Carly Chaikin is an American actress best known for her roles as Dalia Royce in the ABC sitcom Suburgatory and Darlene in the USA Network drama Mr. Robot. Her career began in 2009, quickly leading to prominent roles in both comedic and dramatic television series. This article explores Chaikin’s career progression, highlighting her notable performances and contributions to the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born in Santa Monica, California, in 1990, Carly Chaikin’s early interest in acting led to her first role in the film The Consultants in 2009. The film was released in the US in December 2010. That same year, she appeared alongside Miley Cyrus in the film adaptation of Nicholas Sparks’ The Last Song, playing the antagonist Blaze. This early exposure provided a foundation for her future success.
Breakthrough with Suburgatory
In 2011, Chaikin landed her breakout role as Dalia Royce in the ABC sitcom Suburgatory. Dalia, the quintessential mean girl, quickly became a fan favorite due to Chaikin’s comedic timing and nuanced portrayal. Her performance garnered critical acclaim, even leading to a nomination for the Critics’ Choice Television Award for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series in 2013. Interestingly, Chaikin initially auditioned for the lead role of Tessa but ultimately secured the iconic role of Dalia.
Beyond her on-screen performance, Chaikin further embraced the character of Dalia by writing articles for Parade magazine in Dalia’s voice and even filming a music video titled “You Missed A Spot” as the character. This dedication solidified Dalia’s place in popular culture and showcased Chaikin’s versatility as an actress.
Transition to Mr. Robot
Following Suburgatory’s cancellation in 2014, Chaikin joined the cast of the critically acclaimed USA Network drama Mr. Robot in 2015. She portrayed Darlene, a skilled programmer and key member of the fsociety hacking group. This role marked a significant shift from comedy to drama, demonstrating Chaikin’s range and ability to embody complex characters.
Mr. Robot premiered at the 2015 SXSW film festival, winning the Audience Award for Episodic TV shows and quickly securing a second season renewal. The show’s success further elevated Chaikin’s profile and solidified her status as a sought-after actress in both comedy and drama. Chaikin revealed she auditioned for both the roles of Angela and Darlene, ultimately connecting with the rebellious nature of Darlene.
Continued Success and Expanding Roles
In addition to her television work, Chaikin has continued to appear in independent films, such as the 2012 film My Uncle Rafael. She has also ventured into writing and producing short films, showcasing her multifaceted talent within the entertainment industry. One of her short films, Nowhere to Go, received recognition at the First Glance Film Festival in 2013. In 2015, she guest-starred in the TV show Maron.
Conclusion
Carly Chaikin’s career trajectory exemplifies her talent and versatility as an actress. From the comedic brilliance of Dalia Royce to the complex intensity of Darlene in Mr. Robot, Chaikin continues to captivate audiences with her compelling performances. Her dedication to her craft and willingness to explore diverse roles solidify her position as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
