A Delightful Discussion with Disney’s New Break Out Star Faly Rakotohavana
The up and coming actor talks his background, his ascent to the silver screen and about his experience in the Disney+ film Secret Society of Second Born Royals
In what might seem like an almost lightning speed magician trick, Faly has managed to land a role of a lifetime while creating major buzz in Hollywood. However, it is not by chance and his hard work and persistence helped set him apart from many other Disney hopefuls. The project has focused a flurry of attention on his acting chops and since then he has been featured in many major entertainment news outlets as fans have gotten increasingly more curious to get to know the real Faly Rakotohavana.
In person his angelic radiant smile kept the entire crew in the best of moods. Faly is an original and has his own personal style that is versatile, fun and edgy. It is a bit of a mix of high fashion skater aesthetic meets hanging by the beach.
His grasp of world issues and sense of self is remarkable and we see him being a star that not only stuns on screen but as also someone who will be in demand on the red carpet for his natural down to earth appeal. In our eyes, Faly is more self-assured than many people twice his age but still so full of curiosity and joy.
We asked him point blank “How do you conquer stress or disbelief in yourself?”
“I struggle with this at times,” he admitted, “I notice most of the time when I feel this way; it is because I feel as though I lack purpose.”
“I am constantly setting goals for myself, and I work hard to achieve them. I feel productive when I can see how far I came.”
Faly tells us a bit more about what it takes behind the scenes to be so committed to his craft as well as more about his ascent to stardom.
Make sure to also check back for our exclusive video interview behind the scenes of his shoot with Cachet!
I know everyone is always curious when they hear your last name. It is so beautiful and striking. Tell us a bit about your background?
I was born in Madagascar and lived there until the age of 6. My dad is Malagasy, and my mom is German. So I’m a mixed kid from the beautiful island of Madagascar.
How does your family help you balance your world?
They are my support system! Without their support, I wouldn’t have gone very far in this industry. They’re my biggest fans and my biggest critics, and they push me to be the best that I can be.
How did you get your big break in acting?
The role that boosted my career and my relationship with Disney was playing Miles from “Raven’s Home.” This role introduced me to the world of Disney Channel, which helped me book roles like Matteo from “Secret Society of Second Born Royals.”
Tell us more about your experiences on set of “Secret Society of Second Born Royals”:
Getting to be a part of “Secret Society of Second Born Royals” was such a blessing! I loved being part of an amazing cast. We spent much of our free time on set dancing and singing; it was what you would imagine a Disney set to be like.
Who do you credit for being so grounded and mature?
I credit my parents! They push me to be the best me, which includes being mature and respectful. They do not tolerate immaturity and disrespect, which I appreciate because it pushes me to be better.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time outside of the entertainment industry?
I play music! I play the violin and piano. I’ve been surrounded by music my whole life, keeping up with my music is very important to me. My friends got me a skateboard for my birthday; I’ve been working hard on that! They’re great at skating, and I want to become part of the fun. I’ve been practicing ever since!
What would you tell yourself at 16 if you knew what you now know?
I would tell myself to keep doing what you are doing. Things might not be exciting now but wait. It only gets better.
What message do you have for students who feel so uncertain during these times of the pandemic?
These times are crazy! I think we all feel a little uncertain at times. You have to stay focused on what makes you happy. Don’t let these crazy times sidetrack you from success. Keep working hard and stay patient!
Who did you look up to?
In my day to day life, I look up to my parents. They taught me everything I know. Within the entertainment industry, I look up to Chadwick Boseman and Leonardo DiCaprio. I have loved Chadwick Boseman since “42,” and Leonardo DiCaprio has always been one of my favorite actors. Leonardo is one of my parents favorite actors. I have grown up with him.
How was your self-esteem as a young teen for example in middle school and even up to now. What influenced the issues you dealt with at that time?
Being an actor will have an impact on my self-esteem. I’m nervous about what people think of my performances. My family and friends always tell me to ignore other people’s opinions, but I find myself listening to them anyway. In a way, they push me to be better at what I do.
Did you always know your calling was in entertainment or is it more so an aspect of yourself that you discovered later in life?
Ever since I was living in Madagascar, I’ve always wanted to be an actor. We had a little box TV that I would watch all of my cartoons on. I always dreamed of seeing myself on that television.
What are your tips for young adults wanting to get into the industry?
The biggest part of finding success in this industry is to stay determined and patient. The industry is a waiting game, and some people have to wait longer than others.
Even though at times it is not fair, but that’s how life goes. If you work hard and stay patient, you will find success.
Keep up with everything Faly Rakotohavana via @falysbored._16 on Instagram !Also make sure to check out Secret Society of Second Born Royals! It is streaming now on Disney+!
Interview: Lena Ocean
Photography & Styling: Lena Ocean
Set Assistant: @aanittaav
Model in Background: @aanittaav