AnnaSophia Robb Is Just as Intrigued and Horrified by Dr. Death as the Rest of Us

Image Source: Courtesy of AnnaSophia Robb

In our Q&A series Last Call, we get down to the bottom of every last thing with some of our favourite celebs – from the last time they were starstruck to the last song they listened to. This week, AnnaSophia Robb takes our call.

AnnaSophia Robb’s role as Michelle Shughart on Peacock’s Dr. Death is a far cry from her roles as Leslie Burke in Bridge to Terabithia and as a young Carrie Bradshaw on The Carrie Diaries. Now, 27 years old, the actor is very picky about what roles she takes on. “I went to college after The Carrie Diaries and I continued to work throughout college. So I try to be really picky about what I want my trajectory to be,” she told POPSUGAR. “I want to tell stories that I believe in and characters I find really interesting and different.”

Despite not knowing much about the case featured on Dr. Death, it didn’t take long for AnnaSophia to become hooked. “I listened to the podcast immediately and was just floored and horrified by what had transpired,” she shared. “Of course, I listened to all of the episodes and was really excited about the story.” Not only is Dr. Death in line with the actor’s goal of choosing stories she believes in, but it also allows her to portray a real person. “I personally prefer playing real characters because all of the people that I’ve played, so far, have been very open and kind,” she added. “It gives me a sort of touchstone as to what their goals are and how they exist in the world. And I really enjoy that.”

Between her role as Lacey on The Act and Michelle on Dr. Death, you’d think that AnnaSophia was a true crime fan; but you’d be wrong. “I wouldn’t say I’m a true crime fan because I typically shy away from it because I get scared,” she said with a laugh. “I’m like, ‘I don’t want to know that this is going to do. I’m going to have weird dreams.’ But as soon as there is something that’s in front of my face, I’m obsessed and I love it.”

While Dr. Death isn’t the happiest of source materials, AnnaSophia still managed to enjoy her time on set. “Even in a pandemic, you can’t shut actors up,” she revealed. “I loved listening to Alec [Baldwin’s] stories. He has so many stories and it was a great cast. I felt really blessed to be a part of this group of really extraordinary actors. Josh [Jackson] is so talented and smart and wonderful. As is Christian [Slater], Grace [Gummer], Carrie Preston, and Jennifer Kim. It was such a treat working with everyone.”

As for what she’s most excited for audiences to see, that has to do with the way the story is woven together, saying, “I think the way in which they’ve told the story and organized all the different timelines will be really unexpected.” Before you check out Dr. Death, which is now streaming on Peacock, you can read AnnaSophia’s Last Call interview ahead.

Image Source: Courtesy of AnnaSophia Robb

What was your last day on set of Dr. Death like?

It was only a half-day. We finished early, which was wild, but it was really weird because usually you finish and you can all celebrate. It felt very emotional because we had been postponed a year and we had finished. We were all just standing there still clapping. Everyone’s clapping on set, but you still don’t get to see each other’s faces.

When was the last time you were starstruck?

Earlier today. Do you know Nathan Fielder? He lives really close by and I was taking press photos in this outfit and he was there and I was just mortified. I was like, “This is just like an episode of Nathan For You and I’m so embarrassed and just want to curl up in a ball”. I also think he’s hilarious and his comedy is brilliant.

What’s the last thing you did for self-care?

Self-tanner. St. Tropez, girl. It works. My friend had it and I was like, “You look gorgeous. What are you doing?” It’s the foam. It doesn’t streak. Trust me.

What’s the last piece of advice you received that changed your life?

The self-tanner.

What is the last book you read?

Animal by Lisa Taddeo. It’s great.

What’s the last show you binge-watched?

I’m watching Loki right now.

What’s the last song you listened to?

Probably “Texas Sun” by Leon bridges. He was playing this morning.

Who is the last person you texted?

My publicist being like, “can I take five?”

What’s the last thing you do before bed?

Probably set my alarm. I usually take a drink of water, say my prayers.

What was the last gift you received?

Tyler McGillivary. She sent me this amazing corset that I’m going to wear later today and I am so excited and I love it.

What’s the last thing you ordered online?

A can opener, not that exciting, and DÔEN. My Nana liked this dress that I wore and now we have matching dresses and it’s very cute.