‘I CAN ONLY IMAGINE’ Star Nicole DuPort Shares Her Journey So Far

Namita Nayyar (WF Team)

6 years ago

From ABC’s “Grey’s Anatomy” and Amazon’s “The Last Tycoon” to performing in front of 3000 screaming fans portraying the chart topping and generation spanning, Amy Grant starring opposite Dennis Quaid and Broadway veteran, J. Michael Finley, Nicole DuPort is taking on her biggest role yet as I CAN ONLY IMAGINE (Lionsgate).

Women Fitness’ President Namita Nayyar caught up with this stunning actress to talk about her new role, fitness regime and beauty tips.

Ms. Namita Nayyar:

From ABC’s “Grey’s Anatomy” and Amazon’s “The Last Tycoon” to performing in front of 3000 screaming fans portraying the chart-topping and generation-spanning, Amy Grant starring opposite Dennis Quaid and Broadway veteran, J. Michael Finley, you are taking on your biggest role yet in I CAN ONLY IMAGINE which hits theaters nationwide in March. Walk us through this incredible journey and tell us how it all began?

Ms. Nicole DuPort:

I first started acting in high school after I quit the varsity basketball team. I had never done any kind of acting or performing, but performance had always interested me. Whenever I had the option to write an essay or give a presentation, I always chose to put on a show for the class. But it wasn’t until my brother brought home a flyer for an acting class at the college he was attending, that I ever considered acting. He knew something I didn’t. So, while in high school, I took my first acting class at the local college. I did a monologue from “A Streetcar Named Desire” and my life was changed forever! I studied with great teachers at U.C. Berkeley and Circle in the Square. I had the opportunity to work on numerous theatrical productions and student films while in school. When I moved to LA, I took the “normal” path – got into a class, I got an agent, I booked the lead in several indie films, then booked a few guest star roles on shows like “Grey’s Anatomy,” “NCIS,” and “Rizzoli & Isles.” Booking “The Last Tycoon” and having the chance to work with Kelsey Grammer and Matt Bomer, as well as the creators of the show, was a great opportunity. I loved working with everyone on that show. When I got the audition for “I Can Only Imagine,” I jumped at the opportunity to portray Amy Grant. When I was young, I would lock myself in my bedroom and sing every word to every song on “Heart in Motion.” It was exciting to be cast! Every member of the “I Can Only Imagine” team was fun and so gifted. I’d worked with Dennis Quaid on CBS’ “Vegas,” so it was cool to cross paths with him again on set.

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Ms. Namita Nayyar:

As a lifelong Amy Grant fan, you got the once in a lifetime opportunity to audition to play her in I CAN ONLY IMAGINE. Tell us about your experience while working in it.

Ms. Nicole DuPort:

I felt a genuine admiration for Amy from the very beginning. As I prepared for the role, I grew to admire her even more. I watched every Amy Grant interview I could find, took guitar lessons, listened to her entire musical library, and read one of her books. She is an inspiring woman. I also practiced her famous smile, of course!

Ms. Namita Nayyar:

What’s a day in your life, while shooting and on a day off.

Ms. Nicole DuPort:

I make sure I get plenty of sleep. I used to under sleep all the time when I was younger and I just won’t do it anymore. When I get up, I drink a glass of water. It’s important to start the day hydrated! I make green tea, a piece of sprouted whole grain toast, and green juice. I do a little meditation and stretching, write a bit, and take my dog for a walk. Then, depending on what’s scheduled that day, I’m either on set or at a coffee shop writing. Sometimes, when I have the day free, I take a hike or I drive out to the beach to watch the sunset. At night, I wash the day off my face and slip into yoga pants for either a yoga class, weight training or a run. Then I make dinner, make sure I’m caught up on my work, watch one of my favorite shows, do a little reading and go to bed. Of course, I sprinkle in date nights, ladies’ nights, and unplanned fun!

Ms. Namita Nayyar:

Tell us about the food/meal pattern that you follow in general to remain healthy and physically fit? Your 5 breakfast options, if allowed to choose?

Ms. Nicole DuPort:

I start the day with water, sometimes with lemon. I eat a small breakfast, a healthy snack, have a hearty lunch, snack and finally a healthy dinner. I prefer a plant based diet and always look for organic, whole foods.

For breakfast, I love sprouted whole grain toast, green tea or coffee, and green juice. Lately, I’ve been making celery, cucumber, spinach, parsley, apple, ginger and turmeric juice, but I always mix it up based on what I have in the house. I also love chia seed pudding (chia seeds, almond milk, honey) with berries, oatmeal, and smoothies. And I’m a glutton for huevos rancheros when I’m out for brunch!

Snacks are usually some fruit or vegetable with a little protein – bell peppers with hummus, raw trail mix, apples and peanut butter. I’m also a sucker for root veggie chips, popcorn and dried mangos.

For dinner, I usually make a healthy grain with as many veggies as I’ve got at home! I’ve developed some new skills as a chef recently and enjoy making a variety of dishes. I get bored if I have the same thing all the time, so I have to mix it up.

I like dessert, so I usually eat some fruit and tea. Sometimes I have ice cream and wine! I believe in balance and enjoying special treats in moderation.

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Ms. Namita Nayyar:

Vegetarianism is on the rise with time. What according to you are the benefits of having a vegetarian lifestyle?

Ms. Nicole DuPort:

I prefer a plant based diet, but I try not to label myself as any one kind of eater. For me to stay sane, I have to keep my focus on being balanced. Strict eating habits don’t help me. But the truth is I hate meat. I think of meat the way most people think of vegetables, like, “Do I have to?” And I’m so glad the answer is no! There is a lot of research out there about the health benefits of vegetarianism and veganism. I see its benefits in my immunity strength, my energy level, clear skin, steady weight and general health. Plus, I’m not eating animals and that feels great! Not to mention that vegetarianism is much better for our planet and the sustainability of farming.

Ms. Namita Nayyar:

Exercise is essential along with healthy eating, how do you go about incorporating it into your routine to lead a fit & healthy lifestyle?

Ms. Nicole DuPort:

I try to keep my exercise routine varied. I love yoga, Pilates, weight training, running and hiking. Stretching is also a very important part of my day. I try to get in a proper workout at least 3-4 times a week. It can be hard to squeeze everything into a day, so I make sure I move everyday for at least 30 minutes. In a pinch, this might be a rigorous walk, a short yoga video on YouTube, or dancing to a few of my favorite dance songs.

Ms. Namita Nayyar:

Working on sets calls for use of a lot of make-up. What is your skincare and hair care maintenance routine & tips for our visitors?

Ms. Nicole DuPort:

After a day on set, I take the makeup off my face as quickly as possible and re-moisturize. Keeping your skin healthy means keeping it clean when you’re wearing layers of make up under intense lights for hours at a time. It’s important to stay hydrated on set, so your skin looks healthy.

My main recommendation to everyone is: Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen! I also try to stay away from parabens, phthalates and other chemicals, so I stick with pretty natural products. I treat my skin very gently. Nothing harsh or drying. I love to exfoliate, so I use a gentle almond scrub every once in a while. It may sound silly, but affirmations are a big part of my beauty routine. Rather than bemoaning all my flaws when I wash or moisturize my face, I say loving things into the mirror.

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Ms. Namita Nayyar:

You are passionate about singing and playing guitar, does it help you as a stress-buster in your busy life?

Ms. Nicole DuPort:

I love music! I’m still such an amateur, but I really do love singing, playing guitar and ukulele. It definitely helps me de-stress. For me, music takes a lot of focus and concentration, so I really can’t think about all the other stress in my day while I’m playing or singing.

Ms. Namita Nayyar:

Being a successful actress, what would be your smart tips for an aspiring actress who wishes to join the entertainment industry?

Ms. Nicole DuPort:

Take care of yourself. Work hard – harder than you thought you would have to. Be kind to everyone, including yourself. Be authentic. Study! Get amazing at what you do – if you’re not your best, find a way to be your best. Create your own content, and do it with trusted friends. Surround yourself with people who are positive, supportive and inspiring.

Ms. Namita Nayyar:

Women Fitness works relentlessly with a goal to reach out to women all over the world providing them with best in health, fitness, beauty & fashion. What do you wish to say about the website (Womenfitness.net) and message for our readers?

Ms. Nicole DuPort:

I appreciate the information you bring to your readers – I truly believe in inspiring women to be their absolute best and to shine. I am grateful to Women Fitness for doing this important work. And thank you so much for allowing me to be a part of WomenFitness.net! To all the ladies out there, be kind to yourself!

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