Celeste Thorson – A Kid Called Mayonnaise

By: Jamie Steinberg

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

A) I recently had a delightful experience working on an Amazon Studios TV show called “A Kid Called Mayonnaise,” which is airing now on Amazon Prime. I also had a blast shooting in Mexico with the cast of the feature film Treasure Hunter: The Legend of the White Witch, coming out in 2018. Another passion project I’m excited about is Apache Wife, a short film we just completed inspired by Native American oral history.

Q) Please tell us the premise for your series “A Kid Called Mayonnaise” and about your character Mrs. Kincaid.

A) The star of the show, Mayo Davis, gets his name from being found in a mayonnaise box on his mom’s doorstep as a baby. He moves from Idaho to L.A. with his mom to run The Alamo Motel, a home of misfit dreamers. According to the show’s creator, Will McRobb, The Alamo Motel is a place where the strays of the world can feel safe and loved. Mrs. Kincaid is a typical resident – someone who’s fallen on hard times but just needs a little help to make her comeback. Things for her and her son are hard, but she’s got her dignity, and she’s never going to quit dreaming of a better future.

Q) What made you want to be a part of the show?

A) I’m intrigued by surrealism in art and film. When I read the script, I was so curious about the stories behind the quirky characters. Once I found out about the cast and crew who were attached, I couldn’t wait to start filming. Emmy Nominated writer Will McRobb also co-created the Nickelodeon cult classic “The Adventures of Pete and Pete.” So, I knew it would be fun to play in his imaginary world. We were in great hands with Oscar-winning director Luke Matheny at the helm bringing his vision to life.

Q) Was there anything you added to your role that wasn’t originally described to you?

A) Mrs. Kincaid is actually very well dressed, prim and proper, noir-like character. I certainly embraced the haughty elements of her because I thought it would be a striking contrast in relation to her environment. The fact that she has an air of superiority while making such peculiar choices was really fun to play. Much like the ostrich in the series, Mrs. Kincaid is just an odd bird with her nose in the air.

Q) What have been some of your most memorable moments from filming the series?

A) One of the most memorable moments was standing in line with my stage son at a “saliva bank” watching a birthday squad chase after Mayo after he stole their ducky piñata because he’s obsessed with rubber duckies…Totally surreal.

Q) You have great comedic timing. Is it something that has always been natural for you or have you had to work at it?

A) Both of my parents loved to torment me with their absurd senses of humor. Ironically, it was contagious. That is what makes me laugh and see the world creatively. I think you can always strengthen your craft and improve timing by embracing the spontaneity in the moment.

Q) What makes Amazon the perfect fit for the series?

A) I love the bold, independent style of the show and think Amazon gave this unique world a voice when the status quo can be a more standard formula. I believe companies like Amazon Studios are changing the way entertainment is being created and consumed. They are taking bigger risks, creative liberties and making it more accessible. I think it’s an exhilarating time for audiences and artists.

Q) What do you hope viewers take away from watching “A Kid Called Mayonnaise?”

A) I hope viewers get the heartwarming message that it’s okay to be different. Find your squad and support each other and the diverse quirks that make you unique. Stay true to yourself and if you’re weird and eccentric, that’s okay…In fact, it can be awesome.

Q) You are a part of social media. Do you enjoy the instant fan feedback you receive to your projects?

A) It’s incredible to see the impact that our creative projects have on the lives of the millions of people who watch them. I especially love using social media to raise awareness for a variety of causes related to human and environmental rights. I enjoy the fact my work allows me to connect and share those passions with people all over the world.

Q) You are also a screenwriter, where do you get the inspiration for your work?

A) I always savor the invigorating burst of creativity that comes from finding a muse; sometimes it’s a person, a place, a culture, a moment in history. I enjoy writing about unsung heroes as well as exploring social commentary. I have a catalog of loglines and treatments and the challenge seems to be finding the time to develop them more than finding the inspiration.

Q) You have hosted several travel shows. Where did your love of travel come from?

A) I moved around a lot during my childhood so that probably influenced my gypsy ways. Coming from a multi-cultural family, I always enjoyed exploring our various cultural traditions. I am fascinated when I discover new places, people and cuisines. Travel shakes up my perspective on life and helps me appreciate diversity.

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

A) I am so grateful for your support. I hope when you see me do what I love it helps inspire you to do what your love. I enjoy hearing about the things my fans are passionate about, especially when it has to do with charitable causes. Feel free to tweet me or leave me a comment on instagram and facebook to keep in touch @CelesteThorson.