There are so many shows out there, you just never know which one to binge-watch next. Why not consider giving Netflix’s One Day at a Time a chance? It’s how we live life anyway, right?
Actress Isabella Gomez stars as teenager Elena Alvarez in Netflix’s series One Day at a Time. It’s a new, hip, “today” version of the TV classic; the original series aired from 1975-1984. This reimagining of the popular show features a Cuban-American military mother named Penelope, played by Justina Machado, raising Elena and Elena’s brother Alex (Marcel Ruiz) with help from her own mother, Lydia, portrayed by Hollywood icon Rita Moreno. It’s a great, heartwarming, family-friendly show that tackles issues such as friendship, sexuality, dating, you name it. Engage in a binge-fest of the show with friends— but before you do so, read our interview with Isabella.
You’re originally from Colombia. Tell us what your life was like there.
It’s a magnificent place! I was born in Medellín, which is an incredibly social city. I grew up with family and friends around me all the time, eating the best food in the world and learning a ton, both from my rigorous school work and the layered humans that live there. I moved to the U.S. one month before my 10th birthday and I feel so blessed to have been raised both in Colombia and here.
Did you grow up in a bilingual home? What languages were spoken?
Sort of? My parents did speak English and my school taught all of us as well, but we never really spoke it at home until we moved to the U.S. When I had just moved here I was so focused on learning English that I stopped speaking Spanish and was starting to lack fluency. So even now, my parents and I mostly speak Spanish in order to help me retain the language.
Did you always want to be an actress?
For as long as I can remember, yes! I also wanted to be a psychologist and a lawyer focusing on criminal justice.
How do you juggle school work with your acting career?
It’s never been easy, but because I deeply value both major aspects of my life, I make it possible. Especially in the past 4 years, working late into the early hours of the morning—or on the road to and from work—has been my experience coping with my responsibilities as a simultaneous student and actor. My favorite subject is English because I have a strong love for reading, writing, and analyzing literature.
What attracted you to One Day at a Time?
Well, originally what attracted me was that it was a job. Anyone in this industry knows that, especially when you’re starting to get credits, all you want is to work. However, I really lucked out and could tell from the beginning that it was a very special project. I loved that this Latinx family was being represented accurately, positively and as deep, interesting humans. I loved that it was a sitcom, but it had scenes that felt like a punch to the heart. I loved that Elena wasn’t your typical TV teenage girl and that she was smarter and more cultured than me at that point in my life, because I knew she’d help me grow. Overall, I was attracted to “One Day...” because it felt like it was going to be a show that made people feel ‘seen’ and appreciated, and I think it's lived up to that.
For those who have never seen it--why should you binge?
Well first of all, it’s a super quick binge. About 6.5 hours per season! In those hours we’ll take you through a rollercoaster of emotions, from hysterically laughing to ugly crying, all while giving you at least one character or situation that you personally identify with.
Did you know about the original series from the 70s?
Once I was in the auditioning process I became aware of the original series and watched a few clips to familiarize myself with the tone. I didn’t know about it before, though!
What’s next for you, career-wise?
Who knows! That’s what’s so exciting about this industry, you never know what’s coming. I just wrapped production on Season 3 of “One Day...” so I’m just now getting back into auditioning and from there it’s a waiting game. I am recording an animated character for a Disney show, but that’s all I can say right now!
What advice do you have for kids and teens interested in an acting career?
PREPARE, PREPARE, PREPARE. Opportunities can be few, so make sure that you are ready for when they present themselves. Be in acting classes, improv, watch all sorts of TV and films, listen to podcasts with other industry professionals, and so on. Do everything in your power to be the best, most educated and capable version of yourself that you can be so when that big audition comes in they have no choice but to book you.
Any plans to attend college?
It’s definitely something I want to do in my lifetime, but I don’t have any plans for it in the near future. I find that I’m a little crazy when it comes to academics and if I’m not able to give them all of my effort and attention it can make me feel inadequate or like a failure, so I would love to go at a time where I can safely take some time off and focus on my education.
What charities/causes are near and dear to your heart?
I’m passionate about so many different things that it has been tough choosing a single charity or cause to pour myself into. Obviously, the LGBTQ community has become very near and dear to my heart and I’d love to involve myself further, as well as animal rights and the environment.
Will the show be back for a 3rd season?
We just wrapped production on Season 3 a few weeks ago. It will be out on Netflix in early 2019 and we’re keeping our fingers crossed for a fourth!