By: Kelly Kearney
Q) Daryl (Norman Reedus) and Carol (Melissa McBride) are at it again but this time their adventures abroad land them in Spain. You play new character Justina, who kicks off the season’s journey. What was it about Justina that first drew you in? Was there something about her that made you feel like, “Yes, I really understand this character”?
A) Justina won me over from the very first moment I read the scripts. I remember going through the first two episodes for my final audition, and I’ve always felt that your first read is so important in how you connect to a character. With Justina, I immediately saw parts of myself in her. I gave her my whole heart—just the way she does with the people around her.
Q) Were you already familiar with “The Walking Dead” universe before taking on the role? If so, did that influence the way you approached her, or did you prefer to come in with a fresh perspective?
A) I was only a kid – around six – when “The Walking Dead” premiered, so I had to binge it once I learned I’d be part of the cast. It completely blew my mind. The show is epic and getting to be even a tiny part of it feels like such a privilege.
Q) We first meet Justina in Episode 2 where she and her lover Roberto (Hugo Arbues) are on the run. Their plight unexpectedly stirs something in Carol, who is usually pragmatic and guarded, but here we see a softer, more protective side of her. From your perspective, what is it about Justina and Roberto’s story that unlocks that warmer, more empathetic part of Carol’s personality?
A) Justina and Roberto’s love story is like a drop of hope in such an uncertain world. We’re two young souls who just want to be together and I think it reminds Carol that even in this strange new reality, there are loves worth living for. Justina and Carol see themselves reflected in one another in many ways. They share a very special connection, and their relationship will be something truly beautiful.
Q) Unlike Carol, Daryl’s recent losses in France have left him emotionally shut off, keeping his focus solely on survival and protecting Carol so they can both return to America. How does he react to this unexpected detour into Justina and Roberto’s lives, and what does it reveal about his current worldview?
A) When Daryl first encounters Justina and Roberto, his mindset is very clear: his priority is protecting Carol, ensuring she recovers and then repairing the boat so they can return to America. Of course, as you can imagine, there are many obstacles that complicate that path.
Q) Justina quickly establishes herself as more than just a romantic figure – she’s also a fighter and someone who stands firmly for what she believes is right. How did you shape that balance between her vulnerability as a lover and her strength as a fighter?
A) People are contradictory – so are characters and so is life. Being strong doesn’t mean you never show fear or pain; honestly, I think it’s the opposite. Justina is crystal clear from day one that she’ll fight for what she believes in. This season throws some really unfair, heartbreaking things her way, things that scare her deeply- but even then, she chooses to fight. Fear or no fear, she’s never going to just sit back and do nothing.
Q) Visually speaking, how do you think Spain will shape the look and feel of this season because stylistically it is vastly different than the previous journey through France?
A) I think Spain is such a culturally rich country and having the chance to showcase it from north to south is incredible. We shot in so many different cities and you will really see that in every episode.
Q) Every production has its tough moments – whether it’s long nights, emotional scenes or the sheer physicality of the action-horror mix this franchise is known for. What was the biggest challenge for you while filming, and how did you push through it?
A) This season really pushed me. I’d never done this genre before and, honestly, it turned out to be so much fun. At first, I was even having zombie nightmares, but after a while I got used to it and just had a blast. Some scenes were definitely tough on an emotional level, but we had such a close team – like a little family – that everything was handled with so much kindness and support.
Q) We have to know, what were some of your memorable behind-the-scenes stories that capture that atmosphere?
A) We honestly had so much fun on set. We spent tons of hours together every day, plus all the traveling, and I swear there was never a shortage of laughs.
Q) The chemistry between Carol and Daryl – and between Norman Reedus and Melissa McBride – has been a hot topic for fans and critics for nearly two decades. You had the chance to witness their dynamic firsthand. What struck you most about their acting styles, and what was it like to watch them step so seamlessly back into these iconic roles?
A) I think together they’re hypnotic. There’s something very special about them – they’re so different, both as characters and as people, yet they complement each other in such a unique way. They’re always laughing together. They’re both incredibly talented and truly professional and it’s such a pleasure to work with them.
Q) And, of course, you got to experience one of the show’s most iconic symbols—Daryl’s motorcycle. What was it like to film those moments with him?
A) It was amazing. Definitely the most fun day of shooting. We were just cruising on the bike through these stunning Galician landscapes – it honestly felt like a dream. And, yes, I had his hair in my face the whole time. [laughs]
Q) Fans of “The Walking Dead” often connect deeply to characters because they reflect resilience, hope or sacrifice. What do you hope audiences take away from Justina’s journey?
A) I think Justina really reflects a bit of all of that – resilience, hope and sacrifice. I don’t know how audiences will respond, but I truly hope they grow as fond of her as I did.
Q) What’s next for you, Candela? Are there other projects you’re currently working on that fans can look forward to?
A) Well, I’m actually filming right now, but I can’t share much yet. What I can say is: watch Season 3 of “The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon!” I think you’re going to love it.
Q) Finally, what would you like to say to longtime fans of this universe, as well as the new fans you’ll make from your time playing Justina?
A) “The Walking Dead” fans are amazing and it’s been such a joy to join this family. I hope longtime fans enjoy this new chapter, and that new ones connect with the journey just like I did. Just thank you. ❤️