Bonnie Wright is perhaps best known for her work as an actress, having played Ginny Weasley in the Harry Potter films. These days, however, she is spending more time behind the camera, directing shorts, commercials, and music videos that have premiered at Cannes and the Tribeca Film Festival.
Wright is also a passionate advocate for climate justice and an ambassador for Greenpeace. In 2022 she published her debut book, Go Gently: Actionable Steps to Nurture Yourself and the Planet, which explores practical and tangible ways we can improve our environment and community. Go Gently will soon be seen on the small screen too: Wright chronicled a recent road trip along the Pacific Coast with drag queen and environmentalist Pattie Gonia, and the travel companions showcased the important work locals are doing to protect the planet.
Where do you live? Santa Monica Mountains
Why there? I love that we can have both a canyon mountain landscape around our house with access to endless hikes, yet also be very close to the ocean.
Who or what is your greatest California love? The Pacific Ocean. I pretty much moved to California to be able to live in a city that is close to the ocean so I can swim and surf.
What is the biggest misperception about Californians? That we don’t have seasons. I agree that they’re less extreme, but I love the subtle nuances of our seasons. When you really stop and pay attention, nature is changing and organizing through the year, bringing us welcomed transitions.
What is the stereotype that most holds true? That sunshine makes you happy. I was always so confused why people always spoke about how great the weather is all the time. But the beautiful Californian sun that shines so many days of the year truly makes me happy and grateful to be outside.
What is your favorite Golden State splurge? Food. There is so much delicious food grown in California thanks to our farmers. I love going to the farmers’ markets and all the incredible restaurants.
Time for a road trip—where are you going? I would head north up the Pacific Coast Highway, head through the Central Coast up to Big Sur. I would either go camping or stay at somewhere classic and historic, like Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn.
If you could decree an official state culinary experience, what would it be? A California burrito after surfing in the ocean
Where would you go for the ultimate shopping spree in California? There are lots of great flea markets and vintage stores. Here in Southern California my favorites markets are the Long Beach Antique Market and the Rose Bowl Flea Market.
Best California song? If I am feeling cool it’s California Dreamin’ by the Mamas & the Papas. But if I am feeling cheesy and like I’m a teenager again, it’s Phantom Planet’s “California,” the theme song to The OC.
How would your California dream day unfold? My day would begin with an early-morning hike in my neighborhood with my dogs Billy and Ruby. I would then head down to the beach to cool off and go surfing with friends. After that I would head somewhere delicious for a big breakfast, like Gjusta or Tartine. Next, an exhibition downtown at the MOCA or Hauser & Wirth. Walk around the Arts District or Echo Park and get coffee at Canyon Coffee. Maybe have a glass of wine with a friend at a bar like Tilda. Then head home to prepare a home-cooked meal with produce from the farmers’ market and sit out in my garden.