Ronni Hawk – Stuck in the Middle

By starrymag | May 20, 2016

By: Lisa Steinberg

 

Q) How was the premise for “Stuck in the Middle” originally described to you and your role of Rachel?

A) When I first got the breakdown for the show, they actually did say she was a part of a big family – but not as big of a family! They tried to keep it very hush, hush about the show so when I finally got the character description it said “a narcissistic teenager obsessed with the Kardashians and still loves her family at the end of the day.”

Q) Did you add anything to Rachel?

A) When I auditioned for her, I definitely wanted to show that I could be super girl, narcissistic and full of myself. So, I did show that, but I also showed I still loved my sister and that Rachel had a kind side. I felt like others would try to portray her as rude, rude and more rude. I wanted to show that she could still love her family.

Q) I love that coming together is at the heart of the show, despite the chaos!

A) I feel like that is a big thing about our show. We always fight and things are always happening, but at the end of the day we’re always coming back together.

Q) Is comedic timing something that has come naturally to your or have you had to work at it?

A) Honestly, I used to not be able to do comedy. I had such trouble doing comedy, but then finally when I started working on it then I started coming to me. Now, it’s second nature. It’s just something that you really do have to work on. I feel like that I understand Rachel so easily now though that everything comes naturally.

Q) What do you find challenging about your role?

A) I definitely try to show different relationships with different siblings in the family. So, I don’t want to act like I have the same feeling towards everyone.

Q) How do you relate to the Diaz family?

A) I’m the third child out of five. So, I’m used to a lot of siblings and understanding that everyone has their own personality. You have to love them at the end of the day and respect them for who they are.

Q) Do you find yourself having similar arguments to the Diaz family?

A) Absolutely! My first scene in the pilot where we were fighting over the bathroom? That happens all the time with my family.

Q) What can you tease about upcoming episodes?

A) They are very hush hush on the show. I will say that I’m very excited for episode nine. That was my favorite! It really shows a heartwarming moment for Rachel. It’s her first breakthrough as being heartwarming. I can’t give a lot away.

Q) I like how the neighbor is always annoyed with the Diaz family, but they rise above it.

A) She is so much fun to work with. She’s the sweetest human being.

Q) Who would you like to guest star on the show?

A) I would love to do a crossover with “Best Friends Whenever.” I think that would be a lot of fun. It’s a good show and the cast is super fun. I would love to get to work with them!

Q) You are a part of social media. Do you enjoy getting that instant fan feedback to episodes?

A) It has happened so fast! I love all my fans just so much because they are always so sweet and they lift me up. Every now and then I get a hater and they’ll just be there for me and support me. I try to answer my fans as much as I can and reply back. It’s really cool to get to talk to everyone. I wouldn’t be able to do this without them. They’re just so sweet!

Q) Why is charity work so important to you?

A) I’m an environmentalist so anything I can do to protect the environment I will always try to do. My dad has done mission trips so I’ve been raised around the church and helping people. I love to put smile on peoples’ faces and see that I am making a difference. I’m just trying to inspire everyone else to get up and try to make a difference.

Q) What do you think it is that has made “Stuck in the Middle” such a fan favorite program?

A) Honestly, I feel it is such a big cast and there are so many personalities that people can just relate to some of the characters. They see it is a true family dynamic. It’s not always put together and good. It’s chaos, but you still love each other. That’s actually how families are. They still love each other and can figure things out and still have fun.

Q) Do you feel like a second home on set?

A) Absolutely! We spend so much time together that we are so comfortable around one another. We’re always having fun and laughing. It’s weird being in Florida and not getting to see them all the time!

Q) What you have taken away from experiences being a part of the show?

A) I am taking away that it is really good to connect with your cast, learn to love them and have fun on set while staying serious and enjoying your work. Even though you may get tired or sick, it’s all worth it because you’re doing something amazing.