Ambika Mod Dishes on Co-Star Dynamics(Cartoon Version Pic)
In the first episode of the new Netflix series based on David Nicholls' 2009 bestseller "One Day," Emma Morley, played by 28-year-old actress Ambika Mod, asks Dexter Mayhew about his aspirations for when he turns 40. Dexter casually mentions wanting to be "famous," while Emma envisions changing the world, even if it's just her own little corner of it.
Ambika Mod, fresh from her acclaimed role in the BBC miniseries "This Is Going to Hurt," now takes on her first leading role as Emma in the star-crossed lovers' tale at the core of "One Day." The series, like the novel and the 2011 film adaptation, follows Emma and Dexter on July 15, St. Swithins’ Day, each year.
Speaking with CNN, Mod highlighted that each episode feels standalone, capturing the accumulation of moments, experiences, failures, and successes that shape a person's life. She emphasized that "One Day" goes beyond mere romance, portraying the entire spectrum of life and growing up.
Mod's journey into the industry began in live comedy, performing at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival with the Durham Revue and later as part of the comedy duo Megan from HR alongside Andrew Shires. Despite sharing similarities with Emma, including studying English at university and navigating unwanted jobs in her early twenties, Mod initially hesitated to audition for the role.
Her reservations stemmed from the character being written as a White woman and feeling pigeonholed as a brown woman in specific roles. However, she eventually seized the opportunity, overcoming impostor syndrome and intense preparations for Emma's Yorkshire accent.
"One Day" unfolds as a sweeping love story, taking Emma and Dexter across various locations. Mod stressed the significance of chemistry between the leads, played by her and Leo Woodall, for the show's success. Woodall, who plays Dexter, highlighted their natural camaraderie, mentioning their early connection and the importance of genuine chemistry in making the series work.
Reflecting on their casting process, Mod acknowledged the role of luck and emphasized that the chemistry between actors can't be forced, crediting the writing for complementing their connection. As "One Day" captures the essence of life's journey, Mod's portrayal of Emma brings depth, wit, and humor to the character's evolution.
Ambika Mod
One Day series
David Nicholls
Star-crossed lovers
Netflix adaptation
Co-star chemistry