September 7, 2023

Millicent Simmonds

Laruicci denim dress from SS23 RTW Collection

Millicent Simmonds, a deaf American actress, who had her breakout role on the big screen in 2017. She followed that with two back-to-back films and was named in Variety's “2021 Power of Young Hollywood Impact List.” She was also nominated for the 2022 BAFTA Rising Star. At the age of 20, she made her Broadway debut in "Grey House" directed by Tony Award winner Joe Mantello. She appeared opposite Tatiana Maslany and Laurie Metcalf.

What was your first acting experience?
I started the drama club at my deaf school when I was in 3rd or 4th grade. I loved acting and performing. When I was 12, my drama teacher saw an audition asking for a deaf girl. I auditioned for the role and ended up getting it and I've never looked back!

When did you know you wanted to become an actress?
When that movie opened in Cannes, I remember being on the red carpet and seeing people respond to the movie and my performance. So, I thought "this is what I want to do."

What was it like to act professionally at a young age?
I didn't appreciate the significance of it at the time, but looking back, it was to my advantage that I wasn't too much in my head and could focus on my performance. I tend to overthink things now that I'm older.

Laruicci star top and skirt outfit (right)

Laruicci Roma Key Earrings from DIECI Collection (left)

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Laruicci Garage Rock ring from FW22 Collection (left)

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Laruicci Locked and Loaded earrings from SS22 Collection (right)

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What are some of your hobbies?
I love to read. I always have a book with me. I love rock climbing, coffee, yoga, saunas, and I'm just getting into cold plunges.

What would you be doing if you weren’t an actress?
I'm really interested in psychology: the mind, how it works, and what makes people tick. I would love to get a degree in psychology if I had the time.

You have acted in several movies and television shows before acting on Broadway. How is acting on the Broadway stage different from acting for film and television?
Broadway is so much bigger. The acting is bigger. The camera can pick up the slightest movement and emotion, but with Broadway, people sitting in the balcony need to see what you're doing. That and having a live audience every night to respond to was such a rush. I loved every second of it.

Laruicci Ponte Vecchio ring from DIECI Collection

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Do you enjoy acting for film, television, or the Broadway stage the most?
They're so different. I'm not sure I could pick. With film and TV, every day is different. You film a scene one day and you're done and move on to a different scene or part of the story the next day. It feels fresh. With Broadway, you're telling the same story from beginning to end every night, but with a live audience and the instant gratification that you don't get with film.

What advice would you give to a young deaf person who wants to work in the entertainment industry?
I would say learn to advocate for yourself and don't be afraid to let people know what you need to do your job. It can be daunting, but I've found that people are receptive when you're confident and can tell them what you need.

What do you enjoy the most about acting?
I love collaborating with creative, artistic, and brilliant people. I feel so fortunate to have worked with some of the brightest minds in this business. It inspires me to keep learning while staying grounded.