Kiara Barnes – Fantasy Island

By: Kemberlie Spivey

Q) What initially made you want to be a part of the world of “Fantasy Island?” 

A) I immediately was drawn to the script when I first got it. The writing was so captivating and full of passion! Plus, the original show was iconic, so I was excited when it came my way. Not to mention my character felt like home from the first read.

Q) How was Ruby originally described to you?

A) Originally, Ruby was described as loving, compassionate and full of wisdom. She was brought to the island as a guest with the fantasy to feel young again, what she didn’t know is she would be given the opportunity for a second chance at life to be her truest self.

Q) Was there anything you added to her that wasn’t in the initial breakdown?

A) That’s an interesting question. I feel perhaps her mannerisms and sense of self. Things that felt natural to me, I wouldn’t fight playing that. I’d just let things flow when they felt comfortable to do so.

Q) What is the best part of playing Ruby and getting to explore this new version of herself?

A) I think the best thing about playing Ruby is she feels like family to me. She reminds me so much of my Nana (grandmother) and so it felt like I was hanging out with her every day when I came to set. There’s something so warm and comforting about Ruby that makes me feel supported as if I were speaking with my Nana. I hold Ruby so close to my heart; her evolution through the show is beautiful. I felt like I grew with her through each episode.

Q) In the first episode, Ruby had a past relationship with someone before meeting her husband. Will get to explore more that before the seasons ends? 

A) We will touch more so on that relationship throughout the season. That past relationship is what gives Ruby the courage to continue on this new journey of finding home within. It will help inspire her and bring her a lot of peace with her past and future.

Q) Ruby works close to Elena and have create a nice friendship between each other. What was it working with Roselyn Sanchez?

A) It was a dream working with Roselyn!! She’s so kind and full of love. I felt so much support from her throughout filming. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to listen and learn from her.

Q) Ruby misses her family a lot as we seen in the last couple of episodes. Will we get to see any new family members visit her on the island? 

A) Well… I don’t know. You’d have to stay tuned to find out!

Q) Are there any episodes you can’t wait for fans to see?

A) All of them!! Honestly, this season is full of so much magic and fun, I can’t even choose. Although, I will say the finale gets a little wild…

Q) What did you enjoy most about working with the cast of “Fantasy Island?” 

A) How at home I felt! The writers, creators, crew, cast and production were AMAZING!! It felt like a dream come true being on set, it honestly was! Roselyn and John [Gabriel Rodriquez] were so great to work with. We all bonded very closely and just had immediate natural chemistry between us. There was a lot of laughter shared on set, missing them!

Q) Why did you think “Fantasy Island” connects with so many people? 

A) I think the writers and creators did such a good job making these characters feel so authentic. They wrote with so much intention and purpose for people to be able to feel love, happiness and, overall, a connection to these stories. I think there’s so much heart in these characters, you can’t help but feel exactly that.

Q) Being a part of social media, what is your reaction to all the feedback of your character and the show?

A) I am blown away!! I’m so grateful people have been connecting to Ruby and her story. My intention throughout the season was for people to feel some kind of peace or growth while watching. I couldn’t be happier from the love I’ve received.

Q) What would you like to say to fans who support you and your work?

A) Thank you, thank you! It means the world for you to follow along and participate in what I love to do! My heart is so full. Many blessings to you all.