GLOW star reminds us that anything is possible with self-acceptance and grit.
It’s hard not to notice Britney Young’s glowing positivity on screen in Netflix’s breakout comedy series GLOW. Playing the role of Carmen “Machu Picchu” Wade, Britney demonstrates her character’s power and strength when faced with adversity as well as her kindness and compassion for friends in need. GLOW, which stands for Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling, is loosely based off the real ’80s wrestling program of the same name. The show is a behind-the-scenes portrayal of how the struggling organization scratched, clawed and body slammed its way into mainstream popular culture. Britney, who does all of her own stunts, hopes that when people watch GLOW, they will find that the story is really about confidence, inspiration and acceptance.
What is the most important message that you hope people learn from your performance on GLOW?
I hope that people take away a sense of empowerment. I know that GLOW has helped me to realize there are things that I am able to do that I didn’t even know were possible. I hope audiences are inspired to break down their own barriers and go after things they have always been dreaming of, or have been afraid of attempting. Because once those boundaries are broken, anything is possible.
Who taught you the most about happiness and why?
I feel like everyone in my life has taught me about being happy, in one way or another. But honestly, I think learning to be happy is something you have to figure out for yourself. It takes getting to know yourself, your likes and your dislikes, to really understand what makes you happy. I can confidentially say that I am a happy person, but I am still learning about who I am. So, I know that as I get on in years I will find new things that make me happy. Happiness is an ever-changing state, and I am excited to experience it all.
I actually have a personal motto to laugh once a day, dance once a day, sing once a day."
What is the kindest act someone has ever done for you?
That’s a tough one. I think one that comes to mind is actually the most recent act of kindness I experienced. My 30th birthday was earlier this summer, and my sister and I went for a hike. When we got home there were balloons tied to my front door and my mailbox was overflowing with birthday cards. I had gotten 17 cards, a card from each one of the GLOW girls and Marc (Maron). It was so heartwarming, I immediately started crying and was very touched. And I was extremely surprised because I am usually the organizer of our group birthdays, so they totally pulled a fast one on me.
What are you passionate about?
I am passionate about a wide range of things. I am passionate about film and television; I am a huge bookworm; I love traveling and learning the histories of new places and cultures. I love music and dancing. As I get older, I am finding that I am becoming very passionate about my close relationships with others. I am still finding out new things about my parents and siblings, as they are all very fascinating, amazing people.
How do you make others close to you happy?
I like to believe that I make people close to me happy by being kind and supportive. I am always there to lend a helping hand or listen when someone needs to chat it out. I truly believe in treating others as you want to be treated. So, I always like to have a positive relationship with others that’s built on honesty and respect.
What do you do to pay it forward?
I am a very verbally communicative person, so I feel that I pay it forward by letting people know how much I appreciate them and by thanking them for the things they do.
When is the last time you laughed out loud?
When am I not laughing out loud? I love to laugh. I actually have a personal motto to laugh once a day, dance once a day, sing once a day. It’s just something I do that helps to keep me in a happy and positive mood.
Where is your happy place?
DISNEYLAND! I know, cliché, it’s known as the happiest place on Earth. But I am a huge Disney fan and have been since I was really little. The park is a very nostalgic place to me, where I can really just let loose, laugh and have fun. I know I probably had breakdowns at the park when I was a kid coming down from a sugar high, but all the times I have gone as an adult I have always had a huge smile on my face the entire time.
