Interview by Mckenziee Belton | Photographer: Noah Asanias
We got to chat with actress Natasha Calis about her character in Nurses and the training that went into the role.
I had the privilege of watching the first two episodes of Nurses, and I gotta say they have been amazing! Can you tell us about your character Ashley Collins and how you think she would describe herself?
Thank you – so glad you’ve enjoyed it! Ashley is strong, fierce, and feline. She’s got a bit of an edge but an exceptional vulnerability hiding within her core. She’ll do anything to protect the people she cares about and once she lets you in, you’ve got a friend in her for life. I think she would describe herself as a bit of an adrenaline junky who lives for the fast pace of the hospital.
As a medical drama fan, I love to ask actors about the training that takes place behind the scenes to learn the medical jargon and how to perform procedures. What was the process like preparing for this role?
It’s so fun. We had medical training a week before we started filming to learn a bunch of basics (ex. CPR, how to properly administer an IV, etc.) and to learn how to operate the machines, which are all real. We also have a medical consultant on set with us all day, every day to answer any questions we have and to chime in on real-life circumstances to make everything as authentic as possible. (It’s still a TV show though people lol).
I love the concept that each character on the show represents a main organ, and yours in particular is the liver. Can you explain to us a bit more about what this means and how that might be explored this season?
Ashley represents the liver because she is tough and can take crap from people. Everything is filtered through the liver and although she’s able to take it, she might not always have a filter when it comes to herself, which can sometimes get her in trouble.
You’ve starred in major films such as The Possession, The Harvest, and Donovan’s Echo, how have these roles influenced your acting career and prepare you for your role on Nurses?
I think growing up in this industry and being so lucky to have done the films I did at such a young age, shaped me into the actor I am and gave me the tools I need to not run dry during a long shooting schedule. It’s hard work. Long days, crazy hours, and lots of dialogue.. but I love every second of it and I always have. That’s the most important thing.
What are five things your fans may not know about you?
- I’m a soccer player. I’ve played since I was 4 and even now I still play in a league.
- I have a dog named after David Bowie that I got while filming season 1.
- I’ve run a half marathon.. soon to be a full.
- I have a 7-year-old niece and a brand new baby nephew.
- I’m really good at skipping. Like.. really good.
You’ve been acting professionally since you were seven years old, would you be interested in working behind the camera as well?
Absolutely. Even at 7, I knew I wanted to be a filmmaker as well as an actor. I definitely want to start directing and writing eventually.
*Note: This interview was conducted after episodes 1&2 of Nurses came out*