INTRO BY KAT VISTI
INTERVIEW BY LEAH FRENCH
PHOTO COURTESY OF RED PEBBLES PUBLIC RELATIONS
Abby Donnelly is a young actress who plays Darbie on the hit Amazon Kids show entitled "Just Add Magic." The show has been renewed for a second season which aired on October 14th. Abby is also known for her roles as Peggy Cartwright on American Horror Story and as Jenni on Suburgatory. She also played Helen McGill on Criminal Minds. We caught up with Abby to hear about the new season of Just Add Magic!
You’ve appeared on shows like Criminal Minds and American Horror Story. Can you describe the transition from the horror, mystery side of acting to acting in a kids show?
ABBY: American Horror Story was actually my first job! I was already nervous and scared about hitting my mark and saying my line! I'm a huge fan of Criminal Minds so I had an idea of what I was going to have to do in the show. Both were so much fun to film! Just Add Magic has a much lighter feel, even though there is a lot of mystery in it. The mystery and magic aren't "scary" like they are in the other shows. The biggest transition has been getting to play the same character for many episodes! And I love Darbie!
Can you give us a short summary of your character Darbie in your new show Just Add Magic?
ABBY: Speaking of Darbie, she is fun, loving and tries her best to do the right thing! That doesn't always happen as Darbie tends to be a little clumsy and forgetful at times. She tends to be funny and light hearted and will always be a true friend!
What can viewers expect to see in season two of Just Add Magic?
ABBY: The second season is so fun! A different mystery to solve with new characters and crazy magic recipes. Once again, every episode ends making you want to see more!
What was it like filming the Halloween special of Just Add Magic?
ABBY: The Halloween episode was very special! We had neighborhoods decorated for Halloween, Mama P's decorated for Hallowen and a super cool (and scary) haunted house! It was Halloween in the middle of July which was weird but so fun! I love being the Dar-bee! 🐝
What other genres of TV shows would you like to indulge in, in the future?
ABBY: I would definitely like to play a superhero of some kind!
Are you working on any secret projects at the moment?
ABBY: If I told you then it wouldn't be a secret, right?
What has been your favorite episode to film for Just Add Magic so far?
ABBY: My favorite episode in season one was 'Just Add Birthdays'! We had so much fun just being silly! And so far in season two - well we aren't finished filming so I don't know yet!
What has it been like to work closely with your fellow cast mates, Olivia Sanabia and Aubrey K. Miller?
ABBY: It's been an experience I will never forget working with Olivia and Aubrey! I have a special and unique friendship with them both! 💖