An Afternoon in De Beauvoir Square With Hannah John-Kamen
British actress Hannah John-Kamen has delighted audiences in her impressive body of work which has included roles in Game of Thrones, Ant-Man and the Wasp to Spielberg’s Ready Player One. Now, she stars in Peacock’s Brave New World, based on Aldous Huxley's 1932 novel about a dystopian world—a plot that sounds eerily familiar to the current climate. Hannah spent an afternoon with ROSE & IVY, exploring the quaint De Beauvoir Square in London’s De Beauvoir Town, wearing stunning dresses from fall.
Hannah was photographed virtually in London, England by Alison Engstrom and styled by Frederica Lovell-Pank
I’d love to start out by talking about your new series A Brave New World streaming on Peacock, which is based off Aldous Huxley's 1932 book about a dystopian future, what a timely topic. Can you talk a bit about your character Wilhelmina ‘Helm’ Watson and what intrigued you most about the series?
I absolutely loved playing Helm, she is an alpha plus, Bernard's best friend. She is a soma addict – a pill popping hedonist and an artist who creates all the feelies in the world and she is also incredibly fabulous.
What has been viewers said they love about the show?
I think viewers have said it is thought provoking and parallel to what is happening in real life is now.
What typically draws you to a project—is it plot or more character driven or both?
Character driven—plot is important, but character is everything.
Alessandra Rich Dress, Belt and Earrings; Jennifer Chamandi Boots; Hat by Emily-London
Do you have any methods or practices to get into a character?
Turn up and that is when playtime begins. Know your lines so you can be free with it.
You’ve had such a fascinating career so far. What has been one of the most surreal moments?
Working with Steven Spielberg, what a magical time.
Your industry and so many others are finally evolving and advocating for representation across the board. How does it feel to play such strong female characters in blockbuster hits and have young girls look up to you?
It is wonderful, such a responsibility and I have such a sense of pride if I can inspire young girls and boys watching.
What’s one thing you know now that you wish you knew when you first started your career?
I do not think I would change a thing. I have been guided in the most beautiful way with the right people around me.
Since you’ve started filming again, how does it feel to return back to a new normal? Are there any changes that you have welcomed?
It feels glorious to be back at work, I have welcomed the health aspect as it is such an important part of the new normal.
Outside of acting, do you have any other passions or hobbies that help you recharge after a project?
My new puppy and skateboarding.
Queens of Archive Dress; Jennifer Chamandi Shoes; Socks, Stylist’s Own; Chanel Earrings, Available at Susan Caplan Vintage
What’s next for you?
I can’t say too much, but it’s all very exciting.
