Ever wondered what it’s like to star in a Drake music video? Riley Simpson shares her unexpected journey.
- Riley spent five days on set during the pandemic with strict rules in place.
- Drake personally ensured the comfort of his cast, making him the ‘coolest person.’
- Multiple women were sent home for breaking rules or even making fun of Drake.
- Despite challenges, Riley recalls the experience as a rewarding one filled with unique moments.
Riley Simpson, in a recent interview, opened up about her time on set for Drake’s ‘Falling Back’ music video during the pandemic. She described an intense five-day shoot with Drake being super involved.
Drake was very attentive, even responding to casual comments. ‘Like, he was listening. We could be across the room like, ‘I’m hungry,’ and he’d be like, ‘What do you want to eat?’ Riley said.
However, the rules were strict. No phones, no recording, no pictures in dresses. Violation meant being sent home immediately. ‘There were girls that got sent home on day one,’ Riley explained.
Drake kept things fun but disciplined. He took everyone out for meals, but any misstep, like getting too drunk or mocking his hairstyle, meant job termination. ‘We’re getting paid a shit ton of money, by the way,’ she added.
In another note, Drake faced criticism for a resurfaced clip from OVO Fest 2013. The clip showed Drake warmly greeting people but awkwardly ignoring The Weeknd, leading to backlash.
The short clip ended with Drake acknowledging The Weeknd, but many felt the tension. Comments like ‘I hate this type of passive aggressive behavior’ flooded in, labeling Drake as a ‘snake.’
Drake and The Weeknd have had a complicated relationship. They collaborated early in The Weeknd’s career but had a falling out when The Weeknd chose not to sign with Drake’s label and instead went with Republic Records.
Riley’s story offers a unique glimpse into the fascinating and sometimes strict world of Drake’s music video productions.
