Joanna Sotomura is a dynamic force in the entertainment industry, seamlessly blending her Hawaiian roots with a versatile acting career that continues to captivate audiences. From the sun-kissed beaches of Hawaii to the dazzling lights of Hollywood, Joanna’s journey is a testament to her talent, determination, and unyielding passion for her craft. Her role as “SUNNY” in A24 & AppleTV+’s Sunny alongside Rashida Jones has solidified her as a rising star, while her recurring role in HBO’s critically acclaimed series BARRY showcased her range and depth. Joanna’s ability to shine across various genres, whether it be drama, comedy, or action, speaks volumes about her dedication and skill. With a career that spans numerous high-profile projects, including appearances in NCIS: Los Angeles, Life in Pieces, Hawaii Five-O, and the Emmy-winning Emma Approved, Joanna continues to inspire aspiring actors and fans alike with her resilience, versatility, and grace.
Inlove: Working alongside Bill Hader in HBO’s BARRY must have been an incredible experience. What were some of the key takeaways from your time on set?
Joanna: Barry is one of my all-time favorite shows, and being able to work on it was so surreal! Bill Hader is an incredible director, actor, storyteller, and just an all-around good human. The biggest takeaway I learned on that set was to stay grounded, have fun, and not take filmmaking so seriously. When everyone has an attitude of lightness and joy, it makes for one hell of a show!
Inlove: You’ve starred opposite Darren Criss in the comedy web series WAYWARD GUIDE. How important is collaboration in comedy, and what was it like working with Darren?
Joanna: Wayward Guide was such a funny series created by the geniuses that are the Tin Can Brothers. I never got to film scenes with Darren directly, but I so admire his work and love cheering on another Hapa artist. The Tin Can Brothers are great at bringing together performers with all different skill sets, but with the common thread of being complete goofballs and comedic geniuses. Darren is absolutely all of the above.
Inlove: As a standout in the CBS Diversity Showcase, how do you feel about the current state of diversity in Hollywood, and what changes would you like to see?
Joanna:I definitely think every actor in that showcase was a standout. I was so, so, so honored to have performed alongside every single one of them. What I love about the CBS Diversity Showcase is that it highlights the fact that people from all different backgrounds can be multitalented, hilarious performers, and our diverse stories don’t always have to be dramatic or heavy. We can showcase our brightness and witty sides too.
Inlove: Playing the title role in Emma Approved, an adaptation of Jane Austen’s novel, was a significant project. How did you approach bringing a classic character to life in a modern setting?
Joanna: Emma Approved was one of the coolest projects I’ve had the honor to be a part of. Our show was created by Bernie Su, who had just come off of doing The Lizzie Bennet Diaries, which was a mega internet hit. It was a little intimidating to follow such a viral series, but we had such amazing writers and a fantastic cast who created an Emma I am really proud of. That series is absolutely one of the highlights of my entire career.
Inlove: You’ve worked on a variety of series, from Criminal Minds to The Good Place. How do you prepare for roles across such different genres, and do you have a favorite genre to work in?
Joanna: I’ve never been very good with any one type of method, and I find that I do my best work when I don’t prepare too much or overthink a character. I’ll read the scripts and run my lines, but other than that, I just try to have as much fun as possible on the day. And, at least for me, preparing for a comedy is just the same as preparing for a drama. However, I do find I have the most fun on dark comedies like Barry and Sunny.
Inlove: Looking back at your career thus far, what moments stand out as particularly pivotal or memorable?
Joanna: Oh, that’s easy! Booking the role of Sunny, for sure! This show has changed my life, letting me live in Japan for six months, work with the legend that is Rashida Jones, and play in this insane world that our showrunner, Katie Robbins, built. And I got to do it all as a 4-foot-tall robot.
Inlove: What advice would you give to young actors who are just starting out and looking to make their mark in the industry?
Joanna: I’d say start by building up your time on set so you understand how film and television work behind the scenes. Audition for everything that you can so you understand that unique process, and know that the role for you is out there, but it will take a lot of “no’s” to get there. Don’t let that discourage you! Keep hope and stay passionate about your craft. When you do get that big break, just remember to be kind and courteous on set and show up with respect for your castmates and the crew. It takes a village to make a movie or TV show, and how lucky are we to be a part of it all!
Inlove: Our famous question for Inlove magazine: What does being in love mean to you?
Joanna: For me, being in love means my life feels lighter when I’m with that person. I fell in love with my husband fast because he immediately made my world brighter with his kind heart and endless dad jokes. To be in love is to have found your person, your best friend. It is to have that really rare, magical connection that makes you feel whole. When I am in love, I am home. And now, with our daughter, my heart has grown in ways I never knew it could. I am so in love with this little family we’ve built, and Sunny airing now is the cherry on top!
Joanna Sotomura’s journey is a beacon of inspiration for anyone striving to turn their dreams into reality. Her unwavering dedication, immense talent, and ability to navigate the complexities of Hollywood with grace and poise make her a true role model. As she continues to break barriers and captivate audiences, Joanna reminds us all that with passion, perseverance, and authenticity, anything is possible. Her story is far from over, and we eagerly await the many more incredible performances she has in store for us.
Words by Elle Taylor
