Tracy Spiridakos, the talented actress known for her role as Detective Hailey Upton on NBC's Chicago P.D., has recently opened up about her transition to her new role as Anna Pigeon in the upcoming TV show based on Nevada Barr's book series. In an exclusive interview with HELLO!, Spiridakos revealed the challenges she faced in adapting to her new character, highlighting the importance of 'unlearning' her previous habits and embracing a fresh perspective. This shift in mindset is crucial for any actor stepping into a new role, and Spiridakos' experience offers a fascinating insight into the creative process behind the scenes.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Spiridakos' journey is the contrast between her previous role and her new one. As Hailey, she was a seasoned police officer with a well-established routine and set of habits. However, Anna Pigeon, the character she portrays, is a national parks ranger with a completely different set of skills and responsibilities. This 180-degree turn required Spiridakos to unlearn and relearn, a process that she found both challenging and enlightening.
"The training that they go through for Park Rangers and a police officer is similar, basic training, but then the training is really different after that," Spiridakos shared. "I actually had to unlearn and unknow the things that I knew, because I would go to kick in a door and I'm like, 'Wait, Anna doesn't do this,' whereas Hailey was doing it every day. Those subtleties were information I had to unlearn." This statement highlights the importance of adaptability and the need to embrace change in the acting world. It's not just about memorizing lines and delivering performances; it's also about understanding the nuances of each character and the world they inhabit.
The transition from Hailey to Anna is not just a change in profession but also a shift in mindset. Anna is a woman who has experienced tragedy and loss, having moved to Glacier National Park after the murder of her husband. This personal history influences her actions and decisions, and Spiridakos had to tap into these emotions to bring the character to life. "I was really grateful to be a part of the project," Spiridakos said. "I hadn't read the books, but I read the pilot and completely fell in love with the character. She's funny, she's edgy, she's impulsive, and there's so much to her that I couldn't wait to get in there and start."
The show, which is based on Nevada Barr's book series, offers a unique blend of suspense and natural beauty. Set in the stunning but terrifying world of Glacier National Park, the series explores the mysteries and crimes that unfold within its borders. As each episode focuses on a new crime, the audience is treated to a captivating blend of suspense and the breathtaking landscapes of the park. "I was really grateful to be a part of the project," Spiridakos said, "and executive producer Lea Thompson shared was her 'number one choice' for the role."
The transition from Hailey to Anna is not just a change in profession but also a shift in mindset. Anna is a woman who has experienced tragedy and loss, having moved to Glacier National Park after the murder of her husband. This personal history influences her actions and decisions, and Spiridakos had to tap into these emotions to bring the character to life. "I was really grateful to be a part of the project," Spiridakos said. "I hadn't read the books, but I read the pilot and completely fell in love with the character. She's funny, she's edgy, she's impulsive, and there's so much to her that I couldn't wait to get in there and start."
In conclusion, Tracy Spiridakos' journey from Hailey to Anna is a testament to the power of adaptability and the importance of embracing change. As she navigates the challenges of her new role, she offers a fascinating insight into the creative process behind the scenes. From unlearning old habits to tapping into new emotions, Spiridakos' experience highlights the transformative power of acting and the joy of bringing characters to life. As the show airs, audiences will be treated to a captivating blend of suspense and natural beauty, thanks to the talent and dedication of Spiridakos and the rest of the cast and crew.
