Emma kenney
Emma Kenney started her acting career at a very young age. has grown up on sets, and even landed a role in the hit-show, Shameless, at only 12 years old. Now at 20 years old, Kenney is the new lead female actress on the Shameless, and also has a role in The Conners. She sits down with us to discuss her career, her relationship with her costars, and her thoughts about inclusivity in pop culture.
Photography: Anthony Giovanni
Creative Direction / Styling: Edwin J. Ortega
Words by: Anthony Giovanni
MOOD: How was your experience this year filming the current season of Shameless?
Emma: It was amazing! And busy. I felt I had a lot more responsibility this season – on screen and off. It was probably the first season I had consistent 14-hour days on set. I felt much more involved, and I think I thrive under pressure.
MOOD: You are now the female lead on a highly rated and massively popular show. Did you feel any pressure this season or have any moments of doubt that you had to push through?
Emma: Definitely. I’ve noticed a lot of people on social media and even in real life referring to Debbie as “the new Fiona” and that in itself adds so much unnecessary pressure, I feel like. Because first of all, that was never my intention- to replicate or copy Emmy’s role. Debbie and Fiona were raised under the same roof with the same morals and code of conduct. So naturally, of course, people will notice some similarities. But as in Debbie being the “new Fiona”, that is not the case. She’s stepping into the maternal role of her family, is all. Of course, I had fears and anxiety thinking that people wouldn’t accept me as the maternal role like they did Fiona, but then again, Debbie ALSO had those fears. Maybe in a different way- but those were her feelings, nonetheless. I had to keep reminding myself I’m my own person who’s growing on and off-camera. I hope that bled through on TV.
MOOD: Over the years you have demonstrated to the world that you can bring a high level of maturity to any character you portray, and you've built a platform for yourself. Do you believe you have a responsibility to use your platform to inspire others and educate them whenever you are able to?
Emma: 100%! Spread the wealth! Spread knowledge! Raise people up with you! That’s my motto!
Photography: Anthony Giovanni
Creative Direction / Styling: Edwin J. Ortega
Makeup: Pauly Blanch at TMG - LA
Hair Stylist: Diane Dusting at Opus beauty
Interview by Anthony Giovanni
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