For our latest digital cover, we spoke with Kartanya Maynard, who plays Zoe in the Australian teen drama series Heartbreak High. The third and final season premiered on March 25 on Netflix, bringing the popular coming-of-age show to a close—one that isn’t afraid to tackle complex issues with a sharp, and at times humorous, edge.
Kartanya joined the series in its second season as Zoe, the outspoken leader of the school’s celibacy group, “The Puriteens.” Initially known for being nosy and unapologetically judgmental, Zoe quickly made an impression. But in Season 3, audiences were given a deeper look at her, revealing a more vulnerable and layered side.
Kartanya discusses Zoe’s Season 3 storyline as a conflicted teen coping with past trauma and how she matures into a more vulnerable version of herself, forming deeper connections with others. She also highlights Heartbreak High‘s relatability, personal growth from playing Zoe, and a supportive, fun on-set environment.
Photography by Dax Henry.
Zoe has so many layers to her as a character—how would you sum up who she is?
Kartanya: I think Zoe has been such a joy to play because she is such a multifaceted person. She has this
intense duality that’s incredibly fun to portray. One moment she’s incredibly loving and caring, and the next she’s eviscerating someone with words. She’s honestly just a young girl who’s doing her best to work through some horrible past trauma, albeit in some very specific ways, whilst dealing with hectic hormones and attending high school.
How would you describe Zoe’s character in Season 3 compared to Season 2?
Kartanya: This season, Zoe has really mellowed, the sort of calm that comes with time. In Season 2, Zoe didn’t have a lot of fans. She took a more aggressive approach with expressing herself and her beliefs but somehow her genuine passion and care for those she cares about shined through. In Season 3, she’s had time to process some trauma and finally allows herself to fully connect and be vulnerable with others.
With Zoe bonding more with Spider and Darren in Season 3, what was it like behind the scenes preparing with Bryn and James? Is there a particular scene you enjoyed filming the most?
Kartanya: Bryn and James are both incredible actors and amazing scene partners, so every scene we shared was truly wonderful. Preparation was honestly just trusting and being there for each other. Trusting that we’d all be adaptable as any scene progressed and constantly checking in with each other. My favourite scene to shoot together would be the scene where Zoe talks about her past with Darren and Spider. It’s my favourite not only for content but because both James, Bryn and our director Tig made me feel incredibly safe to be vulnerable and it allowed me to find a performance I’m proud of.
What do you think makes the series strike such a powerful chord with audiences around the world?
Kartanya: I think what makes the show strike such a chord with so many people is how relatable it is. Of course, it’s super heightened in its presentation, but at its core it’s an honest depiction of what it’s like to be a teenager, particularly an Australian teenager. I remember watching the first season and it triggered so many core memories for me and I think that’s a signifier of a really well written show. Alongside that, it’s also incredibly well written with inclusive characters that so many people find pieces of themselves in.
From an acting perspective, what have you learned from your experience working on Heartbreak High?
Kartanya: I’ve learnt so much about myself as a performer throughout my journey on Heartbreak High. I
had never played a character like Zoe before and at first, it was incredibly challenging and confronting to inhabit the immense confidence (or façade of confidence) she has. So, I had to really lock in and pack away my personal insecurities to achieve that.
What can you share about the vibes on set?
Kartanya: It was always so chill and fun because we got to hang with our mates all day. It’s honestly the
dream in any work scenario! I honestly just think back on all the time we spent in the communal trailers talking and joking around. Lots and lots of belly laughing that made the long days pass quickly.
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Season 3 of Heartbreak High is streaming on Netflix.
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