Actor Spencer Stevenson Talks rom-com revival piece "Rosaline"

Born in Irving, TX, and raised in Grand Prairie, Spencer Stevensons is a rising young actor who stars as 'Paris' in 20th Century Studios' highly anticipated film “Rosaline”, a modern comedic re-telling of Shakespeare's “Romeo and Juliet”, now is told from the point of view of Romeo's jilted ex, the titular Rosaline who was largely absent yet pivotal in the original play. In this Hulu exclusive, we'll see Spencer sharing the screen with the likes Kaitlyn Dever, Bradley Whitford, and Minnie Driver.Stevenson’s Previous film credits include ‘Quinn’ in “Rollers” and ‘Paul’ in the 2018 Sundance Film Festival premiere film “Never Goin’ Back' with Maia Mitchell.He can also be seen on the small screen in “The Purge,” “Mindhunter,” “Solve” and “One Mississippi.”

Stevenson signed with his first theatrical agent before beginning at South Grand Prairie High School and began booking roles in TV commercials and PSA’s. In addition to training at DTV and auditioning, Spencer continued to develop his craft as part of the Varsity Speech and Debate Theatre Team at his high school. Knowing he wanted to pursue acting as a career, Spencer began exploring paths to make his dreams come true—including auditioning for Texas State University’s prestigious BFA Acting program at the suggestion of a friend. Stevenson was accepted and he graduated in the spring of 2019.

What can you tell us about the film 'Rosaline'? What stood out to you the most about this production?

The CAST! They're sickening!!! The writing was so funny! Shooting in Italy and it’s a Disney & 21 laps production, I mean what else could one ask for?! From the moment I received the script from my reps I was on board.

Please tell us about your role as Paris. Who is he in this spin on the classic story?

Paris is Rosaline’s best friend and confidant. He happens to also be queer, so he’s essentially her GBF. He ends up being a tactic Rosaline uses to steer Romeo away from Juliet by convincing Paris to marry Juliet. Paris will be able to live his best life without anyone questioning his sexuality, and Juliet can’t be with Romeo. It’s a win-win for Rosaline and Paris.

How did you prepare for this role?

I was given a lot of creative freedom from the director Karen, Kaitlyn, 21 laps, and Disney. I created a version of Paris that is basically a heightened version of myself (probably after a few drinks) during my time auditioning for the role, and once I booked it, I got the chance to just keep whatever I created during that audition process and bring to the Italian set.

As your career advances, what sort of roles do you have in mind for yourself? are you open to anything and everything or is there something that interests you the most?

TV!! I’m really wanting to work long-term on a new series! I think that’ll be a good learning experience and a sick opportunity for myself. However, I would say I’m kind of open to anything and everything, but not desperate! I will be strategic with the roles I do take on. You know, I do need just a bit of structure for my career but for specifics, I’m really enjoying comedy lately, especially after the depressive couple of years we’ve had, so I think I’ll be leaning into my comedic side a bit. It’s a good place to be in.

Let's get to know you a little bit better. Your first stage production role came at age 9, is that when you realized acting was your "thing", or was there some other time?

Yeah basically. The first time on stage really solidified the kick for it but I mean, as a young child, I was really fascinated with Raven Symone and her Disney show “That's So Raven”. I watched it all the time and grew up with it. I wanted to be her at some point (or at least a version of her. ) She’s definitely a major reason I started pursuing this.

What has been the most challenging part of acting so far for you?

I would say staying consistent right now. It comes in waves as do most things, but staying consistent with my quality of work is a big challenge. However, I enjoy challenges so I don’t really view them negatively. Makes my job even more exciting.

Who do you see as your acting "role model”?

I mentioned her earlier, but Raven Symone was a big one from a young age. But more recently, Issa Rae and Dan Levy are too big heavy hitters that I idolize.

What else is coming up for you? are you working on any projects that you can talk about?

I am working on something but I can’t plug anything about it right now! You’ll just have to keep up with me and find out (;

Read that you're a bit of a Wine enthusiast. Had any really good wine lately you'd care to recommend and what for?

Nothing too crazy, but I’m such a fan of Chianti. It’s been my thing for the last 2 years and I’m really stuck on it. If you like a dry red, grab a glass of Chianti next time you’re out at dinner! Cheers!

Photographer: Dylan Perlot
MUA: MakeupxCary
Wardrobe stylist: Elicia Jefferson

MEET THE AUTHOR

Samuel Aponte is Venezuelan-born raised and based. 

I joined Rival Magazine after a few years of doing PR work for independent musicians of all stripes; understanding their struggles to be heard in a sea of constant  ADHD noise and paywalled access to platforms, I now bring a willingness to always appreciate and encourage the effort and creativity that artists put into their work . Can also find some of my writings on LADYGUNN and We Found New Music.