrounded by the most wonderful music, and it has shaped who I am. Watching my parents be exceptional at what they do and seeing the hard work it took was inspiring. I realized I couldn’t play music like they did, but I felt music in my soul and had the fire of an artist within me. Acting became a space where I could channel all of that. I carry music with me wherever I go.
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You’ve received significant recognition for your performance in ‘Evil’. How does it feel to be acknowledged by your peers and critics in this way?
I mean, it feels freakin’ great!
What are your future plans? Are there any upcoming projects or roles you’re excited about? I’m hoping to do movies, maybe another play if the right opportunity comes along. Kristen Bouchard is a tough role to follow—I wasn’t ready to be done with her. I’ll keep her around in my mind for a bit. I’ve always had a rule for myself that I’ll only act in something I would want to watch myself. I won’t sign up for a series I’m not interested in watching. I’ll be holding out for something really special.
TEAM CREDITS:
talent KATJA HERBERS
photography DANIEL SARS
styling and production MAREK BARTEK
makeup VANNESSA CHAN
interview MARIE-PAULINE CESARI
editor-in-chief TIMOTEJ LETONJA
special thanks to PARQ STUDIOS
