When it comes to navigating relationships, Madeline Maddy Perez knows what she’s doing. The character, played by Alexa Demie, has been on-and-off with her ex-boyfriend Nate since the show’s pilot episode, but the first season finale revealed that her feelings for him might not be as strong as she thinks they are. We recently had the chance to talk with Demie about what makes her character tick and her experience filming the show so far, and here’s what she had to say. Euphoria Star Alexa Demie Opens Up About Playing Madeline Maddy Perez
Table of Contents
Who is Alexa Demie?
Alexa Demie is an American actress, best known for her role as Maddy in the HBO series Euphoria. She has also appeared in films such as Brad’s Status and Wavvves. Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, to Mexican and African-American parents, Demie began her career as a child model before transitioning to acting. In Euphoria, she plays Nate’s on-and-off girlfriend and later ex-girlfriend. The character of Maddy goes through so many changes over the course of the season that by its end, I didn’t know what she was. I’m really grateful for that opportunity because it challenged me as an actor and pushed me to my limits.
I found myself exploring feelings that I had never experienced before while playing this character—that feeling when you don’t know who you are anymore or if you even like yourself—which was hard but therapeutic too.
Where did she start her career?
Alexa Demie got her start in music videos, appearing in Tyler, the Creator’s Who Dat Boy video in 2017. She then made her acting debut in an episode of the TV series Short Term 12 later that year. In 2018, she had a small role in the film A Wrinkle in Time and also appeared in an episode of the TV series black-ish. But it was her role as Maddy Perez on Euphoria that made her a household name.
How did she get cast in this role?
When Euphoria creator Sam Levinson was looking to cast the role of Maddy Perez, he had a very specific type in mind. I wanted someone who was going to be fearless, he told The Hollywood Reporter. Someone who would be unafraid to go to places that are really emotionally raw and honest. Luckily, he found that in actress Alexa Demie.
What does it mean to play such an interesting character?
Euphoria is an American television series created by Sam Levinson, based on the Israeli miniseries of the same name. The show follows a group of high school students through their experiences with sex, drugs, friendships, love, and trauma. Euphoria star Alexa Demie plays Madeline Maddy Perez, Nate’s on-and-off girlfriend and later ex-girlfriend. I sat down with Demie to discuss what it means to play such an interesting character.
What was working with Zendaya like?
Zendaya is one of the most talented and professional young actresses I’ve ever worked with. She’s so dedicated to her craft and takes direction well. It was really amazing to watch her transform into Rue on screen. She brought a lot of depth to that character, but also took it in her own direction. We all felt very lucky she was part of this journey because she added a lot to our story.
What are some other projects she can’t wait for you to see?
Demie can’t wait for you to see her in upcoming projects like the independent film Let Him Go opposite Kevin Costner and Diane Lane, and American Honey opposite Shia LaBeouf. She’s also set to star in the second season of HBO’s Big Little Lies. It’s such a blessing to be able to go back, she said. To get back into that character is really exciting. When asked if there was anything she could share about what viewers can expect from Season 2, she teased: There will be some more drama.
How many tattoos does she have?
On the show, Maddy is covered in tattoos – but in real life, actor Alexa Demie only has a few. In an interview with Vogue, she opened up about her ink and what it means to her. I think my tattoo choices are very personal, she said. It’s not something I want on display for everyone to see. But now that I have them, they’re just important to me. They represent so much of who I am.
What advice would she give to people who want a career in acting?
Acting is a tough business, but it’s also very rewarding. If you’re thinking about pursuing a career in acting, here are some pieces of advice from Euphoria star Alexa Demie Actors need to constantly push themselves out of their comfort zone and be ready for anything.
What ethnicity is Maddy from Euphoria?
In the show, Maddy is of Mexican descent and is played by Alexa Demie. In an interview with Vulture, Demie opened up about what it was like to play Maddy. It was important for me to play her with as much heart and soul as possible, she said. I think a lot of people can relate to her journey.
Demie also spoke about how the show portrays teenagers in a realistic way.
Was Maddy from Euphoria abused?
In an interview with Refinery29, Euphoria star Alexa Demie opened up about playing Madeline Maddy Perez, Nate’s on-and-off girlfriend and later ex-girlfriend. While the character is flawed and has made some poor choices, Demie doesn’t believe that Maddy was ever abused by Nate.
Who did Maddie sleep with in Euphoria?
In the hit HBO series Euphoria, fans were introduced to the character of Maddie Perez, played by actress Alexa Demie. Maddie is Nate’s on-and-off girlfriend and later ex-girlfriend. In the show, Maddie is shown sleeping with other men, including her ex-boyfriend Luke. While some viewers may have been shocked by Maddie’s promiscuous behavior, Demie says that she understands why her character acts the way she does.
Is Maddy Perez Latina in Euphoria?
Though she isn’t confirmed to be Latina in the show, many fans have speculated that Euphoria star Alexa Demie is of Latino descent. The actress herself has yet to comment on her character’s background, but has said that she was drawn to the role because of its complex and relatable nature.
