Beatrice Grannò
in
The White Lotus
season 2
Photography Max Montgomery
Creative Director & Fashion Editor Deborah Ferguson
Interview Sophie Lin
Beatrice Grannò seems to be everywhere lately. A native of Rome, she began her career after she was cast as Valentina in the Italian show, “Don Matteo”. She later captivated audiences as Mia in season 2 of the SAG Award-winning series, “The White Lotus”. To the delight and awe of fans across the world, Beatrice Grannò has shown that she is not only talented as an actor, she could also sing from the depths of her soul while playing the piano, splendidly. Aside from acting, she is also pursuing her musical career with an upcoming album in the works. It is rumored to be a very intimate album featuring Italian folk music. Recently Grannò has filmed the movie, “Euphony” in which she stars.
Beatrice Grannò is unquestionably one to follow as she navigates the entertainment industry in Italy as well as expands her presence in Hollywood.
Dress, Jewelry, Gloves and Heels: CHANEL S23
When you started out in acting school you learned to act in English. How did that come about and was it a conscious decision you had made?
The initial steps in my career had a few twists and turns, I started acting in Italy during my last year of high school, I had a role in a TV series [episode] in Italian. Then, only after approaching and considering Italian acting schools, I decided ultimately to go to London and study there. While I was there I was sucked into another world and I was convinced my life as an artist would have continued in the UK, only after I finished my education. I was brought back to Italy by some cinema and TV opportunities. By that point, I was sure my professional life was going to be primarily set in Italy. Then with “TWL 2” [The White Lotus season 2] I’m once again thrusted into the English side of acting, so it’s safe to say being open to change is the best intention I can have.
Dress, Hair Bow, Jewelry & Heels: Patou F23
You have two loves it seems, acting and music. How did you discover both of those? Which came first?
I studied classical piano as a child so technically music came first. I never had the ambition to be a full musician growing up. To me, music is what inspires everything I do, but with acting I’ve been able to focus and find my direction as an artist. Music still is the basic motor that drives my artistic side. In fact, only recently I’ve been working properly on my music project.
It was so wonderful to see your musical performances, you obviously have a musical background. Can you tell us a little bit about your upcoming album? Is it true that it is an Italian folk music album and what is it about folk music that interests you?
I have always dreamed of being able to bring my musical aspect to my acting and with “TWL 2” I have been blessed with that exact role. I’ve now been working on my debut album for two years. The first album is always very delicate, it is important to take your time and center the core aspects of your identity. I still don’t have a release window but I can tell you that in my songs I aim to find the right words to express and share the things I’m not able to elaborate in my normal life. It is a very intimate work and therefore it requires time.
What other genres of music are you interested in performing in and would you ever consider an English language album?
I’m very interested in American folk, it’s the main influence on my music so far. I’ve been writing both in Italian and English so it is very possible I will release music in English as well. It is a very different language from Italian both poetically and phonetically so it is a challenge to stay true to a single vision across the two languages, but I think it’ll be worth it.
To prepare for your musical scenes in “The White Lotus [S2]” you worked with Este Haim. What was it like working with such a prolific artist and what advice has she given you that you can use on your personal journey as a musician?
Este is an incredible artist and I’m so lucky to have met her and to have her as a friend. She showed me her vision with simplicity and precision on set and was so incredibly helpful. She facilitated my performances so much. I believe one thing I can say she helped me understand is how to keep your mind on interpretation and emotion while also working on being entertaining for your audience. That is something I cherish to this day.
Dress, Heels, & Bag: Patou
Who are some of your musical heroes? Who do you have on repeat right now?
Three names, three worlds that summarize my mood as of right now: Norah Jones, Bon Iver, and Dodie.
Your character Mia in “The White Lotus [S2]” had an eclectic wardrobe. Did she wear anything that you would have in your own closet? How do you describe your personal style?
Mia’s wardrobe evolves with the character, she transforms inside and outside as well. I personally love the white feathered dress from one of the last episodes. It reminds me of the iconic style of Marilyn Monroe. Mia even sings “Happy Birthday” to the manager, so it’s a short connection to make.
Leather Top, Leather Shorts, Belt, Heels, Jewelry, & Bags: CHANEL S23
You’ve recently made quite the impression at Paris Haute Couture Week. Is fashion something you have an interest in and what designers or brands are you currently following?
I have a great passion for fashion that I share with my mom and aunt. I actually like to change and explore so I don’t fix my mind on any particular brand for too long. If I had to find a style that represents my everyday tastes it would be a French style, with striped shirts and chic looks.
Fashion and beauty go hand in hand. In the beauty industry, we have been faced with so many choices. What are your top three must-haves in your daily skincare routine?
Personally, I’m not a very consistent or informed skincare fan. I love to change and follow trends, I do always carry with me a few must-haves tough; a lip balm, face mask, and face cream.
You are so busy, constantly working and traveling. I am sure you have special tricks up your sleeves to keep your skin looking so fresh. What is your absolute favorite special treatment or facial? What do you find to be the most effective instant fix?
I haven’t found an instant fix yet, I believe one can only see results with the effort over a longer period of time. I’m an herbal tea lover though, it’s definitely something I will always hold on to if I need to feel happy and take care of myself after work.
Knit Top, Vest, Skirt, & Ankle Boots: Patou F23
Italian beauty has always been full of allure. The magnetism of Italian women is famous worldwide. What is your secret? What do you think makes Italian women, like yourself, so magnetic? Is it the culture, or is it a beauty regimen? Is it a way of dress?
I believe this to be a myth, Italy abroad is seen as having a very sensual culture. That is only partly true, we are a people of contradictions. In some cases, you could also say the opposite. I do believe in general that European cultures have a very particular allure for North-American audiences because we share so many features of culture but at the same time we are very different in profound ways.
The magnetism you’re talking about comes from a sense of mystery and attraction to a culture you feel familiar to, it also works in reverse in that sense.
What’s next for you? What are you most excited about that’s coming up?
Right now I feel that a door has opened, and I’m grateful that “The White Lotus [S2]” has given me the opportunity to enter an international artistic environment. I’d like to pursue opportunities but also roles for which I could work hard. I’m ready for new challenges and I’m very excited for the future.
Leather Top, Leather Shorts, Belt, Jewelry, & Bags: CHANEL S23
Photography
Creative Director & Fashion Editor
Interview
Makeup
Rachel Goodwin @ A-Frame Agency
Hair
Web Layout
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