There’s nothing we love more than a new family in Ferndale and now, Shortland Street has got us sorted!
Although small, the Nathan clan is sure to shake things up, with transgender teenager Blue and his fiercely protective mother Kate looking to bring some drama. We take a moment to get to know actors Tash Keddy, Shorty’s first transgender cast member, and Laurel Devenie.
Can you tell me a bit about your character?
Tash: Blue Nathan is 16 and the new kid on the block at Ferndale High. He’s quite creative and witty, with a fiery side to his personality.
Laurel: Kate’s a nurse at Shortland Street. She is bold and straight-up. She’s not afraid to stand up for what she believes in – even at the cost of getting into trouble.
Did you have to do much research for the role?
Tash: A bit of tapping into some teenage angst was in order mainly, as well as some actual Shortland Street watching.
Laurel: There is a lot for me to learn about being a solo mother, being a nurse and being the mother of someone who was born a girl and identifies as a boy. That’s the newest aspect for me understanding what it is like for Blue and understanding what it is like to be Blue’s mum.
What sort of impact will Kate and Blue make?
Tash: A lot of the time, Blue has the ability to see past how things appear, which makes him a great friend with a large capacity for empathy. He is an advocate for people to be open and accepting.
Laurel: I’m pretty sure she and Blue will shake things up just by being there – they are definitely a pair of feisty characters!
What’s your favourite thing about your character?
Tash: It’s so satisfying to watch Blue make mistakes and then learn from them.
Laurel: She’s funny and brave, and unfazed by most things.
Are there any similarities between you and your character?
Tash: Both Blue and I have a very dry sense of humour, and we’re both quite creative.
Laurel: Like Kate, I can get myself into trouble when I feel like I am right or I am being backed into a corner. I can react impulsively and emotionally.
Have you always been a fan of Shortland Street?
Tash: I actually had to admit in my audition that I’d never seen an episode! It then got pointed out to me that I had 25 years to catch up on, so I quickly did a marathon watch.
Laurel: Yeah, it’s one of those things that has always been around. I was an avid watcher when I was younger.
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