Gracie Marie Bradley
Gracie Marie Bradley is an actress and model with experience on series such as Modern Family, NCIS: Los Angeles, and Grown-ish. She currently stars in the new Netflix film Beauty, which follows an aspiring singer navigating love, family, and the hardships and pressure of the entertainment industry.
Top by Lionne
Shorts by BUSTED BRAND
Boots by @afffair.fff
Tell us more about Beauty and your character?
Beauty is a unique girl in an even more unique position. She and everyone around her are aware that she is at a pivotal time in her career and the film reflects/navigates that world.
Beauty is a queer woman and part of her story involves her love story with her girlfriend. What has it been like to be able to tell a queer story on such a big platform and scale?
Beauty’s story is so special. While I was developing her character during script analysis I chose not to assign a sexuality to her. Instead, I played her from a mindset that people often forget about. The period in which you are “sexually unidentified” – a time where you are allowing all love to shine through because, you’re not seeking out a particular form. Which I believe is why her unspoken rizz goes so crazy. The fact that those of the LGBTQ+ community will have representation in film is beyond important. Although, CIS/HET relationships are broadcast throughout the media, it’s not that everyone’s story and diversity should always be accepted.
How did you prepare for your role?
I worked with some amazing coaches, Lena and Andrew, throughout the entire process. I also did not think about the role as much as possible. I find the clearer my mind is the more I can articulate the thoughts and development of the character.
Did you connect with the character?
Definitely, especially through her ambition. Now that I am at a different point of my career I remember the amount of hustle that was required of me. I feel like you can see that quality in Beauty throughout the film.
Left:
Dress by Bono van Peursem
Shoes by Jimmy Choo
Right:
Top by Lionne
Shorts by BUSTED BRAND
Boots by @afffair.fff
What was your experience like in filming the movie?
I learned so much. It was a lot of responsibility and my first time being a Lead so I had to be really patient with myself and have fun.
Did you have any highlights or favorite moments from the process?
I’d say some of my favorite moments were watching “Good Times” with Kyle, seeing Michael get lit off of “Top Boy” (the show was released a couple weeks before we began shooting and seeing someone becoming famous was really cool). Also, hearing Niecy call out “Beauty” always had me weak.
What are you looking forward to audiences seeing or experiencing when they watch the film?
A break. In a world with social injustice issues and a pandemic, I hope the audience can find solitude even if it’s for an hour.
Left :
Top by Lionne
Shorts by BUSTED BRAND
Boots by @afffair.fff
Right:
Dress by Bono van Peursem
Shoes by Jimmy Choo
What are your goals for the future?
“Na chop am o” (Nigerian Pidin Translation: “is to live life with prosperity.”)
Do you have any dream roles or collaborators?
I think Timothée Chalamet is cool (but honestly who doesn’t, lol).
When did you start acting and why did you decide to pursue a career in it?
I told my mom I wanted to act at 8 years old after watching “Suite Life of Zack and Cody’ one day. Brenda Song was making me laugh and smile really hard, and I thought I could do the same for other people. Then at age 10 I was introduced to Drama by my acting coach Mary and haven’t left since.
Outside of acting, what are your passions?
Anything that involves being around my friends/family.
Social Media.
Instagram: @Graciemariebradley
TikTok: @SaintGracie
CREW CREDITS:
PhotoBook Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
PhotoBook Creative Director: Mike Ruiz
Photographer: Sequoia Emmanuelle
Talent: Gracie Marie Bradley
Fashion Stylist: Melvin Sanders
Hair Stylist: Michael David Warren
Makeup: Roshar
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Associate Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by Maya Wilson, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
