Italia Ricci – Chasing Life

Q) What made you want to be a part of the show “Chasing Life?”

A) I wanted to be a part of telling such an honest and inspiring story.

Q) What have you added to your role as April that may not necessarily have been in the script?

A) I’m not sure if I could pick one thing. The writers definitely shaped April around my personality more and more throughout the season. I made a decision to have April always wear her watch except for when she is in a hospital bed.

Q) You got to work with director Steve Miner on the pilot. What kind of guidance and advice did he give you?

A) He was the perfect director to have shot that first episode with. He pulled and pushed me out of my comfort zone and really helped me feel more comfortable being in front of the camera so much. He also told me not to do my homework one day. I study my scripts all the time, I memorize everything (including my costars’ lines). He thought it would be interesting if I didn’t touch my script for an entire day that I had off. I couldn’t do it.

Q) Are you looking forward to the instant feedback on the show that social media will provide?

A) Absolutely. I’ve already been getting incredible support from fans and it feels amazing. I am so grateful for social media because it gives me the opportunity to respond, like or favorite their messages so they know they’ve been heard.

Q) “Chasing Life” airs after “Pretty Little Liars,” a show  that is such an adrenaline rush. Why do you think “PLL” and “Chasing Life” make a good Tuesday night pairing?

A) The differences in the shows will give Tuesday night a great sense of variety. To go from thrilling suspense to a light family drama will definitely be interesting. I feel like after “PLL,” our show might be a bit of stress relief.

Q) What about “Chasing Life” makes it a great fit for ABC Family?

A) Family. Our show is a family show. It’s about family and friendship more than it is about cancer. I think the age range of people who I hope relate to the show is so wide that the whole family can watch it and enjoy it for an assortment of reasons.

Q) What has it meant for you trying the show in with cancer support programs like Cancer Sucks and Stupid Cancer?

A) It makes me so proud to be a part of something that will bring awareness to real issues.

Q) What has been your favorite moment from filming?

A) One great moment was on my birthday last year. One producers had McDonalds cater our lunch. I had four Big Macs that day. It was delicious.

Q) What do you hope that fans ultimately take away from the show?

A) Never give up. You don’t have to be perfect, but just keep living the best way you can.

Q) What else would you like to tease or share about the season?

A) I don’t know how much I can give away! There’s a lot of laughter, friendships, hard decisions, mistakes, celebrations and even a few steamy scandals.