TONI TRUCKS: THE NEXT CHAPTER FOR TV’S FAVORITE LEADING LADY

Toni Trucks is known for her stellar performance as Lt. Lisa Davis in the hit series SEAL TEAM which premiered its seventh and final season on August 11^th on Paramount+. Her other credits include the likes of TWILIGHT: BREAKING DAWN—PART 2, FRANKLIN AND BASH, BARBERSHOP, NCIS: NEW ORLEANS and many more… As a multi-faceted actress (and singer) there’s far little that Toni can’t do. Now with the beloved series coming to an end we were excited to sit down with her and talk about what’s next, her go-to style, her favorite places to travel, and the perspective she gained from playing such a strong character…

You star as Lisa Davis in the hit series SEAL TEAM. What has it been like to play such a strong (and beloved) character throughout all seven seasons?

It has been so wonderful to walk in Lt. Lisa Davis’ shoes for all these seasons. Playing someone who is so excellent at their job and dead set on excelling has been really fun. Experiencing the fans passion towards her is just the cherry on the cake. They are really protective of her, and I can relate.

With the series coming to an end, what would you say was your favorite moment throughout the years? Any particular storyline or episode that sticks with you?

Oh, there are so many! One of the moments that I always think of is this really sweet scene with Davis and Sonny where he’s making her breakfast for the first time. “ Sonny side up eggs”. There is a moment when I steal his cowboy hat to wear as we clumsily small talk our way around our budding attraction. Davis doesn’t lead with vulnerability, so I loved getting to experience the moments when she was out of her comfort zone and a bit more playful.

What perspective have you gained (if any ) from this experience as Lisa Davis?

Playing Lisa Davis has definitely left me with a deep admiration for military women. They have all been my muses over the many years on SEAL Team. My perspective on what it looks like to navigate male dominated spaces has forever changed. I have the utmost respect and reverence for these women, who by the way, are killing it at all levels.

What are you hoping for next for your career? What would you say would be your dream role? Who would you want to work with?

Davis spent a lot of time at a desk so it would be wonderful to do something that required a bit more movement! I would love to do something science fiction based. Also working with Jeffery Wright would be incredible. He is such a beautiful and captivating actor. If I can be in that kind of company I can’t complain.

In terms of fashion are you ready to leave behind the camouflage? How would you describe your go-to style in “real life”?

You know my mother recently purchased me a camouflage jacket because she said she could “really see me in something like that”… Never mind the fact that she sees me in camouflage every week on TV. It was definitely a laugh and really highlighted my personal aversion to camouflage in my “real life”. Maybe it will come back after the show is done. I think my go-to style leans towards Jeans, t-shirt and a platform shoe of some kind. However, when the time comes to dress up, I am all about bright, bold, and punchy colors.

How do you think fashion factors in when it comes to getting into character?

Fashion plays a huge role for developing a character. I was trained in the theatre where having appropriate footwear for the character–even when rehearsing– was a cornerstone of the process. Start with the shoes and work up.

Do you feel like the clothes are part of the story in a way?

What a character is wearing is definitely a part of the story. Think of any iconic character and you will also think of what they wear. You don’t think of Forest Gump without also thinking of his iconic Nike shoes. Little Red Riding Hood MUST have her cape.

When not filming where do you like to travel to? Any favorite destinations or upcoming trips planned?

I love to travel and usually do a big trip once a year. I recently went to Scotland with my dad and feel like I didn’t get enough time there. There are so many beautiful things to see and do. But the location that is at the very top of my list is Japan. The range of experiences you can have there is amazing.

How would you describe a perfect day (whether on-set or off)?

My perfect day starts with a leisurely morning. Pilates, beautiful breakfast, and very long hot shower. The rest of day can be filled with playing with my hysterical 2 -year old son and would end with some kind of night in the theatre. If ice cream found its way into this day dream, I would not be mad.

Apart from acting, what else are you passionate about?

I am extremely passionate about spreading awareness on hearing health and ending the Death Penalty. My hope and mission within my lifetime is to change the stigma around treating hearing loss and abolish the death penalty in the US.

If you had one super power what would it be?

I would love the ability to always remember people’s names, and one important fact about them. Being seen and remembered in this fast-paced world is more impactful than we realize.

Lastly, for those looking to accomplish a dream (whether it’s getting into acting or looking to change careers) what advice do you have?

I think becoming a perpetual student of the thing you love is really the best approach. Stay in a constant state of curiosity and engagement. I still seek out classes and am eager to learn more about my craft. Whatever it is…become its biggest fan. It will serve you for the long run.

Photo credit: Ben Cope

Styling: Douglas VanLaningham

Makeup: Sean Harris

Hair: Kylee Heath