New York 10/29/2020
x DLAREZMAG
In conversation
with Paris Berelc
by Julieta Miquelarena
Paris Berelc: From Milwaukee to Movie Magic
At just 21, Paris Berelc has become one of Hollywood's freshest faces, captivating audiences worldwide. This month, her latest film, "Hubie Halloween," made its debut on Netflix, adding a splash of humour and heart to an otherwise challenging year.
Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Berelc's journey to stardom is a testament to her daring ambition and the unwavering support of her family, who moved with her to Los Angeles to help her chase her dream of acting.
Reflecting on the transition from the quiet of Wisconsin to the bustling streets of Los Angeles, Berelc recalls the culture shock and the initial challenges of adapting to a new environment. "I remember being shocked when I found out I booked a Disney show," she shares, noting the drastic shift from her Midwestern roots to the glitz of Hollywood. "My first year there was definitely challenging to adjust to. I'm grateful I get to live my dream, though."
Berelc's foray into the limelight began at the tender age of nine when Ford Models scouted her. This early introduction to the fashion world was exciting and fun, laying the foundation for her enduring friendships and burgeoning career. However, it wasn't long before Berelc felt the pull towards a different kind of performance—acting. Inspired by Angelina Jolie, particularly Jolie's ability to perform her own stunts, Berelc was drawn to the dynamism and physicality of acting.
Her acting debut came with Disney XD's "Mighty Med," where she played Skylar Storm. This role marked the beginning of her fruitful relationship with Disney, a platform that taught her much about the business side of show business. "Being on Disney taught me so much about business. I was just a little girl from Wisconsin with great co-stars to show me the ropes," she reflects.
2020 brought with it "Hubie Halloween," a project that saw Berelc working alongside comedy giants like Adam Sandler and Kevin James. "I grew up watching Adam Sandler movies, so when I got the offer to be a part of one, I was over the moon excited," Berelc recounts. Her experience on set was marked by laughter and learning, influenced heavily by Sandler's kindness and work ethic.
When preparing for roles, Berelc prefers to work through her scenes alone initially, asking someone to read with her to refine her delivery. Her method includes discovering unscripted moments that add depth to her characters, "I love adding little things to show the personality of the character I create," she explains.
While comedy has been a natural fit, Berelc is eager to explore more action-packed and dramatic roles in the future. "I want to get more into action and drama. I love doing my own stunts, so one day, I want to be a villain from a comic book or a badass assassin," she says enthusiastically.
Despite her rising fame, Berelc remains grounded, attributing her stability to the real connections she maintains outside the industry. "I don't like to say that I'm famous or a celebrity. I think people get caught up in that lifestyle because they don't have anybody to ground them. I'm thankful to have people in my life who don't always say yes, and they call me out on my shit," she states candidly.
When asked about love, Berelc doesn't hesitate, "I'm a hopeless romantic. I love, love. I love being in love. I think people forget how sacred that word is."
In a rapid-fire round, Berelc shares personal favourites and reflections that give a glimpse into her off-screen life—from her love for Malibu and the sound of a baby laughing to her passion for ending human trafficking. A fan of high-knee boots and never without her YSL bag, Berelc continues to navigate her multifaceted career with enthusiasm and authenticity, eager to leave a lasting impact both on and off the screen.