IN CONVERSATION WITH JOSIE TOTAH
interview by JANA LETONJA
Josie Totah will be reprising her role in AppleTV+’s lavish period drama ‘The Buccaneers’, which returns with its second season on 18th June. Josie is best known for her work as a comedian, having starred-in and producing the Peacock re-boot series ‘Saved by the Bell’ that earned her a Critics Choice Award nomination. She also starred in Amy Poehler’s film ‘Moxie’, and was the lead of the NBC primetime comedy series ‘Champions’ from Mindy Kaling.
Soon, we’ll be seeing you back in ‘The Buccaneers’. How has your character evolved since Season 1?
She’s definitely more mature and has grown up a bit. I think she’s owning her confidence and feels more liberated in her relationship with Honoria.
What was it like returning to the world of lavish gowns, high drama, and biting one-liners?
It was really fun. It always feels like sophomore year of college going back for a season 2. You know your way around a bit more and it’s fun to escape into the fantasy again.
TIME Magazine praised you as “the funniest of the Buccaneers.” How do you balance comedy with period storytelling?
I think it’s in the writing. I try to play everything as truthfully as possible and if it comes from that place, I think it has the opportunity to be funny.
‘Saved by the Bell’ earned you a Critics Choice nomination, not just as a star but also as a producer. What did that dual role teach you?
It taught me a lot. I really tried to make Tracey Wigfield, the creator, my mentor because I looked up to her so much. It was like writing boot camp getting to sit in the room. I look up to all of them so much and miss that set.
You worked with Amy Poehler on ‘Moxie’ and Mindy Kaling on ‘Champions’. What did you learn from collaborating with such powerhouse women?
I think they’re just both inspirational women who show that you truly can do it all. They’re both amazing moms who are multi hyphenates. IIncredible actresses, but also great writers. It’s a testament to how brilliant they are and I feel so lucky anytime I get to work with funny and cool women. The fact that I’ve had the opportunity to work with people like Amy, or Mindy, or Tina is such a privilege.
With growing visibility in both editorial and entertainment spaces, how do you choose what projects to say yes to?
I think for me personally, it comes down to two big factors: the project and the experience. I weigh the director and material, but also where it might take me and who I might get to work with. It’s the balance of life and the art of it all. I’m also such a believer in work begets work, and I love being on set and just getting to be a part of a bigger community.
Are there any upcoming projects on your horizon, besides ‘The Buccaneers’, that you can share with us about?
I’m currently filming the adaption of the Stephen King novel ‘Carrie’ for Amazon. It’s been so fun diving into the horror world because I’ve been such a consumer of horror for so long.
credits:
photography TOMMY RIZZOLI
