Love Island USA host Ariana Madix was the subject of a piece for Bustle, My Life In The Reality TV Wringer and detailed her transition from reality TV to mainstream work.
In an interview with Nolan Feeney, Ariana revealed that she knew what she wanted and never lost her focus.
Ariana explained the struggle she faced as an actress doing reality TV. “Even if an audition went well, I’d still often get turned down because I wasn’t an established enough name. And other times, I’d get a ‘No’ because they thought I was too recognizable from [Vanderpump Rules]. I got stuck in a loop.”
That didn’t keep her down. “I felt it was going to happen at some point. So, for me,” continued Ariana, “It wasn’t about getting ready. It’s about staying ready.”
“When I got a chance to do Chicago in 2023, it did cross my mind to wonder how much they wanted me for me.” In the end, the Something About Her co-owner knew she wasn’t going to let the opportunity pass her by, no matter the casting director’s intent when hiring her.
“Even if a producer had said, ‘Oh, let’s get Ariana Madix from TV. People are talking about her right now.’ Ok. Great! And then I’m going to show up, I’m going to be f*cking awesome, and you’re going to be like ‘Oh. Wow. She’s actually legit.'”
“I just had to believe that every time I showed up and did a good job, someone would want to give me another job. That’s always been my MO.”
Ariana’s hard work paid off. Post-VPR, Ariana placed third on season 32 of Dancing With the Stars before booking Chicago. This is Ariana’s third season hosting Love Island USA.
Last fall, Ariana joined the cast of St. Denis Medical as Dr. Emerson. Later that year, her role was renewed.
