EXCLUSIVE: Kaylee Hottle Talks Kong, Cast Members, and ‘Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire’ with BB

Kaylee Hottle returns as Jia Andrews in Warner Bros. new movie Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire. Making her first appearance in Godzilla vs. Kong, Hottle’s Jia has a connection to Kong unlike anyone else. When Kong reaches out for help in The New Empire, Jia must prove to her mom, and everyone else, she has what it takes to help her friend.

We got the chance to sit down with Hottle ahead of the movie’s release to chat what’s to come for Jia, filming the new movie, the challenges she faced filming it, and so much more. Check out what she had to say below.

How did it feel coming back to play Jia in Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire?

“I was so excited to be back and acting as Jia again!”

Would you say the bond between Jia and Kong has grown from Godzilla vs. Kong to Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire?

“Yes, they both connected and shared the same personal experiences. In The New Empire, they both have found where they come from, deepening their bond.”

Jia plays a vital part in this new movie, were you expecting that when you first read the script?

“I was mind blown by the role Jia played in the film!”

Did that put any pressure on you prior to filming?

“I was just focused on doing my job which is act as Jia.”

What would you say was the most challenging part of making this movie?

“The most challenging part was being away from my loved ones. I have to stay professional through months of acting. I missed so many things and people back in America.”

A lot of your scenes are CGI because you are interacting with Kong, and the Iwi’s, can you walk me through what it is like filming those scenes?

“First me and my ASL master would read through the script for the day, and then practice on emotions. On the set, I would talk with the director, Adam [Wingard], and discuss his vision and what he would like to see.”

You got to reunite with some of your costars from Godzilla vs. Kong, what was that like?

“At first, I was nervous to be back. But remembering that I would be working with the same cast again made me feel better. I acted confidently with my cast’s support.”

What about the newcomers to the Monsterverse? What was it like working with Dan Stevens?

“First time meeting him, I felt his good vibe through the room. He’s very optimistic and a joy of a person.”

What are you most excited for fans to see in the new movie?

“I am most excited for people to see what Jia is capable of in this film.”

What do you think is next for Jia?

“She can do amazing things, and she has great relationships with both human and monster worlds. She holds a lot of power that she will continue to use for good.”

If you had to pick between Kong and Godzilla, who would you pick?

“I will always pick Kong, no question.”

What are you hoping fans take away from Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire?

“The movie has amazing meaning. For Jia’s purpose, she is always looking for her home and has found a place where she belongs. I hope others realize there is always a place they will belong, too.”

Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire is now in theaters! If you missed it, you can check out our review of the movie here.

Photo credit: Stewart Cook/Getty Images for Warner Bros.