Carrie-Anne Moss found herself engrossed in the pages of one of her beloved books, delving into a chapter featuring Baba Yaga, just as an enticing offer landed on her doorstep to star in the upcoming series, “Yaga.” The serendipitous timing struck a chord with Moss.
During a chat with CBC’s Eli Glasner, Moss revealed her deep connection to “Women Who Run with the Wolves: Myths and Stories of the Wild Woman Archetype” by Clarissa Pinkola Estés, a book she has cherished since 1999. The chapter she was reading resonated with the project she was being presented with.
“Such occurrences hold significant meaning for me,” Moss expressed. “I’ve always allowed such signs to guide my path.”
Crafted by Canadian playwright Kat Sandler, “Yaga” is a gripping dark mystery-thriller adapted from Sandler’s 2019 stage production.
In this narrative, Noah Reid (“Schitt’s Creek”) takes on the role of private investigator Charlie Rapp, embarking on a quest to locate missing heir Henry Park, portrayed by Hudson Williams (“Heated Rivalry”). Set in the fictional coastal town of Whittock, the storyline intertwines with the Slavic folklore of Baba Yaga, an enigmatic figure whose dwelling rests upon chicken legs, embodying unpredictable intentions and formidable power.
Sandler extended an invitation to Moss to portray Katherine Hargrove, a professor with a penchant for younger companions. Intrigued by Sandler’s vision and the script, Moss carefully considered the offer before accepting the role.
Filming in Victoria marks a nostalgic return for Moss to British Columbia, where she spent summers as a child on the island with her aunt and uncle, assisting in caring for their children.
Growing up in Burnaby and later residing with her mother on Granville Island during high school, Moss reminisced about her solo bus trips to witness school plays, musicals, and local performing arts presentations that fueled her aspiration to become an actress.
Her journey led Moss from Vancouver to Toronto, where she kickstarted her career as a model before venturing to Europe. Barcelona became the backdrop where Moss landed her breakthrough role on the television series “Dark Justice” (1991-93) playing the character Tara McDonald, the legal clerk to a vigilante judge.
Transitioning to Los Angeles with the show posed challenges as Moss navigated financial limitations, social isolation, and visa uncertainties. Despite the hurdles, Moss remained steadfast in her pursuit of acting, driven by a genuine passion rather than a quest for fame.
The pivotal audition for Trinity in “The Matrix” in 1997 marked a turning point in Moss’s career, culminating in her iconic portrayal of Trinity alongside Keanu Reeves. Reflecting on setbacks and triumphs, Moss emphasized the importance of resilience and faith in one’s journey.
Moss’s emotional connection to her work extended to her role in “The Matrix,” where she underwent intensive martial arts training and formed deep bonds with her co-stars. The film’s impact moved her to tears upon her initial viewing, solidifying her international acclaim.
Balancing her career with motherhood, Moss cherishes her time spent raising her children and acknowledges the personal growth that comes with each phase of life. Relocating to New Hampshire, Moss sought solace in a quieter lifestyle under the starlit skies, away from the hustle of Hollywood.
While contemplating the future of her creative endeavors, Moss expressed reservations about artificial intelligence’s influence on artistic expression, highlighting concerns about the role of human creativity in an increasingly automated landscape. She emphasized the importance of storytelling as a tool for fostering empathy and connection amidst evolving technological landscapes.
As Moss embarks on new ventures and embraces the unfolding chapters of her life, she remains committed to honoring her artistic calling and staying true to her purpose.
