You’re a true New Yorker, having been born in New York City and growing up on Long Island. What’s the difference between working as an actor in NYC vs. California, where you’re currently playing the character of Chloe Mitchell on the soap “The Young and the Restless?”

“Auditioning back then in NY was so different than it is now so it’s hard to compare. The industry itself was so different. Not everybody wanted to be an actress. I remember being against the same 30 girls for every role I went out for. Kate Mara was a girl I would see at every audition. When I was auditioning in NY we had black and white headshots (only color is accepted now). Am I aging myself? I do however remember when I arrived in LA I was completely overwhelmed by having to audition at all of the major studios; they were huge lots. I learned very quickly the I should give myself at least 30 minutes to park and get to the office because I, for sure, would be lost finding my way from the car to the office. Crafty (craft services / food) is definitely more healthy here in LA, but the last time I was home in NY I was happy to see that there were so many more healthy restaurants popping up. So maybe crafty has been upgraded as well? You know things have changed when servers don’t look at you like you’re crazy or putting them out when you ask for almond milk with your coffee! Also we don’t get crafty on soaps.”

How did your family react when you told them you wanted to be an actress?

“I’m very lucky. Most of my family is very creative, so the overall response was ‘she got the bug, too.’ I had a harder time convincing my step father it was the right choice but he is one of my biggest fans and supporters today. He always says, ‘you proved me wrong, I’m sorry I ever doubted you.’ He only wanted the best for me and what parent wants their kids to be struggling and dealing with rejection every day of their lives? It all came from a loving place and it only made me stronger. It gave me more drive and even more reason to prove to myself that this was what I was born to do. I really don’t think that I chose this profession. It chose me.”

Full Interview

Thanks to Bri for the heads up on this.

Elizabeth Hendrickson @ 2012 Daytime Emmy… by MingleMediaTVNetwork