IN CONVERSATION WITH ANNIE SHAPERO

interview by JANA LETONJA

Rising actress Annie Shapero is having a breakout moment and will soon return as the fan-favourite Alysanne Blackwood, better known as Black Aly, in Season 3 of HBO’s hit fantasy drama House of the Dragon, premiering on 21st June. With her character set to play a pivotal role in a storyline that could alter the course of the series, Annie is stepping into the spotlight at a crucial moment in the show’s evolution. Beyond Westeros, she’s continuing her rise with a series regular role in Amazon’s highly anticipated Vought Rising, while also building an impressive résumé that includes The Narrow Road to the Deep North and the upcoming feature film Saccharine. From prestige television to major franchise projects, Annie is quickly establishing herself as one of the industry’s most exciting emerging talents.

Season 3 of House of the Dragon marks a major chapter for Alysanne Blackwood. What excited you most about the role?

What excited me most was having the opportunity to play a woman who holds such unadorned, fearless strength, particularly when it came to her physicality. It’s pretty rare to be riding horseback on a set, surrounded by people shrouded in chainmail while firing off a bow. To say that I was giddy would be the understatement of the century. As a woman, physically-full roles are often few and far between. So, to play a woman who is so joyously feral and self-assured and to then marry that with some bad ass archery skills? I mean, living the dream right there. 

Black Aly quickly became a fan favourite. Why do you think audiences have connected so strongly with her?

I feel Black Aly is the kind of person we all wish we could be for about ten minutes a day. She's not trying to fit into anyone else's expectations of what she should be. She's fiercely loyal, she's capable, and she trusts her own instincts. There's something really satisfying about watching someone move through the world with that kind of certainty, especially in a world as chaotic as Westeros.

What can you tease about Alysanne's journey?

I can tease that she definitely doesn't spend the season quietly knitting by a fireplace.

How did your understanding of Alysanne evolve between your first learning of her and filming Season 3?

My understanding of Alysanne Blackwood evolved so beautifully from first coming to learn about her in the books to then stepping into her shoes. A big reason for this was due to the remarkable hair, costume and makeup teams who designed her look. Black Aly has such a bold and meticulously thought-out design, which added a whole other layer to character development and portrayal. For me, that’s when the final pieces of a character really fall into place. 

Were there any scenes this season that challenged you in new ways emotionally or physically?

The physical side was definitely a challenge, but also what I was looking forward to most. I had two months of horse riding training and archery training before we started filming. All of which meant that a large portion of my scenes entailed some sort of physicality. Combining archery and horse riding on set truly made me feel like Dick Van Dyke in Mary Poppins with his ‘one-man band.’ I loved every second of it. 

What has it been like becoming part of such a passionate global fandom?

Honestly? The biggest privilege. This world is so mammoth, and so it honestly felt like stepping into some history-making television. 

Have fans’ reactions to Alysanne surprised you in any way?

The excitement around Alysanne joining the show in season 3 was definitely surreal. 

You’re also joining the world of The Boys through Vought Rising. What attracted you to that project?

Another epic world with insanely strong scripts. I’d be dumb not to jump at the opportunity.  

You recently also wrapped Saccharine. What can you share about the film and your role in it?

Saccharine was a brilliant film to work on, both for its content and the people that I had the chance to collaborate with. Natalie Erika James, our director, is remarkable, as is Midori Francis, who so wonderfully leads the film. Saccharine cleverly lays comment on the toxicity around the idea that a person’s worth is intrinsically linked to the way that they look. My character sows the seeds. And that is all I will say, as everyone should head to the cinemas to see it. Cinema is back, baby.

As your profile continues to grow internationally, how are you staying grounded and focused on the craft?

My family, specifically my mom, is an easy answer to that one. Calling home is such medicine. 

What kinds of stories or characters are you most eager to explore next?

I’m interested in people who aren’t easily defined. There’s something so exhilarating as an actor to play a character who has such a full internal life. No matter the genre, the richness of the character’s inner world is always what’s most enticing. 

Between House of the Dragon, Vought Rising, and your upcoming film projects, you’re entering a huge new phase of your career. What are you most excited for audiences to see from you over the next year?

I’m excited for audiences to see the range of projects that I’ve been fortunate enough to be part of. I’ve always dreamt of a career that’s built on versatility, and I hope that this next year mirrors that.

TEAM CREDITS:

photographer REBECCA SPENCER
stylist HOLLY WHITE
makeup FREYA PAXTON
hair RYAN STEEDMAN