I remember seeing Haley Ramm as Jen Long in one of my favorite crime shows "Without a Trace" years before meeting her in late of 2009. Her small guest role was laid out in just 6 episodes, but her performance was beyond sensational during her short screen time. When I met her for an interview and later a photo shoot in Los Angeles (before Zooey was even Zooey), I remember thinking how incredibly different she was from other 'teen' stars at the time.
She wasn't concerned with the spotlight, how her hair stood on her shoulders, nor how we had to sit on the floor by the window sills at Barnes and Noble to talk because there were no available tables. Haley was content and confident with herself, and that is what makes her a gem in Los Angeles. Her unwavering dedication to her craft - acting - is what brings her to today's beloved show "Chasing Life" from ABC Family.
Fast forward 5 years from the last time I saw Haley, she is still the same kindhearted, talented, and even more accomplished lady of 2 and 20 years.
How much has changed since booking "Chasing Life?" The show is getting raving reviews, and we're so excited it got picked up for more episodes.
My personal life really hasn't changed at all. I'm just busier and loving having a steady job. We're so thrilled we got to do more episodes so soon.
Where do you see the show going in the next few years? How is this show different from other shows that also tackle similar themes?
I wish I could answer that. I think where it can go is pretty unpredictable because it's a show about life and life is unpredictable. I think all of the characters will grow and continue to face challenges along the way. It's exciting to think of everything the writers could do with it. The sky's the limit. "Chasing Life" is so different than most shows on television now. There is a real shortage of shows that families can watch together and that have such interesting characters from teens to young adults to parents and to grandparents.
What do you think is truly the biggest 'life' lesson? In this generation, we're all so connected with one another through social media... But how connected are we really? Do you think there's a fine line between being a part of reality and being a part of a social network?
I do think there is a very fine line. I'm not the best at keeping up with social media/technology. I try, but I find it overwhelming me sometimes. Over the past couple years, I've become very aware of how much social media affects our lives, personal relationships, and how we communicate. It can be an absolutely wonderful thing being able to keep in contact with people we don't usually get to see on a day to day basis, for education, or raising awareness for different causes. But we all kind of miss out on beautiful parts of life and intimate human moments with our heads buried in our phones and computers. I did a film called "Disconnect" that came out last year, and that really changed the way I view technology. I'd advise anyone and everyone in our generation to watch it. I would even say that if I wasn't attached to the movie at all. It sends a very big, important message.
Shoes: Loly in the Sky.
Apart from your career, you are such a humble person. Tell us what life is like when you're on downtime? (We hung out in Venice!)
Well, we're on hiatus right now so it's given me time to focus on myself and discover other things that I like to do. I've never had a break like this because I was always out there auditioning for a series regular spot or a movie role. With the show, I have designated time off. I hated it at first because I always like to be busy, but I'm learning a lot about myself. I love being able to see my friends all the time. Living in Los Angeles, there's always something fun to do. I love going to flea markets and farmers' markets. Glamping is one of my favorite past times lately. If you don't know, it's glamorous camping usually in a cabin and with running water. I'm determined to rough it at least once this year though. I'm getting there.
Have you gathered up new hobbies? Or are you pursuing anything new and fun?
Yes! This break has been about me soul searching... but for hobbies. I've always liked to write, but was too shy to put my words on paper. I think I'm getting over that. I just bought a canning and preserving set so I can make canned goodies for my friends. I try to stay about 80-years-old. Maybe I'll take up quilt making next.
What are your favorite spots in Venice? Or Los Angeles in general?
Abbott Kinney in Venice is a beautiful street to walk down. I love the ocean breeze. Lots of cute shops and organic restaurants. Picnics in Griffith Park with friends. Urth Cafe on Melrose has the best English tea latte.
What can one find you doing when you're home with no plans?
Attempting to cook and watching movies and documentaries on Netflix.
What's the best getaway area in Los Angeles? Where could one go to find some quietness, if that exists in this huge city!
Topanga Canyon is like a dream. I would love to spend all my days there sometime in the not too distant future.
Interview // Lucia Tran Photography // Diana King
Styling // Krissie Torgerson Hair and Makeup // Jeanne San Diego