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Amid carefree moods, beach reads, and pump-up jams, we can't help but crave a teeny bit of darker energy this summer. That's why we're high-key excited to binge Pretty Freekin Scary, the new Disney series (based on the book series, airing on Disney Channel and next day on Disney+) that takes us into the underworld...and into middle school.

Eliana Su'a plays Frankie Ripp, who after dying—and debating the Grim Reaper—ends up back at middle school accompanied by her two new supernatural guardians, Pretty and Scary. 

Sounds, um, pretty scary? Don't stress: "It's more spooky than scary," spills Eliana, who (tbh) isn't the biggest horror fan herself. ("I can't get through a scary movie without having nightmares when I go to bed!" she confesses.)

Ready to dive into the underworld of Frankie...and the world of Eliana? Us, too...

Girls' Life: Frankie learns a lot with Pretty and Scary by her side...and did you learn anything from playing Frankie?

Eliana: I admire how dedicated and determined Frankie is. If she wants something, she does everything in her power to get it. I see myself in that—I work really hard, and I keep going when I want something. I also love how family-oriented she is. That's huge for me. My family—they're my best friends. 

GL: And what was it like going back to middle school (as Frankie, ofc)?

Eliana: In sixth grade, it was really hard for me to make friends and find my group where I belonged. Something I like about Frankie, though, is how good she is at talking to new people. 

GL: Looking back, is there any advice you'd give your middle school self?

Eliana: Just get to know people. Don't be afraid of what other people think of you. Get out of your box because there are so many nice people out there in school, you just have to find them. 

GL: Speaking of finding your place, what was it like on the set of Pretty Freekin Scary?

Eliana: So much fun. There were so many prank wars happening. The entire cast sticky-noted one of the wardrobe stylist's cars and, one day, my mom and I switched places during one of the rehearsals because we look very similar. There were always fun little pranks going on which kept it really light. And every Friday, everyone in the cast and crew would have "karaoke Fridays", where we'd go out to lunch and sing and dance. It was a great time. 

GL: And if you could have two people by your side at all times, who's your pick?

Eliana: My mom and dad. They are already by my side now!

GL: Finally, with summer on the horizon, what are you most looking forward to?

Eliana: Honestly, I'm just really excited. There are a lot of opportunities right now. But I am really excited for the show to come out and for people to see it and to see all the hard work that went into this beautiful show. 

Psst: You can stream Pretty Freekin Scary HERE starting today!

Want the inside scoop on more of your fave TV shows? Check out these related stories:
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📺 EXCLUSIVE! Madison Lagares dishes on new series Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies
📺 EXCLUSIVE! Jaidyn Triplett gives us the inside scoop on iCarly's newest season

Images: Rowan Daly

by Katherine Hammer | 6/18/2023