Interview with Raven Sutton of “The Circle”
Callie Frye, Daily Moth Reporter: Thank you for doing an interview with “The Daily Moth!”
What are you the proudest about from your experience of being in “The Circle?”
Raven Sutton: I’m proud that I was able to represent myself and be true. I didn’t go in as a catfish. I didn’t play dirty and try to mislead others. I showed who I really am and at the time I represented the Deaf community. The Black Deaf community. Women as well.
Callie: I’m curious about where “The Circle” was taped.
Raven: So, it was actually filmed in the U.K. Because the U.K. has their own version and that apartment building actually has a big circle on the exterior and everything. So even though the players are from the U.S., we still went to that apartment building for the filming.
Callie: “The Circle” had cameras all the way so I’m wondering when you need privacy, such as changing clothes or using the bathroom or shower, is it like you just go ahead and the producers will look away? I’m just wondering how that works!
Raven: So, I don’t know if you noticed on the show that we have microphones that we put around our necks. Paris (my interpreter) has one too. So every time we would go to the bathroom or shower or need privacy, we can just inform the producers through the mic. “I’ll go to the bathroom now.” Then the cameras and the mic will be turned off so nobody can see or hear anything.
Callie: You stayed in the apartment a lot. I know that a part of the game is that you can’t physically socialize with players. So were you basically locked from the outdoors? You couldn’t leave the apartment or anything? How long did you have to say in the apartment?
Raven: The whole experience was in the U.K. for a month. When we were in the apartment and played the game, we didn’t have access to phones or a laptop. We were just focused on the game all the way. We were able to go outside on the roof, to the gym, or meditate. We can get some fresh air but we couldn’t venture further because of privacy. We didn’t want those out there to know that we were filming. That area is very popular and many people know that the apartment is “The Circle” building.
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Callie: Do you think that if other deaf or hard of hearing people wanted to participate in a reality show or any other show or film, they should bring their preferred interpreter because they may trust them more? Would you recommend that?
Raven: Well, I’ve never been on TV before! So when I applied, I was not sure if I should tell them that I needed an ASL interpreter. I didn’t want them to say “no” just because they were ignorant of how or what that process looks like. They may have never worked with a deaf person so they might have not responded or declined me. I didn’t want that so I told them that I would be bringing my own interpreter.
Callie: I absolutely loved your chemistry with Marvin! I wonder if — after the show — did he put any effort into knowing you more or expressed an interest in dating you?
Raven: I know that everyone is curious! But really, after the show — we are friends. We keep in touch and we still talk today. We are just friends. We’re not dating or anything like that. We’re really good friends. He is really sweet and I always have a soft spot for him, but we are just friends.
Callie: What are your current projects? Is there anything you want to do next? Something in entertainment or something with your profession? Your personal life? What’s next?
Raven: So much is happening! I’ve gotten so many requests to give speeches or make visits or do different types of work. Various projects have come up. It’s a bit overwhelming, but I’m ready and I’m excited! I definitely want to be on TV again.
Callie: You really have an amazing personality. I want to see more of that type of representation from the Deaf community. You are a Black Deaf woman. I have to emphasize that you’re dark-skinned. I’m really inspired and many other Black Deaf people are inspired as well. It’s incredible. Thank you so much for being a part of “The Circle!” I’m grateful that you showed who you are, very proud, you were yourself. Just amazing. Thank you so much!
Raven: Bye-bye! (Blows kisses)