America Ferrera recently appeared as the first guest on Jimmy Kimmel Live. The actress, who is a first-time Oscar nominee, discussed her nomination, her iconic Barbie speech, and her high school drama teacher.
Ferrera expressed her excitement about being nominated for an Academy Award, stating that it was a surreal experience. She revealed that she had wanted to be an actress since she was just five years old and that being nominated for an Oscar was a dream come true. She explained that she still sees everything through her 10-year-old self’s eyes, making the experience even more incredible.
The actress also shared her experience at the nominees lunch, a tradition associated with the Oscars that brings together all the nominees in each category. Ferrera explained that it was a sweet gathering where each nominee could bring one person. She described it as a freshman orientation, where nominees could meet and talk to others in their category. She mentioned that she had the opportunity to meet legendary director Martin Scorsese and thanked him for telling the story of the movie “Killers of the Flower Moon,” in which she plays a role.
Ferrera discussed her reaction to the Oscar nominations announcement. She revealed that she was at home, in her pajamas, as she had just sent her husband and kids off to school. She admitted that she wasn’t expecting the nomination and was stunned and silent when she heard her name. She called her publicist and agent, and her husband also called her to express his excitement. Ferrera shared that her kids were screaming in the car, but not out of excitement, rather because they wanted their dad to stop screaming.
During the interview, Jimmy Kimmel acknowledged Ferrera’s high school drama teacher, who was in the audience. Ferrera referred to her teacher as her “lifeline” during her formative years in the arts. She expressed her gratitude for having someone who believed in her talent and supported her. Ferrera and her teacher, Mrs. Fredtag, shared a heartwarming moment on stage.
The actress also spoke about her role in the movie “Barbie,” which garnered her the Oscar nomination. Kimmel mentioned that her Barbie speech was memorable and asked if she was aware that it would become an iconic movie moment. Ferrera admitted that she had heard people saying that, but she focuses more on memorizing the ideas rather than the exact words of her speeches. She emphasized the importance of discovering new things in each take instead of getting stuck in a specific delivery.
Ferrera revealed that her kids saw the movie and shared their amusing reactions. Her son asked if the Kens ever finished building a wall, referencing a storyline in the movie. She joked about there being many unfinished walls in the country, referring to the ongoing political debate. Ferrera mentioned that she started acting professionally at age 17 with a Disney Channel movie called “Gotta Kick It Up.” She expressed her excitement and naivety at the time, thinking that it would lead to an Oscar nomination.
In conclusion, America Ferrera‘s appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live gave audiences a glimpse into her Oscar journey and her genuine excitement. The actress’s bubbly personality and gratitude towards her high school drama teacher made for a lively and heartwarming interview. Fans will undoubtedly be cheering for her as the Oscars approach.
