“Emily in Paris” actor Samuel Arnold reflects on long-term character growth, creative risk and how fashion became a powerful form of self-expression
Best known for his role on “Emily in Paris,” Samuel Arnold is an actor who understands the power of presence. As the series continues to evolve, so does Arnold—an artist whose approach is grounded in curiosity, discipline and emotional honesty. Beyond the camera, his interests extend into fashion, creativity and the personal rituals that sustain his passion for the craft. In this interview with DAMAN, Arnold opens up about the motivations that drive him, the mindset he brings to his work and how fashion has become a meaningful form of self-expression.
DAMAN: “Emily in Paris” is now heading into its sixth season. What has staying with a character for so long taught you about growth as an actor?
Samuel Arnold: Staying with a character for that long is a rare privilege. You get to know him intimately, but you can’t just repeat the same choices—you have to let him evolve alongside the story. It forces you to stay alert and curious. The real trap is getting too comfortable. I’ve also noticed that some of Julien’s traits have started to rub off on me—I’ve definitely gotten a little sassier over the years.
DAMAN: How do you keep Julien evolving creatively while still feeling fulfilled as an artist yourself?
Samuel Arnold: Julien is such a colorful, layered character, which is a gift. Even after five seasons, there are still so many sides of him to explore. That keeps me fully fulfilled artistically and motivates me to keep pushing his evolution. A big part of it also happens naturally—as I grow and change as a person, that growth feeds into Julien’s journey as well.
DAMAN: Six seasons in, how has your relationship with “Emily in Paris” shifted from opportunity to long-term commitment?
Samuel Arnold: “Emily in Paris” was my first major role and my introduction to an international audience. What started as an opportunity has become a long-term commitment. The show is now fully embedded in pop culture and I’m deeply grateful to be part of something that brings joy to people all over the world.
DAMAN: Looking back, how did the show’s global success change your life, both professionally and personally?
Samuel Arnold: Professionally, it opened doors in an extremely competitive industry and allowed my work to be seen worldwide. Personally, my life changed dramatically—I went from struggling financially to finding stability and from being anonymous to being recognized wherever I travel. It’s been a profound shift.
DAMAN: When you approach a new role, what tends to be your entry point—emotion, backstory or physicality?
Samuel Arnold: It really depends on the role. Sometimes I start very intellectually—pen and paper, breaking down the character psychologically, researching his world and filling in gaps when necessary. If it feels real to me, it will feel real to the audience. Other times, I approach it physically—turning on music, moving, dancing and letting the character settle into my body. There’s no single method; you do what works.
DAMAN: What has been the most challenging aspect of portraying Julien and how has that challenge evolved over time?
Samuel Arnold: Julien has very strong traits—he’s sassy, stylish, bold, loud and expressive. The challenge was making sure he stayed grounded and believable without tipping into caricature. Finding that balance took time, but I’m happy with where we landed.
DAMAN: You’ve worked beyond television in short-form and independent projects. What draws you to those kinds of stories?
Samuel Arnold: I’m drawn to projects that allow experimentation and risk. Independent and short-form stories often give you the freedom to explore characters and themes you wouldn’t necessarily find in larger productions. They keep me creatively sharp.
DAMAN: You also stepped into producing with “Nolan’s Treasure.” How did that experience change the way you view storytelling and collaboration?
Samuel Arnold: Producing made me truly understand what it takes to bring a project to life. It gave me a deeper appreciation for every department involved and made me a better actor and filmmaker overall. It also reignited my excitement for storytelling—I’m more eager than ever to continue producing and, hopefully, directing in the future as well.
DAMAN: Are there creative risks you’re more willing to take now than earlier in your career?
Samuel Arnold: I’ve always been willing to take risks. Coming from a modest background and choosing to become an actor was already a huge risk. Once I made that decision, everything else stopped feeling like a risk and started feeling like an opportunity.
DAMAN: When you’re not working, what helps you reset and return with a fresh perspective?
Samuel Arnold: Spending time with my family, playing video games, watching films, reading, hiking and going to the gym—those moments away from set are essential. They recharge me and often inspire me when I return to work.
DAMAN: Fashion often feels like a character in “Emily in Paris.” How has the show influenced your relationship with style?
Samuel Arnold: I’ve always expressed myself through clothing. As a kid, I dressed like the heroes I saw on screen. I always had a sense of style, but “Emily in Paris” truly educated me about fashion. It introduced me to an industry I barely knew and playing Julien gave me the confidence to be bolder in how I dress in my personal life.
DAMAN: Away from the camera, how would you describe your personal approach to dressing?
Samuel Arnold: Every day feels different. I move between streetwear, smart casual, understated looks and very bold ones. I don’t follow strict rules—my style reflects how I feel on any given day.
DAMAN: Do you see fashion as another form of self-expression, similar to acting?
Samuel Arnold: Absolutely. Fashion is storytelling. What you wear—or choose not to wear—is a statement. Whether you didn’t think twice about your outfit or carefully chose a bold red coat, you’re telling a story. Acting works the same way: what a character does and how he does it reveals who he is.
DAMAN: What kinds of roles or genres are you hoping to explore next that might surprise people?
Samuel Arnold: A less surprising choice would be action-comedy—I’d love to lead an action-comedy franchise. At the same time, I’m very drawn to grounded, dramatic stories that resonate deeply and explore meaningful themes.
DAMAN: Looking ahead, what kind of career—or legacy—do you hope to build beyond one defining role?
Samuel Arnold: I want a career defined by range and freedom. I see myself as flexible and curious and I hope to explore as much as possible—playing vastly different characters, producing, directing, dancing and even streaming. I don’t want to limit myself. I want to show the full spectrum of who I am as an artist.
Photography Lensbymi
Styling Kimberly Yvette Goodnight & A. Denino
Skin Grooming Josephine Bouchereau at Celestine Agency using Mimétique Makeup and Clé de peau Makeup
Hair Grooming Natalie Jibeili using KISS Colors & Care Braiding Gel