Taking the leap and moving to Hollywood in the early 2000s paid off big for Malin Akerman. The Swedish-born star—who grew up in Canada and in her teens was named the Ford Supermodel of Canada—was studying psychology at York University in Toronto when she set off to pursue acting in the States.
She’s gone on to impress audiences with her performances in films such as Watchmen, The Proposal, and Rock of Ages, as well as in TV hits like The Comeback and Trophy Wife.
While her latest project, Netflix’s The Hunting Wives (based on the May Cob bestseller) is packed with intriguing mysteries, Akerman is quick to open up and reveal all her favorite things about her charmed life in the Golden State.
Where do you live? I live in Los Angeles, smack dab in the middle of it all, near the Hollywood Sign.
Why there? I came out here in 2002 to fulfill the L.A. dream of becoming an actor. It was booming and felt like it was full of aspiration, opportunity, and fun times.
Who or what is your greatest California love? I have so many! My whole time here has been one big love story, from dreams coming true, to having my child, from broken hearts to finding true love.
Meeting rock stars and movie stars and hiking with friends. Backyard BBQs, hummingbirds, and singing on the Viper Room stage! But I think the main love is just that sun shining almost every single day with the palm trees as the most beautiful backdrop. I feel like I live in a dream.
What is the biggest misperception about Californians? The biggest misconception is that Californians are all vapid and fake. My experience has been quite amazing. It’s a mecca for artists and eccentrics and happy locals who say hello to you on the street. It’s warm and welcoming and has open arms for the wild and weird.
What is the stereotype that most holds true? Surfer dudes do exist! And they are awesome!
What is your favorite Golden State splurge? Well, I’m a foodie, so I will happily eat my way through every new and exciting restaurant in the state! I definitely splurge on good meals and California has some incredibly fresh produce, so the farm-to-table restaurants are a favorite. Gwen restaurant in L.A. is a favorite special occasion splurge.
Time for a road trip—where are you going? Up the coast we go! One of my and my husband’s favorite trips is driving up the coast to Big Sur. Stop at the Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo for a cocktail, check out some sea lions, and just enjoy the scenic drive while playing our favorite music or listening to some great true crime podcasts.
When we arrive we like to sit at the edge of the world at Nepenthe restaurant and maybe indulge in a spa service at Esalen. Then we hit the beach at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park with the purple sand for magic hour and end the day with dinner at the quaint Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn.
If you could decree an official state culinary experience, what would it be? Seeing that California has some of the freshest seafood, I would say anything from fish tacos to oysters, and pair it with a crisp white California wine!
What is your favorite way to play in California? My playtime is a day on the beach. Bring family, friends and a picnic and do some surfing. Then hit up a great taco stand with fresh margaritas as the sun sets.
And if we’re feeling frisky, we might go back to our place and start a dance party! I have an actual disco ball hanging in my living room, specifically for those spontaneous fun moments.
Where would you go for the ultimate shopping spree in California? My favorite type of shopping is secondhand or one-of-a-kind shops. There are a few shops in the Silver Lake/Los Feliz area that always have some fab finds. Along Sunset Boulevard, (the Sunset junction) is the perfect spot to stroll because you have cute boutiques and fun cafés and restaurants to pop into for some refueling.
Best California song? “California Dreamin’” by The Mamas & The Papas. A great song to play as you drive up the beautiful coast!
How would your California dream day unfold? My California dream day would start by waking up in my home with my son and husband for a family cuddle in bed. Sit on the balcony and stare at the beautiful palm trees as I sip my morning tea.
Then we would go for breakfast at one of our many favorite spots (All Time, Superba Food + Bread, Loupiotte Kitchen) and fuel our bodies for the day. Head to the beach for a long stroll or bike ride. Meet up with friends for a late afternoon burger or oysters beachside and then drive home with the roof down, singing our hearts out to our favorite tunes. End the day with a family movie night and popcorn (because it is my kryptonite) and maybe a dip in the hot tub under the stars with my hubby after my son goes to bed. That’s what I call perfection.