Mia Matthews is a woman with an impressive acting resume, and though she's seen some incredible success to-date, that doesn't mean she's slowing down at all. Recently playing record label publicist Karen on series South Beach, she's also well-known for roles in Nickelodeon series Every Witch Way, as well as Spin City and Another Assembly amongst others.
Credit: Michael D’ Ambrosia
We got the opportunity to put some questions to Mia about her career to-date, what we should expect from South Beach, filming the show and much more - read on to find out what she had to say.
For those who haven't seen South Beach before, how best would you describe the series?
It's an American version of a telenovela with great Latin music. Kind of a Dallas type soap opera meets Nashville, set in Miami. It has drama, music, crime and beautiful people.
You play record label publicist Karen - can you tell us a little bit about her?
Karen works hard and plays hard. She may appear a little self-serving and driven, but she really cares about her clients.
What was it about this show and role that drew you to taking part?
I am always so happy when there is work in South Florida. I can be with my family and commute to work from home. It was also a nice change to be on an adult show after three amazing seasons on Nickelodeon. It's always fun to mix things up.
Can you tell us about a typical day on the set filming South Beach?
South Beach was filmed at a particularly busy time in my life. It was during the Kids Choice Awards (Every Witch Way was nominated for Best Kids Show). So I shot my scenes in Miami, took a red eye to LA, attended the awards and red-eyed back to Miami to film South Beach in the morning. This was on my days off from filming Every Witch Way! It was a little crazy, but I managed to pull it off somehow.
What was the chemistry like on the set of South Beach?
It was such a warm and happy set with some of the most gorgeous actors I've ever seen! The producer, Bill O'Dowd, was from Miami and was so thrilled to be filming in his hometown. The director, Joshua Caldwell, was such a joy to work with, so talented and profressional but relaxed on set. That kind of positive energy is very contagious and made for a fantastic environment for actors to do their job?
As you mentioned you're well-known for your role as Desdemona in Every Witch Way - how fun was that character to play?
It was such a blast! Playing dual evil/good roles is always an actor's dream. It was an added bonus being on a show that I could watch with my kids. I really felt like they were part of the whole experience. In fact, my daughter Bianca appears on the spin-off series, WITS Academy.
As a mother of two, how do you find balancing your working and personal life?
It's a balancing act for sure. When I'm very busy, I try to find real quality time with my family. When I am not working, it's all about quantity!
What tips do you have for other busy mothers?
I feel really grateful that I'm in a business where I can include my kids in my work. They have helped me so much especially navigating the social media aspects of my job. "Mom - you CANNOT post that!" If you can find a way to involve your kids in your work in any way, it makes it much easier. If at all possible, get someone to help clean your house!
Finally what's next for you?
A film I acted and co-produced, Daddy, just premiered at Montreal International Film Festival and premieres in the U.S. this month.
In a few days I am heading to Nantucket Island to begin filming Annabelle Hooper and the Ghosts of Nantucket, starring Bailee Madison as Annabelle. It's an incredible project filmed on a magical island. I am one lucky lady!