RYAN MICHELLE BATHÉ stars in the Amazon Prime holiday film ‘SYLVIE’S LOVE’ as the ‘boss’ who inspired Tessa Thompson’s character to pursue her dreams and empowered her as a successful, Black woman in the entertainment industry in the 60’s.

Ryan is currently in production for CBS’s ALL RISE, with its second season currently airing. In the show, she plays the bold and brilliant character of Rachel Audubon, opposite Simone Missick. Previous television credits include roles in ABC’s THE ROOKIE, Fox’s EMPIRE, NBC’s THIS IS US, Lifetime’s ARMY WIVES and TV Land’s RETIRED AT 35. In film, Bathe co-starred in Lionsgate’s ONE FOR THE MONEY, as well as the independent features ALL ABOUT US, BROTHER TO BROTHER and LEAVING BARSTOW, for which she received critical acclaim on the festival circuit. 

Bathé just launched her own production company in partnership with Viacom, with an emphasis on emerging talent and underrepresented voices.

In this exclusive interview, read on as Ryan talks about acting, Sylvie’s love, her family, and what book she would be.

How was your 2020 like?

It went well as can be expected. There are ups and downs, some really great bright spots in the middle of all the chaos. 

How was it to play the character of a Black female producer in the 60’s in SYLVIE’S LOVE?

It was nice to be able to play such an extraordinary woman. Many people were the first to do certain things or hold certain jobs and we will never know their names. It was nice to pay homage to them. 

How would you describe this holiday film and what should the audience expect from it?

Simply put, it’s a beautiful old fashioned love story. Beautifully shot, told, and acted, you will come away believing in love. 

What’s your favorite part about playing Kate?

I loved the clothes!!! I also loved getting to work with Tessa and Eugene. They were out of this world good. And fun!!

What’s the most memorable moment for you throughout the whole process of making the film?

I think it was being on the old fashioned set. It was so perfect and detailed. I was amazed!

Let’s talk about ALL RISE. How would you characterize Rachel Audobon’s character evolution throughout the seasons of the show?

Well. We haven’t seen much evolution. I think. We are still in the laying the ground work phase. Discovering who she is and what she wants. 

What’s the best part about playing her character in the show?

She’s so competent. It’s amazing!!!!

What are the challenges and the highs that you experienced during filming?

Well, it’s COVID but the crew, the cast and the producers are all working overtime to keep everyone safe. They are a tight knit family and they look out for everyone 

What is your proudest acting moment ever?

I did a three person Hamlet in Italy and that was pretty hard work. I was proud to get through it!

Everyone’s process is different and each has their unique approach to things. Can you walk us through your creative process whenever you go and film a scene?

It’s truly different every time. Truly. Every scene requires something different, physically, mentally, emotionally.....you have to prepare to play each scene in different ways. 

Who and what inspires you?

My kids! They are hilarious! Actually, it’s my whole family. Sterling (Sterling K Brown), of course. My mom and dad, my grandmother when she was alive, my aunts, my godmother, my cousins, my sister and my niece, and my brother in law is hysterical!

What’s a valuable lesson that you’ve learned that you always carry with you?

Try and be kind. 

If you were a book, what book would you be and why?

“And For God’s Sake, Put On Some Lotion!”