Paris Was a Very Good Idea

Here comes a new star—or should that be étoile? Broadway singer-turned-actress Ashley Park discusses her smash-hit Netflix series Emily in Paris and why filming in France was the happiest time of her life

- Tara Sobti

American actress and singer Ashley Park has been a star on Broadway for years, appearing in productions such as Mamma Mia!, The King and I and Mean Girls, the latter of which earned her a Tony award nomination for best supporting actress in 2018. This year she has made her mark on the screen, appearing as Lily Collins’ quick witted and fearless best friend, Mindy, a nanny with a hidden singing talent, in Netflix’s hit Emily in Paris, which has been renewed for a second season.

What was the audition process like for your character Mindy?

In June 2019, I received an email from my agent to audition in New York. A few weeks later, I was rehearsing for a play in Massachusetts and my agent called to tell me that [series creator] Darren Star wanted to call me personally from Paris to discuss the character. As soon as I heard Darren’s voice on the phone, I immediately felt comfortable and relaxed. He said lovely things about seeing me in Mean Girls on Broadway. I got the part a few days later and in less than two weeks, I was in Paris.

What drew you to Emily in Paris in the first place?

Seeing a project with these names attached: Darren Star, Patricia Field, Lily Collins. Then seeing Paris in the headline. It was a city I’d always wanted to go to. I read the audition scene, which was Mindy’s very first scene in the pilot when she meets Emily. I immediately felt connected to her. It has only happened a few times to me before, when I have read the scene once and I feel like I’ve already memorised it. I was drawn to Mindy’s warmth, genuine nature and instinct for friendship.

How was working with Lily, Patricia and Darren?