IN CONVERSATION WITH LARISSA CAMPOS

interview by JANA LETONJA

With Hulu’s new psychological thriller Furious having premiered on 27th July, Brazilian-American actress Larissa Campos is stepping into the spotlight as one of the series’ rising talents. Created by Elizabeth Meriwether, Furious follows an FBI agent, played by Emmy Rossum, as she becomes locked in a dangerous psychological battle with a female serial killer. Alongside an acclaimed ensemble cast, Larissa brings fresh energy to one of the summer’s most anticipated thrillers. Trained across Canada, the United States, and beyond, the multi-talented actress, singer, and dancer is quickly building an impressive career on screen. 

We’re able to watch you in Furious. What first drew you to the project and your role?

I love working in the thriller and horror genres, so when I read the project breakdown and saw it was created by Liz Meriwether, my immediate thought was, "I have to be a part of this. Put me in, coach." Isabel Luna is a dream role, and it has been an absolute honor to play her. Her story deserves to be told, and I can only hope Isabel and Catherine leave a lasting impact on audiences for years to come.

The series is described as a psychological thriller that blurs the line between justice and vengeance. What can audiences expect from the story?

I'm excited for audiences to meet these morally ambiguous and deeply complex characters. One of my favorite things about Furious is that it explores the gray area where there isn't always a clear line between right and wrong, and that's what makes the story so compelling. I'm also incredibly excited for audiences to experience a female-led, female-created series.

Furious follows FBI agent Alice Black as she hunts a mysterious and calculating female serial killer. As both women pursue their own versions of justice, their lives become increasingly intertwined, and the line between right and wrong begins to blur. As for my character, all I can say for now is that she has a lot to be furious about.

What was the atmosphere like on set while filming such an intense and suspenseful series?

The story is incredibly intense and emotionally heavy, so we tried to have as much fun as possible off set before the cameras rolled. Then, when it was time to work, everyone was completely focused and committed to honoring the story and our characters. Once we wrapped those heavier scenes, we'd shake it off, laugh together, and usually reward ourselves with something sweet from crafty. That balance made all the difference.

Did working on Furious challenge you in any new ways as an actor?

Absolutely, but it was the kind of challenge every actor hopes for because we had such exceptional material to work with. I had to go to some very dark emotional places so the performance could have the weight and honesty it deserved. I also discovered how much can be communicated without saying a single word. Sometimes silence can be even more powerful than dialogue, and experiencing that firsthand was an incredible lesson.

As a Brazilian-American performer, how has your background shaped your perspective and career?

Being Brazilian-American has given me a deep appreciation for storytelling and the way culture shapes identity. I grew up surrounded by strong family values, music, and expressive traditions that taught me to lead with emotion and authenticity. At the same time, growing up between different cultures helped me understand what it means to belong in more than one world. That perspective allows me to approach every character with empathy and curiosity because I know people are rarely defined by just one experience.

I'm passionate about portraying characters who feel truthful and multidimensional while contributing to greater representation on screen. I hope to be part of a generation of artists creating more opportunities for Brazilian and Latina stories to be told authentically. Representation isn't just about being seen, it's about allowing people to recognize themselves in the stories we tell.

I also draw so much inspiration from the incredible women in my life, especially my mom, my sister, and my grandma. Their strength, resilience, and love continue to shape both the artist and the person I am today.

You trained in Canada, New York, Los Angeles, and Atlanta. How did each place influence your development as a performer?

Every city shaped me in a different way. Canada gave me my foundation and made me fall in love with performing. New York challenged me to dig deeper emotionally and commit fully to the craft while reminding me that discipline is just as important as talent. Los Angeles introduced me to the business side of the industry and taught me the importance of confidence and trusting my instincts. Atlanta gave me invaluable experience on professional sets and helped bridge the gap between training and working.

Together, those experiences have made me a more versatile performer and reinforced the idea that there's always something new to learn.

You're also a singer and dancer. How do those disciplines inform your acting?

Singing and dancing have made me a more instinctive actor. Music teaches you how to communicate emotion honestly, while dance develops physical awareness and reminds you that the body can tell a story before a single word is spoken. Both disciplines emphasize rhythm, timing, and presence, all of which are essential to acting. Whether I'm performing a dramatic scene or something lighter, they help me stay connected to the emotional truth of the moment.

Looking back, what has been the most valuable lesson you've learned so far as a young actor?

The most valuable lesson I've learned is that persistence matters just as much as talent. This industry comes with uncertainty, and there are far more "nos" than "yeses." I've learned that every audition, every class, and every experience is an opportunity to grow, regardless of the outcome. Success isn't about proving yourself overnight. It's about continuing to show up prepared, staying curious, and trusting that the work you're doing today is building the foundation for tomorrow.

Most importantly, give it everything you've got. If someone in your life doesn't celebrate your wins or tells you something is impossible, don't let that become your reality. Protect your belief in yourself because sometimes that's the very thing that carries you through.

You've appeared in projects across different genres. Do you have a favorite type of role to play?

I'm most drawn to characters who are emotionally complex and morally ambiguous. I love roles that challenge audiences to question their assumptions and explore the gray areas of human nature. Those are the characters that stay with people long after the credits roll because they feel real.

I absolutely adore horror and psychological thrillers. I love stories that make audiences feel slightly uncomfortable because they force us to confront emotions and questions we don't always have answers to. At the same time, I'd love to explore more music-driven projects where I can combine my passion for acting and singing in one role.

How do you stay motivated in such a competitive industry?

I remind myself why I started. I fell in love with acting because it allows me to step into someone else's world and tell stories that make people feel seen. Whenever the industry feels overwhelming, I come back to the craft itself. I continue training, seek out new experiences, and focus on becoming a better artist rather than comparing my journey to someone else's. Every project is another opportunity to learn, and that mindset keeps me motivated.

As your career continues to grow, what kinds of stories are you most passionate about telling?

I'm passionate about stories that leave audiences feeling something long after the credits roll. Whether it's hope, discomfort, empathy, or inspiration, I love projects that spark conversations and stay with people.

I'm also excited by stories that celebrate diverse voices in an authentic way, not because representation is a trend, but because it reflects the world we live in.

Ultimately, I hope to be part of projects that entertain people while leaving a lasting emotional impact, whether that's through a gripping drama, a psychological thriller, or a character whose journey stays with audiences long after they've finished watching.

What keeps you fulfilled outside of acting?

Honestly, reading is one of my biggest escapes. I've connected so deeply with books, and I'm currently readingThe Butterfly Garden by Dot Hutchison. If that book is ever adapted into a film, I would absolutely love to be part of it.

I also love going to the gym and running. I actually run without music because it's one of the few times I can simply be alone with my thoughts. It helps me clear my mind and reconnect with myself. And, of course, spending time with my dog Fred always brings me back to the present. He definitely keeps life fun.

TEAM CREDITS:

photography NAYSHKA MIRANDA