Stella Maeve – The Magicians

By: Lisa Steinberg

Q) We are a few episodes into “The Magicians,” how has the fan feedback been on social media?

A) The fan feedback has been, from what I have seen and heard, fantastic. People seem to be responding well in regards to my Julia…our Julia.

Q) What can you tease about dynamics shifting as the season progresses?

A) Throughout the season, we get to see all different sorts of dynamics among the characters. Their relationships with themselves and with each other. What is great is that none of these progressions of change are ever “over” or “finished.” They fluctuate and sometimes back track (progress, regress) – emulating real life. We do get to see Julia and Quentin together again towards the end of the season. That much I’ll give away! And it’s worth it.

Q) Is there anything you have added to the role that was not originally scripted?

A) I tried to keep Julia as true to the books as possible, except for what was changed for TV format.

Q) What has been the most challenging aspect of your role?

A) I don’t think I can narrow it down. So much of this role is challenging. To be able to take a character as complex as Julia, already written in novels, and bring her to life on the screen…That, in itself, is challenging.

Q) What drew you to this project or role?

A) The people involved, the trilogy of novels and the element of magic and how it’s a metaphor for our lives. It was the depth, the darkness, the humor and the dark humor. And Julia. She is one of the most interesting characters I have ever gotten to play.

Q) What have you learned or taken away from your experiences working on the show?

A) I have learned how much art imitates life and how life enhances the art. I think with each character I play I learn another fact of myself. I grow more as an artist and a human. And with Julia in particular, I’ve learned a lot about my personal life. I have been through a lot of darkness. I made it through and I’m still here. It reminds me of this quote that I saw somewhere, “Let us walk through the fear as we reach for the stars.”

Q) Is there a specific moment coming up that you can tease or share you are most looking forward to fan reactions?

A) Later in the season, Julia goes through a very traumatic and awful experience. It will be interesting to see how viewers respond.

Q) What do you think it is about the show that has drawn so many viewers in?

A) I think because of the trilogy of books that the show had already secured a fanbase. And in moving forward with the television adaption, it has found a way to encompass fun, campiness and darkness all in one hour.

Q) Are there any special guest stars coming up this season?

A) A magician never reveals his secrets…

Q) Congratulations on the Season 2 pick up! What would you like to see happen for your character?

A) I’m so excited for Season 2! Thank you. I hope to stay close to the books and perhaps see Julia get to speak and develop her special relationship with animals.