Andrea Ware Talks ‘Van Helsing’ [Exclusive Interview]

Syfy’s Van Helsing is back for Season 2, and there’s plenty to look forward to this season.

I recently interviewed Andrea Ware, who plays the role of new character Lucky on Van Helsing, about her connection to the character, the biggest challenges, and more.

Tell-Tale TV: When did you decide that you wanted to get into acting, and what led to that decision?

Andrea Ware: Following in my sisters footsteps, I joined the local drama club, and after my first performance on stage at the age of seven, I was hooked. I find it interesting how I, as a seven-year-old, was so clear on my future goals.

Tell-Tale TV: What drew you to want to be a part of Van Helsing, initially?

Badass women slaying vampires! Any opportunity to play a fierce woman fighting for the good of humanity is always going to draw me in.

Our showrunner and writer Neil LaBute also has a lot of pull. That man is incredible!

Tell-Tale TV: You’ve said that you never felt so connected to a character as you did when you first auditioned for the role of Lucky. What is it about that character that made you feel that way?

Ware: When I first read the character breakdown for Lucky, I knew this role belonged to me. They wanted someone outside of the box for this role. Extremely tall and physically intimidating were listed, something you don’t see often in a casting breakdown.

Having the opportunity to play a role where my height is celebrated felt incredible. Not only that, Lucky was described as a fearless leader; she is a woman with character who is smart and brave with a “devil may care” attitude.

I brought these qualities to life in the audition room and had a glimpse of what it would be like to play such a strong woman. It felt pretty good.

Tell-Tale TV: What else can you tell us about Lucky and what we might expect from her this season?

Ware: Lucky is a lady who just happens to carry the biggest gun around. She is a natural leader with loads of courage, and if she lets you in, you may see a softer side to her, but not many get close.

Tell-Tale TV: What would you say is the biggest challenge in playing this role?

Ware: Getting used to the weight of the prop gun. For the first couple of days on set I would have to rest very quickly in-between takes as my arms were so sore, but it didn’t take long to build guns of my own.

Tell-Tale TV: When it comes to performing, who inspires you the most?

Ware: After graduating I got to work on Ridley Scott’s Robin Hood, the one with Russell Crowe and Cate Blanchett. I didn’t have a huge role, but I was on set for a lot of filming.

I remember watching Cate command the attention of the entire set, all cast, all crew. It was a magical scene in the English country side, the lutes were playing and the moon was glowing and Cate was a Queen.

Her intensity and power was incredible. I always loved her work, but from that moment on she inspired me, and I channel that power, my inner Cate, when I work.

Tell-Tale TV: Do you have a favorite vampire in popular culture? If so, who is it, and why?

Ware: Count Dracula, the first vampire I learned of — so frightening yet thrilling. Robert Pattinson as Edward in the Twilight series is also a nice vampire.

Tell-Tale TV: What’s your favorite thing to do when you aren’t working?

Ware: I’m based in Vancouver, B.C. where the mountains fall into the ocean. It is truly stunning. I like to get lost in the wilderness, finding secret camp spots and natural hot springs.

Be sure to catch Andrea Ware as Lucky on Van Helsing, airing Thursdays at 9/8c on Syfy.

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