interview by JANA LETONJA

Nikki Rodriguez is quickly becoming one of the brightest young stars on screen and the red carpet. She leads Netflix’s hit YA series ‘My Life With the Walter Boys’, which returned for its highly anticipated second season this August, and has already been renewed for Season 3. Off-screen, Nikki’s fashion presence has made her a red carpet standout, collaborating with brands like Armani Beauty, Dior, and Carolina Herrera, and fronting American Eagle’s Fall 2024 campaign. With her rising profile in both Hollywood and fashion, Nikki is poised to make an even bigger impact this year.

Season 2 of ‘My Life With the Walter Boys’ just wrapped up, and has already been renewed for Season 3 before Season 2 has even premiered. How does that early vote of confidence from Netflix feel?

It’s truly an incredible feeling. We are so lucky and grateful to be going into a third season that I can’t even believe it sometimes. I’m excited for Season 2 to be out in the world. Everyone worked so hard on it, and I’m really proud of it. So yeah, to get that vote of confidence is a total honor and a really great feeling.

full look SPORTMAX
jewellery ANABELA CHAN

What’s been your favorite scene to film so far in the series and why?

I have a few, but my favorite scene to film in season 2 was a scene in episode 7 or 8. We were out in a field at night, and it was the first time I had seen the Northern lights. I’m not even sure if you can see them in the show, but it was a really cool experience. I was having the time of my life taking hundreds of photos because it was a total bucket list thing for me. Either that, or literally any scene with the horses. I love them so much.

Since the release of Season 1, how has your life changed both professionally and personally?

In some ways, it’s changed a lot. Professionally, I feel a bit more capable, confident, and sure of myself because I tend to be an overthinker. But the goalpost is always moving forward, I’m still in class and I’m still working to be better every day. You know, who knows, maybe even directing or producing one day seems like a possibility, whereas it didn’t necessarily before. But personally, my life has not changed much at all. I’m a little more outgoing, I travel and explore more, but I’m still a homebody and my favorite thing to do is nothing at all.

full look DOLCE & GABBANA

You’re balancing acting and a growing role in fashion. How do these two worlds inspire each other for you?

I consider them both creative outlets, so for me, they go hand in hand. When I’m acting, the wardrobe plays such a huge factor in how the character comes to life. Jackie’s wardrobe is quite specific and a bit different than my own, so I immediately feel like Jackie when I put on her outfits. It’s also fun to explore how your character changes and how that translates into their style evolution, which we will get to see in season 2. The same thing goes for events, or carpets, or really anything. It’s all about how I want to feel and express myself in that moment.

You’ve been called a red carpet one-to-watch. How would you describe your personal style evolution?

I definitely have to give a shout out to my stylist, Daniela Romero, as she’s really helped bring my vision to life on a lot of the carpet looks. We really speak the same language as far as fashion goes. As for personal style evolution, I’ve been having more fun and trying new things lately. I still love some of the same styles I’ve always loved, like a classic, tailored look with a bit of an edge for example. I tend to gravitate towards chic, neutral outfits, and where I like to have fun is accessories. I love fun statement bags, sunglasses, or shoes. Right now, I’m super into lace up ballet flats and finding unique vintage bags.

From Armani Beauty to Dior, you’ve worked with major fashion houses, how do you choose collaborations that feel true to you?

Both of those moments were such a dream come true. I think it’s just about what feels right in the moment. I use Armani Beauty every day and I’ve always loved Dior. So, it’s about what I see myself wearing in my day to day life. I’m super drawn to beautiful, elegant, classic pieces that feel timeless. I’m also drawn to unique, edgy pieces and looks. I just genuinely have an appreciate for the art of all things beauty and fashion.

full look DOLCE & GABBANA

What’s been your most memorable fashion moment so far?
It’s hard to pick one, but I think it has to be the red Roberto Cavalli moment for the Los Angeles Netflix Tudum event this past May. I don’t typically wear much color and we decided to fully commit to head to toe red. I really loved that whole look. Either that or the black Oscar de la Renta dress that I wore to my first Golden Globes, that was such a surreal moment for me.

Outside of acting and fashion, what are your other biggest passions in life?

I’m really passionate about animals in need, anywhere from dogs and cats looking to be adopted to protecting wildlife. When I’m not working, I volunteer at a wildlife center that rehabilitates and releases many different species that are native to Southern California. I also love to foster and bottle raise kittens. One day, I’d love to open my own wildlife rescue or something like that.

What’s one dream role or project you’d love to take on in the future?

I’d really love to work on a film next. I’m incredibly inspired by Celine Song. ‘Past Lives’ was incredible. I’ve always loved a raw slice of life film with incredibly layered performances. Something like that, or ‘Blue Valentine’, which is one of my all-time favorite movies. Either that or a sci-fi action film that is set in a totally immersive world and requires some stunt fighting or training. That’s such a specific answer, but those are both huge dreams roles.

What can you share with us about your upcoming projects?

Well, right now I’m busy with season 3 of ‘My Life with the Walter Boys’, and I am very excited about this season. And after that? Who knows, but I trust that great things are ahead. What’s meant for me won’t pass me by, and I can’t wait to see what comes next.

full look VERSACE
jewellery SHY CREATION, SIMONE and MATEO NY

TEAM CREDITS:

talent NIKKI RODRIGUEZ
photography PERAZNA
styling DANIELA ROMERO at The Wall Group
makeup ALLAN AVENDANO at A-Frame Agency
hair: MARC MENA at Exclusive Artists
editor TIMOTEJ LETONJA
editorial director and interview JANA LETONJA

IN CONVERSATION WITH NIKKI RODRIGUEZ

IN CONVERSATION WITH DEL WATER GAP

IN CONVERSATION WITH FRANCIS KURKDJIAN