Swayam Bhatia – The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers

By Jamie Steinberg

Q) Please tell us what is new this season on “The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers” and with Sofi.

A) There’s a different feel to this season, for sure! Firstly, we are all headed to an intensive camp this season, where we find ourselves competing with one another. Sofi learns very early in the camp that she doesn’t exactly fit in the world of top sports competition. Her journey will take us into her struggle to find the balance between friendships and hockey.

Q) What continues to challenge you about portraying Sofi?

A) It can be challenging to play Sofi because of her insane skills on the hockey rink. Even in Season 2, she comes in as one of the strongest athletes. This required me to keep up with my ice hockey training between seasons and after hours while filming. Also, in this season I had to learn how to be vulnerable and show the side of Sofi where she steps out of her comfort zone.

Q) Were you looking forward to or excited about getting to share more scenes with someone(s) in particular in Season 2?

A) I enjoy all aspects of being on set, and in terms of filming, I enjoy scenes with all my fellow cast members. I was genuinely excited to have more screen time with Lauren Graham and wished I had the same amount with Josh Duhamel. Josh and Naveen Paddock are excellent additions to the cast this season and I love the scenes we filmed together.

Q) What was training like for Season 2 compared to Season 1?

A) Season 2 required a lot more training during filming because of the stunt work. Technical Adviser Chris Nelson guided us through the process and taught us some great new skills.

Q) Talk about new addition Josh Duhamel and how he fits in with the team.

A) Josh is an excellent addition to the show – he’s so much fun to work with and the best way to describe him is “young at heart.” He always makes the time to ensure everyone on set is included and feels loved. I cherish every moment, every scene, and every piece of advice he gave me.

Q) What are some episodes that fans should keep an eye out for this season?

A) If you are a hockey fan, I’m told episode ten will be very exciting! In terms of my character, episode 5 is where people can begin to see Sofi evolve on a personal level.

Q) You are a part of social media. What kind of fan feedback have you already been receiving to Season 2 episodes?

A) I know fans of the show find the situations on and off the ice very relatable, especially for young teens. People are a little sad about Sofi and Evan (Brady Noon) parting ways, but they’re hopeful for what the rest of the season has in store.

Q) What do you think it is about “The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers” that continues to make it such a fan favorite series?

A) “The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers” has an incredible fan base because it’s a feel-good show. I think an entire family can watch it and engage with the storyline.

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

A) I’ve been enjoying being back in high school as a sophomore. My training is also back to routine and being back at the dance theater has been rewarding. I’m about to go on Pointe soon, which is exciting. Finally, my music is gearing up for public listening day by day.

Q) What advice would you give other up and coming actors and actresses?

A) The best advice is to be passionate but maintain a balance of the arts, school and friends. It’s important to keep training as well because it prepares you and helps you become a better performer in the long run.

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who are fans and supporters of you and the work you do?

A) A heartfelt thank you. My job as an artist is to entertain my fans, be a role model and strive to give back to my community. I hope that the younger fans see themselves through my work and continue to open doors that once were not possible. I am grateful for my support system from my beautiful fans to family to friends.