Jenna Qureshi – Dear Edward

By starrymag | March 10, 2023

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) Please tell us the premise for the new series “Dear Edward.”

 

A) “Dear Edward” tells the story of Edward Adler (Colin O’Brien), a 12-year-old boy who is the sole survivor of a devastating commercial plane crash. The story explores how Edward and all of the others affected by the tragedy, try to come to terms with life after the crash. It examines the communities, unexpected friendships and romances that are formed because of this.

 

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

 

A) I was immediately drawn to the show because of the incredible creative team that was behind it.

 

Q) How was your character Mahira originally described to you?

 

A) Mahira was originally described to me as Jordan’s secret girlfriend. Because of the relationship’s privacy, she doesn’t have anyone to share her grief with. When she tracks Eddie down, their friendship inevitably grows because they are the only people who can keep Jordan’s memory alive for each other.

 

Q) Mahira had a secret relationship with Edward’s brother Jordan. Would she call him her first love? 

 

A) Yes, I think she would call him her first love. When she pictured the rest of her life, she believed that Jordan (Maxwell Jenkins) would be in it. So, she’s now left to come to terms with the fact that not only has she lost the person she loved, but her future is changed.

 

Q) Does she regret keeping their relationship to herself with what happened to Jordan?

 

A) I wouldn’t necessarily say she regrets it. She didn’t have much of a choice on the matter. But it does prove to be difficult for her because she has to go through the grieving process alone, which is why she seeks out Eddie. She’s desperately searching for that connection and comfort.

 

Q) Mahira ultimately decides she can’t keep up her friendship with Edward. What were some of your most memorable or even most difficult scenes to film?

 

A) The most memorable scene to film had to have been the scene with Eddie in the museum. When he says he doesn’t remember the crash, Mahira has to hold her own disappointment back to free him of feeling like he let her down. The most difficult to film was probably the final scene in Episode 6 because I really wanted to do it justice. We actually ended up only doing two takes!

 

Q) How did you shake off a long day of filming such sensitive moments? 

 

A) It can be very challenging at times to not take such sensitive moments and emotions home with you because your body keeps score. It’s going through this deep grieving process take after take. While it can be extremely healing, it’s also still very real feelings. So, to shake things off, I would take a walk through Central Park to clear my head.

 

Q) You are a part of social media. What kind of fan reaction have you been receiving so far to the show?

 

A) I’m thankful to say that I have been receiving a lot of love so far! I think viewers are really able to connect with these characters and grow and learn alongside them.

 

Q) What do you think it is about “Dear Edward” that is making it such a fast fan favorite, yet touching series?

 

A) I think collectively, the world has been faced with so much grief as of late. I believe that after we allow ourselves to feel that pain and all of the emotions that come alongside grief, it becomes a great transformer. We’re able to grow and change. We love stronger, breathe with more intention, and live life more fully. This show is such a testament to that. It’s absolutely beautiful, and I think it will provide comfort and healing to so many.

 

Q) What are the other recent projects that you have been busy working on?

 

A) I’m the voice of the character Safina in “Alma’s Way!” Besides that, I’ve been working on graduating high school!

 

Q) What would you like to say to people who are fans and supporters of the wonderful work you do on our screens?

 

A) I would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who has supported me throughout the years! I am filled with so much gratitude.