This is based on the interview done by The Talk on Agyness Deyn a famous English model and actress who is best known for her modelling career. She speaks on how she has mellowed out of modelling and fashion as a whole.
Ms. Deyn, It Seems You’ve Stepped Away From Your Supermodel Life—Do You Still Have an Interest in Fashion?
I was never really that passionate about fashion growing up. It wasn’t something I dreamed of doing. I was spotted while out shopping in London, looking pretty androgynous, and things just snowballed from there. I started modelling and did it for several years, but honestly, it was just a job for me.
So, while it gave you incredible opportunities, it wasn’t necessarily your life’s passion?
Exactly. I had an amazing time and am so grateful for the doors that fashion opened for me, but it was never something I felt deeply passionate about.
But you don’t really keep up with trends and collections anymore, do you?
Not really. These days, I’m more interested in men’s fashion than anything else, to be honest.
So why did you decide to pursue acting as your next career move?
I was looking for a creative and emotional outlet, something that let me explore both sides of myself. I’ve always been fascinated by people—how they express themselves, their emotions, and their actions. Acting, whether it’s for a film or a play, is helping me understand the different ways people are.
When did you first realize that you wanted to be a creative professional?
I think even as a kid when you’re choosing what to wear, what music to listen to, or what books to read, all those little choices are clues. Looking back, I can see I was always trying to figure something out or express myself in some way.
Did you feel self-conscious about being seen as just another model trying to transition into acting?
Of course, there was that fear of judgment. But when you’re driven to make a change, that drive is stronger than any outside criticism. At the time, I was just immersed in it, focused on the process. When I first started acting, I remember thinking, “I don’t know what I’m doing,” but by the end of shooting Pusher, I was like, “Well, I guess I’m an actress now?”
Building confidence in acting must have taken time.
For sure! At first, I kept thinking they’d say, “Okay, let’s bring in the real actress now!” (laughs) But now I’ve really caught the acting bug, and I just want to keep doing it.
Was it intimidating to switch careers after finding so much success in the fashion world?
Starting something new is always a bit daunting. I mean, I definitely felt nervous. But I remind myself that the nerves come from a place of wanting to do well, and that’s exciting. You’re invested, you want to make it work. Fear can actually be a motivator if you let it.
So you turn those nerves into something positive?
Exactly! It’s all about wanting to do the work justice. You want to be a part of something great, and the nerves are just a part of that process. They’re a good sign, in a way.
I imagine the nervousness you used to feel at photo shoots has faded by now…
Well, I don’t do many photo shoots anymore, to be honest. But when I started modelling, yes, I did feel that nervous energy. It was the unknown, and I wanted to do my best. That feeling eventually fades as you gain experience.
You made a big impression in the fashion world because of your unique look—the way you dressed, and the way you styled your hair. You seem a bit more reserved these days.
I guess I’ve mellowed out a bit. I don’t think I’ll be shaving my head again anytime soon!
What about dyeing your hair?
I’m not really into dyeing my hair crazy colours anymore. I actually saw some blue hair dye recently and thought it would look amazing on my friend, but definitely not on me! (laughs)
So, you’re evolving, trying new things?
Definitely. Every new project feels like starting a new job. Modelling, in a way, felt like one big job, but with acting, every film, and every play is a completely new adventure. It keeps things fresh. The excitement of doing something new is still there, and that feeling will never fade. It’s like, “Wow, I’ve found something I really enjoy!”
Was moving to Los Angeles part of your commitment to acting full-time?
Not exactly. I moved to L.A. because I loved the city and wanted to live there. I’ve been here for a couple of years now, but most of my work is still in England. I’ll do auditions and put myself on tape in L.A., then head over to the UK to shoot.
Not because it’s the centre of the film industry?
Nope, it wasn’t the Hollywood factor that drew me in. I just fell in love with the city. But I do still find myself working more in England than in L.A.