Interview with Stephanie Nogueras of “Killing It”
Alex Abenchuchan, Daily Moth Host:
Deaf actor Stephanie Nogueras is one of the main characters on Peacock’s new series, “Killing It,” starring Craig Robinson. Here is an interview.
[Begin interview]
Alex: Can you tell us about your role, your character in “Killing It?”
Stephanie Nogueras:
Sure. Well, my character, Camille, is obviously the ex-wife to Craig and they have a teenager daughter. Her name is Vanessa. The family does get along but there is tension as they are trying their best to be patient and get along with the ex-husband.
[Clip from a trailer of “Killing It.”]
Nogueras: It’s a really funny storyline where (Craig) tries to find a way to become successful. It’s a hilarious, weird, crazy storyline that will make audiences see something unexpected and includes snakes. They’ll wonder what’s up with the snakes and realize that it’s a way to make money.
Alex: Fascinating. I am already aware that people do make money from killing large snakes that are a nuisance.
Nogueras: Yes, it’s a real thing.
Alex: So I’m wondering if you worked with any snakes on set?
Nogueras: Well, thankfully, no! I’ve only seen prop snakes, that’s it. But I know that they have the Animal Humane Society observing the set and making sure the snakes are doing okay. They are taken care of really well. But it’s not on my schedule! So I’m thankful.
[Second clip from a trailer of “Killing It.”]
Alex: You’re a veteran actor, this is not your first time. You’ve been on “Switched at Birth,” on “Grimm,” and on several films. With this series, how have your communication experience been like? Interpreters? Did you have to lip-read? I’m curious, do you mind explaining?
Nogueras: Sure. For this series, it was in New Orleans for four months. I found an interpreter there. They brought in several interpreters and I did interviews with them and chose my best fit. That was important to me that we fit, because obviously I sign pretty fast! So I wanted to be sure we were compatible. It worked out great, the interpreter was highly qualified and had a good personality and good work ethics, which is important to me. On all the projects I’ve done, I’ve looked for similar traits, for quality interpreters. They were with me on set all the time, yes.
Alex: That’s nice.
Nogueras: All the meetings. It was easy for me to interact with others and because it’s serious with time. I don’t want to waste my time. So yeah, it’s definitely important to have an interpreter with me so I don’t have to rely on lip-reading or writing notes. Definitely not. I’ve heard stories with other deaf actors and I couldn’t believe what they went through. It’s astonishing. I think it’s important to speak up on what we need, on our accommodations. Yes, I had an interpreter with me at all times.
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Alex: “Switched at Birth” was… how many years ago was it?
Nogueras: A while back! I think it started in 2013. Yeah, it started in 2013.
[Two video clips of Stephanie Nogueras’ character in “Switched at Birth.”]
Alex: Today in 2022, what are your observations as a deaf actor with the changes you’ve seen. Do you feel there are positive changes or are there still major issues? Generally? Do you mind sharing your thoughts?
Nogueras: Sure. I think since “Switched at Birth,” there has been a ripple effect as stories keep on popping up and deaf roles, opportunities for other deaf actors, I do believe it has had an effect on writers and producers. So, “Switched at Birth” was the start, yeah. Prior to that, there was very little. After the show, there have been more. I think that’s good. I’m humbled and blessed to keep on acting and having opportunities come up over the years. In the future, I hope to see more deaf actors of color. I hope to see more. But, other than that, I think it’s been great so far. It’s been very slow, yes, a slow progress. I think we have to keep pushing. I think we need more deaf producers, writers, directors behind the scenes. It’s so we can have support and then it will flow through.
Alex: I appreciate your time! It was nice to chat with you. Take care!
Nogueras: Thank you so much for your time. Nice to meet you too.