INTERVIEW: Helen Johns

We had the chance to chat with Helen Johns recently about her role as Mrs. Barry on Anne with an E. We are big fans of Anne of Green Gables having read the books and watched the many incarnations of the books over time. Anne with an E is in its third season and can be seen on Netflix. It is a great addition to the legacy.

Anne with an E is such an interesting look at such a timeless story. Had you read the books before you took the role?
I read the first novel in the series after I was cast in the show and was blown away. I couldn’t believe how contemporary it felt. Anne is so ahead of her time and has inspired generation after generation. I’m so proud to be part of the show, which I think is touching the hearts of those who have read the books as well as those who haven’t.

Mrs. Barry is very concerned about how society will see her family (no falls from grace allowed) how is that explored in this season?
Yes, that’s true. And the Barrys had their own fall from grace in season two in a way, with a rather public mistake. This season, Anne turns 16 and we see our teenagers taking steps towards their adult lives. As you can imagine, it’s a turbulent time for all the families in the show. You’ll have to tune in to find out more!

If you could have any actor guest star on Anne with an E – who would it be?
I reckon that the lovely Lucas Jade Zumann (who plays Gilbert) and Timothée Chalumet look quite alike, and I think Timothée is a brilliant actor. Maybe he could play Gilbert’s long-lost brother?!

What will we be able to see you in next?
The new Cate Blanchett series Mrs America about the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment. Also an animated feature film called Charlotte about the painter Charlotte Salomon and her life in Europe before and during the Second World War.

Favorite Charity?
I’m a big fan of Grid Alternatives. They install solar energy systems in low-income communities, which reduces energy costs and carbon footprint.