CHASING Her Dreams

Marie Claire Exclusive: Hanneke Talbot knew she wanted to act from an early age. Marie Claire speaks to the young actor about her inspiring journey and how growing up in Malaysia has made a difference

- Ai Lim

Why did you choose acting as a career? And if you weren’t an actor, what would you be doing instead?

I chose acting as a career because I couldn’t imagine myself doing anything else. It can be a blessing and a curse to know what you want to do from such a young age because on one hand it provides a path and a sense of direction. On the other it is an extremely competitive career that leaves many heartbroken, so as long as it lasts I’m counting my blessings.

When I was five or so; I distinctly remember wanting to be a priest…then a rockstar (very similar careers, I know!)… then an actor. Now with hindsight I can see that I probably just wanted an audience but I think it was mainly the love of storytelling and the ability to connect with other people through that medium. But if I had to choose; I imagine it would be something to do with helping others, my sister is a nurse and I often think how her job really changes lives and I’d love to be able to help people like that in a more direct way.

Which actor inspires you the most?

Some of my all-time favourites would have to be Kate Winslet, Cate Blanchett, Joaquin Phoenix, Julia Roberts, and I’m also really excited about Florence Pugh at the moment; that girl has something special about her! By the way if you haven’t seen, Little Women yet, go and see it. It’s absolutely beautiful.

Which do you prefer: theatre or movies?