Photos: Epitome, Harrison/Getty

From Degrassi to Drake: Canada’s Hit TV Show Shapes Pop Culture

8/14/09, 4:16 pm EST

This week's advice seeker wonders:

"My best guy friend and I have only known each other since March. It sounds crazy, but we got so close and we talk on the phone every night. Well, we used to. Lately he's had so many excuses not to see me or talk to me. They're pretty lame, to be honest. I like him, a lot. Even though he's not my type, we have such an emotional connection. Somebody told me though, he used to like me. A lot of people say it was obvious, and other friends of mine say he told them he likes me. However, these same people say he's over me now.
Did I miss my chance? How can I tell without ruining our friendship?
I was always too much of a chicken to tell him how I really felt.
"

Drop your best wisdom in the comments...

Meanwhile, I sent this question to Cassie Steele ('member? Her album Destructo Doll comes out Tuesday? And she's in that movie... what was that movie... oh right, the Degrassi Goes Hollywood movie that comes out next month right here on the N?). Here's her advice:

"best advice i can give is, first decide what you want. it sounds like you're conflicted with having him as a friend but also having feelings for him. whatever you decide, call him and tell him either how you feel about being with him, or tell him how bummed you are about the state of the friendship. if you end up sorting it out, congrats... if you don't, there are more than plenty fish in the sea :)
love cas"

CD Review: Cassie Steele

Cassie Steele Title: Destructo Doll Label: Self-Released Year: 2009 Rating: 3 / 5

Sassy, seductive, mature and talented. Cassie Steele (Yes, that’s Manny Santos to some of you), actress/singer, is holding nothing back and letting it all go on her latest release, Destructo Doll. The album is a straight up rock record that’s immersed in pop sensibilities, tackling issues such as love and growing up. Cassie’s vocal performance on her latest offering is simply powerful and provocative. The hot and bothered “Mr. Colson” has a great spicy groove coupled by Cassie’s sensually powered vocal overtones. “You and I” brings out the lovely delicate side of Cassie’s vocal style complete with soul-testifying lyrics on the one and only ballad of the album. Flamenco inspired “Summer Nights” is the definite winner of the album with Cassie exposing her sexy intentions and heated emotions coupled by a great sensous groove, perfect for those erotic summer nights. Led Zeppen-ish “Go Dark” is my personal fav. off the album with it’s rock moments that remind me of great soft rock songs like Bad Company’s “Are You Ready For Love.” The production of the album sounds great and compliments Cassie’s vocal deliver and atmosphere to its full extent. The musical direction of the album really pulls everything into perspective with Cassie manning the wheel, steering in the right direction. One thing that really struck me about Cassie Steele is how she’s grown and she wants everyone to know about it. That type of attitude goes a long way musically, especially when you go out of your way to point it out. Destructo Doll might not be the album of the year but it surely holds substance. But one thing’s for sure, Cassie Steel is all grown up and ready to rock.

By: Gian Erguiza

Biography:

Although she began her musical career in the 21st century, Cassie Steele draws inspiration from musical greats who walked (and rocked) decades before. With heroes like Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, Elliott Smith and The Clash, Steele's music exhibits a self-assuredness, grittiness and passion that belies the fact that she's only nineteen years old.

Born in Toronto, Canada in 1989, Steele wasted no time immersing herself in the arts. As a first grader, she began crafting her own made-up songs to go with her poetry, then began taking singing lessons, following a very early musical stage career made possible by her family: "Karaoke geeks," says Cassie with a smile.

A natural performer, Cassie has been a regular cast member on Degrassi: The Next Generation since she was eleven years old, growing up onstage as her character Manny Santos. At the age of thirteen Cassie wrote and recorded the song "Prayer," which was used nationally to promote HIV/AIDS awareness and first brought Cassie's musical abilities to the fore. A successful debut album, How Much For Happy? was released in 2005, followed by two Canadian tours, highlighting Cassie's evolving talents as a singer, songwriter and performer.

All of this leads up to Cassie Steele 2009. She's got a new CD, Destructo Doll, ten songs, produced by SuperSpy, that she's written which reflect the life experience of a wise-beyond-her-years nineteen year old. The music rocks hard-- really hard-- at times, then transitions into a gorgeous mid-tempo sonic landscape. "You and I" is a love song, stunningly honest and simple in its beauty, and masterfully showcases the nuances of Cassie's voice.

That voice turns, well, Steeley, as Cassie ups the volume and rocks with wild abandon on "Groupie," "Rock Star Beau," and "Monster," a playful nod to fellow Canadian musicians Heart. With "Mr. Colson," her breathy delivery is reminiscent at times of Chrissie Hynde

"This record is much more my baby as opposed to the last one—I was so young and really, how much life experience did I have at that point? This time around, I felt like I had a point of view, you know?"

She's not a particular fan of the recording process: "I don't like being cooped up in a little box. I like to talk to people. I like being social." The stage is where she thrives, loving every bit of the instant feedback she gets from audiences.

Not surprisingly, Cassie is most looking forward to getting on the road and showing off her new music in a live setting, along with all that the touring life brings with it. Backstage deli platters hold a certain allure for her as well: "I really like free food," she says, "especially potatoes."

Degrassi Alum Also Stars in 'Degrassi Goes Hollywood' TV Movie Premiering In August On The N Network

LOS ANGELES, July 14 /PRNewswire/ -- This is going to be one crazy summer for Cassie Steele.

For starters, The "Degrassi: The Next Generation" star will be releasing her highly anticipated sophomore CD, DESTRUCTO DOLL, on July 21. Having written all 10 songs, DESTRUCTO DOLL reflects the life experience of a wise-beyond-her-years 19 year old. Produced by SuperSpy, the music rocks hard - really hard--at times then transitions into a bluesy, grungy mid-tempo sonic landscape.

Cassie is "the first Degrassi veteran to reach for musical stardom...While Drake went the hip-hop route, Steele is a singer-songwriter with a rock edge, not unlike a groovier version of fellow Canadian Alanis Morissette," says MTV News.

"You and I" is a love song, stunningly honest and simple in its beauty and masterfully showcases the nuances of Cassie's voice. Steele then ups the volume and rocks with wild abandon on "Groupie," "Rock Star Beau," and "Monster," a playful nod to fellow Canadian musicians Heart. With "Mr. Colson," her breathy delivery is reminiscent at times of Chrissie Hynde. Check out the video for "Mr. Colson":

While recording DESTRUCTO DOLL, Cassie's days were filled with filming "Degrassi Goes Hollywood," the TV movie for the long running smash hit series "Degrassi: The Next Generation." In the film, which also features a cameo by Kevin Smith, Jason Mewes (Clerks I and II, Chasing Amy, Dogma) is auditioning for a movie-musical based on his high school years entitled "Mewesical High." Cassie recreates her role as Manny Santos in the TV movie debuting in August on The N Network. In addition to her acting role, Cassie sings three original songs in the film.

Cassie's tour dates will be announced shortly but there are two So Cal shows:

July 20 at The Viper Room in West Hollywood at 8:00pm

August 13 at Saint Rock in Hermosa Beach at 9:00pm

Singer and actress Cassie Steele opens up about body image and her CD.

July 9, 1:24 PM

Cassie Steele

Cassie Steele is an actress who grew up on camera. Her portrayal as "Manny Santos" on Degrassi put her on the fast track to stardom. Growing up with another passion for singing, Cassie is releasing an album which is sure to be a smash hit! Today, Cassie talks beauty, weight, and what she would be doing if she were off camera!

What is your daily beauty regimen?

 

I use a pretty basic face wash, just a bar soap or foaming soap. Whatever is simple and gentle. Something like ponds or normal lotion, sometimes even body lotion. If I do wear makeup around my eyes, I remove it with Make Up For Ever waterproof remover. Because I usually wear waterproof. Sometimes I use this lash strengthening stuff, because I have really long lashes. I like to take care of them and I noticed when I started using a lot of mascara when I was doing shows that they were starting to seem brittle and fell out easily. So I started using this Peter Thomas Roth critical skin care called Lashes to die for. I do that sometimes. I’m always paranoid, kind of like people with long hair that don’t want it cut. Investing in your best attributes. I try not to wear makeup if I don’t have to. Being on shows where I wear a lot of makeup, it gets tiring, and after you’re on set you start to break out from all the makeup they put on you. I try to use natural makeup. I used to use this brand called N-Vey foundation, and now I just wear Chanel, and mix it in with my lotion to make a tint, and basic powder on top of that. Otherwise I try not to wear makeup, especially here in California.

 

Is it any different when filming?

 

I have to shower more. My hair, I don’t really do anything with it. I wash my bangs because my hair has this kinky, weird texture to it, and its very rough because I surf a lot. I’ve been cutting my own hair for like 3 or 4 years and trim my bangs.

 

What do you get complimented on most?

 

My hair and my smile.

 

Did you always want to act and sing?

 

Yeah. I came from a very musical family, so I grew up singing karaoke with the family. My family said “do this” and brought me to singing lessons. I had always been writing poems and songs. I went to improv classes, not just because I wanted to act, but just because I thought it was really fun. Then I got recommended an agent, did a ton of commercials, and decided I didn’t want to do that anymore. Then I went and got another gig and started doing “Degrassi”, and it’s been really fun.

 

If you weren’t doing either, what would you want to be doing?

 

Probably something like photography or painting or writing, anything like that. Visual arts.

 

 

What’s the best beauty advice you’ve ever received?

 

Wash your face before you go to sleep. Also, it’s bad for your lash line. Again, I’m with the lashes. I can’t stand to watch people, or even my friends pick off their mascara, it makes me cringe.

 

What makes someone beautiful?

 

People being themselves. Someone who is easy to be with, and has no walls up. No intense baggage. When you meet somebody you can tell they are thinking about something else when they are saying something, or when they are jaded. I want to hang out with people that are good hearted and have good intentions. You can tell on peoples faces, when they smile, and what kind of person they are. It’s not hard to see on someone’s face when they are jaded or mean. They can have a beautiful face, but there’s something darker. They don’t glow as much as people who do good.

 

You’ve had your hair both long and short, with bangs and without, how do you prefer it?

 

I like my hair long, and I love my bangs. I love them because I can pin them back or keep the fringe with attitude.

 

Who is your beauty icon?

 

My mom. She’s a really really beautiful lady. She’s Philippino, she’s never colored it and has really beautiful hair. She has a beautiful face too, always moisturizing.

 

What do you have to say to girls who don’t think they are beautiful?

 

Everyone is beautiful. You shouldn’t base things off something as shallow as skin. Love people and they’ll love you right back.

 

Do you ever have days where you just don’t feel beautiful? If so, how do you make yourself feel better?

 

Of course, everyone does. I don’t think about that too often. Sometimes its like “this outfit doesn’t work” or “ugh, I’m breaking out.” To make myself feel better, I hang out with friends, go surfing, go to yoga, and really do something good for your body. And eat healthy.

 

What do you do to stay in shape?

 

I’m naturally athletic; I’m not slim by any means. I don’t try to be slim, I love food. If I try to diet for my work, it backfires and I’ll just rebel and have like 10 hamburgers in a day. I can out eat anybody. I used to be a vegetarian, and then one day I just quit. Everyday is pizza, and chicken wings. I try not to limit myself to what I eat. Just everything in moderation, obviously. I guess moderation would be the wrong word, because I really just eat everything. I go to yoga, I really love hot yoga, it’s really addictive. I love to sweat it out, it makes me feel great, and the heat keeps your muscles open. I used to do kickboxing and tae kwon do. I like rock climbing, and just walking. If I lift weights, I’ll look huge. I have to drink water, all the time. I think its obviously I don’t diet, even on the series my weight fluctuates. I’m 135 pounds and I’m 5’3. I’m happy not dieting, it made me so unhappy thinking about everything. It’s embarrassing when I’m out to eat with someone and they order a side salad, and I order a burger and fried. Then chicken wings after, if I’m really hungry. Maybe people who diet will be happy when they fit into that dress for an hour. Whatever I look like, I look like. I’m just leaving.

 

Moving to singing. I received your CD today, and I’ve listened to it. You have an amazing talent. When did you start singing?

 

My CD drops on the 21^st. Hopefully by the end of the year I’ll be touring. I started classical and operatic lessons when I was 8, and become an operatic singer and went to competition. I write my own music. A lot of the songs, growing up I was into writing dark stories and poems, and one day I started putting melodies to them. If I collaborated probably, with a guy group, or another band. My friend has a band called Vices from England, even to do a cover with them. Something raw.

 

Be sure to check out Cassie’s Myspace (myspace.com/cassiesteele) and Twitter (twitter.com/cassandrasteele) to see if she is coming to a town near you! Also make sure to pick up Cassies album Destructo Doll, which drops on July 21st (it's most certainly a summer must have CD)!

June 24, 2009, 10:03 pm
Filed under: Cassie Steele, Interviews | Tags: album, Cassie Steele, Degrassi, Distructo Doll, hollywood, July 21, Manny, music

Source:  http://blogcritics.org/archives/2008/10/14/172005.php
Published October 14, 2008

Cassie Steele is known for playing Manny Santos on the Canadian drama, Degrassi. In the eight years Degrassi has been around, Cassie’s character has transformed from a nice, lovable girl to a smart and independent woman who has made good and bad decisions. Cassie also has an album out and a new one on the way. Blogcritics had a chance to chat with her to find out about her new album, what it was like on the Degrassi set, and living in L.A.

She said that the audition process is “...blurry. It’s been eight years now. I had just come from a track meet. I just went for three auditions and at first I auditioned for Liberty. And then I got the role of Manny.”

Sarah Barrable-Tishauer, who plays Liberty, actually originally auditioned for Manny. Blogcritics interviewed her two years ago. She told us, “I think it would be interesting to see if we actually had gotten the other role we auditioned for. I played Manny and Cassie played Liberty. I think it would have been interesting to see what would have happened there.”

But Cassie wouldn’t want to switch parts; she’d stick with Manny. Asked why, she replied, “The thing is the characters all kind of turn into us in the end. When you’re in a TV show for a year, your character is bound to be like you. You can’t really hide who you are, right? I think Manny — I don’t know — she’s my favorite character.”

When asked what viewers should expect from Manny this season, she responded, “She’s really hot. She’s in university, growing up. Everybody knows Manny. She’s always into trying new things.”

When I asked for spoilers, all she could tell me was, “I really like yoga.” I guess we’ll have to wait and see.

Cassie is also very clumsy, it appears. The other day on set, Cassie told me, “I fell down some stairs. Like a flight of stairs. It was scary. There are a lot of embarrassing things that happen on set. I’m like accident prone. I get cuts and bruises. I run into walls. Some of the sets move and I forget. I will lean on a wall and the wall would fall down.”

Her favorite episode to film was “U Got the Look” way back in season three. This is the episode where Manny gets into loving cutesy little things like stuffed animals and starts dressing a little more risqué. The infamous blue thong appears in that episode. It’s her favorite, because “that’s when Manny starts to change.”

On Manny’s transformation in season three she added, “It was a long time ago, but every scene she becomes stronger.”

Manny’s gotten herself into some tough situations. In season three, in the episode “Accidents Will Happen,” Manny becomes pregnant by Craig (Jake Epstein) and has an abortion. In season five, “Venus,” Manny becomes drunk and flashes her breasts in front of a camera. These scenes are hard to film for some, but Cassie said the scenes were “absolutely not [hard to film.] Challenging, but probably one of the most fun episodes to do.” [Referring to "Accidents will Happen"]

It appears that Cassie is closest to Miriam McDonald on set, who plays Emma, Manny’s best friend. “She’s been my best friend for eight years. We both live in L.A. now, five minutes away from each other. I talk to her every day. She’s not even really my friend anymore, but like my sister. She’s like family now.”

“I really do like it [Los Angeles.] I’m in New York right now and I didn’t realize, but my allergies really affect me here. In L.A., I can go outside all day. I can go outside and surf. It’s beautiful every single day,” Cassie said, then, added, “The weather really affects my day. In California, it just seems like every day is the perfect day.”

There are, of course, the rumors. One rumor says that Cassie was originally cast as Gabriella in High School Musical. But this is not true. “I haven’t really auditioned for anything.”

For now, Cassie’s taking a break from acting and focusing on her singing. “I’m eighteen now, and I’m turning nineteen next month and I’ve been acting for quite some time now. I’d really like to just take a break and really focus on my album. Do nothing on stage for a bit. My second album. It is coming out in February.”

On her album, she told me, “Some of the songs are going to be on Instant Star. There’s some R&B grudge. It’s a rock album. I really like what I’m doing right now.”

But there may be some more acting after the album, “Maybe. It’s possible. We’ll see."

New episodes of Degrassi premiere every Friday on The N. The season opener was last week and it was really good. I just want it to be Friday for Degrassi, not the weekend. Cassie’s extremely nice, too. It’s hard to tell many times with celebrities, but she seemed pretty sincere.

Cassie Steele is a Canadian Actress/Singer/Songwriter! But unfortunately she’s not very well known here in Europe. We thought it’s about time the people got to know this awesome rockchick!

Hi Cassie! Lot’s of people don’t know who you are, and maybe haven’t even heard of Degrassi The Next Generation. Could you give us a quick introduction?

I’m Cassie Steele and I play the part of Manny Santos on Degrassi. She’s a girl who went through a lot and is tryin to find herself as she grows up. Degrassi is a show that deals with teen issues.

As Manny you had to go through a few major issues. One of them was an abortion episode. You couldn’t have been much older than 14. Has it influenced you, acting your character had to get an abortion at such a young age?

When i firt heard about this episode I was shocked, but it was a challenge for me. Personally I think 14 is way to Young to have sex or get pregnant and I’m strongly agains Abortion. Only if you’re raped or something, then i’m not. But yes, i say it influenced me. It was a great episode.                                                                                                    

Do you think that if you would be been going to school and not had this big part in Degrassi, that you’d have grown up as fast as you had to now?

No, I don’t think I would. Degrassi mad me realize a lot about the industry and I found a lot of bad things at a young age.

What was your favourite Degrassi episode to shoot?

Venus, the boob incident                                                                             Abortion episode, season 3

Back in 2005 you released you first album, called How Much For Happy. When did you decide you wanted to make an album and step into the World of Music?

I wanted to sing since i was six years old. so it was an obvious choice for me.

What was your biggest influence while writing How Much For Happy?               

Mostly myself and my expierences

You posted some new songs on your MusicMyspace a while ago. Many people managed to get them on Youtube, and even more people gave their thoughts. Most people are very cool about the songs, and like them. But there are people who bash on songs. What would you say to them?

I just let them think what they want. I make Music for the people who like it, and most people love the songs.

                                                                                                                                                  Venus, season 5

What can we expect from you in the near future?

More Music, movies and tours!!

Thank you Cassie, and good luck!

Cassie Steele as Manny

‘Degrassi’ busts a move

Cassie Steele on ‘The Next Generation’s spring break

Posted: 04/01/08 12:18PM
By CHRIS JANCELEWICZ

CTV

Cassie Steele plays Manny Santos, who was known initially as a cute, sassy, head-strong cheerleader. For a time, Manny developed a rep as the "school slut", but is now growing up and establishing a new reputation for herself. In season 7, Manny is working hard to realize her dream of becoming an actress. We sat down to talk with Cassie about playing Manny, and what's in store for her as she heads off to university.

You're one of the few cast members who've been on 'Degrassi: The Next Generation' the entire time. What has it been like growing up on the show? How has that changed your outlook on life?

I mean, it's basically been my life since I was 11. I think your teen years are the most predominant years of your life, when you become who you are. I was on the show since I was 11, now I'm 18. That's all of my teen years devoted to Degrassi. The cast members are like my family - Miriam [McDonald, who plays Emma], she's like my sister. We're still best friends. It's kind of given me a different perspective, like an alternate route of living.

I never really went to a real high school. I think I transferred to three different high schools because it was so difficult for me to be in school. I never understood why I had to sit in class, that kind of thing. It's a different way of living, but I think I turned out OK.

Yes, with your co-stars as friends, they must have helped a little.

Definitely. Nina [Dobrev, who plays Mia] and I hit it off from the first day she came on set. We were together all the time. I've known Miriam since I was 11, and she was 13. We're now 18 and 20. It's crazy what a big part of my life she is.

Have you watched the old series?

No, I actually haven't. I don't really watch much TV. I'm a movie person.

Manny's had an abortion, there's been the "thong" episode, there's been the drunken video. She's had her fair share of ups and downs. What was the hardest episode for you to film?

I would have to say the abortion episode because I was really young when I did it. I was 14, the same age as the character. It was just really hard for me to get into it. I could only stay on set for 8 hours because I was under 16. It's difficult to get into the mood when everyone's like, "Oh my gosh, you only have 8 hours." But yeah, it was one of my more challenging performances.

You were capable of getting into that mood, though, of the frightening thought of having an abortion?

Definitely. Every girl can agree that it's a situation that they would never want to go through. It's terrifying, especially for someone of that age. Just going into high school, just finding out who they are, and this is thrown at them, and they really don't know what to do with it.

So why does everyone love to hate Manny?

Everyone loves to hate Manny because she's the girl who everyone slightly envies; she does what she wants to do, when she wants to do it. She kind of got over that phase, but when she was younger she was all about that. People envy her because she has the balls to do it.

She's not all bad. She's always been a great friend, a great support system. I think it shows through seasons 5-7. Especially seasons 6 and 7, when she really comes into her own. All the knocks she had to go through when she was younger made her a bigger person.

What ending would you choose for Manny, if you could?

That she does well in her aspirations to be an actor. She's going to theatre school for it, so I guess…live a good life. She's going to university with Emma, so they'll be best friends until the end. It's very cliché, but it's a happy ending.

What's in store for Manny in the rest of season 7, following the Spring Break episodes?

I think all I can say is that she follows her heart. She does what she knows is best, that's whether it will hurt her, or if it's really hard for her, she'll do it if she knows it's right. Life is life, and you just have to look at the big picture. I think that's what Manny does.

In the Spring Break episodes, Manny's fights with Jay seem really real.

We were a little stressed out. Those episodes were really, really hard. We're playing spring when it's the middle of summer. We're talking 30 degrees Celsius in Canada, and we're wearing jackets and a face of make-up. I get really heat sensitive. I love the heat, I hate the cold, don't get me wrong, but there's only so much I can take when I'm wearing a jacket. We're filming, and all of us were super-tired, but I think in the end we all did a terrific job.

Do you have a favourite episode?

I think my favourite would have to be the "thong" episode. It's the best girly episode to watch, because every girl has to go through that. I'm not just saying it because I'm in it, but it's just a great good-girl-turns-bad episode.

Do you see yourself as a role model for young girls?

I do. At first it was hard for me growing up - I mean, Manny was going through all these transitions, people were calling her the school slut, you know, she was a floozy and stuff like that. I'd be walking through a mall and people would be like, "Look, it's the Degrassi slut!" It was hard. But now, even though I'm only 18, I feel like I've really come into my own.

If you walk around insecure, people are just going to attack you. I've differentiated myself from my character. I hope that I'm a good role model, though. I have a little sister, she's 12, and is on the show as Joey Jeremiah's daughter. I try to be the best role model I can be for her. That's what's really important to me - how she looks at me, and how any other 12-year-old girl would look at me. That's what I base myself on.

What has been your weirdest fan experience thus far?

When I was at a mall tour, this guy came and wrote his number on my arm. I was like, "Eww…should I call security?" Actually, it was pretty flattering. I washed it off with alcohol and I didn't call it, obviously. I'm not really into the forward type.

You've released one music album, and you're recording a second one right now. What do you prefer, music or acting?

People ask me that question all the time, and I really have to say they're two completely different worlds. Both acting and music have been things that I've wanted to do my entire life. I can't even answer that, I love them both.

Let's just say you love show business, how's that?

Yeah. Sounds good.

Catch Cassie as Manny Santos on Degrassi: The Next Generation at 7:30 pm on CTV. Bust a Move Part 2, the second half of the Spring Break special, airs Monday, April 7th at 7:30 on CTV.

Updated Thu. Mar. 27 2008 12:21 PM ET

Tyrone Warner, CTV.ca

Cassie Steele, who plays Manny Santos on "Degrassi: The Next Generation," says she hates being mistaken for the character she plays.

Following the infamous "thong" episode, when Manny decided to dress in ultra tight clothing in an attempt to attract attention from boys, Steele recalls hearing people whispering about her during a trip to the mall.

"What they said was hurtful, so that's why I have to motivate myself to be a good influence, and to differ myself from my character," says Steele.

"I think it's come to a point now that I'm old enough and I've showed people I'm not like my character. I think if somebody meets me, it's easy to decipher Manny from Cassie."

Manny has had her own share of ups and downs on "Degrassi;" from having a drunken video of her taking her top off circulating through the school, to having an abortion, in what is considered to be one the more controversial moments in the show's history.

The 18-year-old Steele has been with "Degrassi: The Next Generation" since its debut in 2001.

Now that "Degrassi" is gaining considerable popularity south of the border thanks to exposure on "The N," Steele finds herself being more aware of the public image she presents.

"Now that we're recognizable, we can't just go out and act crazy," says Steele. "We have to set an example because most of our viewers are young girls."

In season seven of "Degrassi," which airs Monday nights at 7:30 p.m. on CTV, Manny decides to become an actress, despite her parents' wishes.

Manny even hired resident "Degrassi" bad boy and bully Jay Hogart (Mike Lobel) to be her boyfriend. Her plan to have him wreck her "debut" (coming-of-age party) backfired and now finds herself in a quasi-relationship with Hogart.

But unlike her character, the Toronto-born actress says her parents have always been supportive of her career choice.

"My dad was a stock broker, very high up in the banking industry, and he quit his job to help me. I really, really wanted to go to auditions and acting classes, and he basically took me to all of them and supported me 100 per cent," says Steele.

However, the actress admits that she uses inspiration from events in her own life as motivation for her character.

In an upcoming two-part "Spring Break" episode (March 31 and April 7), Manny and the gang heads to Smithdale College for an audition to get into the school's acting program.

While the girls had fun on their road trip, Steele remembers shooting the episode was anything but a good time.

"This episode was probably one of the most pressed-for-time episodes we've ever had," remembers Steele.

"It was boiling hot, but we were playing it as spring, so we were wearing black, and jackets, and that kind of stuff."

Steele says she took her frustration out at end of the day when she shared a screaming match in a scene with Lobel.

"I'm not really a method actor, but that scene was purely my stress and tension from the entire day," Steele says with a laugh.

The episode also features Shirley Douglas in a special guest starring role as one of the school's instructors.

"She was really cool. All the guest stars we've had on the show have been really nice, and she was really interactive," says Steele.

"We only had a few short scenes, even though everyone was stressed, she made it seem like lighter work."

Steele is now currently at work in Los Angeles on a follow up album to her 2005 musical debut, "How Much for Happy."

Cassie Steele knows how to turn heads as Manny Santos on Degrassi: The Next Generation. Viewers have seen her grow up through the years on the hit Canadian series, with story lines that continue to push the envelope. So what could possibly be in store for Manny, the infamous trouble maker this season?
Cassie knows, but is she telling?

The Star Scoop:

How did you end up with the role of Manny?

Cassie Steele:

Well, I did the audition when I was eleven. It was one of the first few things I had ever auditioned for television. I went to the first audition, and the first audition that I went for, I went for Liberty. The second I went for was Manny, and she was an Indian girl. Then the third audition, was a screening, and I screened with Miriam McDonald for Manny and Liberty. I ended up getting Manny, so, that's that story. I guess I was just best fit for Miriam, and best fit for the role.

The Star Scoop:

Manny is one of the most popular characters, but also the one we love to hate. Why?

Steele:

Manny is the girl, it's not to say that she's not a good person, but she is, she is always caught up in the A list type things. She does the silly things at parties, she's popular, she's a cheerleader, and she makes mistakes. She steals boyfriends away, she's the girl that everybody wants to be but, everyone pretty much except for her friends, they're enemies, so it kind of works out like that; it's fun to play (laughs).

The Star Scoop:

Can you share any details about what’s coming up for Manny for this season?

Steele:

All I can say is that about the season coming up, is that it's the most exciting. I think the characters are growing, and so are we, so issues are more intense, and I think everybody will enjoy it.

The Star Scoop:

You actually play a character your age. How has your life been different from Manny’s? How has it been similar?

Steele:

Yes, it's true, I'm the only one who plays the same age as my character. Our lives, mine from Manny's are completely different. Growing up on a TV show, I never went to a real high school, I've always done correspondence. I went to two different high schools in one year. Manny's life is very simple, she's a cheerleader, she does homework, and although she went through an abortion, had a serious boyfriend, I've always been too busy to have a boyfriend, just because of television and music wise. But, personality, I think there [are] a lot of similarities between us. We're both very bubbly and optimistic, and of course some of my traits would go into my character because I play her. I think we're both really loyal friends, and that's what I like about Manny.

The Star Scoop:

Manny has had a lot of experiences that are embarrassing on their own, yet you have to film these in front of so many people. Are you ever embarrassed or nervous over some of the story lines?

Steele:

(laughs) Well, I mean, of course you're prepared for them. A lot of the people who have worked on set, the majority of them have been there the previous years, and I don't think embarrasing things started happening to Manny until she went into grade nine, season three in the episode "You've Got The Look." But it's fine. You have the background, it's usually the same kids, and they're all really nice, and we all hang out. The crew and directors are all familiar, so it's really just a bunch of your friends, and it's a job, so people understand.

The Star Scoop:

How does being part of an ensemble cast keep you grounded? Does it make you want to go after more starring roles?

Steele

Being on an ensemble cast, yes I do think, now that I think of it, it does keep you grounded. Not just because you have to share the spotlight, but because they're your friends. And you grow up, and you understand this job, and you can't get too big of a head. It's really nice having an ensemble cast. But, yes, I know all of us are striving to do bigger and better things. There's always room for improvement, you know, you don't want to stay in the same boat your whole life. I would like to, you know, kind of spread my wings, and maybe do a different series, or do some movies. I'd really like to get into film.

The Star Scoop:

Degrassi has such a huge following, what has it been like over the years meeting your fans?

Steele:

It's been a fantastic experience. Over the years, I've grown more used to the fact that I get recognized more and more, and that Miriam and I get recognized more and more, the whole cast pretty much. At first it was hard to kind of process being stopped in the mall. We just did a tour, we went to New York for the first episode screening, and the fans there, it was overwhelming. I know we were all really emotional about it. It's been a good experience I think, we try to stay grounded.

The Star Scoop:

Degrassi is part of a 25 year experience with the entire show. Before you came on, had you ever seen the original episodes, or have you seen them since?

Steele:

I believe that when I was cast for Degrassi, they gave a few episodes out, but before that I was doing music, and I was also a competitive gymnast, so I never really watched TV per se, I mean, of course I went out and saw movies when I could. I had to ask for tapes just so I knew what it was about, you know what I was getting into, which has obviously turned out something great. The original series is fantastic.

The Star Scoop:

Has being part of Degrassi changed your life for the better, would you say?

Steele:

Definitely. The relationships that I've made on the show with the cast are some that people never find. I mean, when you're in high school, you have so many friends that come and go, and I've known these people on the cast of Degrassi for six years. Some of them I've known longer than some of my best friends that I've had friendships with through correspondence or school or any activities that I do. It's a great experience like that. I mean, the crew and working, and the professionalism I've kind of developed, and how to work with people: the director, the producers, and how to publicly speak. The experiences through personal levels and also professional levels are incredible.

The Star Scoop:

In terms of your longtime future, where would you like to see yourself?

Steele:

I would like to see myself probably pursuing my music, and my acting. I'd also like to branch out and maybe direct or produce one day. Right now I'm just working on my music. Hopefully I'll get to touring next year, and maybe throw a film in there, something like that.

The Star Scoop:

Speaking of your music, do you have a CD out?

Johnston:

I do, I write all my own music, and I have a CD out. It's independent, and it's more of like a rock type music, harder rock, but yeah, I have an album out, and I'm just writing my second one now, which will be out next year in March.

The Star Scoop:

Where can fans get your album?

Steele:

Well, here in Canada, I know it's sold at HMV. I'm not sure at in the states. You could buy it online, but since I'm an independent artist, and it's a lot of Indie rock, I think we're just putting in a new order. But you can get it off my website, cassiesteele.com

The Star Scoop:

Is there anything else you want to add about yourself, or something we didn't cover, something you'd like to mention or get out there?

Steele:

Yes, actually, right now, I'm doing a Bratz dolls Crazy Karaoke tour across Canada. My next appearance will be in Montreal for thanksgiving weekend and fashion week. And I just want to talk a little bit about that. Also, I go to different cities around Canada, and it's also sponsored by SickKids, and I go, and I go to the hospitals and I meet the sick kids, and I sing for them, and we give our presents, and T-shirts, and my CDs, and whatever they want, and we have a good time. I'm really involved with that, and helping them out and just making them smile. But also, I do mall tours as well, where kids can come and audition and they can win a prize. Now this is only in Canada. It's not really in the states, I know there's a much bigger one that's going to be for the states. Yeah, I just want to put that out there, I mean, SickKids is a big deal to me. [For more information on SickKids, visit: www.sickkids.ca]

The Star Scoop:

So lastly, with all this going on, do you find it hard to just be a normal teenager?

Steele:

Definitely, I mean, not only the fact that I don't go to high school, so I can't really make friends through school, and whatnot like that. Also, the cast is a lot older than me. So when I hang out with Miriam, or Shane, or Aubrey, or any of those guys, I've grown up with people just a couple years older than me, and it's really hard, I'd say, growing up in this kind of industry, because you do work with a lot of adults. And, just being so busy, when I go out now, it's not like a normal teenager would. When you do go out, and I mean, I hardly ever do. I'm really involved with my family and staying here. But, it's different, it's very different.

fashion feature

By Sherri Wood

The teen girl pop star pool just got a little more crowded.

15-year-old Cassie Steele, best known for her portrayal of Manny Santos on the hit TV series Degrassi: The Next Generation, is throwing a CD release party this week for her new album, How Much For Happy

Surprisingly more rock than pop, the album was written, produced and recorded in her hometown Scarborough, with all lyrics written by Steele.

But brace yourself: it’s not your typical teen Queen stuff. From drugs (“Candy coated death/ Lined with crystal meth? How it takes my breath away”) to sex with another woman’s husband (“Maybe if you weren’t a pain/ Just the wife and i’m his whore”) to death (“six feet underground/How d’you like me now?”), it’s anything but what you’d expect from a 15-year-old girl.

“I’ve been in the Degrassi mould and this is my way of letting loose and breaking free from that,” Steele says. “This isn’t acting – this is me… I think people will be surprised, but those who  know me will say it’s totally Cassie.”

Steele says although she had to tell her parents her lyrics are “all metaphors” and not real-life, she firmly believes hers are the typical stories of today’s teens.

“I think there are the normal thoughts of 15- and 16-year-olds,” she says. “I just had the opportunity to write them down.”

Steele admits that being a child actor put the pressure on her to “grow up quickly” but she says she’s comfortable wit hit and even wanted to take a more mature rout with her album.

“I wanted to go even harder but i had to still connect with my younger Degrassi fans, as well as the people i wanted to speak to, which are older teens and the early 20s crowd,” Steele says. “With this album, i’m trying to tell my story and say that people aren’t always what they seem – everyone has a good and bad side.”

It’s clear from her lengthly list of Young artist awards that Steele’s good side includes her acting career. As for her bad side – well, the Young star breezily offers up a few vices.

I’m not regular with school, i don’t have the best grades, terrible attendance, I like to party – I do what average teenagers do,” she says without skipping a beat. “People say you miss out when you’re a child actor, but the reason i missed my semi-formal was because i got suspended from school for possession and for giving alcohol to a minor.”

According to Steele, life outside the classroom is where she thrives best.
“I don’t really care about school,” she says. “I learn more every day that i’m singing and acting as opposed to when i’m cooped up in a little room all day.”

Steele is sure to add that she thinks it’s important to know when to draw the line.
“You have to know your limits and how far you can push yourself,” she says. “I’m a rock star! I push myself all the way. Whatever it takes, i’ll do it i fit means i’ll get what i want.”

Cassie Steele CD release party: Tuesday, Mod Club, 722 College St. W.

FASHION18: How did you start acting?
Cassie Steele: i really loved improv in school and from there i started doing commercials. The first real job that i got was Degrassi.

F18: What do you enjoy most about it?
Cassie: i really enjoy meeting new people. And also, acting is like an out of body experience in a way. Through acting, you get to live a life that’s not your own.

F18: How do you prepare for a difficult scene?
Cassie: I actually try not to dwell on it too much because i want the scene to feel as natural as possible. Usually what ends up happening is that actors feed off of one another’s performance.

F18: what would you advise teens who want to get into acting?
Cassie: Take drama classes. If you like doing improv, aks you be recommende to an agent.

F18: How much do you identify with you character?
Cassie: I think every girl going through high school can identify with Manny in some way. She was trailing along after everyone else in season one, and very shy. But then, in season three, she becomes really bold. She’s passionate and she cares about people. She’s trying out different looks and styles.

F18: What are the most challenging aspects about acting?
Cassie: probably the long hours and doing the emotional scenes. It’s mentally trying because you have to be alert and get into character in a snap. Basically, the battery is going to get tired at some point.

F18: what was your most bizarre fan experience?
Cassie:  Probably when this lady named her baby after me!