Catching up with ‘Supernatural’s Lisa Berry

She has graced the screen of “Supernatural,” “Slasher,” “Bad Blood,” and “Shadowhunters.” Fans who have been lucky enough to meet her, know that Lisa Berry is a multi-talented actress with a heart of gold. Nerd Alert News has had a chance to catch up with her and talk about her time on “Shadowhunters” and “Supernatural” as well as what keeps her motivated.

 

Alicia Barr: “Supernatural” fans know you as Billie, and we knew from the very first introduction that you have an amazing voice. You have blown fans away at conventions, singing alongside Louden Swain, and other stars of the show at the Saturday Night Special. Many fans want to know if you have considered or will consider making an album like some of the other musically inclined stars of “Supernatural” have done. And, if so, what are some songs you would hope to include on that album?

Lisa Berry: First, you’re very kind, thank you, and second, I’d love to make an album, but it would require a team effort between me and the fans to make something like that happen. What would be on the album? Probably a gospel cover of ‘Oh Death,’ and of course covers of Proud Mary and ‘Feel like making love.’

AB: When things have gotten rough, how do you stay motivated? You post inspirational quotes on social media to help inspire your followers, what inspires you?

LB: I practice self-care in the form of daily rituals like mindful breathwork and positive thinking. It’s not always easy, and sometimes it takes everything I’ve got just to feel okay. But by training my body to be relaxed when there’s nothing to stress about makes it easier to do so when something really stressful (and out of my control) does come up. There’s a quote by Richard Marcinko that I love, “The more you sweat in training, the less you bleed in combat.”

I feel blessed to have a community of lightworkers around me and knowing that I’m not the only one doing this spiritual work daily is what keeps me going.

AB: You have played some pretty badass roles. Billie, for instance, is played in such a powerful and intense way, and without ever raising your voice, we all know we wouldn’t want to cross her. What are some barriers you have had to overcome in the industry to get roles like Billie since most perceived badass roles are given to men?

LB: I’m gonna answer this one with a quote. “Be So Good They Can’t Ignore You.” – Steve Martin

I can’t force anyone to cast me so, all I can do is work hard, have patience and persevere. I trust that I’m doing my soul’s purpose and that the rest will take care of itself. The roles I’m meant to play I will play.

AB: Another show that we loved you in, is “Shadowhunters.” Cleophas was another fierce character that you played to perfection. Can you tell us about your time on that series? Were you aware of the book series prior to taking on this role?

LB: I didn’t read the books beforehand, but I did after I was cast to get familiar with the world.

As for working on the show and playing this role, it was my great pleasure to work with Kat McNamara and the rest of the cast. Cleophas was a cool character I wish I got to explore more.

AB: We’ve talked about the industry and how difficult it can be already. We have seen the effects of the Me Too movement and have heard about the wage gaps between men and women, but what has been your experience as a woman of color in this industry?

LB: My experience in this business has been just that. Mine. No two artists have the same journey, and everything is relative. So, to be honest, I don’t like to look at my career in comparison to others. I know there are wage gaps, lack of inclusion and inequalities, but I prefer to focus on setting my goals and doing my best to achieve them, but mostly I am grateful that I don’t have a ‘me too’ story.

AB: We know that Billie is a part of this final season of “Supernatural” in a big way. As someone who was a fan of the show prior to joining the cast, what are your thoughts about this iconic ending and your role in it?

LB: It’s not enough to just say ‘thank you’ to the cast, crew, and fans, (who deserve so much more than that), but I’m grateful for all the amazing experiences I’ve had since becoming a part of this fandom. I’ve loved every minute of playing Billie, but just like an angel blade through the back is not the end, this is not goodbye. I can’t say much else other than it’s gonna be epic, and I’m proud AF to be a part of the final season.

Written by Alicia Barr