Julia Garcia, best known for her role as Emmy on Disney Channel’s Sydney to the Max, opens up about her transformative experience working on a multi-cam sitcom. In an exclusive Q&A with Verna magazine, Garcia discusses the unique challenges and joys of mastering comedic timing, embracing the unpredictability of constant rewrites, and the invaluable skills she developed during the show’s three-season run. For the rising star, the role was more than just acting—it was a powerful learning experience that equipped her with a dynamic and versatile approach to comedy.
- You’ve had an amazing run as Emmy Mendoza on Sydney to the Max. What was the most rewarding part of portraying Emmy, and how did she evolve throughout the series?
The most rewarding part of portraying Emmy was having little girls come up to me and say that I looked like them and that made them happy. At the end of the day representation matters, having children in the audience see themselves on screen is important. It reiterates that their dreams can be achievable. I’m so thankful to the writers and producers of the show because Emmy’s character development over the course of three seasons was wonderful. Emmy became more secure with herself and embraced what made her different with the support from her friends and family.
- What was it like working alongside Ruth Righi and Jackson Dollinger? Can you share a favorite behind-the-scenes moment from filming?
My co-stars have shown me the importance of building real connections on and off the set, which translates into authentic performances and a stronger ensemble. Both Ruth and Jackson are incredibly talented. Collaborating with each of them has helped elevate my technique and performance. I’ve had many favorite behind the scenes moments, but making TikToks on set was truly a fun memory that I will always hold dear to my heart.
- Emmy brought a lot of humor and heart to the show. How did you prepare to balance the comedic and emotional moments?
When I was balancing comedic and emotional moments with Emmy, it really came down to understanding her depth. She was funny and sassy, but what made her humor resonate with the audience was the genuine love she had for her friends. I was very focused on the emotional truth behind Emmy’s character and her fierce loyalty and protectiveness. That emotional grounding made her comedic moments more relatable because her humor came from a place of authenticity. I wanted to let Emmy’s vulnerability shine through, even in the funniest situations, and I feel like that really added layers to the performance.
- SinceSydney to the Maxaddresses important topics like family, friendship, and change, how do you feel the show impacted viewers, especially younger audiences?
I believe it put us in a league of our own, I feel that the audience really connected with the important topics in the show, and honestly, it was imperative to talk about these issues with the younger audience. Putting things out in the forefront for open communication is what made the show so special. We spoke about inclusivity and stereotypes and it helped empower youth to speak up and to use their voice.
- As the series gained international viewers, did you notice a change in how fans from different parts of the world connected with your character?
I’ve had many fans from Europe to South America reach out through social media to tell me that they also had a learning disability like Emmy. The struggle of being different and wanting to fit in crosses all borders and language barriers. We all want to feel accepted and loved which translates all over the world. Emmy’s relatability is what made her so special and it’s what resonated with the audience.
- How do you feel your time on Sydney to the Maxhelped shape your overall approach to acting?
Sydney to the Max was honestly my first real multi-cam experience, so that was definitely an adjustment. The show gave me a safe place to learn and practice the art of setting up and landing a joke. There was often a physicality with the comedy associated with the show that wasa invaluable as actor. It was truly a blessing to have that skill set in my back pocket. I learned so much in three seasons but overall, it helped me learn not to be married to my lines. There are constant rewrites and alternative lines given, so memorization needed to be fast and fluid. It gave me the approach of let’s see where this goes, and honestly it made for the most organic and relatable comedy. The show was truly special.
- Where can we follow you on social media?