Bebe Wood: "I've never had an interest or belief in perfection"
The movie world always had a place for kids as actors. Needless to say that many of these children forever connected their fate with the cinema, becoming legends of their time or successfully moving towards it today. The latter could definitely include the name of Bebe Wood.
18-years old girl, who already has three large television series, in her filmography, was meant to be an actress. By chance, a stage actor predicted her destiny, when a 3-year-old Bebe wasn’t afraid of his joke, but instead, gave him a smile from ear to ear.
Nevertheless, despite all the temptation of the movie-business and the modern world, Ms. Wood surprisingly manages to combine hunger for the work and challenges, a comprehensive interest and a kind heart that doesn’t allow her mind and conscience to remain indifferent to the global problems of our world.
French Fries Magazine had possibility to talk with the young actress about her current work in teen-drama, dreams about theater, future music release, no need of perfection and her passion to social justice.
You began your professional acting career at a very young age. How was it to be a child-actress?
Funnily enough, being a child actor isn’t much different from being it as an adult. One works long hours when young, though they are indeed longer now. The only true difference is when I was a child I spent the majority of my off time on set going to school. Now I just spend that time reading, hanging out with the cast, studying lines or having dance parties at the hair and makeup trailer.
A lot of people remember you as a smart girl Shania on NBC’s The New Normal. Tell us, what kind of kid were you?
In a lot of ways, especially at that time, Shania and I were mirrors of each other. Her obsession with Little Edie from “Grey Gardens” stemmed directly from the creators being aware of my own obsession with her. I was always in my own little world, singing to myself, and telling stories. So, perhaps, I looked just as an exuberant little lady, who wore suspenders and made an ample amount of niche references. Sounds very similar to Shania, isn’t it?
Your last project that has hit the screens this summer was HULU’s teen-drama Love, Victor. Was it weird for you to play your character without having the same kind of dramatic high school experience? Instead of enjoying your rebel years, you have already entered a grown-up world with all the responsibilities and duties. Looking at people your age, don’t you feel a little jealous of their freedom, or you are perfectly fine with your choice in life?
You know, it’s a strange feeling… Even though I didn’t have a traditional high school experience I still had outlets, that introduced me to quite similar feelings I might have had if I went to brick and mortal school. Plus, when I was younger, I attended a Catholic elementary school that brought plenty of drama and learning experience on it’s own.
Being a young professional actor means you can’t do some things, but I had as many freedoms as kids my age. Certainly, taking an exam in a bed is pretty liberating.
What was the most challenging part in playing Lake Meriwether (Bebe’s character in Love,Victor)?
The most challenging part was ensuring, that I always understood where Lake was coming from. Her home life is very dissimilar to my own, and our motives and the things we care about are also very different. Reminding myself of the things she’s been through and how it might impact her outlook, was integral part of playing this role.
Another role, for which you are famous for is Shannon, from ABC’s The Real O’Neals. Basically, this sitcom shows us “the hidden sides” of perfect picture. Do you believe in perfection and have you ever had a goal to reach it?
I’ve never been one for perfection. It’s something I’ve never had an interest or belief in… People, who to me, are the most “perfect”, are the one’s that have their own unique imperfections and embraced them.
It’s not a secret that you were always very active in the question of giving back to the community – you’ve held several fundraisers, volunteered at food banks, and your last project was a virtual pride rave. From what moment in your life you became such a progressive member of social community?
As long as I can remember I was passionate about social justice. My parents are fairly political, so I was always attending protests and volunteering. Earlier this year, I canvassed for Elizabeth Warren’s Presidency campaign, which was an excellent experience. But quite frankly, I think being a part of social projects it’s not about politics or beliefs. It’s a matter of human rights and doing the right thing at this specific moment! There are so many negatives in our world, which makes me more inclined and excited to fight for the positive sides of our lives.
If it’s possible, could you tell us, what kind of movie or TV-series would be your dream project?
I would love to do theater again. There’s a play I’m re-reading now called Arcadia, which I really want to be a part of someday.
Is there any actor or a famous person who you would love to work with on the set?
Greta Gerwig is fantastic.
It’s not a secret that along with an acting career you are also trying yourself in music. In one the interviews you mentioned your skills of playing guitar, ukulele, piano and a joy of singing. Who influenced you as the musician? Have you ever thought of doing music professionally – sign a contract with a big label, write an album and go on tour?
Last summer I had an opportunity to record an EP full of songs I wrote, played and sang. It was a glorious experience, and I’m looking forward to people hearing what we’ve been working on. Though I’ve always been noodling with instruments, I never realized I could be a proper musician until I discovered The Beatles. Their story is deeply inspiring to me, and definitely influences how I view and carryout songwriting.
What was the most important advice in your life?
My mother always quoted Maya Angelou, “When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.”
What are your plans for the nearest future? Any new projects where we can expect to see you soon?
My future plans include clinging to my sanity in the middle of global pandemic and hopefully releasing some new music soon! Hehe!