Markie Farnsley: Inside the World of Acting
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Shirt by J’amemme
Belt by Zimmermann
Markie Farnsley is an American actress, producer, and writer. Her most recent project is Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey. Throughout her career, Farnsley has taken on a variety of roles, allowing her to portray unique personalities, experiences, and emotions. Her career reflects her ambition and creativity, as she continues to take on different types of characters and embrace new challenges. In this interview, she discusses her approach to acting, working on projects based on true events, and her experience being part of The Odyssey. She also shares insight into the creative process behind her roles and what continues to fuel her passion for acting.
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You’ve worked across dramas, comedies, and crime series, from How to Get Away with Murder to NCIS: Los Angeles, Brews Brothers, Disjointed, and Lopez. Is there one role that tested you in a way that reshaped how you navigate acting?
I feel like there’s always an evolution. I’ve learned something on every set that I’ve been on. Integrating personal experiences, as well as having the ability to hold space for another’s experiences, is a big part of that.
You've built an impressive career across so many projects. Is there one role or project that you feel marked a turning point in your success, and what was it about that experience that propelled your career forward?
Portraying a siren in something as epic as The Odyssey was a dream come true. I have always admired Christopher Nolan and his storytelling. I loved every minute of it.
Christopher Nolan has a unique way of reimagining classic stories. How did his vision of the Sirens in The Odyssey shape the way you approached your role?
I felt his Neptunian vision was brilliant—dreamlike. It makes you lean in and question what it is you’re even seeing. Sirens are dangerous because they see into a person’s depths. There’s an intimacy in that.
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Gold Plated Jewelry by Gabriela Ceballos NY
Throughout your career, you've had the opportunity to collaborate with so many talented actors. Is there one person who had a lasting impact on you or changed the way you view the creative process and bringing a story to life?
Watching Matt Damon’s performance take-after-take for our scene, as well as Will Yun Lee dive into the ocean in full wardrobe, was special. We all applauded Will after they called cut. Everyone’s commitment on that set created a strong synergy.
Because City of Lies is based on real events, did that change the way you approached your role? If so, how?
As an actor, your goal is always to ground your work in reality, whether you’re working with truth or fiction. But when it’s a true story, it can carry a heavier sense of gravity.
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Gold Plated Jewelry by Gabriela Ceballos NY
Looking at your body of work, you've taken on such a wide spectrum of characters. What is it about a character that makes you want to take on the role?
I appreciate that sentiment. Stepping into and exploring different worlds is part of the fun for me. Feeling lit up by an experience and being a part of something bigger than yourself—that’s what makes it meaningful.
What was the atmosphere like on the set of Brews Brothers, and do you have a favorite behind-the-scenes moment from filming that still makes you laugh?
Working with comedians means there’s rarely a dull moment. Everyone was constantly cracking jokes.
Working on an ongoing series like NCIS: Los Angeles comes with its own unique rhythm and challenges. What did you take away from that experience, and how has it shaped the way you approach your work today?
When a series has been running that smoothly for years, it gives you an appreciation for a well-oiled machine.
Left:
Shining Down on You Blouse in Burgundy by Akira
Gold Plated Jewelry by Gabriela Ceballos NY
Belt by Zimmermann
Right:
Necklace by Nicole Amato
Gold Plated Jewelry by Gabriela Ceballos NY
Looking back at your career so far, how has your approach to acting changed and evolved from your earliest roles to where you are today?
My approach has always been rooted in empathy. The evolution comes through creative chemistry and aligning with filmmakers who share a deep resonance.
Looking back on your journey as an actor and everything you've experienced throughout your career, what continues to inspire you today as an actor?
Many things inspire me. A very big one is creation itself. One of the many reasons I love storytelling is that it brings a sense of connection to all life. I recently became an ambassador for a nonprofit called The Malibu Project. They are working to help heal the ocean and rehabilitate sea life. Whether it’s through storytelling or supporting a worthy cause, I really love being a part of something bigger than myself.
Outfit by Redemption
Sunglasses by Jacques Marie Mage at Dan Deutsch Optical Outlook
Gold Plated Jewelry by Gabriela Ceballos NY
Tights by Stylist Own
Red Shiny Open Toe Strappy Heels by Elize Shoes
CREW CREDITS:
Talent: Markie Farnsley
PhotoBook Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
PhotoBook Creative Director: Mike Ruiz
Photographer: Giuliano Bekor
Fashion Stylist: Alison Hernon at Exclusive Artists
Hair: Hailey Adickes Purpura at TMG
Makeup: Ashley Donovan at TMG
Assistant Fashion Stylist: Yurga Juozapa
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by Ali Rosoff, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Location: Giuliano Bekor Gallery
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