Regard Magazine Angel Parker

10 THINGS – Angel Parker

10 Things with Angel Parker

In your teens, you were accepted into the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. Was it at that moment that you were convinced about your career in entertainment?

At that point, I was just so excited to be on my own, learning how to act, at this incredible school! It was such a creative time for me. I met my husband there and many lifelong friends. The thought of acting as a career seemed very far away at that time. Luckily, I had some great teachers who let me know I could really pursue this path. They were right!

Which actors work inspired you to be an actor?

I always loved Angela Bassett. I’ve even had the pleasure of meeting her a few times. I turn into that young wide-eyed drama student every time. Nowadays, I am very inspired by the work of Mahershala Ali, Michael B. Jordan, and Jessica Chastain. I would love to work with them. But Ms. Bassett still gets me every time!

Regard Magazine Angel Parker

What was your first big job and how did you react when you finally landed the gig?

Lab Rats was my first major television role. I was floored that they actually chose me. There were many talented actresses up for the part, more famous than me. I had only previously done small parts and worked in the theatre. It really gave me confidence and was the perfect jumpstart for my career. I was pregnant with my daughter in Season 1 and have so many wonderful memories from that time. I still get surprised when I’m chosen for a role, but none as big as that first time with Lab Rats. There are always tears of joy!

Disney fans most recognize you for your role in Lab Rats. How does it feel to have a part in reaching such a large audience and demographic? 

I love Lab Rats fans. So many kids and parents tell me it’s their favorite show. Some even quote my lines or tell me entire story lines, asking me if I remember. It’s always fun. I love taking selfies with fans and seeing their drawings online. Lab Rats was a special show. It had an interracial family and a smart, funny black boy as the lead. It’s important to see those images on TV. I’m so proud of the work we did there. Every day was full of laughs. 

Regard Magazine Angel Parker

Currently you’re on Marvel’s Runaways. How did you first hear of the series and what made you want to be a part of it?

I was shooting an FX show called THE STRAIN in Toronto when I got the appointment. I didn’t know much about the Marvel world but luckily, my costars Corey Stoll and Rainbow Sun Franks did! They’re both self-proclaimed nerds and brought me up to speed. I sent in a tape for my audition and flew home to L.A. for the final appointment. By then, I was in love with the comic and Catherine Wilder. I just got her. She was such a well-rounded character. Mom, wife, lawyer, and villain! What?! Sign. Me. Up. Pretty please. 🙂

On the series, you play the role of Catherine Wilder, a successful lawyer who’s pretty calculated with what she says and does. What more can you share about Catherine’s personality and what you enjoy most about playing her on screen?

I love how strong Catherine is. She has so much respect for marriage and her family. Even in her struggles with Alex and The Pride, she somehow maintains a level head and leads with strength and courage. I love the dynamic between Geoffrey and Catherine. Their love is apparent. They really are a team.

Regard Magazine Angel Parker

This is the first season of Runaways. What can viewers expect to see from Catherine and the rest of the cast?

The fans will not be disappointed! So much care has been given to bringing Runaways to the screen. You will love and hate all the characters and root for them even when they’re wrong. Lots of cool Easter eggs within the series and some fun surprises too. There is also a dinosaur! Need I say more.

If you weren’t working on a career as an actor, what type of career would you have instead?

I’ve never really thought of doing anything else. I seriously have NO backup plan. I’ve always had other jobs to supplement my career and I love being a mom, but there is nothing else that would bring me the joy that acting does. If I’m not on a big or small screen, you would definitely find me in a small theater anywhere in the world.  

Regard Magazine Angel Parker

When it comes to fashion, what do you gravitate to for your personal sense of style?

I really like to feel sexy but still very put together. I’m a bit bougie, so I love a great dress or pencil skirt with high heels. Luckily, my husband likes to see me that way too. It works out.

We look forward to seeing how things will develop on Marvel’s Runways. What other projects do you have coming up?

I’m working full time on Runaways! The schedule is packed with amazing stunts and a ton of overnight shoots. After we wrap, I am hoping to do a small film or go back to my role on NBC’s Trial and Error. I’d also like to spend some time with my family before hopefully going back to Runaways Season 2! Fingers crossed.

Regard Magazine Angel Parker

 

Twitter: @AngelParker

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Facebook: @AngelParkerLA

Photo Credit:  Riker Brothers Photography