Nico Parker, the talented 19-year-old daughter of actress Thandiwe Newton, has taken on her first major leading role in the recent Sundance Film Festival hit, Suncoast. Despite initial doubts about carrying a challenging narrative and captivating an audience, Parker found the support and guidance she needed from her mother and father.
In Suncoast, Parker portrays Doris, a teenage girl dealing with her sick brother's move to the same Florida hospice center as Terri Schiavo, who garnered international attention in 2005. The film features seasoned actors such as Laura Linney and Woody Harrelson in supporting roles.
Parker attributes her success and confidence in the role to her mother, who was not only supportive as a parent but also as a peer. Newton's encouraging messages of 'you can do this' resonated deeply with her daughter. The talented young actress also sought her father's thoughts, as he read the script and loved it.
Having to carry the weight of the film as the focal narrator felt intimidating to Parker at first. However, both of her parents instilled the belief in her that she could tackle the role successfully. This support paid off, as Parker's breakthrough performance earned her a prestigious jury award at the Sundance Film Festival.
While her parents' advice extends beyond the industry and acting, Parker has drawn from their guidance and incorporated it into her professional life. Their teachings about behavior, treating others with respect, and navigating life have influenced how she approaches her work.
Despite not having personal experiences that exactly mirrored Doris's life in Suncoast, Parker found elements in the story that reminded her of her own adolescence. The character's longing for new experiences and the feeling of being misunderstood resonated with her as a teenager.
Parker acknowledges the common misconception surrounding teenage characters, often seen as self-centered or shallow. She believes that teenagers, like Doris, have a natural inclination to explore and crave new things, such as going to prom, having relationships, or seeking adventure.
Suncoast, according to Parker, sheds light on various ways people cope, feel, and heal. The film delves deep into the complexities of emotions and human experiences.
Nico Parker's parents, Thandiwe Newton and Ol Parker, have been a vital source of inspiration and support throughout her journey. Although they separated in 2022, they stand by their daughter and her aspirations in Hollywood. Newton has always been fiercely protective of Nico's entry into the industry, wanting to safeguard her like a lioness.
Nico Parker's talent extends beyond Suncoast, having portrayed Sarah Miller, the onscreen daughter of Pedro Pascal's character, Joel, in the widely acclaimed drama The Last of Us. Fans can look forward to seeing her in the upcoming live-action adaptation of How to Train Your Dragon, set to release in 2025.
Suncoast, the film that marked Parker's breakout role, can be enjoyed in theaters and streamed on Hulu.
