Emma Clare O’Connor, from Portland, Oregon , is a graduate of Sarah Lawrence College. Studying at the British American Drama Academy is proof of her love of theater and music. Now she is a Manhattan-based actress and has starred in “Tesla” as Evelyn, and is to play Rachel Crooks in the movie, “She Said” premiering this month.

You have an intense role to play in “She Said.” How has the weight of the story shaped your acting?
This was my first time playing a real person, so I definitely felt responsible to make sure that I was representing Rachel accurately and telling her story in a way that, I hoped, would make her proud. I didn’t get to meet her until the premiere of the movie, so I watched a lot of her interviews on YouTube to prepare. She’s so lovely and inspiring, and I’m so glad I got to meet her. I hope that in telling her story I can help promote a new normal where sexual harassment is simply not tolerated.

What message are you voicing through your character?
Rachel came forward, got harassed, and Trump was elected, despite being accused of sexual assault, it’s infuriating. I do hope audiences see the effects of this kind of abuse on women’s lives and feel emboldened to continue to equalize the power imbalance in our society.

Do you feel the movie will have an impact on the #MeToo movement?
It’s all about the beginning of the movement. I read in Variety and Deadline that the judge already told jurors in Weinstein’s trial that they can’t watch the movie, is that right? I think that says it all.

Do you prefer playing more serious roles or do you want to switch it up in the future?
I’m interested in everything. It just depends on how I connect with the writing and character. Everyone has different sides to them.

Is there anyone who has helped you along your career and gave you the confidence you have now?
A ton of people have helped me in my career: teachers, actors, friends, managers. The list goes on! But, not to sound corny, I feel like the confidence has to come from myself. No one can necessarily give you the confidence. Although validation from others definitely feels nice and is important, It’s hard to be totally confident all the time, but I practice it so that owning it gets more familiar.

What is the craziest part of Weinstein’s story you learned on set?
It’s all devastating! I just find it all completely infuriating: the careers he took from women, the system that protected him, the terror and trauma he inflicted on so many. It’s tragic. I’m so inspired by the strength of these women and so incredibly proud to be a part of a production that emphasizes their voices.

Social Media:
IG: @emma.clare.oconnor

CREW CREDITS:
PhotoBook Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
PhotoBook Creative Director: Mike Ruiz + @mikeruiz.one
Photographer: Miguel Herrara
Talent: Emma Clare O’Connor
Hair: Timur Sadykov
Make-up: Dimitry Kukushkin
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Associate Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by Karissa Fabi, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine

EMMA CLARE O'CONNOR

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