When it comes to local TV, Miriama Smith has been in some biggies – from Xena: Warrior Princess to Shortland St, Filthy Rich and many more. Now she returns for a second season of the uniquely Kiwi comedy-drama Dead Ahead, playing Kiri Wharekoa, a high-powered Māori lawyer who, like Smith, operates between English and te reo. The veteran actor, who's also a marriage celebrant, yogi and mother, somehow found time to face a 1News Grill.
Which five words best describe you as a teenager?
Rebellious, sporty, cheeky, adventurous, curious.
What will be top of mind when you go to vote this November?
Socioeconomic equality, climate justice, upholding the values of Te Tiriti.
What's one powerful phrase in te reo that you'd love every New Zealander to know?
Mā te aroha, ka taea – when we lead with love and compassion, anything is possible.
What's one personal trait of yours that you work on keeping in check?
Energy distribution. I have a big personality and never do anything by halves. I'm constantly multi-tasking which means I will eventually get it all done, just not necessarily in the right order. It's a Gemini thing.
Which person or group of people in Aotearoa deserves more recognition?
Our healthcare workers - they are the backbone of our communities.
What's the best book you've ever read?
The Art of Happiness: A Handbook for Living, by the Dalai Lama.
Which character in your acting history is most like you?
Gah! I can't narrow this down to just one character because inevitably they have to resonate with me as soon as they leap off the page, I think there's a little bit of Miriama in all of them.
What's the best thing about turning 50?
The clarity of knowing what truly matters to you, time regains value, boundaries become effortless and existence unapologetic.
What are three essential qualities in a marriage celebrant?
Compassion: holding space for love in all it's forms; Creativity: the ability to weave a couple's story together in an authentic and memorable way; Mauri Tau: staying calm in any given situation and being able to think on your feet.
What are five words to describe your character in Dead Ahead?
Kiri Wharekoa is formidable, intuitive, uncompromising, fiercely loyal, and protective.
Season Two of Dead Ahead premieres on Tuesday, November 3, from 8am on TVNZ+.
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