In this week’s A-typical interview, we feature South African actress, singer, and model Roxane Hayward.
The Johannesburg-born actress, who lives in Los Angeles, is best known for her role in Hollywood movie Death Race: Inferno, where she plays the supporting role of, Prudence, alongside Dougray Scott.
She has also featured in local productions such as Isidingo and Jozi H, Hayward also featured on British television, starring in BBC hit comedy Beaver Falls.
In 2015, she was cast as the role of the historical figure, Susanna White, in the National Geographic two-part movie event Saints and Strangers.
The actress has made her directorial debut for the public service announcement Open Your Eyes, for HeardPSA, an international platform hosted by the Global Sustainability Network, calling on film-makers from across the world to create awareness on human trafficking and modern-day slavery.
You have the choice to star alongside either Vin Diesel or The Rock in an action-packed Hollywood blockbuster. Who do you choose?
I let them fight it out in order to come to a decision. The winner gets the role!
You are allowed to do only one exercise for the rest of your life. Which exercise do you choose and why?
Anyone who has met me knows what my answer will be… Muaythai! Not only is it an incredible workout, but you also come out of training having learnt a new skill. It teaches you invaluable striking techniques for self-defence and makes you feel badass.
The best and worst thing about living in Hollywood?
The best thing is that there is magic lying around every corner – from the historic old-school glamour that lingers around certain areas, to the golden sunset as your backdrop while driving down the Pacific Coast Freeway. The worst thing has got to be, hands down, the traffic
Have you ever been star struck during your time in Hollywood. If so, by whom?
Yes! Well… Sort of… I think! I had just finished a long day on set and, on my way home, quickly went past the grocery store to grab something for dinner. With a wrap in one hand and a bottle of kombucha in the other, I spotted, in the corner of my eye, someone who looked a lot like Colin Farrell. Goodness, I acted like a giddy high school girl. I completely forgot what else I needed, was unable to walk down the same aisle as him and most certainly was too shy to make eye contact. So much so that I’m not actually 100% sure it was even him.
The one thing you miss most about South Africa?
Without a doubt, my family. I miss those long Sunday lunches that turn into relaxed, leftover dinners. Days at my sister trading items in our wardrobe (you should see her collection!). My dad’s afternoon braais with the sound of jackals in the background. And sitting across the table from my mom, enjoying eggs benedict and a great cup of coffee, chatting about what our next exciting plan is.
What is the best restaurant that you’ve eaten at? What did you order?
Ah! It is hard to pick a ‘best’ restaurant in the whole wide world. But I can say that, Cheyne’s in Hout Bay is the restaurant I love and miss the most. Gosh, I wish they did delivery to the US. Is that asking too much? I always ordered the Tuna Tataki. Lucky Pizza and the Green Chilli Caramel Risotto. My mouth is watering just thinking about it.
Describe lockdown in Hollywood
It has definitely lost a touch of its magic, as have most places around the globe. The once-buzzing La Brea Ave is now decked with ‘to let’ signs, fun activities like attending the screening of a new film at the cinema are no longer, enjoying hikes or beach days with friends are limited… One perk – there’s less of that horrific traffic.
The three most popular items in your fridge?
Oat milk, my Botane skin care products and Mrs Balls chutney (my guilty pleasure).
What one thing has caught your eye on social media in the past week?
The 18th of January 2021 is Martin Luther King Day here in the US. It is a public holiday that celebrates the life and achievements of one of the world’s greatest civil rights leaders. Being reminded of some of his encouraging quotes has really added a spring to my step this week. One of my favourites is: “If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way.”