Interview VWars Actress: Kimberly-Sue Murray

We had the pleasure of chatting with Kimberly-Sue Murray about her current role on VWars. We’ve loved her on a number of shows over the years and were so excited to see her on our screens in yet another great show.

VWars is streaming now on Netflix.

What can you tell us about your character in VWars?
I play Danika Dubov. She’s a smart, power driven and fiercely independent, but when she’s exposed to the pathogen she turns into a blood thirsty vampire. She’s different than other Bloods on the show. She’s a Verdulak, of Russian descent, that only feeds on her prey without ever killing them. Her fangs release an addictive toxin that feels like a drug to her victims making them wanting more. Danika takes full advantage of her new found “power” until she gets hunted down by a biker gang and the reality of the situation hits her. She finds protection with Michael Fayne and becomes a great asset to Blood Nation. She’s complicated, a bit of a trouble maker and a lot of fun, but she’s not as tough as she lets on.

Did you read the original material before shooting?

I did. It was the perfect entry point into playing Danika and understanding the dynamic between the Dubov Sisters. Jonathan Maberry’s anthology is so beautifully descriptive and for an actor that’s GOLD. Even though the show took liberties with the characters and storylines, their essences stay the same. Danika is as sexual, blood thirsty and power driven as in the book. John Everson created such intricate characters with Danika and Mila. I’m so thankful!

How do the V Wars vampires differ from the mainstream let’s just say Twilight vampires?
They couldn’t be more different. First off, in our world, vampires don’t exist, nor do werewolves. Our “vampires” were exposed to an ancient pathogen that made them sick. It’s a disease that’s spreading like the plague. We don’t know anything about it and that’s what Dr. Luther Swann is trying to figure out. Sure, our vampires drink blood, are strong and have heightened sense, but they do not glitter, they’re actually quite grotesque (except for the Verdulaks). They don’t avoid the sun or sleep in coffins. This is a new take on vampires and we call them Bloods. Don’t get me wrong, I loved the Twilight Saga, I’m a big fan of vampire anything, but I love that VWars is closer to our reality and that something like this could happen. Who knows what’s lying dormant in the glaciers.

You have been in some of our favorite shows: Shadowhunters, Being Human, The Girlfriend Experience – Is the process different shooting for a streaming platform?
I’d say the only difference is in terms of visibility and accessibility. Once a show launches on Netflix, it’s out there for everyone worldwide to binge at anytime of day. We’re streaming in 197 countries, I think, THAT’S NUTS! I don’t know anyone who doesn’t have Netflix or other streaming platforms. So, ultimately, more people see your work and that’s important when you’re building a career. I’m very grateful for Netflix. They bring a lot of work to Toronto and hire so many local talent. Being on Shadowhunters and VWars was a wonderful stepping stone for me and I’m excited to see what the future has in store.