BELLO Desire Issue | Nicky Doll

Desire

LEtter From The Editor

Digital Art by Stéphane Marquet

Dear Readers,

In this issue of BELLO, we celebrate the magnetic pull of desire, a force that drives us to dream, to create, and to express our truest selves. On our covers, we are thrilled to feature extraordinary talents who embody this essence in their unique and powerful ways.

Nicky Doll, an icon of French drag, has left the world breathless with her performance at the Paris Olympic ceremony. Her artistry, boldness, and elegance capture the spirit of a new era, where identity and expression know no boundaries.

Alongside Nicky, we are honored to present Pomme, a singer whose voice and lyrics resonate with raw emotion and authenticity. Her music, like desire itself, is both tender and fierce, weaving stories that speak to the heart and soul.

As you turn the pages of this issue, may you be inspired by the stories of Malia Baker and Kylie Cantrall, Jacob Bertrand and Martin Bobb-Semple, the visuals, and the voices that explore the many facets of desire. From the bold to the subtle, the personal to the universal, this issue is a tribute to the beauty of longing and the power of embracing who we truly are.

Sincerely,

Stéphane Marquet

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NICKY

Doll

NICKY DOLL @thenickydoll

Photography + Creative Direction DYLAN PERLOT @ dylanperlot

Styling ANDREW NGUYEN @lil_saigon

MakeUp TAMMY YI @ tammyyi using Kimchi Chic Beauty for Exclusive Artists

Hair KRISTINA BEAUTY @theglamtech

Interview ANNA DÓRIA @annadoria._

Photography Assistant JACOB BARRI @jacob.barri

Production ISABELA COSTA @isa.chromatic

MAISON PRIVEE X BELLO MEDIA GROUP @maisonpriveepr_la @bellomediagroup

The Paris Olympics Queen Who’s Redefining Drag and Daring the World

As the world’s spotlight shines on the grandeur of the Paris Olympics, the opening ceremony has sparked more than just awe—it’s ignited a firestorm of controversy. At the heart of this storm stands Nicky Doll, a trailblazing drag artist, and Drag Race France host who transformed the Seine River into a stage for defiant expression. From dazzling in torrential rain to facing down online harassment and threats, Nicky’s journey is a testament to resilience, artistry, and unapologetic authenticity. Now, as she takes legal action against those who dare to threaten her, Nicky Doll is not just making headlines—she’s making history. Join us as we dive into a conversation with this fearless icon about her artistic evolution, her battles, and the unyielding power of drag.

Corset Dress NAMILIA @_NAMILIA_

Skirt ON AURA TOUT VU @onauratoutvu

Red Gloves TARIK EDIZ @tarikedizofficial

Choker BOOTZY COUTURE @bootzycouture

Black Veil PIERS ATKINSON @piersatkinson

Spiked Headpiece RINALDY YUNARDI @rinaldyyunardiofficial

Jacket DOLCE & GABBANA @dolcegabbana

Sparkle Knit Dress MARIO FUGNITTO @mariofugnitto

Sunglasses ANNA-KARIN KARLSSON @annakarinkarlssonofficial Gold

Earrings HOUSE OF EMMANUELE @houseofemmanuele Gold Cuff NORITAMY @noritamy Ring NAZRANAA JEWELS @nazranaajewels

INTERVIEW Interview

How does hosting Drag Race France and representing your home country feel? What do you hope to bring to the show as a host that reflects your own experiences in the drag community?

From being a contestant to being the host of my franchise feels better than any crown I could have received. I started as the first-ever Frenchie to step in the Werk Room, before franchises, before the audience was really familiar with international drag. Now we are seeing a global phenomenon around the art of drag which is finally understood by most!

As the first French contestant on RuPaul’s Drag Race, how has your French heritage influenced your drag persona, and how do you incorporate elements of French culture into your performances?

Oh, I’ve always been extremely proud of my roots and showcasing them through my aesthetic. I always say that Nicky Doll is the perfect intersection between 90’s Parisian runways and Japanese anime villains. A strong, charismatic (and a bit evil) French lady.

You’ve spoken about facing cultural barriers during your time on Drag Race. How did you overcome these challenges, and what advice would you give to others facing similar insecurities?

I did have a lot of struggle managing to be my most authentic self in English with all the wit and qualities I had in French. Luckily this is all in the past as I have been living in the US, in English for a while now. But at the time, as a perfectionist, it was very hard not to be at the same level of who I was in French and I refused to go the easy route, by giving in the clichés only. I am a very layered and funny queen and I wanted to show the finésse of it all. Luckily I get to do it now year after year on Drag Race France and around the world, live on stage; I’d really only advise you to stay true to yourself, follow your heart, and know when it is your time or not. As long as you hustle, your time will come!

Since your first appearance on the franchise, how do you feel you’ve grown personally and professionally? Are there any specific moments that you look back on as pivotal in your journey?

Oh my god, I am a whole different human since season 12. Since then I had to keep having a career even though we were going through a global pandemic. I now have a music career, signed with a major (Universal Music), and have TV gigs, world tours, and a queer travel show. And I am just starting. Looking back I’d say that leaving early on season 12 and having that revenge craving led me to go head-first into everything I’ve started to work on. Lift up your sleeves and work like there were no other choices!

Being described as a "look queen" suggests a strong focus on fashion and aesthetics. What inspires your unique style, and how do you choose the looks you want to create?

I am a proud look queen but this term is being thrown around without the proper understanding of the layers of it. I am a comedy queen, a performance queen who also knows how to pull some sickening looks, it’s an extra feather to my very feathered wings! But to answer your question, being a look queen is having a real passion for fashion. I try to pull references in everything that I love, whether it is from a book I am reading or a movie reference, it can even be the colors of a butterfly that will give me inspiration for a color combination for a look.

Moving from Paris to San Francisco and then to New York is a big transition. How have these different locations influenced your drag and your understanding of the drag scenes in various parts of the world?

I arrived in SF with a very strong Parisian clubbing aesthetic. I left SF allowing myself to also give pageant drag in some of my looks. As for NYC, I arrived there as a fully rounded queen who liked to tap into many worlds of fashion and experience many kinds of performance. The New York scene is the most diverse and extremely competitive it can be. If you can make it in Drag New York, you can make it anywhere!

Carrying the Olympic flame is a ritual of unity, hope, and excellence. As one of the most recognized drag performers worldwide and the second drag queen to ever carry the torch, how did this experience resonate with you, and what message do you hope it sends to the world?

It was an incredible honor. Before France, there were never any drag queens to carry the torch. So it’s an insane thing for representation and proof that Drag is now seen as an art and not some obscure kinky thing queer people do. I’ve been very happy not only because I carried the torch but also for performing at the opening ceremony!

The opening ceremony for the Paris 2024 Olympics sparked controversy, with some people wrongly interpreting the performance as being inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper. Given the reactions from both the Catholic Church and conservative politicians, how do you personally interpret the role of art and performance in challenging traditional narratives, especially in such a high-profile setting?

Yes, the Olympics opening ceremony has received quite a reaction. 85% of it was extremely positive around the world and we proudly showed what France really looks like: diverse, colorful, of all shapes and genders, and with strong and revolutionary values. Sadly some remaining 15% have felt that it was an attack on their views of the world, and their religion even as the “Festivities” number that I was a part of made these people think of “The Last Supper” by Da Vinci. Even after this was debunked, as it was a reference to “The God’s feast” with Ancient Greek mythology gods, the hate and phobias didn’t stop. Because these people weren’t offended by us maybe reference religion, they were offended to see us on their screen, period. And to these people, I say “stay mad”, because we sure ain’t going nowhere.

In your opinion, what role does intention play in art, and how do you think audiences can be encouraged to engage with the underlying messages rather than surface-level interpretations?

Intention is everything in art! But I also think that interpretation is a right that everyone has, but to force others to agree to it isn’t. Art is subversive and starts conversations. We’re all extremely proud of our work in this ceremony!

Did you have any concerns or discussions about the potential backlash while preparing for this performance?

Nobody saw the backlash coming because, again, it was never related to anything religious. But as a queer person, getting criticized, insulted is sadly something we’re used to. And if I’m being attacked by bigots who unleash their homophobia, transphobia, and fatphobia, then be it. Let’s have everyone see their true colors, and be careful because if you’re being too graphic on social media, I might sue for defamation and cyberbullying.

Desire

Pomme

POMME @pommeofficial

Photography KIRT BARNETT @wavykirt

Photography Assistant CELESTE @lipstick.tracess

Styling SOPHIA RAHIMI @spicysoph_

MakeUp ROBERT RUMSE @robrumseymua Hair GABRIELLA MANCHA @iamgabriellamancha

Interview ANNA DÓRIA @annadoria._

Production + Location ISABELA COSTA @isa.chromatic BELLOMEDIAGROUP X MAISONPRIVEEPR_LA @bellomediagroup x @maisonpriveepr_la

Dreamscapes and Melodies: Exploring Pomme’s World of Music and Magic

French singer-songwriter Pomme mesmerizes worldwide crowds with her dainty melodies and heartfelt lyrics. From the bustling streets of Bogotá to the sunlit stages of Los Angeles, her Consolation tour has been a transcontinental journey of emotion and discovery. In this interview, Pomme shares her thoughts on the power of language in music, the inspiration behind her dreamy sound, and what it means to create art within such a delicate historical context.

Skirt SOLGO ATELIER @solgoatelier

Tank Top Talent’s Own

Choker MY DEAREST WORLD @mydearestworld

Sunglasses AKILA @akila.la

INTERVIEW Interview

Consolation has been a transcontinental tour, which took you from Bogota to Canada and, just a week before we are having this conversation, to LA. What were the overall vibes of your last Los Angeles concert?

LA was the last show of my very first American tour. It was only my second time in the city and when I came in Dec 22 for the first time, I didn’t get to see anything. I left with this feeling that it was just too big for me and that I could never appreciate such a gigantic city in which you can’t really walk or ride a bicycle, but I did not see enough that first time. this time, I had the chance to stay for 2 whole days!! after the show. the show was so nice, I loved it and I had so much fun. and then I got to get a more precise feeling of the city, which I find myself LOVING: the hikes, the sunsets, the nature around, and the people.

French is now the 5th most-spoken language in the world yet we can see crowds singing along with you at your every concert, from South to North America. Was the language barrier ever a concern to you?

Not really! it’s always been very important to me to travel with French lyrics. it’s part of who I am. I listen to a lot of artists whose lyrics I don’t understand, Japanese, Spanish, Greek, Arab, and Italian. I like the idea that we can find another language through art and that you don’t have to understand everything to feel emotion. although I find it very cool when non-french-speaking people learn French through my music!

You create an atmosphere that feels like a safe space for queer girls and gender-nonconforming people in a holistic sense. Did you have this feeling with any artists growing up as a queer person yourself?

Well, I wish! But no. I grew up in the suburbs of Lyon, in France and I didn’t really have any example of queer artists in the media at that time, or even queer people around me. there were just a few, mainly gay men. I think in that optic it is very very important for me to create that space for queer people cause it is so much needed. but I remember going to that Lady Gaga show when I was 13, not even knowing that I was queer yet, and feeling that it was very special. She had a drag queen open her show. I was so fascinated and felt that new windows opened in my mind, but didn’t realize it was linked to my queerness at that time.

I’ve read that you grew up in a Catholic environment for part of your early years. Did it influence your artistry by any means?

I think maybe in the lyricism of some of my melodies. church songs are so beautiful and taught me at a very young age how to harmonize and create that « choir » feeling. I was also in a choir for 10, years, which influenced my sense of harmonizing a lot.

What’s the importance of constructing video clip visuals in your practice? In terms of video art, you have debuted in the film “La Vénus d’Argent”, by director Héléna Klotz. Can we get a glimpse of your role in this narrative?

It went on screen last November, in France. Now, it is streaming on Canal + platform. I am playing the role of a young woman who wants to be a trader in a mainly masculine world. It was an intense and interesting experience. I learned a lot about letting go and being in the present moment, and it helped with playing shows, too. For me, image and music are always linked. I often have precise visual ideas when I write songs, so I keep them in my phone notes and develop them when it’s time to shoot a video clip. my dreams and nightmares are also a huge bank of images that I use a lot.

Love is a recurrent, intense theme in your songs. How would you define the importance of romantic love throughout your life? We also notice a persistent dreamy quality in your songs. How do you turn dream space into a palatable part of the composition process?

Funny that I talked about dreams without reading the next question! Love is one of the most inspiring, mysterious, intense, and elusive feelings, thing in life. in all its forms. My songs are often tinted by love but also nature, people, and things that question me. and I don’t think romantic love is the most important love. I think friends, dogs, animals, plants, and chosen family, can feel like the most precious thing in life. creation also. it is probably more important than romantic love in my eyes. staying aware and open to anything new. And, yes, my dreams inspire me in so many ways. for visuals in particular, but I sometimes sing melodies when I’m half awake, record them and later, turn them into songs.

Also, we’d like to know about your aesthetic references…

I like so many different things. korean movies, country, and folk music, but also books, romantic poems, but also just what surrounds me. Natural cycles of life, death, nature, mushrooms, and seasons. I’m also very very attached to magic and fantastic aesthetics. I’ve always needed to believe in magic to keep believing in life. surrealism is a very interesting artistic current in that realm.

Are there any musicians you’ve been listening to and everyone should know about?

Aunt Sally!

What are your plans after the end of the Consolation tour?

I’ll be writing songs in Japan for 3 months at the end of the year. Also, resting if I manage to. I want to find new ways of creating, and trying new stuff!

Desire

YOUNG HOLLYWOOD

Navigating Early Fame, Activism, and the Future

At just 17, Malia Baker is already making waves across multiple entertainment platforms, transitioning seamlessly from classic TV to streaming hits and feature films. Balancing a burgeoning career with a passion for activism, Baker's journey is a testament to her dedication and capability. In this insightful interview, we discuss the evolution of her career, her commitment to social causes, and her vision for the future. Join us as we explore the dynamic world of Malia Baker, where youthful exuberance meets profound purpose.

MALIA BAKER @maliabakermsb

Photography BELVA CHAN @belva_chan

Creative Direction ISABELA COSTA @isa.chromatic

Styling LO VONRUMPF @stylelvr

MakeUp BOBBIE RILEY @bobbierileybeauty

Hair MILES JEFFRIES @milesjeffrieshair

Interview ANNA DÓRIA @annadoria._

Production + Location ISABELA COSTA MAISON PRIVÉE X BELLO MEDIA GROUP @isa.chromatic @bellomediagroup x @maisonpriveepr_la

You possess a diverse acting career for someone who’s only 17! Can you tell us how it was transitioning from classic TV to streaming to film while still in your early teens?

That's a big question. I don't know if it's fully hit me, to be honest, I feel like you just kind of take it as every job comes and you are grateful for whatever comes your way and whatever opportunity you're able to possess at that moment. So I've just been, every time a job comes around that I book and I'm able to work with amazing people... It's just a moment of, okay, this is happening, be happy. Remember this moment, this moment, everything is so temporary. So remember this moment is what it is, and then move on to whatever's next, rather than sitting at home for a couple of months or being off in another place. So yeah, no, it's been it's been surreal. And now being here at Disney, it's so much fun.

Also, we can see that you promote awareness about some political issues, like feminism, in your public platforms. At what point did your interest in collective wellness start?

Since I came out of the womb, girl! I don't know, I feel like being a human on this earth, there's a part of humanity within us all. And if you don't see that within another person, then I feel like everybody does. Everybody has a pet that they've loved. Everybody has an art that they've admired. At some point, everybody has their favorite weather, their favorite color, and their favorite ice cream flavor. If you have that part of you, then you're able to have a part of you that is involved

in wellness as humans as a whole. But I think I can blame it on my, I can think of my upbringing a lot. In terms of just growing up in an all-female household, I grew up with my younger sister and my mom. Her being a single mom, and throughout the years has really just shown me how strong women are. And she's been my biggest role model throughout it all. And as soon as I downloaded social media, I knew I wanted to use my platform, not for myself, but for others. And that connected me with organizations like The Grassroots Organization and Girl Up, the UN initiative. And they've just been such an amazing community to delve into and fully find myself as I've grown up in this industry, because I am, I'm still a youngster. So it's very amazing to be able to call these people, my peers, and also my biggest admiration. What common activities for a 17-year-old do you still manage to maintain despite having such a busy routine?

Mmmm... Common activities for a 17-year-old... I still make mistakes. I'm still a little silly. Every now and then I'm still learning. And I'm learning with my friends. I'm able to hang out with my friends every single I mean, I get to hang out with my friends on my job, too. I really can't say much. I feel like the common 17-year-old experiences aren't so as linear. Everybody has their own experiences, but graduating high school, being able to hang out with your friends, and going for a little coffee date is different. It's very chill, and if not that, then staying at home binging on Netflix binging a series and just having some ice cream. I don't know. Simple things like that really make the world go round?

Is there any advice you received from more experienced actors that you keep for yourself?

Yes, I work with Mark Feuerstein on Baby-Sitters Club. And he told me that if you're not learning from something, if you're not learning from an activity that you're doing at the moment, then it's time to move on. And I think that I've held that so so true to where I'm at in the industry right now. I've done really contrasting jobs so far. I just did this survival indie horror, one in the winter. And then now I'm on Descendants. And it's very crazy to be able to look at them both and say "Wow, I really learned so much not only about my craft but about myself during that time." And then I learned from Brandy on Descendants that to remain to your authentic self and be great I need to add this crazy thing that we call the industry because it is so true. It makes you human at the end of the day instead of a press robot so

Who are your biggest personal references when it comes to acting?

I feel like my biggest admirations when it comes to acting, I've really loved Ayo Edebiri recently, she is the girl on The bear and Bottoms and so many other things. She's incredible. She directed a couple of episodes of The Bear on this newest season, which I'm already binging. But I think that would be so cool to step into one day because I really see myself going that route and seeing another girl, especially a girl of color in this industry strive and fulfill it in such a quick, not even a quick amount of time, but work really, really hard for it. And the time that she's had so far. Is very admirable. And I just give her all the props. I would love to follow a bit in their footsteps in the coming years.

...And your biggest struggles?

Well, when I was younger, I'd say that it would be the crying scenes, I couldn't tap into that once I used to watch so many videos on YouTube, that would be like just drinking off water. And the tears will come naturally, if you feel it in the moment. Or people would say like use a tear stick. And I always just wanted to really feel it in that moment. So I did, it's been my biggest struggle. But I You get used to it over the years, and you really tap into it your own way. And you figure you figure that out for yourself. So I don't think any YouTube video could really help you in that situation. But no, I've loved learning that and learning that you don't have to have the drama or the struggles or the trope of being a struggling artists to create great art, I think is really important. And I think it's made my mental health to where it's at, which is a really great place. And I think it's a lesson that we can all learn

from an earlier age than going through the struggles and the highs and the lows of learning it through other ways. So yeah, those are my biggest struggles, I guess not really struggles just learning curves.

As part of Gen Z, a social group that grew up with unrestricted access to the internet, what are your strategies to maintain a healthy relationship with social media?

I feel like taking a break from it every once in a while has been the biggest thing that I learned from social media. I downloaded social media and I was never really into it. In a way, I downloaded it from my job because I had to add like 12 to post things for the things that I was in to promote it and to be a part of it socially, as well. But I feel like yeah, just learning and finding a balance that works for you. I have learned for myself that waking up and not going on it right away is very important to me. I have to be off of my phone for the first like hour, have my day and just go through the motions. And then I'll go to my emails and then I'll go to Instagram. And then I'll see what I've been tagged in and do all the things that need to be done to kind of keep this job rolling, in a way. But yeah, just make sure to take a break and don't take it too seriously. I mean, they all originated to be this fun, silly act. So don't take them too seriously. Just have fun with them!

You’re about to star in the feature Hair of the Bear while working as its executive producer. Yet another mind-blowing conquest for someone so young! Can you tell us in which ways this experience is different from your previous works?

Yeah, I feel like this experience was different. It was my first bleeding role, being able to work literally every single day. And it was also my first time working as an adult on set. That was my first time doing that, which meant much more longer hours. But I was like you said I was also executive producing, which is so fun and cool. And I think opened my eyes to all the possibilities of what can come from the industry as a young girl of color as well, I never really felt like my opinion was heard or valued in the same way, as you know, a single tear would be I acted on screen. So yeah, I just felt like it was an eye-opening sort of situation of "Oh, there's so much more than I thought there was!". And I'd love to be able to continue that route in the future.

What is the best part of initiating a career early in life? And the most difficult one?

I'd say that you always have timestamps on where you're at, you always have like a film or a TV show or a moment that you're in the public. And you're able to say like, I know exactly where "I was at, in my own world at that point!". Because, you know, what the public sees isn't really what's going on for you; It is what the public sees. And that's just it. They're very separate things. But looking back, I think it's been so cool to be able to be like, that was me when I had my first braces and that was so sweet. I remember that moment. And at the time, I hated it. But I was 12. And being able to kind of just be really accepting of your past self and love her for all she is, perceiving even the most embarrassing moments as a blessing.

Girl, I'd have to say the same thing you have time stands for everything. Even the worst moments, you're like, "Oh, that's out there, isn't it?". Then there was a rough moment going on in my head. But, no, I really do think it all comes down to this ying-yang balance of "If this happens, this will also happen". Like I said, Everything is so temporary that even the good moments and the bad moments, they don't last for too long until you have your next moment. And that's really deciding on what you put out there and what you want to receive back. So yeah, the timestamps, they can be a little tricky at times. But, ultimately, it's so, so cool to look back on.

Martin

Bobb-Semple

From Stage to Screen: Martin Bobb-Semple’s Artistic Evolution

At just 25, Martin Bobb-Semple has already carved out an impressive career in the entertainment industry From his early days in English theatre to his current role as a series regular on the hit Netflix show “All American: Homecoming,” Martin’s journey is a testament to his talent, hard work, and unyielding passion for his craft. In this exclusive interview with BELLO Magazine, Martin opens up about his experiences growing up in the industry, the differences between working in the UK and the US, and how his personal style plays a significant role in his life. He also shares insights into his inspirations, ambitions, and the exciting adventures that have shaped him along the way. Join us as we delve into the world of Martin Bobb-Semple, a dynamic actor whose story is just beginning.

MARTIN BOBB-SEMPLE @martinbobbsemple

Photography DAVID HIGGS @higgsy_photography

Styling BENJAMIN HOLTROP @benjaminholtrop

Grooming HEATHER WEPPLER @heatherlurk for Exclusive Artists using ILIA and Camille Rose

Interview ANNA DÓRIA @_______elcosmosyanna

Production + creative Direction Isabela Costa @isa.chromatic

Production + Location ISABELA COSTA @bellomediagroup x @maisonpriveepr_la

Despite your young age, you possess a consolidated career in arts, starting your theatrical journey at 9 and debuting on television as a young adolescent. How does being involved in a work environment at such an early age influence your practice until today?

Oh, great question! Because as a kid, I didn’t understand that I was working, if that makes sense. So, like you said, I started when I was 9. And for me, it was never a job. It was never “Oh, I’m at work right now”. It was like, this is fun. I’m doing this for fun. You know, it became a job once I realized that one, I was getting paid for it, and two, I was very tired. You know what I’m saying? Like the long days and long hours, it was a lot. But again, it was fun. So it didn’t feel like a job to me. Now, as an adult, I appreciate the fun in it a lot more because I’ve always wanted to be an actor. So for me, even to this day, it doesn’t feel like a job. It doesn’t feel heavy in any way. It’s fun for me! Even yesterday, I was shooting something until 4 a.m. I was tired, yes. Still, it was something that the child in me still sees the fun in. And that’s where What I’ve taken from my childhood to my adulthood is that ultimately what I do is fundamentally joyful to me.

What are the main differences between being an actor in England where you were born and took your first steps and working and now working at American productions?

If I’m honest, I haven’t personally seen any major differences. Overall, all productions operate the same, of course, with their particularities. The only difference

is maybe that, I haven’t done a film yet, for example. But I know the difference in film production is that you have a different time. You may be shooting one scene in a day or two scenes in a day. Whereas in TV, you’re shooting four or five scenes, right? So it’s a lot more, sometimes even seven scenes a day. In film, I feel like you can take a little more time during your day to focus on one or two scenes. But whereas on TV, it moves a lot more quickly. So that’s not specific to UK or US, that’s the same in both. But I just think, definitely for me, having done a lot more TV than film, I’ve noticed the biggest difference between them comes down to the pace of things.

You started your artistic journey at English theater. What are the overall vibe differences between the English theatrical scene and American television?

So, the training that I got was very classical British training, which I feel like a lot of people look to in their practice. Some people want to train, you know, the very classical old-school English way. Because when I think in terms of the training, the one you get in the US, especially in LA, is very different from the one you would get in London. That’s because the way that we’re taught to embody our character is a lot different, the way that we’re taught to break down a script is a lot different. There are a lot of nuances that we don’t necessarily learn in LA, but I learned as a kid. So that helped me to embody my characters in a very different way from what I would have learned if I had just done screen acting classes in Hollywood, for example. It doesn’t necessarily make me better than other people. It sets me apart in the way that I have a very different

understanding of what it is to play a character. There are a lot of nuances that we learn in the UK, or at least that I learned them. I can’t speak for everybody, but there are a lot of those nuances that I learned that I still use to this day.

From your Instagram feed, we can sense that you are consistently creative about your outfits. What’s the role of having a personal style in your life?

Oh, well, honestly, I just go with what looks good in my opinion. What I think I can wear, what I think complements me. I don’t have a strict vibe or style. If I feel like it looks good on me, then I’ll wear it. If I feel like it complements my personality that day, then I’ll wear it. Yes, I do try and keep up with the latest fashion trends and all that kind of stuff. But sometimes that may not work for me. So I’ll tailor it to myself. Growing up, I had a very stylish family. My brother always had a very authentic style. My mom and my dad were also all very, very full of creativity in their wardrobes. So I took inspiration from them growing up. And I molded that into my sort of style as I got older.

Very intuitive process, then?

Yeah, for sure, for sure. I feel like, yeah, I kind of just looked around, watched and learned, and then tailored it to myself. I feel like I have a very good understanding of what I like and what looks good on me. But I also know that, sometimes, you can push the boat out a little bit more and wear things you’re not used to wearing, which I did today at the photo shoot for BELLO. At the same time, I still wanted it to compliment me, and I still wanted it to look good. Otherwise, there’s no point in clothes wearing you. You’re supposed to wear the clothes. So yeah, I feel like I live by that motto.

Can we explore a little more about how your family inspired your fashion sense?

Growing up, I would always see them in these really cool outfits, and my family’s Caribbean-born. So, for them, they had a very interesting, old school, but yet modern style that I picked up on, right? Yes. And again, over the years, they tailored it to the different generations and different decades. I saw that, and growing up, I took little gems from them and made them more personable.

Also from your Instagram account, your experiences worldwide are all over your photos. Can you name the most exciting place you have visited recently?

Oh, that’s difficult. But what I will say, I most recently went to the Dominican Republic. That was amazing. I went with a couple of friends, and that was one of the best trips I’ve had in a very long time. And another one, randomly, is Barcelona. I love Barcelona. Barcelona is a beautiful, beautiful city. I’ve been to Madrid, I’ve been to another small town called Valladolid, but Barcelona was an amazing city. I can’t wait to go back.

You have recently upped to series regular in the Netflix production “All American: Homecoming”, what’s the impact of this change on your professional journey?

Well, this season has been… It’s been challenging. It’s been a great journey. From where my character Lando started, at the back end of season one, and then to season two, I was recurring, and this love triangle started to form. And now in season three, you get to see the growth of my character. And that’s been the most amount of… I don’t want to say fun again, because I say fun so much. But it’s been a really interesting journey for me and my character. And it’s been a great time to just explore that and really get to learn more about this character. My castmates are amazing. And the ones that I got to work with very closely this season genuinely helped my journey. But yeah, it was very challenging. There was one episode in particular, which you’ll see, that was the most challenging in my career so far. It was very, very, very challenging. But we did it, and I got through it. And I can’t wait for people to see it. It was a huge challenge, but, most of all, a great opportunity. And we had a lot of fun with it.

Are there any traits of your character, Lando You feel personal identification with?

Not to say that I fully agree with him. But he has this interesting charm about himself that I can relate to. I find myself doing things that he would sometimes do. Me and him are very different in a lot of ways. Like, he’s very calculated. He started very obnoxious, a bit of a jerk. He was rude, a bit cocky as well. Things that I don’t believe that I am at all. But through the journey, again, the journey of him, he’s shifted into this, lovable guy who had this love triangle, and now he’s softened a little bit. And this new side of him is more similar to maybe how I am than his other side was, which was this, you know, really aggressive, angry guy. And there were reasons for that. He was aggressive and angry because he felt he deserved things that he didn’t have due to other people in the show, other characters. For me, our similarities would probably just be that I mean, he’s a bit goofy, which I think you’ll see. He’s a bit goofy this season, and

I’m like that. You know, I like to joke. I like to clown around a little bit. And he’s like that. So I was able to bring aspects of myself to him this season.

Do you plan to conciliate your work in theatre with your work in the television career in the future? Going back to doing theatre at some point?

I think so. Yeah, I think so. I could never not go back to doing theater. It’s where I started. A lot of my training was theatre-based. So, one day I will. I don’t know when. I’m very curious as to when that time will be. But I definitely will at some point. I just think I’ll need to wait for the right project. But I will, for sure.

What are your desires and ambitions for the long-term future?

I mean, I have a lot. I want to get into film. I want to do feature films, for sure. I haven’t done one yet, so that’llbealotoffun. ThefirstonethatIdo,Iwantittobetherightone. Iwantittobethe right film with the right story, the right cast, and the right meaning behind it. And the right character, as well. I want to produce, I want to direct. I have a lot of ideas in my head for great films. I just need to put it on paper. Once I find a way to do that, and once I get to collaborate with some great writers, I’ll start to create my own stories. And, again, storytelling is something that I love doing. I’ve loved doing it since I was a kid. It will never leave me. As I get older, I’m going to find new waystotellstories. And,as I said,getting more into film and the whole producing and directing side of things will be one of my next moves.

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Jacob Bertrand

YOUNG HOLLYWOOD

From Bank Robber Dreams To TV screens: The Versatile Journey of Jacob Bertrand

Jacob Bertrand may be a familiar face to fans of Kirby Buckets and Cobra Kai, but his journey to the screen is anything but typical. Starting with aspirations that had little to do with acting—like becoming a bank robber—Jacob’s path took an unexpected turn when his mother’s creative Christmas cards landed him and his sister spots at an agency. What began as a fun escape from school quickly grew into a deep passion, fostered by mentorship from seasoned actors and a love for diverse roles.

Now, with nearly two decades in the industry, Jacob has evolved into a versatile performer, balancing TV, film, voice work, and even a podcast, all while staying grounded with the support of his tight-knit family and lifelong friends. In this interview, Jacob opens up about his unexpected start, the funny moments that have stuck with him, his love for martial arts, and his dreams of tackling even more challenging roles in the future—including the possibility of playing a villain or starring in a rom-com, all for the love of storytelling.

JACOB BERTRAND @thejacobbertrand

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You’ve been in the acting world since you were a child. Did 9-year-old Jacob dream of becoming when he grew up? Did he always want to be an actor, or were there other dreams in his heart?

Um, no, my dream was to be a bank robber. That was the thing I really, really wanted to do growing up. I got into acting because my sister wanted to try it, but we didn’t know anyone in the industry. So my mom just sent Christmas cards with mine and my sister’s faces on them to some agencies, and one of them responded and said “Hey! We’ll take all your kids!”, and we kind of just started doing it. So I was five when I started and didn’t understand what it was at first. It felt like just skipping school, which is awesome to me. Then as I got older and just met cool older actors who mentored me about it, I realized “I genuinely like acting… A lot!”. That’s sort of how my love for acting started.

What’s one of the most unexpected or funny things that happened on set when you were younger? Do any stories that still make you laugh today?

I remember, there was one time when we were trying to teach one of our cast members how to throw a football, or just throw a baseball, throw… A ball. And he was

having a really hard time with it. Then his dad walked by, and we went like “Hey, we’re trying to teach him how to throw…” His answer was something along the lines of “Oh yeah, I love throwing!”. And our friend is throwing it weirdly every time. Then we give his dad the ball, and his dad grabs the ball and performs the exact same horrible throw, and we just thought it was really funny that it just came directly from his athletic father.

From Kirby Buckets to Cobra Kai, you’ve taken on some diverse roles. How do you think you’ve evolved as an actor since your early Disney days?

Oh, man, I think I’ve just been fortunate enough to be given opportunities to grow and show what I can do. Hopefully, there will be more opportunities to grow and to find cool characters. But, yeah, I’ve grown as an actor just trying new things a lot. I think I’m just constantly trying new things.

You’ve trained in taekwondo both as a kid and for Cobra Kai. What’s the most memorable moment you’ve had in martial arts training? Any hilarious mishaps or proud victories?

Oh, man, I would say I learned this isn’t really martial arts, but with all the stunt guys, I got told in a couple of days my character had to do a cheat gainer, which is like a forwardmoving back movement. And I learned how to do a backflip a year ago, and I’d never done a gainer before, like, “Oh, shoot! Let’s try to learn it.” So just going and drilling it over and over with all the stunt guys who helped me out, and it was just fun being with a group of guys who were experts in their field, trying to teach me. Luckily enough, I was able to learn it. I don’t know if it’s in the final cut or not, but I got to do the flip on the day.

There is a moment in season four where, when Tori wins the all-Valley, they lift her hand. I asked the directors if I could do a blooper where I would run out on the stage, tackle her then lift her up. So we got to film that and it was a really fun, sort of Victorious moment. That blooper is somewhere. I don’t know where it is, but they were rolling on that day. So, hopefully, at some point, we’ll be able to find it. The internet doesn’t miss anything!

Voice acting for shows like Bubble Guppies and Batwheels must be a blast. How does it feel to bring animated characters to life?

I love animation as a medium, and I get to have so much fun, even if it’s just playing different background voices and all the different shows. Yeah, it’s fun! I’ve always loved animations ever since I was a kid. I enjoy getting to do anything and everything I can.

You’ve juggled TV, films, voice work, and a podcast. How do you balance all these different aspects of your career?

Oh, man, I’m lucky that I had really good parents in my life! They’ve always been supportive of me. My family’s really tight, and I think that balance comes from them. And, you know, I was lucky enough that I could go to public school, so, having to make time for friends and downtime was always a big thing for my parents as I grew up. They would always take care that I wasn’t just all work, and then I got to be a kid. It’s hard though, I mean, this week alone is a lot of work, but the work that I have to do isn’t really, really work. And that’s because I love it. As an example: Today! Did a photoshoot, got to hang out with nice people, and now we’re sitting in a cool room doing an interview, like on some simple art, and… That’s my job! That’s a pretty sick job. So although it is work, I think it’s not as draining as probably other fields are, I’d say, just keeping a good level head and finding the worklife balance is the biggest thing for me.

Do you have any tricks for staying grounded amidst the whirlwind of activities?

I’ve had the same friend group since I was in kindergarten so I’m very blessed in that aspect. Diving into it, I think social media can be a huge trap. I have an Instagram, download it to post stuff, but I never really keep it on my phone. I don’t have Twitter. I’m not on Facebook. I think social media is super bad for your brain, and I don’t really take part in it

Also, maybe my sort of laid-off, laid-back personality comes from the routine I had growing up. I would go to school once every month a week, just because I’d be filming something and never really had a hiatus. So I wasn’t in public school that much, but when I was in public school, I was usually ahead of the curriculum that they were doing. That’s because I was on independent study and had extra time to, you know, go ahead. And whenever I was at school, it felt like rest for me. School was not very stressful because I had already gotten all my work done. So my school experience was just hanging out, having fun, getting to relax with my friends, and not worrying about being on set. I’ve been blessed enough that I don’t struggle with memorizing stuff, so that was never really an impediment, and I just had so much fun. I get to do so many things that are so fun, and I enjoy it so it doesn’t feel super stressful to me. Even when there’s a bunch of interviews and then a photoshoot and then an audition. And, sometimes, you’re even flying somewhere to film a new job. Stuff has never felt too stressful to me, because I’m just so grateful to be in the position that I’m at. And I’ve been doing this for 19 years now so I understand this industry is so harsh, and it can be so brutal, but when it’s good, it’s great. And I just want to enjoy it.

Looking ahead, is there a dream role or project you’re itching to tackle next?

Ever since I was a kid, I have loved the Coronado trilogy and Anchor Wright. I think he’s an amazing director and I would love to work with him. I also love Antoine Fuqua. He’s so awesome. He does something that I would love to work with in terms of a specific type of role.

Adding to this, I would love to play an evil person! It’s been so much fun when Hawk was evil in Cobra Kai that I just had a blast getting to do that. Even if it’s like a murder or psychopath, that would be interesting. One of our gaffers on Cobra Kai, Ed, came up to me one day super randomly and was like, “You know what, Jacob, you should think about doing a rom-com.”, I’d never thought about that before, but after Ed told it to me, I’m like, “You know what? Ed, for you, I will do a rom-com!”. So eventually, one day, I would like to do a rom-com for Ed. I think it’d be a fun thing.

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