Sky Katz knew that she wanted to pursue a career in acting and music from the moment she took part in America’s Got Talent back in 2016. Today, 6 years later, the multi-hyphenate talent can proudly say loud and clear that she is doing work that she loves and makes her happy. With hard work and effort, she has become the main protagonist of the new Netflix drama series, Surviving Summer, where she plays the character Summer Torres.
This project, described by the artist as “one of the greatest things to happen to me,” has given us a glimpse of her talent and fluency in front of the camera. Few people can boast of having achieved what Sky has achieved at her age. And if that wasn’t enough, Sky has released a new single called Why Did You Call and has been named a National Ambassador for the Sunrise Association.
Schön! chats with Sky Katz about filming Surviving Summer, her new single, and more.
Sky, you have just become the main protagonist of the new Netflix drama series, Surviving Summer. Tell us how you feel! How did this project come to you?
Landing the role of Summer Torres has been one of the greatest things to happen to me. I feel so blessed and lucky every single day. It not only gave me the opportunity to have a lead role in a television series but enabled me to learn how to surf which I fell in love with. I auditioned by submitting a self-tape along with a reel of me skateboarding, which is a key part of the character.
What would you highlight about your character Summer Torres? Do you think she shares any similarities with you?
I would highlight the fact that nothing Summer does is without intention or reason. She is not to be misunderstood haha!! She and I can be similar in the sense that we are both calculated and in our heads a lot.
Can you tell us about any funny anecdotes you experienced during filming?
There is nothing like totally falling on your a** while skating a half pipe! That never got old.
The series can be seen anywhere in the world; that’s a really good thing, don’t you think?
I love how appreciated the show is in so many different places! So cool. We see and feel all the love. Speaking on behalf of the whole cast and crew, it means so much to us all!
Let’s talk about your participation in America’s Got Talent. How would you define your time on the show and what do you think you got out of it?
My time on the show confirmed that performing was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. Being on that stage, doing my music in front of all those people… There is nothing better.
Music is something you are also passionate about. Which field do you feel more comfortable in? Which one would you say is more difficult to succeed in?
I’d say both acting and music equally have their unique set of challenges and “easiness.” Any “difficulties” that come with doing both of those fields are well worth it.
You recently released a new single called Why Did You Call? What has it meant to you?
I am really excited about my latest release including the companion music video/film which comes out 8/8. I wrote and directed it and am so happy with how it came out. Why Did You Call? is the second song in the new pop punk direction I am heading in and will lead up to an EP release later this year!
Leaving showbiz aside, we got to know about your philanthropic work and your role as a National Ambassador for Sunrise Association. Tell us a little bit more about this.
I’m so happy to say I’ve been a part of the Sunrise Association for years now. Helping others is one of those purest ways to feel uplifted. Sunrise is such a great organization that I hope to continue to work with.
We are currently in the middle of the summer season. What does Sky do on a day when she doesn’t have to work? Your favourite hobby?
In my off time, I like to spend as much time with my family as they’re my favourite people in the world. I like working out too. My dad is like my workout buddy haha, it feels good to do stuff I love with people I love.
You have almost 1.5 million followers on Instagram, does this put any pressure on you? How important is social media to you?
Half of me loves social media, and the other half does not so much. On a few levels, there is some level of pressure. I have such great fans I always want to provide content for. I also understand I have a platform and a voice and it’s my responsibility to not be silent during important times.
And finally, why do you think Schön Magazine readers should watch Surviving Summer?
Once you start the series, you’ll never want to stop! The backdrop of the beaches in Australia was incredible, the surfing, the amazing music and the great cast make this show appealing to all ages!
Surviving Summer is streaming now on Netflix.
photography + creative direction. Matallana
fashion. Nata Bocha
talent. Sky Katz
casting. Alabama Blonde
hair. Takuya Yamaguchi @ The Wall Group using Oribe
make up. April Greaves @ Art Department NY and LA
production. Brooklyn Story Studio + Alabama Blonde
post production. Brooklyn Story Studio
words. Gabriel Córdoba
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