Recently I spoke with Aliyah Royale Star of AMC’s “The Walking Dead: World Beyond” about her character and the new show.
What can you tell us about your character?
Iris is the brainy, responsible sister to Hope. She naturally takes on leadership roles. She’s class president at the Campus Colony and she also comes up with the wonderful idea to leave the community in search for the girl’s father. On the road, Iris is battling her goal to keep everyone safe with her desire to blossom into the fearless young woman she wants to be.
Iris is so similar to who I am, and who I want to be as a woman. It is effortless playing her. The biggest challenge has been staying true to her young, curious nature while also making sure she’s still a character that represents strong decision-making and problem-solving.
How would you compare/contrast the show with the prior shows?
We have the same grit and gore that fans love on the flagship series and FTWD. But World Beyond presents the idea that “the end of the world” isn’t really the end of us as people, as a community. There’s life after the apocalypse. Where the other shows center on surviving, World Beyond is all about living.
What was filming like?
Running around and doing all the stunt work in those heavy jackets and 100 degree weather was insane. But I enjoyed being playing a role with so much physicality! And being able to really bond with my cast mates made every day feel special, not just like I was coming into work.
What was your reaction the first time you saw a Walker on set?
I have always been afraid of walkers. I first saw them during a night shoot at maybe 2 a.m. They were in groups. I had walked past a group of twenty, and I just knew that was going to be the end for me. Our special FX team is really talented. We have some of the coolest walkers on our series.
How would you categorize the action in the show?
The action on the show is always critical to the storyline. It’s not just about jump scares or playing into a fantasy. On the road, these kids are in real danger. Every interaction with a walker changes our characters.
What do you think are the main reasons for the continued appeal of the franchise?
I think TWD franchise gives us memorable characters that we can identify with and aspire to be like. Their courage, their heart, everything that makes a TWD character significant. They are superheroes.
How has the lack of in person conventions affected your promotion for the show?
It’s been hard! The last time I got to see fans was 2019 NYCC. I miss the energy of that room! I look forward to being able to talk with and bond with the fans safely in person soon.
How have you been spending your time in Isolation?
I looooooove good food. So I’ve been doing everything I can to continue to support my favorite local eats. I’ve also been figuring out where else my creativity lies in this industry. Writing my own projects has been therapeutic.
What else do you have coming up?
I look forward to going back to shoot season two of World Beyond. I miss my castmates! Until then, I will be at my TV every Sunday night enjoying my favorite program.
