Liv Hewson Opens Up About Their Creative Inspirations: Introduction
Liv Hewson, the Australian actor celebrated for their compelling portrayal of Van Palmer in Showtime’s hit series Yellowjackets, recently joined Mashable’s Say More interview series for an engaging and intimate conversation about the films, television shows, and creative environments that shape their artistic sensibilities.
The Yellowjackets fandom — affectionately dubbed the “hive” — has long considered Hewson a standout performer, not only for their nuanced role in the show’s suspenseful, cannibalistic narrative but also for the sincerity and vulnerability they bring to every project. In their chat with Entertainment Editor Kristy Puchko, Hewson peeled back the layers of their viewing habits and professional aspirations, giving fans and fellow creators alike a deeper understanding of the influences behind the rising star.
Growing up in Australia, Hewson was immersed in a blend of local and international content, but it was American television that left an especially enduring mark. “I’ve always loved how TV can be both reflective and absurd,” they said. “Shows like The Simpsons shaped my sense of humor and timing.” Their admiration extended to more serious dramas like The Americans, which they praised for its character complexity and slow-burn tension.
But it wasn’t all scripted drama and satire — Hewson also lit up when talking about their affection for The Real Housewives franchise. “It’s completely unhinged, but in the best way,” they laughed. “I love how committed everyone is to the performance of their reality. It’s like performance art.” In fact, during the interview, they gamely tried out a Housewives-style catchphrase of their own — a playful nod to the performative nature of fame and persona in today’s media.
The conversation eventually shifted to Hewson’s favorite films, where their eclectic taste became even more apparent. Among the highlights was their love for The Muppets — a franchise they described as “joyful, weird, and deeply comforting.” But the film that truly resonated with them on a profound level was the Oscar-winning multiverse saga Everything Everywhere All At Once.
“I would give anything to be a part of something like this,” Hewson said with visible admiration. “It’s one of those rare projects where it’s clear that everyone involved has the tools they need, believes in what they’re making, and is genuinely excited to be there. That kind of collective joy and commitment — you can feel it on screen.”
Hewson emphasized that this is the type of energy they strive to bring to every set they work on. “That’s the environment I’m desperate to create and participate in,” they said. “I want to work on things where there’s passion at every level — from costumes to camera to cast. And honestly, I’m a sucker for practical effects. They make everything feel more real.”
Their artistic philosophy isn’t just theory — it’s earned them recognition across the industry. Recently, Hewson received the Rising Star Award from the Critics’ Choice Association’s Celebration of LGBTQ+ Cinema and Television. The honor reflects not only their rising profile as an actor but also their commitment to authentic representation in the stories they help tell.
Outside of acting, Hewson is also actively involved in initiatives that support the LGBTQ+ community. During the interview, they spoke about their recent creative collaboration with the Lesbian Bar Project, a campaign aimed at preserving the few remaining lesbian bars across the United States. “These spaces matter,” they said. “They’re cultural landmarks, community centers, and safe havens all rolled into one. I’m proud to contribute to something that helps keep that history — and future — alive.”
As Yellowjackets continues to draw critical acclaim and a growing global audience, Liv Hewson is clearly becoming one of the most thoughtful and exciting talents of their generation. Whether through their love for subversive comedies, genre-defying films, or their advocacy off-screen, Hewson’s voice is one that resonates — not just in Hollywood, but far beyond.
