So far in 2020, Australian model and actor Evan Evagora has already featured in two high-scale, Hollywood productions. The Melbourne native starred as Elnor in the much-acclaimed series Star Trek: Picard and as Nick Taylor in the fantasy-horror film Fantasy Island. And while both have gained interest, there is no doubt that the former is a milestone in Evagora’s career.
Star Trek: Picard is set at the end of the 24th century, 18 years after the events of Star Trek: Nemesis. The series follows retired admiral Jean-Luc Picard and focuses on the extent to which the loss of Lieutenant Commander Data and the destruction of Romulus has had an effect on him. This is when Evagora’s Elnor, a Romulin warrior who later becomes a sword-master, comes into the picture; saved by Picard amid the supernova that annihilated their planet.
Through Evagora’s seemingly queer character, the series adds representation to the Star Trek realm, while examining notions of gender and sexuality. With a second season already confirmed, Evan Evagora caught up with Schön! to complete a short questionnaire discussing his career, characters, inspirations, and aspirations.
When did you realise that acting could be a career path for you?
I always wanted to be a part of film and television, I loved every aspect of it as a kid and felt it was the best way for me to express my creativity.
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
I draw inspiration from things I feel that I have a connection with, if there’s no heart behind what we do I think it shows.
When it comes to Nick Taylor in Fantasy Island and Elnor in Star Trek, which role did you find most difficult to descend into and why?
I’d have to go with fantasy islands Nick Taylor, the make up process took a lot of time, however, the upside to that was I got to hang out in Fiji during my time off…
Can you describe to us how you mentally and physically prepare to enact a role?
When it comes to character preparation each role you take is different so the preparation for the character slightly changes. However, in the initial process, I have to find some sort of connection with the character in order to give off a more genuine and realistic performance.
Which character do you resonate with the most — Nick Taylor or Elnor?
I’d have to say I resonate with Elnor the most, after reading the first script I ever got sent I found that he and myself had a lot of similarities even when it came to how we were raised. After spending about half a year filming as him, he now has a special place in my heart.
What are the most valuable lessons you’ve learnt from these two productions?
No set is ever the same as the other!
What has been your most memorable moment so far in your career?
I’d say the most memorable was being able to share the red carpet premiere for Star Trek: Picard in Los Angeles with my mother and girlfriend.
What about the most challenging?
Early call times!
If there was anything that you could change in the acting industry, what would it be?
Equal pay, equal opportunity.
After a long day of work, how do you unwind?
Normally, I unwind by making some homemade pasta and a glass of Chianti in front of the television or a book
If you could watch one film or series for the rest of your life, which one would it be?
The Simpsons.
What are you most looking forward to in the coming year?
Just to see my progression in life…
What can we expect from you in 2020?
Pointy ears!
The first season of ‘Star Trek: Picard’ is currently streaming on CBS All Access and Prime video.
This Schön! online exclusive has been produced by
photography + fashion. Sarah Louise Kinsella
talent. Evan Evagora @ Ryan Hall Management + @ Five Twenty Management
hair + make up. Vic Anderson
words. Edwin Boadu
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