Robin McLeavy

Hell On Wheels

Eva
AMC/Netflix

2011-2016
(50 Episodes)

Interview: Hell On Wheels

Q&A — Robin McLeavy (Eva), via AMC

Robin McLeavy, who plays Eva on AMC’s Hell on Wheels, talks about the evolution of her character, finally getting to ride a horse and missing her signature chin tattoo.

Q: Fans have always had a special connection to you as shown through their fan art and even their own chin tattoos. What’s it been like to make such an impact?

A: I just feel so grateful, and I love that [her story] comes from the real life of Olive Oatman. It’s interesting because some people say, “You’re beautiful even with the tattoo,” but I thought I was beautiful as the character because of the tattoo, not despite it. I’m appreciative of the history and the story. I think tattoo art lets your body tell a story for you.

Q: What will you take away from your experience on Hell on Wheels?

A: Eva is one of the most resilient, tough and deeply spiritual women that I’ve ever played. She develops an outlook on life that is very unique. She’s lived so many lives in such a short period of time, but she ultimately always comes back to herself. She’s constantly traversing the unknown and having a sense of “anything is possible.” That kind of strength was definitely an inspiration to me over the last five years. I kept Eva’s hat and her boots, and I still rub my chin and wonder if there’s a little bit of tattoo there. [Laughs]