When preparing to play Edna, the housekeeper of the new FOX hit show “Dads,” actress Tonita Castro did not have to go far for inspiration.
The Mexican immigrant came to the United States in the late 1970s, following the death of her father, and to help support her family she took several jobs — including cleaning houses.
“We had to start from scratch. My mother was a widow with seven kids and she cleaned and ironed and was proud of the honest work she did,” Castro told Fox News Latino.
This did not stop her from pursuing her dreams, which at first included becoming a teacher. But with luck on her side, Castro got a gig at Radio Express in Los Angeles as a news reader before quickly being promoted to co-host a Spanish-language show. She stayed for nearly two decades.
After getting her first acting job in 2005, and falling in love with a new art, Castro left radio to pursue acting full time about three years ago ... and what a ride it’s been.
“Oh my God, I am so blessed to be in the right place with the right people – the best writers,” Castro said of her new show. “The cast is unbelievable and I am there. I am learning so much.”
She said it took a lot of auditions to get the role on “Dads” – which was just picked up for a full season – but when she read the part she felt she was Edna in many ways.
Castro said Edna is a character with a lot of dreams who, instead of allowing her problems weigh her down, she has chosen “to be a happy person.”
“She is strong inside and outside,” Castro said. “She takes care of the business and the house and that is an important role. You don’t just let anyone into your home. I am very proud of being the housekeeper.”
She continued: “That is me! The way she talks and acts, that is Tonita Castro.”
Co-stars on “Dads” include Seth Green, Giovanni Ribisi, Peter Riegert, Vanessa Lachey, Martin and Brenda Song. Castro said it’s a dream working with such an amazing cast, especially Green – an actor she has followed for years.
“I love him. It’s a dream come true,” she said. “It’s like a great family. I feel very honored to be a part of it.”
“Dads” airs on FOX at 8 p.m. on Tuesdays.
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