Cynthia Addai-Robinson — The Bare Magazine

Cynthia Addai-Robinson shines as Queen Regent Miriel in the Amazon original series “The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power” season two streaming 8/29. This season her character goes through many changes including navigating through the world with no eye sight. It’s a powerful fantastical story and her performance is magnetic. In typical Bare fashion we got to know the gal behind her on-screen character in her jeans, natural curls, no makeup & looking naturally beautiful. So scroll on down and see the vintage pieces she selected at Cure Thrift displaying her cool sense of style and check our chat on her The Rings of Power experience, natural curly hair care tips, and the love of a good puzzle.

The Bare Magazine: Can you share some of the highlights of filming Rings of Power?

Cynthia Addai-Robinson: There have been so many amazing experiences that I've had while working on Rings of Power; I've met and bonded with incredibly talented and passionate people, traveled the world filming and promoting the show, and have had the opportunity to learn and try new skills. It has been so rewarding in so many ways, and I feel so lucky to get to portray the role of Miriel. She's given me an opportunity to express myself through her story.

Bare: How would you compare some of your character’s traits to your own and in what way was she an inspiration?

CA-R: The character of Miriel is very internal as a character; she's very much in her own thoughts before she expresses them to anyone else. I think I'm similar to someone who really thinks over things and tries to resolve problems on my own before bringing in other people when necessary.

What I find inspiring about her is that she has a very strong moral compass; she's the people's queen, as opposed to a queen who is elevated above her people. And once she is blinded at the end of season 1, she is not weakened, but instead remains a fierce, empathetic leader.

Bare: What was some of the daily glam process to get into the character? Any products you ended up taking with you?!

CA-R: My makeup process is thankfully not as complicated as some of my castmates! Miriel's look is very clean, makeup-wise. She's not an "overdone" queen, she's definitely more natural and elevated. I also wear a wig on the show, so I like to make sure my hair underneath stays nice and conditioned. I had a really nice deep conditioner from Kerastase that was great for keeping my hair healthy.

Bare: What was the whirlwind of Comic Con like for you? Was it nice to reunite with the cast?

CA-R: I love going to Comic-Con. This was my fifth time going; once as an attendee, the other times in support of projects. I love the energy and atmosphere, and there's a real sense of community there. I love seeing families and friends cosplaying together, and it feels like a place where people can gather free of judgement, and just let their geek flag fly!

Bare: We enjoyed thrifting with you in NYC! What did you enjoy about trying different styles? How would you describe your personal style currently?

CA-R: I had a blast thrifting, and Cure Thrift has an amazing selection! What I love about vintage is that there's a sense of history and story to the clothing. You can imagine the original owner's excitement when they picked out a dress for a special occasion, or just to feel good; I love that! I love clothes that can allow you to tell a story just by walking down the street, without saying a word. My personal style is eclectically classic: I love classic silhouettes with maybe a bold print or cool accessory. And ideally something comfortable too!

Bare: We love that you embrace your natural curly hair texture. What are your go-to products and usual routine to care for it? Do you feel there is a reason they say, "crowning glory?" Can a good hair day can boost confidence?

CA-R: My hair is my other form of expression, in addition to clothes. I feel like hair also tells a person's story, or conveys a mood on any given day. I have a ridiculous amount of hair products, as I like to switch it up. But for deep cleaning, I like Cantu Apple Cider Vinegar Root Rinse to really cleanse buildup. For regular shampoo and conditioning, I like the Moroccan oil Hydrating line. As a leave-in, I just started using OurX and I really love it as a light leave-in cream.

I also just did "the chop" and cut off a few inches of hair; my hair loves regular cuts and trims, when I can stay on top of them! It's definitely true that when my hair is looking and feeling good, I'm looking and feeling good as well.