From Castle Rock To HBO Max ‘s The Sex Lives Of College Girls – An Exclusive Dive Into The Evolving Spectrum of Ruby Cruz’s Artistry
In a candid conversation with Galore, the radiant talent Ruby Cruz, who has seamlessly transitioned from the eerie landscape of Castle Rock to the vibrant comedy of The Sex Lives of College Girls, reflects on her dynamic career. With the honor of portraying Disney’s first openly LGBTQ+ princess in Willow, Ruby opens up about the transformative power of her roles, the significance of representation, and the invaluable lessons learned from legendary co-stars like Kate Winslet. Join us as we explore how Ruby not only embodies her characters but also inspires countless fans in their journey of self-discovery and authenticity.
FEATURE INTERVIEW:
Ruby, you’ve had quite an impressive career transition from Castle Rock to Bottoms and now The Sex Lives of College Girls. How has your approach to acting evolved over the years?
I’ll try to listen to what the character is calling for, and then just provide room for myself to find it. It could be buried deep, and I have to pick at it like a scab, or it could be laying right there at the top of the pile.
What was your reaction when you learned you would be playing Disney’s first openly LGBTQ+ Princess in Willow?
It felt really right. I was in a bizarre place when I got the call that I was moving to Wales. It was a saving grace, to pack up and do something I love in a part of the world I probably never would’ve seen otherwise. Playing Kit has been one of my greatest achievements. She wasn’t easy to play. Ridiculously extensive amounts of physical training, a legacy of a world I was entering, and on top of that Kit was always pissed off. I really fell in love with her, though. She helped me understand myself in so many ways. It’s very sad that you can’t watch it on Disney+ anymore… but I’m glad it brought so many people joy.
You’ve worked with some incredible co-stars, including Kate Winslet in Mare of Easttown. What have you learned from your experiences with such talented actors?
I think it’s fair to say that everyone I’ve met through work came into my life for a reason. I’ve met some of my best friends who teach me something new every time we speak. I could name the longest list of people. Mare of Easttown was special. It was one of my first jobs and I got the chance to work with multiple people I’d looked up to for years. Kate Winslet, Evan Peters, Julianne Nicholson. Kate treated everyone with such respect and care, and she taught me the importance of being present with everyone on set. I would really love to get the chance to work with her again.
Your roles often touch on important themes of representation. How important is it for you to choose projects that reflect diverse voices and stories?
I didn’t expect so many complete strangers to reach out and tell me how my characters have helped them feel less alone, or finally come to terms with who they are. It makes me emotional. I’m so, so grateful to get to explore my own identity and in turn help others understand theirs.
Regarding your latest project, “The Sex Lives Of College Girls”, how has it been joining such a popular and successful series? What can you tell us about your character and her journey this season?
I have a supporting role, so the pressure felt lifted, and I felt like I could just have fun with it. I think the coolest part about joining the show is that my stepsisters Michelle and Ryanna are fans. My character is named Ash and that’s short for Ashamed, which she’s far from! You know when you meet someone, and it just makes everything make a little more sense and a bit more exciting? It’s the best feeling, and that’s what you’ll see Ash going through this season.
How do you choose your projects? Regarding your latest project, what themes do you think the show explores, and how does your character contribute to those themes?
I flip a coin! Ash and Taylor’s relationship showcases the immediate closeness that you can feel with a new partner. Wanting to spend every second with someone, immediately wanting to appease their every wish, following strong feelings into a moving van with all your belongings. What drew me in about portraying this particular story was that it deals with navigating sobriety in a relationship.
What is the best piece of advice you would give to aspiring actresses as they pursue their dreams in Hollywood?
I only know what works for me but, something helpful I have been trying to do is not judge myself as a final product. I’d say allow yourself room to mess up and grow.
How do you prepare for a role, especially when it involves deep emotional or comedic elements?
It’s different every time. If I’m looking for emotion, to turn to art. Music is usually my way in. Also making stuff with my hands, taking walks, just doing stuff that connects my deep insides to up above. Collaboration is important to me, too. I like to find things together. For comedy, I run lines with my friends until I can get them to laugh. And for Sex Lives, Mia and I practically hung out and they filmed it.
How would you describe your style? What are your fashion icons and inspirations?
My style is stupid and so smart. It’s curiously optimistic and hopeful. It’s a blanket and an ornament. It’s juicy, tender, warm, and salty like a chicken wing, but it can turn stone cold. My friend’s closets always inspire me. Getting dressed can be a difficult thing, but when I walk into a friend’s closet, everything’s suddenly perfect.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received and how do you apply it into your daily life?
My grandma would tell me, “Never use the words can’t and hate.” It helps open me up to life. Finally, what can fans expect from you in the future? Are there any roles or projects you would like to tackle? Expectation kills surprise! There are a lot of things coming up that I can’t wait to share with the world, but for now…thanks Galore and thanks for reading!
TEAM CREDITS:
Editor-in-Chief: Prince Chenoa
Feature Editor: Taylor Winter Wilson (@taylorwinter)
Photographer: Dara Feller (@darafeller)
Writer: Frida Garcia D’Adda (@fridadda_)
Wardrobe Stylist: Branden Ruiz (@branden.ruiz)
Makeup Artist: Katie Mellinger (@ktmell)
