Ruby Sear Is Just Getting Started

Ruby Sear has a lot on her mind, and plenty she wants to try. There’s the actor, best known for playing Gabrielle in The Gentlemen, returning for its third season and joining the DC Universe with Clayface. There’s the painter, moving from portraits to dreamlike landscapes, and the musician, spending more time writing and recording. She started modelling at 15, moved to LA alone at 16 and found her way into acting almost by accident. Now, with a growing list of roles and creative projects, she’s embracing the opportunities that come her way, from experimenting with accents to dreaming of Victorian period dramas. 

When we speak over video call, Sear has just returned from filming The Gentlemen Season 3 at an airfield. She speaks candidly about the excitement of trying something new, the nerves that come with unfamiliar challenges, and the importance of trusting herself rather than putting too much pressure on what comes next. 

That sense of curiosity runs through her work. From building playlists and choosing a signature scent for each character to exploring new accents, Sear enjoys finding unexpected ways into a role. Away from the set, painting and music offer different forms of expression, while writing and a growing interest in working behind the camera continue to expand her creative horizons. She sees creativity as something that extends well beyond acting, and success as the freedom to keep doing what she loves. 

In our conversation, she reflects on an unconventional journey into the industry, the experience of returning to a familiar role while taking on new challenges, and the creative pursuits that shape her life beyond the screen. Along the way, she shares the philosophy she’s learning to live by: enjoy the process, live your life, and fill it with things that exist beyond work. 

Q: To begin, did you always know you wanted to be an actor, or is it something you discovered later in life?

Ruby Sear: I fell into acting quite unexpectedly. I started modelling at 15 and moved to LA on my own at 16. I also worked in bars and restaurants and began painting, eventually putting on a small exhibition in LA. Working at a popular Hollywood bar led to people in the film industry asking if I was interested in acting. I started with short films, music videos and commercials, and by around 20, I realised how much I enjoyed it. I’d actually wanted to be a director when I was younger, so being in front of the camera was unexpected. I feel very lucky to be doing what I’m doing. 

Q: Would you ever want to work behind the camera?

Definitely. I love writing, and my brothers are writers, so we sometimes work on little projects together. I’m also fascinated by production and set design. I’d love to direct or produce something I really believe in, particularly if I could be creatively involved in casting and overseeing the story.

Q: What first sparked your love of cinema?

My dad introduced me to Alfred Hitchcock at a young age. Watching Psycho and his other films really amazed me. I was around 11 and definitely had nightmares, but I was fascinated by how films could make you feel. Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining also stayed with me. I’m not a huge horror fan now, but I love psychological horror that leaves you thinking about it afterwards.

Q: When you first read a script, what’s the moment that makes you think, ‘I need to play this character’?

I usually connect with something about a character quite early on, often within the first quarter of the script. Sometimes I see similarities with myself, and other times I’m drawn to the challenge of playing someone completely different. Occasionally, it’s just an instinct you can’t explain. It really depends on the project.

Q: Do you prefer playing characters similar to you or completely different?

I enjoy both for different reasons. Playing someone similar to me can feel more vulnerable, while playing someone completely different is exciting because I can explore another personality. I also learn things from my characters and sometimes discover qualities I’d like to develop in myself.

Q: How do you approach preparing for a new character?

I trust my instincts and make notes about my first impressions when reading a script. Then I explore things like physicality, accents and backstory. Recently, I’ve started choosing a perfume for each character because scent can trigger memories and help me get into their headspace. I also make playlists to listen to while getting ready on set. Once I’ve done the preparation, though, I let whatever happens happen.

Q: Do you have a signature scent for Gabrielle?

I use Santal 33 by Le Labo. I felt it suited her. For my last character, I chose something quite smoky, almost like incense, which felt right for her personality.

Q: Are there any genres or character types you haven’t explored yet that you’re particularly excited about?

I’d love to do a period drama. I’ve only worked on modern projects, so exploring a different era through the costumes, sets and atmosphere would be amazing. I’d love to do something Victorian or medieval, ride a horse and wear a corset. It would feel like being a child playing make-believe.

Q: If you could collaborate with any director, living or dead, who would it be, and why?

I’d love to work with Robert Eggers. I think he’s amazing, and I love his work. And then, if I had to choose someone who’s passed away, I’d probably say Stanley Kubrick, just because of the influence he had on me at a young age. There are so many, but I’ll stick with those two for now, otherwise I’ll be here all day trying to decide! 

Q: If you were a shot in a film, what would it look like?

Probably a seaside scene in an old coastal town on a cloudy day, with a few seagulls squawking, boats and the muddy shoreline exposed by the tide. It reminds me of my childhood.

Q: How did you land the role of Gabrielle in The Gentlemen?

I auditioned with a scene from Michelle Dockery’s character in the film, so I didn’t know much about Gabrielle or how significant the role would be. I was then invited to meet Guy Ritchie on set, followed by a director session with Nima Nourizadeh. This all happened shortly after I’d moved back from LA, so the timing was lucky. 

Q: How would you describe Gabrielle to someone who hasn’t met her?

She’s mysterious, quiet and observant, almost like a street cat. She’s sneaky, smart and very switched on, but people often underestimate her. She sees a lot more than they realise.

Q: You mentioned that you’d never been to drama school before landing The Gentlemen. Did that make stepping onto a set alongside experienced, professional actors feel intimidating at first?

Absolutely. I had a bit of imposter syndrome and worried I’d forget my lines or freeze in front of the cameras. My modelling experience helped me feel comfortable in front of a camera, although acting is very different.

When I arrived on set, I realised everyone was simply doing their jobs. Nobody was judging me; everyone was focused on their work. That took the pressure off, and I was able to enjoy myself. Michael was also lovely and relatively new to acting, so it felt like we were figuring things out together. I still get nervous, but those nerves can be helpful because they show you care.

Q: How important were your relationships with the cast in helping you settle in?

They were incredibly important. Everyone was welcoming and supportive. Jodhi May is one of the loveliest people I’ve worked with, and Michael was wonderful to work alongside. The whole cast and crew created such a lovely environment, and I feel very lucky that my first acting experience was with such great people.

Q: The Gentlemen was your first acting role. What do you think you learned about yourself, both as an actor and as a person?

It taught me that I can do things that initially feel scary or intimidating. Often, I doubt myself beforehand, only to discover that I can do it and really enjoy it. I’ve learned to trust myself, stay present and stop putting so much pressure on myself to impress people. I’m also learning to be comfortable being myself and to trust my own journey.

Q: Gabrielle begins as a mysterious figure working against the Glass organisation, but season two brings her into Susie’s operation. What interested you most about exploring this new position for her?

It’s been really fun, especially getting to work more with Kaya Scodelario and Harry Goodwins. And it was fun to be on the good team and not the bad team. Gabrielle moves into Susie’s operation, which means working with more of the cast and doing more action sequences. Those scenes are exciting because you have to make heightened situations feel grounded and believable, even without much dialogue. I’ve loved exploring that side of the character alongside the sweeter, more innocent dynamic she has with Jimmy.

Q: What has been your favourite memory from filming The Gentlemen?

Filming Season 2 in Lake Maggiore, Italy, was incredible. We spent three and a half weeks there, staying together and getting to know one another outside work. We went out for dinners, swam in the lake and spent time on boats. It felt surreal, and the experience really strengthened our relationships. It’s definitely one of the highlights of my career so far.

Q: Did you get much time to explore Italy?

We mostly stayed around Lake Maggiore, but we had weekends free to explore. I spent a lot of time sunbathing, swimming, eating gelato and wandering around the town. I also had spaghetti pomodoro for lunch almost every day, with fresh cherry tomatoes, basil and plenty of Parmesan. I love pasta, so I was in the right place.

Q: Can you share anything about The Gentlemen Season 3?

It follows on from Season 2, but I can’t reveal much more. Expect more action and plenty of crazy stuff.

Q: I know you paint, and you’ve also been spending time in the recording studio this year. Have you always had these creative outlets alongside acting?

Yes. I taught myself guitar at around 15 using YouTube, and I’ve always loved music. In recent years, writing and recording have become a much bigger part of my life.

I also taught myself to paint after doing a self-portrait for my GCSE art exam. My parents encouraged creativity and took us to galleries, and I’ve always loved drawing and painting. I’m now taking painting more seriously and setting up a studio where I can paint and make music. Having the freedom to explore those interests between filming projects feels like a real privilege.

Q: You’ve also got your first solo show in London coming up, which is exciting! How did that opportunity come about, and what can you tell us about it?

I’m still speaking with galleries, so the venue hasn’t been confirmed, but I’m hoping it will happen within the next few months. Since moving back to England, I’ve become really inspired by the countryside and have started painting landscapes rather than mainly portraits. I love Expressionism and Post-Impressionism, and my newer work explores dreamlike, slightly surreal landscapes using oil paint, texture and color. My previous exhibition in LA focused-on portraits, so it’ll be nice to do something different.

Q: Do you find that your different creative pursuits feed into each other, or do you approach music, painting and acting as completely separate worlds?

I think they all blend into each other. They’re all forms of self-expression. Music and painting feel particularly connected because I always listen to records while painting. Music also helps me prepare for acting roles, whether I’m getting into a character’s headspace or building confidence before a scene. I even paint little watercolors of the set while filming and give them to cast members. They’re different outlets, but they’re all a form of creative expression.

Q: You’re also joining the DC Universe in Clayface, which brings a body-horror perspective to the comic-book world. What drew you to the project and its darker take on the character?

I’ve always loved Batman, but I didn’t know much about Clayface when I auditioned because the process was very secretive. I originally auditioned for a different role, but the team came back with another character for me. Once I got the part, I realised how exciting it was. 

The scale of the production blew me away, from the sets to the costumes and the level of detail. I filmed in Croatia, in a setting inspired by a sunnier, more colourful version of Los Angeles. I was thrilled to be part of such an incredible world, even in a smaller role.

Q: How familiar were you with Clayface and the wider Batman mythology before joining the film, and what surprised you most about stepping into that world?

I didn’t know much about the project when I auditioned, as these auditions are usually quite discreet. They tend to give you just the sides rather than the full script, and sometimes they don’t even tell you what it’s for. 

I originally auditioned for a different role, but my agents later got a call saying they had another part in mind for me. Once I got the role and found out more about the project, I was like, ‘Wow, this is insane’. I really wasn’t expecting it.

It was such a cool experience, especially seeing the scale of the sets. I filmed in Croatia, in a city inspired by LA, with a sunnier, more colourful feel than Gotham. Even seeing the studio, the costumes, and all the planning and detail during my fitting blew my mind. 

I also love The Penguin, which is probably my favourite DC project, so finding out I’d get to be part of that universe was incredible. It’s something I’d never dreamed of happening to me. I know I’m only a small part of it, but I’m just grateful to be involved in such a cool world. 

Q: What can you tell us about your character in Clayface?

I can’t reveal much because of the confidentiality around the project, but I play an American character in the LA world. It was my first American role.

Q: How do you find working with different accents?

I really enjoy it. Using a different accent helps me let go and step into someone who feels separate from myself. I also worked on a South Missouri accent for another role, which was great because it was much more specific than a general American accent. Working with a dialect coach is a really fun part of the process.

Q: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received that you still use today? It can be from anyone.

My acting coach, Leigh Kilton-Smith, has given me a lot of wonderful advice. One thing she says is, ‘I’m just beginning’. It’s a simple reminder that every day is a fresh start. I find it freeing because it helps me stay present, appreciate the opportunity to start again and approach life with more confidence.

Q: What does success mean to you now?

I’ve never been particularly focused on being successful in a conventional sense. I’ve always wanted creative freedom, to do what I love and to support myself. I’ve worked in bars, restaurants, warehouses and a nursery, so I really appreciate being able to make a living through my creative work. For me, success means continuing to do what I love, enjoying my life and being able to put a roof over my head.

Q: What’s something you’re particularly nerdy about?

Food, definitely. I love cooking and baking sourdough.

Q: What’s your favourite thing to cook?

Pasta or a roast dinner. My mum taught me to make a roast when I was around 12 or 13, and I gradually took over making them on Sundays. I love roast potatoes, and I enjoy cooking for other people. 

Q: If The Gentlemen is the project that introduces people to Ruby Sear, what do you hope your next projects teach them about you?

I hope people get to see something completely different from Gabrielle, who speaks in my own accent and feels quite close to me. I’ve recently done a film that was my first lead role, playing a character who is very different from myself and speaks with a different accent. 

It challenged me emotionally, particularly because I had to cry on camera and perform scenes with heightened emotions for the first time. I also had to dance in front of a crowd without choreography. Both experiences were daunting but liberating. They taught me that putting yourself out there can be incredibly rewarding.

Q: Finally, what advice would you give to young actors dealing with rejection?

Try not to take rejection personally. Casting is about finding the right fit for a project, and there are so many factors involved. All you can do is show up and do your best. 

I also think it’s important to have other interests and outlets so acting doesn’t become your entire life. I’ve had plenty of jobs alongside acting, and there’s nothing to be embarrassed about. Those experiences expose you to different people and situations, which can actually make you a better actor. Ultimately, enjoy the process, live your life and fill it with other things.

• Photographer Oceane Auclair @oceane_auclair
• MUA Georgia Hope @georgiahopemakeup
• Hair stylist Momoka Imura @momoka_imura
• Stylist Tshedza Ranwashe @tshedza_ranwashe
• Movement director Naomi Weijand @naomiweijand
• Assistant Rowena Jayasinghe @dumbgameplay