Interview with Rose McIver: Finding Joy in Comedy and Directing
Rose McIver, known for her roles in “iZombie” and “Ghosts,” exudes a contagious positivity that is hard not to admire. Sitting down with her at Little Ripper, a cozy coffee shop/wine bar in Los Angeles, it’s evident that she has a zest for life and a love for her craft.
“The second you come somewhere like the U.S., there’s just so many cultural crossovers between Australia and New Zealand that you just gravitate towards each other,” she tells me. “I’m here at Little Ripper, I’m not carrying a New Zealand flag, but I’m OK! My husband’s Australian, so we had to navigate a peace treaty a long time.”
McIver’s recent success with “Ghosts” has brought her a sense of gratitude and humility. The show has been renewed for two more seasons, a testament to her talent and the show’s popularity. Reflecting on this achievement, she acknowledges the uncertainty in the industry and feels fortunate for her continued work.
In “Ghosts,” McIver plays Samantha, a character who can see and interact with eccentric spirits in a mansion she inherits with her partner Jay. The show strikes a balance between comedy and a hint of spookiness, a genre McIver has thrived in throughout her career.
Transitioning from drama to comedy has been a rewarding experience for McIver. She finds joy in the lightheartedness of comedy and cherishes the laughter shared on set. Directing an episode of “Ghosts” for the first time this year allowed her to explore a new facet of her creativity and collaborate with the show’s creators to bring their vision to life.
Balancing her career with personal life, McIver divides her time between different countries and embraces the challenges of parenthood. The stability of a successful TV show provides her with a sense of structure amidst the chaos of a busy schedule.
Despite her hectic lifestyle, McIver finds solace in simple pleasures like gardening and quilting. She values the innocence and wonder of her daughter’s perspective, reminding her to appreciate the beauty in everyday moments.
As our conversation comes to an end, I can’t help but admire McIver’s resilience and positivity. Her genuine love for her work and life’s simple joys is truly inspiring. Here’s to rooting for Rose McIver and her continued success in the entertainment industry.
