18 Questions With introduces 1883 readers to the brightest young artists, actors, creatives and beyond. From childhood memories and guilty pleasures to their latest ventures and upcoming projects, our goal is to bring you closer to the people who inspire and entertain us. 

LA-based rising actress Sophie Mudd has landed the role of a lifetime. Originally only cast as an extra, the creators of the new HBO series, The Idol, quickly recognized Mudd’s star potential and wrote her into the show. Co-created by Abel Tesfaye (a.k.a. The Weeknd), Reza Fahim, and Euphoria creator Sam Levinson, The Idol follows the booming romance between pop singer Jocelyn (Lily-Rose Depp) and LA club owner Tedros (Abel Tesfaye) who is secretly also a cult leader.

Mudd portrays the role of “Sophie” who is a member of Tedros’ underground cult. Already boasting nearly 3 million social media followers and booking her first ever on-screen acting gig in one of the most talked about new shows on streaming, Sophie Mudd has proved that she’s one of the industry’s most promising young actresses. 

As the first season of The Idol unfolds, Mudd talks about getting the role in the show, her dream dinner party guest list, and more.

What’s one exciting thing that happened to you this week?

I was at the Cannes Film Festival! It was probably the most exciting thing that’s ever happened to me. I’ve never been to Europe before, and this was such an adventure.

What was the last thing you read?

“Tomorrow Tomorrow and Tomorrow.” It’s about a couple who falls in love over their passion for video games. It was so well written and fun to read. I’m a gamer and identify with the characters. 

Favourite memory growing up?

4th of July in Kentucky! My dad is from Louisville, Kentucky and I spent all my summers there growing up. There’s nothing like eating red, white, and blue popsicles while catching lightning bugs and watching the fireworks on a warm night. Kentucky is such a departure from where I live in Los Angeles, and I love the sweet simple life there.

Where was the last place you traveled to?

I was in Japan last month for cherry blossom season. It was my second time visiting and probably my favourite place in the world. I am so fascinated by Japanese culture and how clean it is there!

What was the last thing that made you laugh?

There were two owls outside my house one night at 2:00 AM. Something about being half asleep and watching them play was funny to me!

What’s your night time ritual?

I never fall asleep without doing my full skincare routine. Recently I’ve also been obsessed with red-light therapy, it helps me sleep and it has amazing health benefits.

Who would be on your dream dinner party guest list?

Marilyn Monroe, Julia Roberts, and Princess Bubblegum from Adventure Time. Are fictional characters allowed?

Favourite quote from a film or TV show?

“Eat whatever you want and if anyone tries to lecture you about your weight eat them too.” – Spirited Away 

What’s your go-to karaoke song?

To be honest I’m not a karaoke girl but anything Britney Spears with a fun group!!

Favourite item in your closet?

My Solomon’s because they’re so comfy, I have them in 3 different colours. I also love all my vintage motorcycle jackets that I’ve thrifted. 

What made you want to pursue acting?

I always loved art and being creative & have always liked the idea of using myself as the canvas for my art. I was so shy growing up and being on the set of The Idol pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way possible. Through that experience, I learned that acting is something I’m truly passionate about and would like to pursue.

How does it feel to be making your on-screen debut in The Idol?

It feels crazy! It’s so cool seeing myself on the big screen. I went onto set with an open mind and this experience has exceeded all my expectations. It was so interesting being on set and then seeing how it all came together on film. 

What was your experience like working with such an all star cast?

I had the absolute best experience working with The Idol cast. Waking up and getting to work alongside such talented people is a dream. It makes me want to work hard and be the best version of myself.

What was one thing you learned from your first ever on-screen role? 

You have to be fearless. Watching Lily-Rose Depp act was really inspiring. She’s just so free, it’s beautiful! I learned what an important attribute is to act. 

Originally only cast as an extra, what was your reaction to finding out you’d be written into the series?

I was beyond excited and felt like I was in a dream! I’ve followed Sam Levinson’s work and admired his artistic ability and so I felt honoured to be invited back.

Is this your first Cannes Film Festival? How was this experience for you?

Yes, it was my first time at the Cannes Film Festival. The experience was exhilarating –  the entire week was filled with makeup hair photoshoots and parties. It was also my first time seeing the final cut of The Idol. It was so surreal seeing it on such a big screen with a huge audience. 

What’s your favourite behind the scenes memory from working on The Idol?

It was really fun getting to know the cast and crew. Most of the show was filmed at Abel’s house, it was cool to see his guest bedrooms transformed into cast rooms and hair/makeup spaces instead of the usual trailers. Some days we were working 13 + hours and you get to bond with the whole cast.

What does the rest of 2023 look like for you?

Traveling, working, acting classes, and hopefully some spontaneous adventures! Also in September, I am going to Amsterdam and Iceland on a girl’s trip with my mom!

New episodes of The Idol are available every Sunday on MAX. 

Follow Sophie Mudd @sophiemudd

Interview Rachel Martin

Photography Jonny Marlow