In our series of talks with Westcountry celebrities, Nick Gibbens speaks to Exeter model and Bollywood actress Zoe Szypillo.
Zoe, who has graced the pages of leading magazines such as FHM, American Curves and Maxim, made her big-screen debut at the end of last year.
The glamorous 23-year-old played one of the two female leads in Bollywood love epic Sajna Ve Sajna.
She has since been offered a part in another Bollywood film, on the back of her excellent performance in this one.
Zoe, a former West Exe Technology College student, was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer in her left leg at the age of just 14. She had to undergo a year of chemotherapy and operations, causing her to lose her trademark black-jet hair. At one point, Zoe was even told that she only had two years to live.
Zoe also models for leading surf wear brand Rurik and has recently become the face of fashion website Miss Butterfly.
In our exclusive interview, Zoe reveals all about stripping off, Bollywood, dieting and what she had for tea last night.
What is it like being a supermodel?
"It's fantastic, but it does have its huge ups and downs."
Is the modeling industry as bitchy as we're led to believe?
"Yes it can be but its also very rewarding if you stick with the right people and stay level headed. I have met some incredibly bitchy people along the way but most of them have been doing it for my own good. Unfortunately, I think I've had more encounters with 'bitchy' people out of the industry than in!"
When does thin become too thin?
"When obviously you are unhealthy. Some girls are just naturally very thin and find it hard to put on weight but some really do have eating disorders. I personally love to have curves, I am a naturally curvy person but work out so I naturally stay slim. I do watch what I eat but only because I want to stay fit and healthy. I have had jobs in the past when they've asked me to lose weight and I just walked away."
Have you ever dieted?
"Yes, but I only go on a diet that's good for my body and fits in with my everyday life."
How do you keep fit?
"I go to the gym and work out but I never train for longer that 45 minutes, I get ever so bored after that! I love all sports and try to do as many as I can. I'm currently looking to get back into some serious netball, that's always been my strength and it's such a great way to stay fit, mentally and physically."
What keeps you hooked on modelling?
"I'd be lying if I didn't say the money. Fees for jobs can be very good if you show you can work hard and deliver, but they can also be very low. I’ve been shooting for a while now so I love having more input into my work and being involved more - styling, organising and even the lighting!"
Did you find it easy posing for the camera when you first started out?
"Not really, I was very stiff and never knew what to do with my hands! It depends on the photographer or people you're working with. If you're actually advertising something, like an item of clothing or a bag, it naturally becomes easier because you have something to work with but just having pictures taken for your portfolio can be much harder as you’re selling yourself."
What advice would you give to aspiring models?
"Always be on time, never be late. As soon as you walk into a room, smile! Be professional constantly and show that you are keen and interested."
Which other supermodels do you look up to?
"I really admire Heidi Klum, she is so beautiful but not a size zero. She also has children and a husband but manages to keep everyone happy and still produce strong images. Heidi is a very good role model to me. I like all the supermodels really but I feel the real models were in the 80's and 90's. Cindy Crawford, Christy Turlington etc... They were amazing."
Is there any particular actor/actress you would love to work with?
"Aishwarya Rai. She is the number one Indian actress and former Miss World. She is very loyal to her fans and Indian culture, she is deeply beautiful and I would love to have the opportunity to star alongside her."
Where do you think the line is between modeling and porn?
"When you're actually having intimate, physical contact with someone! Glamour modelling is not porn. Yes, you do see all these topless models posing on the covers of magazines but it's no different to being topless on a beach. The only thing I don't agree with is these magazines such as Zoo and Nuts. They should really be on the top shelf only because there too in your face and mothers taking their sons shopping in Sainsbury's don't really want them to see it whilst their buying Hello."
Do you have a line you would never cross with modeling/acting?
"Modelling/acting are two completely different things really. Of course I wouldn't do anything I didn’t feel happy with in modelling and I always discuss jobs with my boyfriend and family. I like to know exactly what I'm doing. Acting, well, if a role came up and I had to act out a kiss with a famous Hollywood star then I wouldn't say no! It's acting after all. On the other hand, if I was asked to act out a sex scene I would have to seriously think about the film and role, and also consider the consequences!"
Was it always your dream to become a Bollywood actress?
"Yes, for sure. Even more now that I've had a little taster."
What has the change been like coming from quite a small place like Devon, to becoming a Bollywood actress?
"There's no change in me what so ever. I still live here. I like to commute from St David's to Paddington. It only takes just over 2 hours. It actually takes me longer to get from one side of London to the other! I love Devon and ideally want to stay here for as long as I can. Its beautiful here, we have the best locations from walking to holidays. We also have extremely good local food. I would move away if a good job came up but I'd always rush back to Devon."
Why did you decide to venture out into acting?
"I just take and make the most of every opportunity passing or given."
Were you pleased with your performance in Sanja Ve Sajna?
"Yes. It's a beautiful film and I'm very proud of it. We all worked so hard and it took me to the most beautiful country. Of course I have learnt from my performance and know when and where I went wrong and where my strengths were. I am more than ready for the next one, bring it on!"
What future films are you appearing in?
"I've had two scripts come through but its still very early days so I will wait and see. It's hard to make the right decisions but it's very important that I try to make the best ones for me."
What would you have done as a career if you did not become a model/actress?
"I would have studied makeup and trained to become a professional makeup artist. This is something I will do one day. I have built up enough contacts and clients to do so; the only problem for me is I'm not sure how much work I'd get in Devon? I would do anything from one to one makeovers to weddings, and stars!"
What did you eat for tea last night?
"I went to our local pub and had pasta and a glass of cider!"
If you could change one thing about this world, what would it be?
"More freedom."
Do you dream of having children one day?
"This is a tough one! I have three nephews and two nieces. Hang on, is that right? Yes. My sister will kill me! They all keep me very busy as I spend as much time with each as I can. I do, however, love to hand them all back at the end of the day! I think I would like kids, but it would have to right. I would want enough money in the bank to give them the best possible life and also be happily married. I can dream, can't I!"
What is your favourite food?
"Indian and Italian."
What is your favourite TV programme?
"Ooh, I have so many! Strictly Come Dancing! It's my dream to be in that one day. I watch American Idol every year too, I also loved a series that was on last year called Mary Queen Of Shops. It was basically this lady who went around the UK helping small shops/boutiques that were in urgent need of some help or they would close and she helped to turn them around and made them thousands from sells. It was so lovely to see all these owners not having to close, happy and making a good living."
What car do you drive?
"I lovely little KA. I own it and bought it with my first savings from modelling. I would love a Porsche but I'm more than happy in my KA right now!"
What is your relationship status?
"I'm in a relationship."
What are your hobbies?
"Visiting different countries and learning all about their culture, foods and son on. All sports, dancing and organising! I have many."
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