Interview by Stella Hofferman
Christopher Briney has catapulted to stardom over the past year, and there’s no sign of him slowing down. The twenty-five-year-old made his breakthrough with a leading role in Mary Harron’s (director of American Psycho) film, Dalíland, which premiered at the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival. In the same year, Briney captured hearts in the role of Conrad Fisher in Amazon Prime’s acclaimed series, The Summer I Turned Pretty, adapted from Jenny Han’s bestselling trilogy. The highly-anticipated third season is set to begin filming this year.
Briney’s undeniable talent and charm have propelled him to heartthrob status, amassing a dedicated fanbase, including 3.3 million Instagram followers. His presence has also caught the attention of the fashion world, working with esteemed brands such as Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Ralph Lauren.
Now, Chris Briney steps into the iconic role of Aaron Samuels in the adaptation of the Tony Award-nominated “Mean Girls: The Musical,” based on the cult-classic 2004 film featuring Lindsay Lohan and Rachel McAdams. Collaborating with the original creator and returning star, Tina Fey, and powerhouse Renee Rapp, who previously portrayed Regina George on Broadway, Briney’s performance promises a fresh and swoon-worthy interpretation of the beloved character. Mean Girls (2024) releases in theaters on January 12, 2024.
Suit, Silk Tank Top, Shoes: Dolce Gabbana, Watch: Versace
Do you remember the first time you watched the original Mean Girls?
I don’t remember my first time watching the original, but I do feel like it’s something that has always existed in my life, and it’s one of those movies that whenever it was on TBS, I would watch it. It’s something I’ve always quoted and referenced.
Pink Overcoat: Homme Plisse Issey Miyake, Sneakers: Kenzo s24
What attracted you to this project?
There was a lot of this project that was attractive. I mean, the story is undeniably iconic–Tina Fey is the driving force behind it! I think what may have always been the most exciting draw was just being a part of something that has all this talent behind it. Every role and every person attached, are wildly talented, and I feel lucky to have been invited into the room and participate in making this movie.
Pink Overcoat: Homme Plisse Issey Miyake, Sneakers: Kenzo s24
Shirt & Pants: Mikiosakabe, Boots: Saint Laurent
How do you prepare for a role in a musical? Have you acted in one before?
I’ve done some small parts in musicals back in Connecticut; like, I was in the ensemble in a production of Heathers when I was eighteen, and I sang for a production or two in high school. But, truthfully, I don’t know how to prepare for a role in a musical. I feel confident in my training and work ethic as an actor, and luckily enough for me, that was what was required of me for this movie!
Suit, Shirt, Apron, Scarf, & Boots: Saint Laurent S24
Jackets & Pants: Moschino s24
What 2000s slang do you think we should bring back in 2024?
I’m back on ‘dawg’; not sure if that’s 2000s slang, but it’s a word I like and it’s fun to say.
Suit, Silk Tank Top, Shoes: Dolce Gabbana, Watch: Versace
What’s your favorite Mean Girls quote?
The quote I use most from the original is definitely, “cough cough–I’m sick.” But, too many good ones to count.
Shirt & Pants: Mikiosakabe, Boots: Saint Laurent
Jackets & Pants: Moschino s24
Did you always want to be an actor? If not, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Not always. I wanted to be a baseball player for a long time. I grew up a massive baseball fan and, naturally, I wanted to do that. I don’t think I was ever good enough or had enough of a work ethic to make it work, though. And when I did start acting, it became impossible to do both, and I chose acting.
Shirt & Pants: Mikiosakabe, Boots: Saint Laurent
Outside of acting, what are the best opportunities you received this year?
Honestly, two things: I’ve been lucky enough that with the strike, I was able to take some time off and spend it with the people I love in my life—my girlfriend and my friends. I have also had a lot of time to work on my golf game—lots of golf this year. Mostly bad golf, but golf nonetheless.
Suit, Shirt, Socks & Sneakers: Kenzo s24, sunglasses: Dolce Gabbana
Suit, Shirt, Apron, Pocket Scarf: Saint Laurent S24
What’s the best piece of advice you were given in 2023?
Ummmm…Maybe the reminder that nothing is guaranteed. The advice was less a quote from somebody and more something that was brought up by the actor’s and writer’s strikes. A lot of projects fell through during that time, and a lot of people were out of jobs. I don’t like to think of myself who takes anything for granted, but it was a good reminder.
Shirt & Pants: Mikiosakabe, Boots: Saint Laurent
Jackets & Pants: Moschino s24
What can we expect from you in the upcoming year?
Honestly, I don’t know. I’d love to be lucky enough to keep working, and keep maintaining the relationships and friendships I am lucky enough to have!
Silk Tank, Pants, Shoes: Dolce Gabbana S24, Watch: Versace
Kimono Overcoat, Suit, Shirt, Socks & Sneakers: Kenzo s24, sunglasses: Dolce Gabbana
Suit, Silk Tank Top: Dolce Gabbana, Watch: Versace
Photography
Rhys Frampton
Creative Director & Fashion editor
Deborah Ferguson
Interview
Stella Hofferman
Grooming
Peter Gray @ Homeagency
Web layout
Naveed Shakoor
Photography assistant
Ethan Elliot
Thank you
Vision PR & Paramount studios