Jillian Shea
In the latest issue of GMARO Magazine Celebrity Edition Vol.49 April 2024, multitalented Jillian Shea graces the cover, sharing deep insights into her creative process, personal struggles, and artistic aspirations. Jillian opens up about her short film "The Noise," created during her therapy for an eating disorder, aiming to provide a window into the sufferings of mental health issues and offer solace to those battling similar struggles. Her new single ‘XY’ reflects on post-breakup regrets with a twist of humor, turning pain into empowerment. Shea delves into her music's themes, emphasizing heartbreak and self-love, influenced by her life's recent years. Reflecting on her acting career, she credits roles in "Walk the Prank" and "Godmothered" as pivotal to her passion for acting. Jillian also discusses the instrumental role of her family in her career and her dedication to incorporating mental health awareness and inclusivity in her work. Despite the challenges of growing up in Hollywood, she emphasizes the importance of staying grounded through self-care and support from loved ones. Shea teases an upcoming audio fiction project and cherishes memorable on-set moments, like a Taco Bell feast with the "Godmothered" cast. She concludes by highlighting the evolution of her career perspective, valuing happiness and engagement over traditional markers of success, and shares the profound impact of "The Noise" on viewers' mental health awareness.
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Actress / Producer / Singer-songwriter - Jillian Shea @jilliansheaspaeder
Website: www.jillianshea.com
https://linktr.ee/jillianspaeder
Photographer - Grace Wethor
PR - ICON PR @icon_pr
Can you share the inspiration behind your short film "The Noise" and why it's important to you?
I wrote “The Noise” when I was in therapy for an eating disorder. I wanted to show people without mental health struggles what it feels like to suffer from them.
How do you hope "The Noise" will impact viewers, especially those struggling with eating disorders?
Eating disorders are incredibly isolating. They make it very easy to be stuck inside your own head and disengaged. I hope viewers who struggle with eating disorders find comfort in the film knowing that they aren't alone. I hope it also gives them the courage to reach out for help.
What can you tell us about your new single ‘XY’ and the inspiration behind it?
XY is about wishing you never dated someone. All you can think about are all of the “whys.” Why did I date them? Why did I put myself through this? You’re not my EX, you’re just a WHY! This song brought me comfort in the fact that I regretted a few years of my life. It turned something brutal into something fun.
What themes do you explore in your music, and how do they reflect your personal journey?
My debut EP “Fall At My Feet” focuses on the themes of heartbreak and self-love. These topics have been a big part of my life for the past few years and I wanted to bring those honest emotions into my songwriting.
Looking back, how do you think your roles in projects like "Walk the Prank" and "Godmothered" have shaped your career?
Working on “Walk The Prank” and “Godmothered” solidified the fact that I wanted to be an actor. “Walk The Prank” was my first acting project and I think it will remain my favorite forever. It was such a fun experience and the best way to start my career.
Can you discuss the role of your family and upbringing in your career choices and advocacy work?
My family has always been supportive of my career and advocacy work. I grew up in a super musical family so they loved that I wanted to work in entertainment.
How do you approach the songwriting process, and what inspires your lyrics?
In the case of my EP “Fall At My Feet,” I wrote all of the songs with Jack Gray. Because we were doing so much writing together, we got into the habit of starting with the chorus and the concepts.
How do you incorporate themes of equality and inclusivity into your work?
I always include themes of mental health awareness in everything I work on. I think mental health is often overlooked or written about in an inaccurate way.
What challenges have you faced as a young artist in Hollywood, and how have you overcome them?
Growing up in front of the camera had its pros and cons. A challenge I have always faced is my confidence. It is something I am always working on, but trying to ignore people’s negative opinions is always helpful.
How do you stay grounded and maintain your mental health with the pressures of the industry?
I try my best to find a bit of self-care every day, even if it’s just reading a book for a few minutes. When I start feeling overwhelmed, I turn to the people around me. Time with my friends always helps me stay grounded and maintain my mental health.
Can you share any future projects or roles you're particularly excited about?
I filmed a super cool audio fiction project that I am so excited to share. I’m not allowed to say anything yet, but hopefully it will be announced this year!
What has been your most memorable experience on set, and why?
On the set of “Godmothered” the cast decided to order Taco Bell to set because Isla Fisher had never had it before. We all hid away in a tent and sat on the ground eating it in between scenes. It was hilarious!
How has your approach to your career changed since you started?
When I first started in the entertainment industry, I was 11 years old. I was super focused on “succeeding”. Over time I have learned to alter my definition of success. I used to think of success as booking a TV show or having a song blow up. Now, I define success as being happy and busy!
Can you share an instance where a fan's response to your work deeply moved you?
Since I have started showing my short film “The Noise” at film festivals, I have gotten a lot of rewarding responses. Many fans have shared that they felt seen with their mental health journey for the first time.
