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DIALOGUE | 29.09. 2024

MY MOST IMPORTANT ROLE

Creative Director Alix takes us inside the multifaceted world of actress Mickey Sumner.

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For Apero Magazine, I want to hand the mic to the inspiring individuals who have shaped my journey, whether from a distance or up close. This first conversation is with my dear friend, Mickey Sumner, whom I met while living in New York City. Mickey has always been a powerful source of inspiration to me—her strength and resilience are deeply intertwined with a genuine vulnerability. Mickey, the daughter of the iconic singer Sting, is an accomplished actress known for her range of talents and dedication to honing her craft. Beyond her successful career, she is the mother of Akira, a beautiful little boy living with significant disabilities. Despite the challenges, Mickey continues to thrive both personally and professionally. 

In this intimate interview, Mickey opens up about her life on and off the screen. She shares everything from her morning rituals that prepare her for demanding days on set, to her evolving sense of style, and her ongoing collaboration with Heimstone. As a single mother balancing a flourishing career, she reflects on the challenges of managing her professional and personal responsibilities. Mickey also reveals the values that guide her decisions and the wellsprings of her inspiration. With raw honesty, she talks about her craft, her approach to fashion, and her recent experience shooting for Heimstone’s latest campaign, offering a rare look into the life of a modern artist and mother.

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What are your on-set rituals, and routines? We’d love to hear your secrets!

My main ritual starts in the car on the way to set - drinking coffee (an absolute necessity), and listening to the soundtrack I make for my characters. I also do a breathing meditation to calm my anxiety from an app on my phone. Once I get to set: the hair and makeup trailer is a sacred space for me - and I think most actors would agree - the hair and makeup department doesn’t get enough credit for this - being in the chair watching in the mirror as my character emerges really helps me settle in. I look at my lines for the day, and listen to good music, eat some breakfast. Some days I love to use a depuffing eye mask while my hair is being done. When I go to set, I usually wear the most comfortable clothes I own - call times are usually so early - so I throw on sweatpants, a sweatshirt, cozy socks, my Vans, and I’m good to go. Also, at the end of a long day, when I’m taking off my costume - all I want to do is put cozy clothes back on, get home as quickly as possible, and get in the bath. I don’t have a specific set diet, but I try not to eat junk on set and avoid sugar so I don’t have energy crashes, and I try not to drink coffee after 12pm. But I’m human - I have moments where all I want to eat is caramel popcorn and grilled cheese sandwiches.

How do you balance  professional life with personal reflection and family time?

It is a struggle sometimes to balance work, being a single mum, and also taking care of myself, but the older I get I do think I am getting better at prioritizing and not getting overwhelmed. Setting boundaries is a newish skill for me. I try really hard to say no to things that feel like an energy suck, and not spend time trying to please other people at the expense of my own needs. I go to therapy! It’s imperative.

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Is there a core value or cause that guides your decisions in both career and personal life?

My son influences most of my decisions - being his mother puts my life into perspective - makes clear what is important and what is not. He keeps me grounded and present. If I’m going to spend time on any project, it has to be for a really good reason, a creative project that feels like I will grow as an artist and a person.

What was your favorite 
Heimstone piece during the campaign shoot and why?

I loved the iridescent long dress - I love that it can be dressed up and dressed down. That it shimmers in the light .

“I love wearing clothes that make me feel good, clothes that are fun, that stand out, unique, clothes that feel good to touch - I love that about Heimstone - there is a joy to the prints, and it feels liberated from rules”- Mickey Sumner

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