Daire McLeod – Ghostwriter

By starrymag | December 9, 2022

By: Sammi Turano

 

 

Q) How was the character of Charli on “Ghostwriter” initially described to you?

 

A) When I got the audition, I knew it was going to be a great one because we were so alike! Charli is a firecracker. She’s quirky, adventurous and a bit of a wildcard. Sometimes her inside voice can become her outside voice, but it’s only because she has so many great ideas. Her out-of-the-box thinking and determined spirit make her a girl who’s willing to fight for the people she loves until the end! Fun fact, when I first auditioned for “Ghostwriter,” Charli’s name wasn’t Charli at all! My original name in the show was Harper, but Apple wanted to change it, so I got to help pick my name. I had a lot of ideas like Parker, Willow, Rory, etc. Ultimately, my choice of Charli was the grand winner!!

 

Q) Were you familiar with the show before you were cast?

 

A) Yes, I was! When I originally auditioned, I didn’t know it was “Ghostwriter” until mid-way through auditions. I happened to be binge-watching the first season of “Ghostwriter,” and we watched the behind-the-scenes. I paused it right when the clapboard was on screen, and it revealed the secret project name! I was also familiar with the original 90s “Ghostwriter” before I started filming. I knew the show had to be amazing if Samuel L. Jackson was in it, and it didn’t disappoint! I loved how revolutionary the show was for the time. “Ghostwriter” was a trailblazer because of the diverse cast, which unfortunately wasn’t too common at the time. I also think that creepy purple slime monster is the cutest and somehow scariest thing I have ever seen.

 

Q) What were some of the challenges of playing Charli?

 

A) Challenges are all about how you approach them! I never encountered many challenges on set. However, every day I pushed myself to be better. The first day I went on set I knew I had to make the absolute most of my experience. I committed to giving a hundred and ten percent every day, and I challenged myself to be better than the day before. That was probably the biggest challenge I encountered; however, a smaller one was waking up the morning after a night shoot. 😂

 

Q) In what ways are you similar to Charli? If not, what characteristics of hers would you like to have?

 

A) Charli and I go by the motto “Daire to be Different!” We both are capricious spirits with a longing for adventure, and we march to the beat of our own drum. Charli and I also talk a little too much sometimes, but it’s because we’ve got so many ideas in our heads that it’s impossible to pick! We also are willing to try anything, and no matter the difficulty, we face it with an unbreakable spirit and the biggest smile!

 

Q) What were some of your favorite scenes to film for “Ghostwriter?”

 

A) One of the most extraordinary things about filming “Ghostwriter” was that I got to film almost five mini-movies in six months. Every new character brought new locations, challenges and twists to the story. We filmed in the tunnels where Nikola Tesla conducted experiments on hydroelectric power. We also filmed in the historic Toronto University, The Magic Castle and even a yacht in Toronto harbor! My personal favorite spot was when we filmed in St. Lawrence market, only because that was my favorite weekend spot for cheese and crackers!

 

Q) Is there a chance for the characters to meet the four kids from seasons one and two?

 

A) We don’t know yet, but we’re super excited about the newest season! This new mystery has so many twists and turns to explore, and I’m so excited for the world to see them!

 

Q) What do you think it is about the show that continues to make it such a fan-favorite series?

 

A) I think because of the magic and mystery! “Ghostwriter” is a super binge-able show; once you start watching, it’s impossible to stop! This season’s mystery is about a stolen Egyptian artifact and a ghost’s unfinished business. Every episode, the steaks get higher and higher, and the show will leave you going, “How did I not catch that?” I think something that also makes this show so memorable is the ability to convey meaningful topics. We deal with important social issues this season that can help create an entry point for meaningful conversations. This season we offer a mystery that will have you on the edge of your seat, but we also give so many heart-touching moments that truly showcase the beauty of this show.

 

Q) In addition to the show, you have an extensive music career.

 

A) From a young age my parents taught me to appreciate music. My dad showed me the way of 80s rock, my mom showed me 40s swing and 90s alternative, and I’ve only continued exploring from there!

When I learned how to play guitar, piano and ukulele, I began creating my own music and songwriter was the natural next step. Songwriting has allowed me to connect with people in a way I never imagined. For example, with my new single “Hey Honey,” I recently released it and it is available to stream now. “Hey Honey” was the first song I ever wrote on the guitar and to hear it being played through my car speakers is unreal!

 

Q) You just released a new single and are working on an album. Please tell us about the themes you’ll be exploring and what we can expect to see from you in terms of music in the future?

 

A) The next single coming out is called “Learn to Count!” When I made it, I wanted it to be like a sad song trying to pretend it was a happy song. It’s more indie pop/alternative pop because I really want to start branching out into all the genres I love to listen to! Speaking of, for my upcoming album I’m going to be creating all of the music that I love to listen to. I want it to be a beautiful amalgamation of all the music I love! I can’t wait for the world to hear my heart and soul in a new way!

 

Q) You also have your own charity Daire 2 Read. Please tell us how it began and how our readers can get involved.

 

A) Reading has been a huge part of my life since I can remember. I always loved reading stories and creating stories to tell with my friends. Reading is our greatest superpower because it can take us anywhere and can instill hope inside us. Unfortunately, not everyone has gotten to experience the magic of reading, so I wanted to change that. That’s why I started “Daire 2 Read” My mission is to put a book in the hands of any child who wants one. Because when we can inspire people today, we can make a better tomorrow! “Daire 2 Read” is currently partnering with “Love Heals Youth” to help foster kids going from home-to-home experience the joy of books in their lives. I’ve included a link that will show how you can get involved! https://lovehealsyouth.com/daire2read

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who are fans and supporters of you and the work you do? 

 

A) First of all, thank you so much! I’ve always had a dream to build a life in entertainment and without you I wouldn’t be able to do that so thank you. All of the never-ending love and support means more than you will ever know! I also want to say to “Daire to be Different!” Life is too short not to enjoy it as the authentic crazy version of you that you are born to be. Don’t let anyone tell you who you are or what you can or cannot do. If you wanna be the first astronaut to go to Pluto, do it! Be a world-renowned popcorn eater, go for it! Don’t let anyone keep you from your dreams, and don’t stop dreaming big because you will change the world!