INTERVIEW BY IRVIN RIVERA

Exclusive interview with actress, singer, dancer, model and comedian SWAYAM BHATIA. The rising star’s rise started at the young age of three. She currently stars as Sofi in the Disney+ sequel series “The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers.” Currently in production on its fourth season, Bhatia can also be seen portraying Jeremy Strong’s daughter Sophie Roy in HBO's Emmy Award-winning television series "Succession."

In this interview, Sway spoke about her acting journey, her love of music and rap, her dream to be in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the challenges and the highs in her career and more.  

Hi Sway, how are you?

I’m doing great!

How excited are you for the 2nd season of “The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers?” and How would you describe Sofi’s character evolution throughout the seasons of the show?

I’m beyond excited for everyone to see the work the cast and crew have put into this season. We were also able to have a premiere this year and it was my first time on a red carpet for a show that I’m on. It was so magical! Every little detail of the event was unique; I mean how can you top riding a Zamboni on NHL Ice?

Sofi’s character goes through phases but continuing playing hockey, while maintaining a balance of fun and friendships- is what’s important to her. That’s the stance she left off with at the end of season one, and her passion to play is present in the second season. I think the fans will be able to relate with her character and the journey she goes through.

What’s unique about the show?

The show is unique in the sense that I think that an entire family can enjoy watching it and relate to the story. We portray struggles and pressures faced by our peers and I think parents will appreciate that.

What’s the best part about playing your character?

I love playing Sofi Hanson Bhatt. Being able to play a young female hockey player of color is empowering not only to the fans, but also for myself. To be honest, I aspire to be like her. I love that she knows how to speak her truth while still being vulnerable. In addition, she goes the extra mile to ensure that she supports her friends in any possible way.

You’re also part of the critically acclaimed show “Succession” as Sophie Roy. What was that experience like?

Playing Sophie Roy is truly an honor. I get to work alongside Emmy Award winners and an incredibly creative team. I’m able to naturally learn by just being in their presence. They’re also extremely supportive of my goals and accomplishments and I think of them as mentors. It’s been well over 6 years since I first met the Roys, and I’m still learning skills from several of the veteran actors. I can’t wait for season 4!

At a young age, you’ve been in several major shows and productions. What are the challenges and the highs that you’ve experienced during filming?

There are so many challenges we face as young teens especially when you have a passion for the arts.

I have to maintain going to school, be flexible when it comes to staying up late nights and sometimes miss out on birthday parties. I love being on set and working and with the help of my parents I’m able to balance it all out. I think if you really want to, it’s possible to do it all. When I‘m filming, my least favorite word is “Pumpkin”, which means that a minor has timed out of working hours for the day.

How did you manage to rise above these challenges?

It’s not easy, especially now that I’m in high school. I think the key is to have family and friends that support you and be open to guidance from them. At times I have to give up personal plans but I find the same joy when I’m on set filming or preparing for the next role.

What is your proudest moment from your career so far?

My proudest moment is when I got the chance to shadow director Jay Chandrasekhar on a few episodes this past season. My voice and opinions were included in the conversations and I was even able to give feedback to the cast including Josh Duhamel. The other proud moment would be when I co- wrote a rap song with Maxwell Simkins in episode 7.

Everyone’s process is different, and each has their unique approach to things. Can you walk us through your creative process whenever you go and film a scene?

I always read over everything the night before. When we arrive on set, we aim to change into our scene outfit, and I make sure to reread the scenes while waiting for hair and makeup in the trailer. Most times, there’s a rehearsal and I use the opportunity to ask my questions I have for the director.

How did acting start for you? Was it something that you’ve always wanted from a young age? Who and what inspires you?

I started at a very young age back when I lived in Dubai. My mom said that I gravitated towards music, in particular Bollywood music. It was a few dance classes at first, and the next thing I knew, I was on a stage with Priyanka Chopra at a major concert at the Meydan in Dubai. My love for the arts just kept growing from there and here I am now into music, rapping, and songwriting. I also hope to become a producer/director and continue my acting career.

What’s the biggest discovery that you’ve made about yourself in the last few years?

Funny enough, I love to sleep and cook.

Aside from acting, what else keeps you busy?

Besides music (which is my lifeline), I’ve been boxing and drumming for some time now. This year I recently started doing Pilates and found a new therapeutic outlet. I love the challenges and I always feel more energetic and prepared to face the challenges.

What’s your dream project?

I’ve always wanted to be a part of the MCU, so being a part of Marvel would be my dream project for sure. In addition to that, it would be to play Alexander Hamilton in Hamilton and work with Lin Manuel Miranda.

What are you most excited about in the near future/this year?

Currently, my biggest excitement is being a sophomore. I love being with my friends again and having the balance of being a regular kid. I’m back at my junior professional program at the dance theater and I truly missed all the in-person moments over that last year. In addition, I think within the next few years I’ll be ready to share the music I’ve been working on.

What’s a valuable lesson that you’ve learned that you always carry with you?

Work hard and keep training because everything else is out of your control - especially in this

industry.

If you were a book, what book would you be and why?

Just a Normal Girl.