Interviews

Jade Hassouné – Shadowhunters

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By: Lisa Steinberg

 

 

Q) What are the recent projects that you are working on?

 

A) I am currently spending most of my creative life-force finishing my debut EP: Love Letter To A Fandom. Delving into becoming a music artist is something I’ve been waiting for the right moment to do and the moment is now. I wrote Love Letter To A Fandom about my experiences of my life on tour meeting the “Shadowhunters” fandom around the world for the last two years. It’s a way to continue the relationship I have built with the fans but on a more personal level. The EP comes out this year with the first single “Insta Story”to be released in June!! Check out my website for more – jadehassoune.com

 

For acting, my great friend Supinder Wraich has created a series produced by Mad Ruk Ent., directed by Renuka Jeyapalan (director of “Workin’ Moms” & “Kim’s Convenience”). It is kind of like the Indo-Canadian Godfather, with a female lead (Supinder). The series’ goal is to really subvert stereotypes and give a fresh outlook to a traditional medium. It’s a 3-part series on CBC’s new streaming platform Gem and will be airing in May of 2019! I play the fabulously glamorous best friend and I’m so excited for this character/role to emerge into the world, as it portrays a gender fluid person who will spark many conversations.

 

Q) What’s new this season on “Shadowhunters” and with Meliorn?

 

A) We are gearing up to the final battle for our friends from The Mortal Instruments. Hell breaks loose. Meliorn will have to decide which side he is on. Will he go against the Seelie Queen (Sarah Hyland) or keep doing her bidding?? Tune in to find out!!!

 

Q) What has continued to challenge you about portraying this character? 

 

A) Honestly, it has been the inconsistency of his behavior and trying to make sense of his decisions. One minute he is friends with the heroes and the next he pretends that he doesn’t know them or hasn’t fought alongside them. It has been a challenge to find my inner reason for certain actions. Other than that, it’s been really fun and clear to me what kind of being he his. So much fun to be a 147-year-old epic Faerie knight.

 

Q) How would you describe Meliorn’s current relationship with Isabelle?

 

A) Meliorn’s relationship with Isabelle (Emeraude Toubia) has been the constant in this entire journey. He cares about her, maybe even loves her in his own way. Although he knows that they will never end up together, she will always have a place in his heart, and she will always come first when it has to do with life or death. This relationship will continue to grow this season.

 

Q) Who were you most looking forward to sharing a scene with this season?

 

A) Always a wonderful time shooting scenes with Emeraude. And I was so happy to finally have some time on set with Alberto [Rosende]. And I love being Meliorn while Dom [Sherwood] is Jace and playing with that fun dynamic.

 

Q) We were so sad to hear that “Shadowhunters” will be ending. What were some of your most memorable moments from filming the show?

 

A) The most memorable moments have been spending time with my friends on the show and sharing the fun of imagining an epic story into existence. As for the show ending, I had a feeling it was coming. It’s too bad it had to be done in this way. But as I keep reminding the fans, the connection we have with them is only beginning. And they will be satisfied with the epic crescendo of a finale.

 

Q) Is there anything of Meliorn’s costume or from the set you’ve taken with you as a cherished momento?

 

A) Yes! I took my gauntlet gloves, my dagger and a shirt that was made for me for the finale. I didn’t have enough room in my suitcase for more as I was traveling for two months touring Europe when I went back to shoot the show. I would have loved the whole armor, but I needed help and someone to sow it onto me to get dressed so that might not be the best thing to keep. [laughs]

 

Q) What have you personally taken away from your time working on the show?

 

A) Sooooo much – about my self-confidence, about standing up for myself in certain situations in this industry. Knowing where to take my self-worth from: within and not from an external entity in a position of “authority” or “power” who has no idea who I am. That is vague right? [laughs] One day it will make sense.

 

Q) Do you have a preference for working in film, TV, web series, on stage, etc.?

 

A) I love all of it. Every different one has its own essence. Video game sets are the most relaxed and fun. TV and film sets are the most exciting. And theatre is all about the connection with the audience in a very real and in the moment way. The rehearsal process can get heavy and slow though.

 

Q) What advice do you have for up and coming actors and actresses?

 

A) Do everything you can to actively practice your craft. It will grow and gain momentum and “bigger” opportunities will come to you, but you will always have one consistent – your art. So, keep doing it everywhere and any time you can. Take classes, meet people, collaborate with them, do what sparks passion and joy within you.

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

 

A) Thank you for believing in me. You have changed my life and I cannot wait for this next chapter of our lives. I am making music with you in mind and with the dream of continuing to travel the world and share nights of music and joy with you. In the meantime, sign up to my newsletter on my website and get your free teaser download of “Insta Story,” shoot me an email and let me know what you think. Stay tuned for contests and private behind the scenes look at the whole process of creating the Love Letter to a Fandom. See you soon!!!!

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