Ava Grace Cooper – When Calls The Heart

By: Ruth Hill

From the inception of “When Calls the Heart,” the children associated with the show have been known for providing sweetness, humor and a reason for hope even in the darkest of times. And this season, we were introduced to the youngest actress on the set, Ava Grace Cooper. Recently, I had the opportunity to chat with this 6-year-old actress, and I was overwhelmed with her enthusiasm and amazing talent.

Why did you decide to become an actress?

I started taking dance {ballet} lessons when I was about three years old. And I heard about this thing called acting and I thought I would give it a try. I loved dancing, so why not act?

How did you get the role of Opal in “When Calls The Heart?”

I went into the audition room and I said my lines. I had to wait for a little bit of time and then they finally told me I got the part. (Originally, she was only called in to read for one scene, but she was so impressive they have kept her on as a regular part of the show.)

How many episodes will we see you in this season?

I’m on seven episodes of “When Calls the Heart.”

What are some favorite moments you have had during filming?

I had some really special lines and scenes with Erin [Krakow] and I got to ride a horse. I also got to be around a dog. Gracyn [Shinyei] is one of the other girls that watches out for me and she takes me by the hand lots of times and helps take care of me on the show.

Who is your favorite actor/person to work with on the set?

Erin

How does schooling work for you?

I go to school on the set and I think it’s really fun. I started reading when I was three years old and I am the youngest in my class on the set. I love meeting different people in the class.  My friends all think it’s really neat that I get to hang out on set, ride a horse and have a tutor for school.

What is it like working on the show with your brother (Christian Michael Cooper)?

I think it’s kind of awesome working my brother on the show.  I memorize my lines really fast, but sometimes he and I work on our lines together.  Our mom helps us, too.

Do you have any upcoming roles you can tell us about?

Christian and I just finished a feature film called Besties with Kyra Sedgwick and Woody Harrelson.

After speaking with Ava and her incredible parents, I can testify to the fact that her smile and cheery disposition are infectious. Undoubtedly, with such supportive parents and phenomenal talent, this girl will go far in this business while still remaining grounded. She has been described as independent and outgoing and she absolutely adores her chosen profession. As she nears her seventh birthday, it boggles the mind to imagine the possibilities for such a bundle of talent such as she. Be sure to watch her on “When Calls the Heart” Sunday evenings on the Hallmark Channel, and don’t forget to follow her on twitter (https://twitter.com/AvaGCooper ).