As part of the award-winning ensemble that makes up Orange is the New Black, actress Miriam Morales has been shot into the world of superstardom when it comes to television, but that's not her only talent.
Miriam Morales / Credit: John Guira
We got the opportunity to put some questions to Miriam all about her career, role in OITNB and more! Read on to find out what she had to say…
You're perhaps best known for your role in Orange is the New Black - how exciting is it to be part of such a groundbreaking and popular series?
Oh, it's incredibly exciting! It's a feeling that's difficult to put into words. Without a doubt, it's a huge blessing that I'm immensely grateful for.
The show obviously is exclusive to Netflix - do you think the future of television lies in streaming services such as this one?
Definitely. Most of my favourite shows are on streaming services. I think these services take more of a risk in regards to the content they offer than traditional television. Betwee Netflix, Amazon Prime and Hulu there are much more options, which means new stories, unfamiliar faces, diversity and just really great content.
Where would you like to take your OITNB character in future seasons moving forward?
Right now we're just seeing a sliver of who Pidge is. Moving forward I'd like for more layers to be revealed and for this multi-dimensional, messy, ugly, complicated yet very real person to come more into fruition.
What's it like being part of a show which allows females to take such a centre role?
OITNB is such an amazing show, it's quite revolutionary. It feels absolutely amazing to be on a show where females take such a centre role. And a lot of them too! In all honesty, it makes me want to work harder and accomplish my goals. It's empowering to see other women make things happen and it's important for young girls to witness that as well.
How do you think the world of television currently stands when it comes to roles being available for women?
You know, I've seen this question a lot lately. What that indicates to me is that there is still a lack of roles available to women. And it's even worse when you're in a minority. However, I can say that in recent years, efforts have been made to create roles for women. Television as it currently stands does have more roles available to women than what we've seen in the past. Can there be more? Definitely. The efforts that have been made to change the landscape has been spearheaded by other women, which is great. Women, like Shonda Rhimes and Jenji Kohan, have created highly successful shows with female leads. That proves that women are more than capable of carrying a program.
You've studied and trained at The American Academy of Dramatic Arts and with TVI Actors Studios in Los Angeles - what were those experiences like?
Here's a little story behind studying at The American Academy of Dramatic Arts (AADA). In high school my heart was set on attending NYU's Tisch School of the Arts. I mean, I was 'early decision' and everything. So my heart was broken when I didn't get in. I remember visiting my guidance counsellor in tears one day and he was also the person who gave me a pamphlet to the Academy. In my mind, there was no way I was getting in if I was rejected by NYU, but I applied and auditioned anyway. I got in and quickly realised that it was the best place for me. I loved studying at AADA! It was an intense two years; working two jobs, taking private speech and voice lessons on weekends, commuting into the city etc., but focusing on solely the craft was what I needed at the time. Coming from a diverse community at the time, it was an adjustment to be in a predominantly white conservatory. Most of my teachers and classmates assumed I was bi-racial until they learned my last name. After that it was a lot of 'oh, you're Puerto Rican like J-Lo? So then you're from then Bronx.' I laugh about it now but it was annoying back then.
As for TVI Actors Studio, it was a short 2.5 program, which too was intense and jam-packed with classes. I enjoyed it and felt like such an adult, even though I wasn't even 21 yet! But the last few days of the program was extremely difficult because a very close friend of mine passed away while I was there and it really affected me. I was unable to focus and didn't attend the last day of workshops. I haven't been to LA since.
You also manage your own blog, Scripts of Flair - what can you tell us about that?
My blog focuses on styling on a budget, beauty information and living a motivational lifestyle. I like to put together outfits, review products and share personal stories in hopes to inspire others. It's about living life on your own terms, being happy and looking good while doing it. Within your own means of course!
Has writing and blogging always been a passion of yours?
Yes, writing has always been one of my passions. I am able to express myself best through writing. When I was younger I used to write a lot of poems, songs and small scenes. I wrote a play once in college; it was technically a paper in the form of a play about Latin American identity and culture. My blog was created years ago and it was initially to document my acting, but I found myself writing about other things that interested me and soon, it turned into a lifestyle blog.
Can you tell us a little bit about your plans to write a book in the future? What sort of book are you hoping to write?
My friends have always told me that I'm very motivational and that I should get into motivational speaking, which I hope to one day, and that I should write a book. The book would be a motivational-inspirational book of sorts, based on specific moments in my life and the lessons I learned from them. I think it's important for people to know that, despite where you come from and the obstacles thrown your way, you can be successful and accomplish goals. There was a time I wanted to publish my poetry, too. Maybe I will, we'll see.
What tips or advice do you have for those aspiring for a career such as yours?
It is not an easy career to pursue so make sure you're doing it for the right reasons. With that being said, work hard, study, and never stop believing in yourself. That's the key right there; believing in yourself. I can't tell you how many times I was advised to quit, focus on my real job and all that other stuff society tells you. Had I listened to them I wouldn't be where I am today. It isn't easy but I promise you that fulfilling your passions is the most gratifying feeling.
Finally, what else do you have planned for the coming weeks and months?
I'm still working on the show but once that wraps I want to focus more on my writing again. Of course, I still want to continue to audition and pursue other projects. With every day that passes it becomes evident that the signs around me are urging me to write so write, I shall.
Keep up-to-date with Miriam on Twitter @MiriamMMorales.
Tagged in Orange is the New Black