Whether she’s slipping into the regal poise of Queen Elizabeth I in ‘Becoming Elizabeth’ or diving into the stylised world of ‘Dinner for Five – Killer for One’, Alicia von Rittberg has a rare ability to vanish into her roles. Frolicking in Fendi for her Schön! 48digital cover, she opens up about her latest work, the ever-evolving nature of her craft, and how fashion helps shape the identities of the characters she portrays.
Her performances are layered, immersive, and intuitive. And yet, acting wasn’t part of the original plan. With early roots in Hip-Hop dance and later studies in corporate management and economics, von Rittberg’s journey has always been one of balancing artistic instinct with intellectual grounding. Now 31, the German actor has seamlessly crossed between national and international productions — from starring alongside Brad Pitt in ‘Fury’ to her breakout role in the acclaimed German drama ‘Charité’. Her method is deeply felt. “You read something and just feel connected,” she explains. “And, later, you realise it reflects something you’re working through in life.” She recalls a coach telling her that the right roles “find you,” an idea she’s come to embrace.
Off-camera, von Rittberg’s appreciation for fashion mirrors her love of storytelling. She finds herself drawn to heritage houses that embody both tradition and innovation, singling out Fendi as a source of inspiration. “Maintaining quality and tradition while staying visionary — that’s an incredible balance,” she observes. If she were to design a collection herself, she’d marry historical silhouettes with modern tailoring—a vision clearly influenced by her time spent in costume. “I’ve learned to appreciate craftsmanship, beautiful fabrics and the difference it makes when something is made with real care.”
Rather than chasing dream roles, von Rittberg’s artistic compass is guided by curiosity. “I don’t have a specific character I’m dying to play,” she says. “I’m more interested in understanding the human behind the public figure. What makes someone the way they are?” That thoughtful, human-centred approach extends far beyond her professional work. When asked what makes her feel schön (beautiful), her answer is simple, yet profound. “I feel schön when I can make someone else happy; when I can make someone feel seen.”
full look. Fendi
opposite
full look. Fendi
bag. Fendi
opposite
full look. Fendi
shoes. Fendi
opposite
full look. Fendi
full look. Fendi
opposite
bag. Fendi
full look. Fendi
full look. Fendi
‘Dinner for Five – Killer for One’ will stream on Amazon Prime later this year.
For Lovie Simone, acting has never been just a career choice. From the moment she stepped in front of the camera, the young actress carried with her an unshakable sense of purpose. “I’ve always known this is what was for me,” she says. “This craft is something that I have chosen for me in every version of myself in this lifetime.” That kind of self-possession isn’t learned, it’s lived. Simone, raised in a creative, affirming household, has been living it from the start.
It’s this clarity of vision and deep emotional intelligence that makes her portrayal of Keisha in ‘Forever’, the bold, fresh reimagining of Judy Blume’s coming-of-age story. Whether navigating the complexities of young love, strained family dynamics, or the political pulse of 2018 Los Angeles, Simone approaches each scene with striking honesty and depth. “I’ve always been attracted to characters who display human complexity,” she explains. “They make the unpopular choices at times.”
In ‘Forever’, Simone not only steps into a lead role — she steps into a moment. Working under powerhouses like Mara Brock Akil and Regina King, she anchors a series that reframes Black teenage girlhood with grace, grit, and cultural authenticity. And for Simone, this role is not just a personal milestone — it’s a reflection of the very stories she’s always believed deserve the spotlight.
Schön! chats with Lovie Simone about working on ‘Forever,’ the acting idols she’s dying to work with, and more.
You began acting at a young age — what was the moment or experience that made you realize this was your calling?
I’ve always known this is what was for me! This craft is something that I have chosen for myself in every version of myself in this lifetime.
Growing up in a creative family, how did your environment shape your artistic ambitions and confidence as a young performer?
I grew up with a lot of reassurance about where I was headed with my dreams. My entire family is so uplifting, and therefore I am with myself. Everything is a chance to learn and grow.
Were there any particular performances, films, or actors that deeply inspired you as a child and still influence you today?
Your breakout role in Greenleaf introduced you to many audiences — how did that experience prepare you for the emotional depth required in a role like Keisha in ‘Forever’.
I’ve always been attracted to characters who display human complexity. They make the unpopular choices at times. Zora Greenleaf and Keisha are definitely those young women.
Keisha is portrayed as a confident and ambitious young woman. How did you approach embodying her strength while also conveying her vulnerabilities, especially during pivotal moments like the prom night decision?
I tried to remain honest to playing someone who has deep desires with external happenings bringing up these internal and external conflicts. So I would say staying aware of the desires that Keisha has.
The series is set in 2018 Los Angeles, amidst significant social movements. How did this backdrop influence your portrayal of Keisha, and what nuances did you incorporate to reflect the era’s challenges?
This time period was when everything felt like it was coming to a head politically and socially! But there was a freedom in how Keisha moved through the world pre-pandemic! We, the audience, get to experience this life with her and have that nostalgic feeling with us.
Keisha’s relationship with her family, particularly her mother Shelly, is complex. Can you delve into how these familial dynamics shaped Keisha’s decisions and your interpretation of her character?
The closeness as well as the craving for her mother’s respect as an adult weighed on Keisha heavily. There was always something proving to be done in her eyes, which makes decision making look a little different as an individual.
The series explores the intricacies of first love. How did you and Michael Cooper Jr. cultivate the on-screen chemistry between Keisha and Justin, and what discussions did you have to ensure authenticity in their relationship?
Michael and I have had so many conversations leading up to filming about comfort levels as well as excitement about the project! That excitement definitely translated into our interactions on set. BUT! We didn’t talk much when first filming to keep a sense of mystery and anxiety [laughs]. We were familiar with one another while wanting to connect and I believe Justin and Keisha delivered!
Keisha and Justin’s decision to part ways is both heartfelt and heartbreaking. What insights did you gain about young love and personal growth through this narrative arc?
I was reassured that although young love may not be the wisest, there’s a special kind of wisdom one gains from it.
Given the show’s modern take on Judy Blume’s novel, how do you think ‘Forever’ addresses contemporary issues of teenage sexuality and autonomy compared to the original work?
It highlights the spaces in which teenagers take up space in today’s world. In the outside world, in schools and on social media. It addresses consent in a natural way that would come up for an awkward teen. I appreciate how tasteful it is!
Working under the direction of Mara Brock Akil and Regina King must have been impactful. Can you share specific moments or guidance from them that influenced your performance?
I was influenced by these two amazing women every day. I like to say that I’m observant, and just by watching, one can learn so much! They move through the industry with such grace and happiness as well as a deep appreciation for the story! It gets no better than this, honestly.
top. Barabara Bui @ CLOAK WARDROBE
skirt. Bach Mai
shoes. Marc Fisher
earrings, necklace, bangles + cuff. Alexis Bittar
rings. GRISÉ NYC
opposite
full Look. PROCODE DRESS
earrings. MISHO
bangles. Dinosaur Designs
rings + ear cuffs. Elena Matallana
Music plays a significant role in setting the show’s tone. Were there particular songs or musical themes that resonated with you and helped you connect deeper with Keisha’s journey?
I made a Keisha playlist while prepping for ‘Forever’! One song that played a lot was “While We’re Young” by Jhene Aiko!
The series has been praised for its authentic portrayal of Black teenage experiences. How did the production team ensure cultural authenticity, and what role did you play in that process?
Production stayed true to the black LA life by hiring people who live or love LA, which doesn’t get any better for storytelling. Those that can really lend a true perspective. And for those who are not from LA, the majority of the cast and crew were black! It was like being with family, working on our story! Our collective as well as separate upbringings.
As someone who has transitioned from supporting roles to leading a series, how has this experience shaped your perspective on storytelling and representation in the industry?
It’s confirmed everything I’ve always believed. There is a universal truth as well as an appreciation for stories that involve people who move through the world that look like me.
Reflecting on your journey with ‘Forever’, what message or feeling do you hope viewers take away from Keisha’s story?
I hope they take away understanding. Keisha is complex and lovable, making her like all of us!
Photographer Alice Consonni lenses Sky with a cinematic softness in this Schön! editorial, styled by Stela Plaka who uses looks by Elie Saab, VIVETTA, Diana Klisaris and more, with hair by Alessia Trotta and make up by Jo Gandola.
top. Marie Lemet
top. SUNNEI
skirt. Vlerë
jewellery. Freya Haimi
opposite
top, skirt + shoes. Elie Saab
jewellery. Anton Koppenwallner
dress. RAMELLE
skirt. Kevin Brandi
bag. GB-DAVID
opposite
jacket. Vlerë
sunglasses. TAVAT
jewellery. Pavé The Way
sunglasses. TAVAT
jewellery. Pavé The Way
accessories. Freya Haimi
opposite
top. Elie Saab
jewellery. Anton Koppenwallner
bag. GB-DAVID
top. Marie Lemet
top. SUNNEI
skirt. Vlerë
shoes. My Chalom
jewellery. Freya Haimi
opposite
top. Vlerë
trousers. Diana Klisaris
shoes. Rick Owens
belt. Düttmann Design
dress. Daniele di Grazia
hat. Undercontrol Studio
jewellery. Pavé The Way
belt. Laura Pino
opposite
dress. RAMELLE
skirt. Kevin Brandi
shoes. LOLO Ballerina
bag. GB-DAVID
How do you like your whiskey? Sophie and Lena like to sip it dressed up in Jil Sander, Prada, and Coach, styled by Maya Lu, with photography by Frauke Joana and hair and makeup byAndrea Young.
top + skirt. MAIAMI
shoes. GANNI
scarf. The Row
tights. HUDSON
opposite
coat, shoes + belt. Jil Sander
tights. HUDSON
top + skirt. MAIAMI
shoes. GANNI
scarf. The Row
tights. HUDSON
