BORN in Jakarta, Indonesia and raised mostly in Utah, the now 19-year-old Lukita Maxwell was living in Brooklyn and about to embark on her first semester at Pratt University to study architecture before she landed the role of Delilah in HBO’s max’s Genera+ion where she plays one the teenagers leading the pack.
This drama follows a cast of teen characters through their friendships, high school lives and romances, as these high school students explore modern sexuality, testing deeply entrenched beliefs about life, love and the nature of family in their conservative community. Glass talks to Maxwell about her role in Genera+ion and what she has learnt from her time in lockdown.
Lukita Maxwell.Photograph: Robb Klassen
How have you been spending your time during lockdown? Have you learnt any new skills?
Working on set, shooting Genera+ion. We’re still shooting season one right now! Also, since moving to LA, I’ve been trying to teach myself how to surf. It’s not going well but I like being at the beach quite a bit.
What have your learnt about yourself since the world went on pause?
I’m quite dependent on human interaction. The months of isolation before we started shooting were rough. Very grateful to have been able to work, especially in a Covid-safe bubble on set.
Lukita Maxwell. Photograph: Robb Klassen
When did you decide to pursue acting as a career, was there a particular light bulb moment?
My lightbulb moment was when I started allowing myself to unapologetically chase after my dreams and not to be afraid of failing. Acting has always been the dream and I’m very grateful to have the opportunity to be working. Very excited to continue giving this my all.
Tell us about your role in “Genera+ion”?
I play Delilah. She’s a badass. She’s a Gen Z social justice warrior and outspoken activist. She’s not afraid of questioning authority and challenging the system.
Lukita Maxwell. Photograph: Robb Klassen
How similar are you to Delilah?
We’re both extremely passionate and get tunnel vision when we’re fighting a fight or working on something we feel passionate about.
What is the first thing you do in the way of research, when you approach a role?
I talk to the writers. I have conversations about how they view the character and collaborate with them on understanding the character more deeply. With Delilah, I also pulled inspiration from Gen Z activists that openly have conversations about the world and how they want to change it.
With your career in mind as an actor, is there a dream role or film you’d like to be in?
Playing Henry V in Henry IV. Or a period piece. I would love to step into another world. Also, something crazy intense, like the Joker would be the dream. I really just want to explore and push my own boundaries.
Lukita Maxwell. Photograph: Robb Klassen
Favourite movies?
Natalie Portman and Gary Oldman’s performances in Leon the Professional were huge acting inspirations for me. Also, I adore 20th Century Women.
Do you have a party trick, or any hidden talents you might care to share with us?
I can open a bottle with my teeth. It makes everyone cringe but it’s my go-to party trick.
Lukita Maxwell. Photograph: Robb Klassen
What would be the perfect day in the life of Lukita?
A balance of work and chill time I guess – work and relaxation. I like being able to work really hard and to feel fulfilled and productive and then come home and cuddle with my cat or go to the beach or just cook and watch a movie or something.
by Sheridan Ward
See Lukita Maxwell in HBO’s max’s Genera+ion out now, all episodes are now available to watch on HBO Max.
IG: @lukitamaxwell
TikTok: @te.quita
Look 1: Self Portrait top and Misho jewellery
Look 2: La Ligne suit, Each x Other bralette, Sergio Rossi heels and Lady Grey jewellery
Look 3: Brock Collection full look and choker stylist’s own
Look 4: Emanuel Ungaro trousers, Nickho Rey jewellery and gloves stylist’s own
Look 5: Hellessy full look and jewellery talent’s own
Look 6: Dundas jacket, Faith Connexion trousers and jewellery stylist’s own
Look 7: LBV dress and belt, Lady Grey jewellery and Stella Luna jewels.