I loved theater growing up, and my mom always took us to the touring productions that would come through town. We would go to Chicago all the time and see shows. I loved it.

I avoid conflict - like, any conflict - at all costs. I hate it. Even at a restaurant, if I get the wrong order, I'll just eat it anyway because I don't want to make an issue.

I grew up in a very 'Friday Night Lights,' sports-focused town. I did not play the sports. I was never bullied physically, but I was called names. I was also an overweight kid. I knew what it's like to feel like the other, to feel written off for things that were not in my control - my appearance, my interests.

I got my agents right out of school, and I booked my first commercial right away. It was always enough to not quit and do something else.