Hollywood’s newest “It” Girl
The FREEFORM network has a critically-acclaimed, Teen Choice Award-nominated drama serieson its network that is generating tons of buzz. Siren is about a sleepy coastal town that’s turnedupside-down when a young woman named, “Ryn” (who—oh, yeah—is a mermaid) shows up and shakes things up. Season One was a hit, and talented, sassy Southern California beauty Natalee Linéz joined the cast as “Nicole Martinez,” in Season 2. Natalee, who is in her early 20s, graces our cover of of American Teen and spoke with us about the show, her charity work, her beauty must-haves, and more.
Did you always want to be an actress?
Yes! Since I was about six years old. I’m not sure the very moment I was inspired, but I remember watching The Disney Channel and I knew acting was what I wanted to pursue. Later on--still watching Disney!--I was obsessed with Selena Gomez from Wizards of Waverly Place. I was like,‘yep, I want to be just like her!’ Although I wasn’t able to start fully pursuing acting until I turned 18, by that time I was out of high school so I could start driving up to LA from Orange County andauditioning. My mom is extremely supportive, but didn’t really know where to start when I wasyounger. I have fully been pursuing this crazy dream for about seven years now. Giving up has never been an option!
What was your California childhood like?
Awesome. I grew up in South Orange County, more specifically Mission Viejo, and Dana Point. My dad, being a surfer, was at the beach all the time so I’d tag along with him. I have two oldersisters and a million cousins, so as a kid I never really ran out of things to do. Holidays consisted of big family parties and BBQ-ing in the summer! I am very grateful for what I got to experience growing up.
Tell us why our readers should check out Siren.
Siren is a mythical drama about the mysterious town of Bristol Cove. A mermaid appears on land and two marine biologists come in contact with her and become extremely intrigued...later entranced. ‘Sirens’ are not evil, but predators of the water/land. I love seeing the dichotomy between human and mermaid...we are not so different after all.
What attracted you to the role of Nicole?
I love that Nicole has two different sides to her. In the beginning of the season she is undercover in the town of Bristol Cove. She is flirty with the local fisherman, Xander. Come to find out she isactually a lieutenant who has far more on her agenda than the “hots” for Xander. Being young, and a woman in her line of work, you know she had to work really hard to get into the position she is currently in. She is ambitious and motivated and set out to get one thing done: her job. Since Season 2 is currently airing, I can’t give too much away about Nicole’s intentions! But keepwatching to find out!
What was the audition process like for Siren?
When I got the audition for Siren, I immediately binge-watched all of Season One. I had heard of the show but had not gotten around to watching it yet. The actual audition was smooth for the most part. I remember the day was Friday the 13th, so I was already like, “Uh-oh let’s see how this goes...” I get there, and there are a bunch of girls in the waiting room all who look just like me. I got called into the room and the casting director was super cool and actually very interactive with me as a reader which never usually happens! After we did it once, she told me I pronounced a name in the scene wrong and to do it again, so we did, and again I pronounced the name wrong. We did it for a third time, and this time I left the name out entirely! I didn’t realize I left it out until I walked out of the office...I immediately felt super defeated. I thought “Welp, there goes another audition I didn’t book.” Surely that wasn’t the case, and you shouldnever beat yourself up after something like this—it is an accomplishment at the least.
What's it like filming in Vancouver?
It was such an incredible experience! I was born and raised in the OC and, although it is stunning, we do NOT have proper Fall there! I am so grateful to have been shooting during Autumn; theleaves were colors I didn’t even know existed. The air is crystal clear and the views in Vancouver are incredible...you can see mountains, city lights, and an ocean all at the same time.
Tell us about your charity work.
I currently volunteer for a non-profit organization called “School on Wheels”. It’s a charity thatfocuses on tutoring homeless children across Southern California. I love this charity because it allows me to be a positive influence on the younger generation by just spending a couple hours a week with these students. Not only tutoring them, but also hanging out and talking and playing games. It is so important for them to know that no matter where they come from or how much money they have they can pursue anything they put their mind to.
It's no secret you love traveling. What are some of your fave cities and beauty must-haves to pack in your travel bag?
My fave cities would have to be Tel-Aviv, Vancouver, and I loved Atlanta too! I always take my skin-care regimen with me anywhere I go, even if it’s just for one night! So that would be: Facialcleanser, toner, serum, moisturizer, under-eye cream. And I apply it in that order. It’s soimportant to feed your skin the beauty nutrients it deserves!
What is your go-to girls night out outfit?
I’m a pants girl! Definitely some cute skinny jeans, and a heeled boot. I’d prob pair them with a body suit and cute leather jacket. And, as always, some dainty gold necklaces. You can never go wrong with simplicity!
Tell us about your summer plans.
Honestly, work, work, work! That’s the goal, at least. I know it may sound boring, but I am at apoint in my life where I really want to get my career going. I feel like everything has only justbegun and there’s no way I want to stop this momentum now! But, I will definitely will hit the beach and pool. Also, play with my baby Godson, Logan.
Any upcoming projects?
Life is crazy right now! So many fun projects I have been working on that I can’t talk too muchabout right now, but I am excited to share with everyone what I have been working hard on!
Episodes of SIREN can be found on Hulu.com as well as Freeform’s official Website. Follow Natalee on Instagram at: NataleeLinéz