The new Netflix superhero series Supacell is making waves in the entertainment industry for its redefinition of the sci-fi genre and its representation of Black superheroes. The show follows five Black South Londoners who unexpectedly develop superpowers. The origin of their powers: sickle cell anemia, a disease that affects people of African and Caribbean heritage at higher rates than other groups. Since its release on June 27, the show has received rave reviews for fostering dialogue surrounding stereotypes and turning the superhero genre on its head.
Among Supacell‘s rising stars is British actress Nadine Mills, who plays Sabrina Clarke, a nurse who discovers she is telekinetic. Though Supacell is only Mills’ second television role, she’s making a name for herself as the only woman in the crew. Sabrina is compassionate and fearless, quite like Mills, who persevered through the film industry’s setbacks and letdowns for 10 years before finding fame with Supacell.
The Untitled Magazine chatted with Mills about her unconventional career journey, getting into character to play Sabrina, the importance of representation in the entertainment industry, and her almost-career as a teacher.
The Untitled Magazine: You’ve had a super interesting career journey, and it’s culminating right now in a lot of media buzz surrounding your performance as Sabrina in Supacell. I understand that before you booked this role, you were teaching math and English, and you were about to get a teaching degree. Can you tell us about the process of auditioning for this role? Did you know it would be “the one,” or did you keep your expectations low throughout the process?
Nadine Mills: Thank you! I had been in the [film] industry for 10 years before booking Supacell. I was teaching and I had got to a point where I felt that all the setbacks and nos in the industry were taking a toll on me, so I decided to apply for a teaching degree.
Sheila Nortley who is a good friend of mine and a producer on Supacell called me and told me she has a role for me! I auditioned for Sabrina and then had a chemistry read with girls who were auditioning for Sharleen. After a week I got the call that the role was mine. I didn’t have any expectations or feel that this would be “the one,” I actually said to myself that if I didn’t book this job then I would be done with acting. I had a word with God and just did my best throughout the audition process. Thankfully that wasn’t the outcome, I think I would have been a very miserable teacher, LOL.
Do you see yourself in Sabrina at all? What drew you to the role?
We have some similarities: we both have a nurturing nature. I am also a determined and protective person when it comes to the ones I love. I also had that switch that Sabrina has when she comes into her own with her powers. If you get on the wrong side of me you could meet a fuming Nadine. What drew me to the role was the fact that it was Black people with powers. The authenticity of the characters and the relatability are what made me want to be a part of this. Also, the fact that Sabrina has many layers to her. She isn’t just a one-dimensional character; she has a lot to play with.
You’ve stated previously that you’ve always loved performing and putting on shows. Can you tell us about the moment you knew you wanted to pursue acting?
It was from a very young age that I knew I wanted to be in the arts whether that be music or acting. However, I saw that it could be a real career when I saw people from the U.K. like Aml Ameen who were doing it, and there was someone who I had come to know from attending his drama school and starring as the lead in his first short film “Drink. Drugs and KFC.” Having seen him on shows like The Bill and the film Kidulthood it was very inspiring to know I could do it too.
You’ve spoken about boundaries you’ve had to overcome as a Black woman in the industry. How have your experiences differed between the U.S. and the U.K.? How do you deal with stereotypes and being typecast in roles?
There are way more opportunities in the US and that’s also because there is a bigger market. The UK still has a long way to go regarding roles for Black women.
Supacell combines the real themes of racism and being Black in the U.K. with a more fantastical theme, superpowers. Can you elaborate on your role and the superpowers you have on the show?
Sabrina is the only one who doesn’t want her powers (telekinesis): this was never in her plan. She just wants to live a normal life and get a promotion in her career working in the National Health Service (NHS). She is very organized and likes structure in her life. When she gains her powers they are a hindrance to her, and she battles mentally and physically with how to navigate them. However, when her sister is taken by The Organisation she embraces her powers and realizes that they can actually help her. She eventually learns how to use the powers for good, which is in her nature, and in my personal opinion, she is the one out of all of them who becomes the most powerful.
How do you get into character for a show that has real and fictional elements?
For me, it’s about knowing your character’s journey and staying true to that. You have to feed off of your fellow actors and listen and respond authentically to the situation. Also, being able to bring real-life experiences to your character is always a great way to get into character. I was lucky enough to have a conversation with a black nurse who was at a similar point in her career as Sabrina, and so I was able to draw from her experience and implement that into Sabrina. The fictional parts of the character are fun and allow me to play and use my imagination.
You studied media at the University of Westminster in London. Do you see yourself directing in the future? Have you had any opportunities to direct or work behind the camera in your career thus far?
Most definitely! Directing has always been something I’ve wanted to do in my career. I love the idea of bringing something from script to screen and having that creative freedom to bring the overall vision to life. I haven’t had the opportunity yet—only had that experience in university—but the opportunity will come when it’s time.
You’re in a short film called Osoro releasing next year. What can you tell us about the film and your role as Julia?
It follows the journey of a young woman Alesha as she travels through space and time to see her first love again. I play Alesha’s friend, Julia. It’s written and directed by Sheila Nortley. I was happy to be a part of her film as we have worked together on a few projects and it is always special when Sheila creates something of her own.
I’m sure you’re incredibly busy right now — Supacell is receiving a ton of hype, you’re gracing magazine covers, and Osoro is currently in production. How do you feel about your overnight success?
Well, I wouldn’t say it’s an overnight success. I have been grafting in this industry for over 12 years—a lot of hard work and resilience has got me to the point I’m at now. However, if you’re asking about the notoriety, that’s definitely overnight because you wait so long for something to come out, and when it does it feels like nothing has changed but everything has changed, like people start to notice me on the street. It’s a feeling I’m still getting used to.
When you aren’t working, how do you unwind?
I like to spend time with family and friends, binge-watch some shows, meditate, go to the gym.
You’re at the start of what is sure to be an inspiring and exciting acting career. Do you have any dream roles you’re dying to act in?
Yes, I would love a nice strong detective boss role or something along the lines of Olivia Pope in Scandal. Also, a dream role of mine is to play Storm in the Marvel franchise. I mean overall I just love being a part of great writing and telling great stories.
Who do you look up to as inspiration, whether in the entertainment industry or in your own life?
My mum is my inspiration, she is the most selfless person I know. Her work ethic and general outlook on life has always inspired me. She could have next to nothing and make you feel like we have plenty.
Finally, is there anything you wish you could tell a younger version of yourself?
Enjoy your childhood, there’s no rush. Live in the present, don’t worry about the future, enjoy the now, and continue to work towards your goals. Don’t give up because your hard work truly does pay off.
For more from Nadine, follow her on Instagram @nadinemills_
