Sadie Sink Opens Up About Growing Up as a Child Actor
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Sadie Sink, known for her role in “Stranger Things,” reflects on her journey as a child actor and the challenges she faced growing up in the spotlight. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Sink discusses her experience transitioning from a young performer to a seasoned actress, sharing insights into her personal growth and connection to her characters.
Sink, who earned a Tony nomination for her role in the Broadway production “John Proctor Is the Villain,” revealed that her success in the industry forced her to mature at a faster pace. The actress admitted that she resonates with the emotional depth and maturity of her on-stage character, Shelby Holcomb, despite their differences in life experiences.
The 24-year-old star explained, “Shelby has a real emotional maturity that I don’t even know if she’s aware of yet. That was always something I kind of related to; of growing up a little bit faster. It’s just something that I’ve felt really connected to.” Sink’s portrayal of Shelby has garnered critical acclaim, earning her a leading actress nomination for the prestigious Tony Award.
Sink’s career began at the age of 10 with roles in Broadway productions like “Annie” and “The Audience,” alongside Helen Mirren. Her breakthrough role in “Stranger Things” catapulted her to international fame at just 15 years old. Since then, Sink has tackled challenging roles in films and on stage, showcasing a depth and maturity beyond her years.
Despite her early success, Sink remains grounded and committed to her craft. In “John Proctor Is the Villain,” directed by Danya Taymor, Sink embraces the comedic elements of her character, Shelby, and enjoys exploring her character’s wit and pop culture references. The play has received praise and multiple Tony Award nominations, including Best Play.
Sink’s dedication to theatre is unwavering, as she finds solace and growth in live performances. She shared advice from Helen Mirren, who emphasized the importance of theatre in navigating the entertainment industry. Sink expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to return to Broadway and evolve as an actress through challenging roles.
Looking ahead, Sink is set to appear in the upcoming film “Spider-Man: Brand New Day,” alongside Tom Holland and Zendaya. However, she remains drawn to the stage, acknowledging the unique growth and connection she experiences through live performances. Sink’s passion for acting and dedication to her craft continue to drive her success in the industry.
“John Proctor Is the Villain” is currently running at the Booth Theatre in New York City, with tickets available for purchase. The Tony Awards, where the play is nominated for several categories, will be broadcast live on CBS. Sink’s inspiring journey as a child actor turned acclaimed performer serves as a testament to her talent and resilience in the competitive world of entertainment.