We had the honor of doing a Q&A session with Diora Baird herself. These are Diora’s replies, which we received in May 2010. Many thanks to Diora and her representative for the wonderful opportunity!

Is it true that you initially got into acting when your mother enrolled you in an acting class to help you overcome introversion?
Yes, I did initially get into acting when I was 10 cause my mother felt I was too introverted.

How did you make the move from Miami to Los Angeles? What were the first years like for you pursuing an acting career in LA?
I saved the money I made doing random work (babysitting, the Gap, modeling) and came to LA when I was 17 expecting to stay only 2 or 3 months, but I’m still here a decade later. It was extremely difficult for me to even get an audition so I had a string of normal jobs. From teaching pre-school to doing construction. I did all the student films and indies I could get my hands on which was my “school”.

There are many amazing photoshoots of you. Do you enjoy being photographed? Which photographers are your favorite to work with?
I’m not crazy about modeling anymore. Since I grew up in that world it’s always been work not play. Unless it’s a photoshoot where I can play and move I’m not happy.

What was the casting process for 30 Days of Night: Dark Days like? How did you prepare for the role?
I was put on tape for Dark Days and cast off that with only a week to prepare. I went to the shooting range.

How was the experience of working on Law & Order: SVU like?
Working on Law & Order was a dream. I think that was my most favorite role I’ve played. Plus, Mariska was an incredible inspiration and I will always treasure our moments.

What helps you get into character before a scene?
Music helps me get into character.

What would your dream movie role be?
Would love to do a musical, but I can’t sing.

Which film-makers and actors do you most admire and would like to work with?
Would be honored to work with Scorsese and De Niro. I’m a big fan of Naomi Watts, Nicole Kidman, Kate Winslet, Catherine Denueve, Meryl Streep, Julianne Moore, Susan Sarandon.

What are some of your all time favorite films?
Some of my favorite movies are Eyes Wide Shut, Chinatown, Contempt, Breathless, Carnal Knowledge, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, Annie Hall, Godfather, Taxi Driver, Woman Under the Influence, The Shining.

What do you hope to have accomplished either personally or professionally, ten years from now?
Ten years from now I hope to be raising a family of 5 on a ranch far away from Hollywood and writing in my spare time.