Photo credit: Anastasia Chomlack
I recently had the opportunity to exclusively interview Erin Karpluk. to learn five random facts about herself and what inspired her to be a part of Family Channel’s award-winning series Holly Hobbie. Check out my interview with Erin Karpluk below:
Loryn: What can you tell us about your recent appearance on A Million Little Things?
Erin: Where to start?! Originally the character was introduced as Anna Benoit, Peter’s wife, who unknowingly was married to a sexual predator. I assumed I would be on for a couple of episodes and that would be that. Two seasons later, my character is now divorced from Peter, dating Eddie Saville, making amends to the girls who Peter abused, Peter has died, and Anna is dealing with alcohol addiction while navigating a romantic rollercoaster. Lots have changed! I could not be more thrilled DJ Nash continued to weave my character into this wonderful web of A Million Little Things. I love how the show tackles big themes, LGBTQIA, racism, fertility, addiction, sexual abuse, suicide, and disability, and still manages to infuse in laughs and lots of love.
Loryn: You have already been able to work with some impressive names so far in your career. Is there anyone you would love to work with someday?
Erin: It’s always been a dream of mine to work with Sir Anthony Hopkins. I would give anything to look into those twinkling blue eyes and play. I’ve always followed his interviews & watch all of his shows, he is so talented and humble. He once said on the “Actors Studio” it’s okay to ‘steal' from other actors, I’ve stolen a lot from him over the years.
Loryn: What inspired you to be a part of Family Channel’s award-winning series Holly Hobbie?
Erin: Up until Holly Hobbie, I had never done a show that was appropriate for my friend's children and my niece to watch. This iconic doll was a memorable part of my childhood as I grew up in the generation that had Holly Hobbie bedsheets and wallpaper. When the script came my way I jumped at the chance to be part of it. I love how Sarah Glinski wrote the story. It is empowering for young women and addresses strong themes that are important for our youth. It was a very easy fit for me and I love shooting in Toronto. I am thrilled to have worked on this show for 6 years and 5 seasons and made so many great friends. Papa Hobbie and I still talk every week and love watching our tv kids grow up & thrive personally and professionally.
Loryn: What lesson has the entertainment industry taught you?
Erin: There is no such thing as rejection, just re-direction. Everything happens for a reason. Keep showing up and doing the work and everything will fall into place. Working for over 20 years now, I have such an appreciation for every role the cast and crew play in a production. From the script supervisor to catering, everyone plays a pivotal role in every frame you see on your screen. Treat everyone on the team with the same respect and kindness, we are all interwoven and a big family. As an actor, I’ve learned I need to be crazy prepared, so that “on the day” I’m able to throw it all away and just play & know the groundwork has been done. Always strive to stay open, passionate, and grateful no matter how many years you’ve been at it.
Loryn: What is something people would be surprised to learn about you?
Erin: I grew up in Jasper, which is a small town of 5000 in a National Park in the Canadian Rockies. My graduating class was only 32 people. Needless to say, we did not have acting programs or courses so I grew up playing hockey and skiing instead. I'd never acted before my first day as a Theatre Major at UVIC at 17. I didn’t even know what a monologue was but somehow managed to fake my way through 4 years!
Be sure to stay updated with Erin Karpluk by following her on her social media platforms:
Instagram: @ErinKarpluk
Twitter: @ErinKarpluk
Facebook: Erin Karpluk