May 6
Will Chappell Roan Launch an Acting Career? If So, Thank John Waters
Kilian Melloy READ TIME: 2 MIN.
Chappell Roan says that legendary filmmaker and "Pope of Trash" John Waters is plumping for her to enter the acting biz. Who knows? She just might do it!
CNN reported that "In a recently published W cover story, the singer said she had just met the legendary filmmaker, which she described as 'insane' because she considers him one of her 'idols.'"
And what advice did her idol have for her?
"I was talking about how there are only so many 'firsts' you can have with your career," Roan recounted. "And he said, 'No, no, no – there are all the firsts to go through when you become an actress!'"
Though the "Pink Pony Club" singer protested that she's not an actress, Waters wouldn't hear it. Indeed, the "Pink Flamingos" auteur had an insight to share about the actorly craft.
"He said, 'Every singer is an actress!'" Roan recalled. "And I was like, okay, maybe I am! Damn! If John Waters says I'm an actress, maybe I am!"
There are a host of singers who have taken that plunge, from David Bowie to Bad Bunny and even pop icons like Madonna and Lady Gaga.
Besides, Roan has the presence, and the style, to pull off a silver screen career.
"The Grammy-winning singer and songwriter is known for her campy fashion and top hits like 'Good Luck, Babe,'" CNN noted. "She has become extraordinarily popular in the LGBTQ+ community, much like Waters," who is openly gay.
Roan, too, identifies as queer – perhaps not a surprise, given that her latest hit, "The Giver," is "about sex between women," as W noted in its profile of the recording artist.
Kilian Melloy serves as EDGE Media Network's Associate Arts Editor and Staff Contributor. His professional memberships include the National Lesbian & Gay Journalists Association, the Boston Online Film Critics Association, The Gay and Lesbian Entertainment Critics Association, and the Boston Theater Critics Association's Elliot Norton Awards Committee.
