For any actor, there is always one role sure to define their career and catapult them towards Hollywood domination. And for the rising star Johanna Liauw, that role is here. Having taken over the pandemic with performances in Lifetime films such as The Wrong Cheerleader Coach and College Professor Obsession, it became clear that there was only one natural next step for her to take –  a Netflix debut. Set to play the role of Stella in the second instalment of the streaming service’s hit film, Tall Girl, it is safe to say that the actor is on a rapidly rising trajectory, headed towards stardom.

When discussing her feelings towards the upcoming role, Liauw explains, “I’m super stoked! To have a role in a Netflix movie is a huge accomplishment. I’m looking forward to seeing how the viewers like the sequel; I think it’s a beautiful continuation of Jodi’s journey.”

Ahead of the release of Netflix’s Tall Girl 2, the San Diego-born talent sat down with Wonderland to discuss turning dreams into a reality and her latest role. Head below to enjoy our interview with Johanna Liauw…

Hi Johanna, how are you? Where are we talking to you from right now?
I’m doing quite well, thank you for asking. I’m currently in Los Angeles right now.

Let’s start with the pandemic and your rise to success during its course. How did you manage to stay inspired and creative during the pandemic, especially when it came to the web series you starred in, Quarantine Leap?
On top of acting, I took up journaling, drawing and even clay sculpting. I’d put on a Spotify playlist and submerge myself in those activities. I also caught up on some reading. I tend to have several books going at once, so it was nice to finish those.

Did you expect the success you had with the series, including landing your roles in The Wrong Cheerleader Coach and College Professor Obsession?
I had a sense that I’d be successful but obviously didn’t know when and how that’d come about. When it comes to your dreams, you of course have the hopes of them becoming a means to make a living. With the creative endeavours, it’s really up in the air as to whether it’ll go that route, so I feel incredibly lucky and grateful that I was able to get going as soon as I did.

Now, you are gearing up for the release of Netflix’s Tall Girl 2, which arguably is your biggest project to date! How are you feeling about the movie’s release?
I’m super stoked! To have a role in a Netflix movie is a huge accomplishment. I’m looking forward to seeing how the viewers like the sequel; I think it’s a beautiful continuation of Jodi’s journey.

Can you talk to us about your character in the movie? What are they like? Do you share any similarities with them?
Stella is super fun and energetic. She loves to experience life to the fullest. She’s also a foodie, you’ll kind of see that in the film! And, I most certainly relate to her on those levels. She was an absolute joy to bring to life.

If you could work alongside any other actor, who would it be and why?
Steve Carell – he’s comedic gold. He seems like an absolute sweetheart as well.

Aside from all of the exciting things we have discussed today, what else are you looking forward to in 2022?
My sister is planning on getting married this year, I’m so happy for her and I can’t wait to share that memory together! 2022 feels like a strong year for manifestations to come to fruition. I’m looking forward to seeing how that all comes about.