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In a recent episode of the Portrait of a Fan Girl podcast, host Jenna Wrenn sat down with the talented actress Katee Sackhoff. Sackhoff is known for her powerful roles in science fiction franchises like Battlestar Galactica and Star Wars: The Mandalorian. The conversation delved into Sackhoff’s journey as a fan, her evolution as an actress, and her iconic characters’ profound impact on her life.
Early Fandoms and Inspirations
Sackhoff’s passion for storytelling and make-believe began in her childhood, where she spent countless hours immersed in imaginative play. As she grew older, her father introduced her to the world of science fiction and action films, sparking a lifelong love for the genre. She was particularly drawn to strong characters like Bruce Willis and female icons like Sigourney Weaver and Linda Hamilton. She felt these characters defied stereotypes and embodied resilience.
I remember being a probably, like, nine, ten years old and and my dad was introducing me to films that were influential in his life. And it was always science fiction. It was always action. So that that really inspired me as a little girl, you know, watching these movies. I joke that I wanted to be Bruce Willis. I wanted to see the Nakatomi building. Everything about him was just cool. He was the coolest thing I’d ever seen in my entire life. And I just wanted to emulate that.
Embracing Science Fiction
Sackhoff’s career trajectory reflects her childhood passion, as she has intentionally sought out science-fiction roles. Her breakout role as Starbuck in the reimagined Battlestar Galactica series was a turning point, challenging conventional notions of femininity and showcasing her ability to portray complex and powerful characters. She later joined the Star Wars universe as Bo-Katan Kryze in The Mandalorian, further solidifying her status as a science fiction powerhouse.
I fought hard for Battlestar Galactica. I knew that if I could get that character, that it would change my life. I didn’t think that it would change my life in the way that it had. I just knew that up until that point, I’d played very stereotypical blond roles, and I knew that if I could book Starbuck, that it would make people look at me differently.
I heard so much in the beginning of my career. She’s just the wrong look for a strong character. She’s blond and she’s small and she’s sweet and, we don’t know what to do with her. So I knew that if I could get that character, people would see me differently.
The Strength of Vulnerability
Sackhoff’s approach to portraying strong characters involves delving into their vulnerabilities and insecurities. She believes that true strength comes from acknowledging and embracing these human qualities, making her characters relatable and inspiring. The transformative experience of playing these roles has also had a profound impact on her personal life. Empowering her to find her voice and speak her mind.
I think that when I got Starbuck, I was not a person that spoke my mind. I was raised in a time, I believe, where women were and young girls were still talked to and trained to be seen, not heard, especially in the industry that I was in. Don’t be difficult. Don’t be a bitch.You’re so lucky to be here. But then you’d see the men next to me doing whatever they wanted and getting multiple chances to screw up. And I only get one. So it was I was very much trained to be a good little girl.
Playing Starbuck gave me this weird voice in this sense that I found my bravado through her. What I’m saying is that I always created this crassness, this vulgar sort of stereotypical masculine energy about me because it protected me. I was one of the guys. I was one of the boys. They didn’t look at me like a cute girl. They looked at me like, oh, that’s just Katee. And Starbuck was part of that, of part of helping me shape who that alter ego was, if you will.
Connecting with Fans
Sackhoff’s genuine appreciation for her fans shines through in her interactions at conventions and on her podcast, “The Sackhoff Show.” Moreover, she values the candid conversations and shared passions that emerge from these connections. Creating a sense of community and mutual respect.
I love meeting the fans. I love spending time with them. I love talking to them about whatever they want to talk about. Really. I really enjoy conventions. I look forward to going to them. We have so many common interests and that is one of the things that I love about it as well. And I just love people. I love meeting so many different people from different walks of life that I wouldn’t have ever had the opportunity to meet otherwise. I have such a respect and love for them.
A Lifelong Journey
Katee Sackhoff’s journey from a young fan girl to a celebrated actress and podcaster is a testament to the power of following one’s passions and embracing vulnerability. Her iconic characters inspire and empower fans worldwide, and her commitment to authentic storytelling resonates deeply with audiences. As she continues to explore new creative avenues, it’s clear that Sackhoff’s impact on the world of science fiction and beyond is far from over.
Portrait of a Fangirl Podcast
“Portrait of a Fangirl” is a series from the team at Temple of Geek. Initially a web series, it has expanded into a podcast, now in its second season. You can watch and listen both here and on our YouTube channel. Hosted by Jenna Wrenn, the project focuses on telling the stories of women who have found inspiration, growth, and power through fandom.
You can listen to the Portrait of a Fangirl Podcast directly on this page or stream it on Apple Podcasts / Google Podcast / iHeart Radio / Spotify and wherever you stream your podcasts. You can even watch it on our YouTube channel. Find us on social media on Instagram and TikTok.
About our Host
As the Host and Executive producer of the Portrait of a Fangirl Podcast, Jenna Wrenn is also an entertainment correspondent for Temple of Geek. Jenna has interviewed talents such as Felicia Day, Max Brooks, Christopher Paolini, Rachel Smythe, and Ashley Eckstein. She has written several articles for Temple of Geek covering conventions, anime, pop culture, and much more.
A historian by trade, a writer by passion, and a cat mom by birthright. Jenna loves to travel, forge new connections, and cosplay. In addition, she is excited to bring more fascinating interviews to the viewers and listeners of the Portrait of a Fangirl podcast.
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