You wished for this: The Nikkis have met.
While attending Universal Studios Hollywood’s Halloween Horror Nights in Los Angeles over the weekend, Obsession star Inde Navarrette came face-to-face with the scare actor portraying her character, Nikki Freeman. The two posed for photos, with Navarrette holding a One Wish Willow-themed churro, and recreated Nikki’s iconic frown from the film’s party scene.
Speaking with The Hollywood Reporter over Zoom Tuesday, the 25-year-old actress described the encounter as “surreal.”
“It was really nice. I mean, ever since it was announced, I had always wanted to make my way over there. Then we finally had time to go do it,” Navarrette said. She praised the performer for staying in character throughout their interaction.
“It was just so cool. She didn’t break. She was really committed, and I think those kinds of actors are very, very, very specific and very talented, because she can’t break. She’s got so many things to think about, and I just wanted to give her a high five,” she added.
Navarrette’s visit comes after the performer portraying Nikki at the Hollywood location reportedly ended a character meet-and-greet early after guests interrupted and harassed her while she interacted with other parkgoers earlier this month.
In September, Navarrette also discussed the character’s presence at Halloween Horror Nights with Entertainment Tonight, where the reporter asked, “Fans have pointed out that the character is more of a victim, not a villain. What is your take on that?”
“I want to honor Nikki’s experience, but I also want to honor that Halloween Horror Nights has given her an opportunity to roam around and kind of be seen. And I just love that they’re protecting her,” Navarrette replied.
Released in May, Obsession was written, directed and edited by Curry Barker. The horror film follows Bear (Michael Johnston), a shy young man desperate to escape the friend zone, who uses a novelty item called the One Wish Willow to wish that his crush, Nikki, would love him more than anyone else in the world. The wish comes true, but with serious consequences.
Made on a reported $750,000 budget, the film has grossed more than $522 million worldwide. Its success has also helped put Navarrette’s performance in the spotlight, with the actress attracting early awards-season buzz.