Danielle Savre Talks Station 19, Representation, and the Magic of the Monte-Carlo Television Festival

During the 65th Monte-Carlo Television Festival, Danielle Savre sat down with The Upcoming to reflect on her journey with Station 19, the lasting impact of television, and the exciting projects ahead.

Returning to Monte Carlo for a second consecutive year, Savre described the festival as an inspiring celebration of creativity, storytelling, and female empowerment.

"It feels magical. Last year I arrived not really knowing what to expect, and I completely fell in love with the festival. This year feels even more special."

The Lasting Power of Television

Throughout the conversation, Danielle shared her deep appreciation for television as a storytelling medium. Having grown up watching iconic television series, she believes TV creates a unique bond between audiences and characters that simply can't be replicated elsewhere.

According to Savre, television allows viewers to experience a character's growth over many years, creating emotional connections that often become part of people's lives.

"I love characters that evolve and grow. You get to follow their journey season after season, and that's something I think television does incredibly well."

Looking Back on Maya Bishop

One of the interview's most heartfelt moments came when Danielle reflected on portraying Maya Bishop throughout all seven seasons of Station 19.

She admitted she never imagined booking the role—let alone spending seven years playing one of television's most beloved firefighters.

"We had no idea what the show would become. We were just having fun and loving the opportunity to tell these stories."

Savre praised the writers for constantly challenging Maya, allowing the character to experience professional triumphs, personal struggles, mental health challenges, family conflict, and love.

She described the experience as "a gift," explaining that portraying a flawed, evolving character helped her grow both professionally and personally.

Representation That Feels Real

Danielle also discussed one of Station 19's defining strengths: authentic representation.

Rather than making diversity feel performative, she believes the series simply presented life as it exists—with women in leadership positions, LGBTQ+ relationships, and diverse characters whose identities were never reduced to a single storyline.

"They made it part of reality. It wasn't about checking a box—it just existed naturally within the story."

She emphasized how meaningful it was to be part of a series that normalized representation through honest storytelling.

Why Audiences Love First Responder Dramas

When asked why audiences continue to connect with stories about firefighters, doctors, and first responders, Savre pointed to the combination of high stakes and deeply human emotions.

The adrenaline of life-or-death situations, combined with relationships, personal struggles, and hope, creates compelling television that resonates with viewers around the world.

Having trained extensively for Station 19—and with a real-life firefighter sister—Danielle joked that she could probably handle herself in an emergency... although she admitted one real-life attempt at putting out a fire left her injured.

Television's Bright Future

Savre believes television is currently one of the most exciting creative spaces in entertainment.

With the rise of streaming platforms and more opportunities for diverse voices, she feels television can respond to the world faster than film, allowing storytellers to create stories that feel immediate and culturally relevant.

What's Next for Danielle Savre?

Looking toward the future, Danielle shared several ambitions she'd still love to pursue.

Working with acclaimed director Christopher Nolan remains at the top of her bucket list, while she also hopes to return to comedy after years of dramatic roles.

Outside of acting, she's found a new creative passion with her podcast, Sweet and Savre, where she interviews inspiring women about their lives, careers, and personal journeys.

Rather than focusing on herself, Savre says the podcast is about giving women the opportunity to tell their own stories—from childhood through the paths that shaped who they are today.

"It's become more fulfilling than I ever imagined," she shared.

Watch the Full Interview

Watch Danielle Savre's full conversation with The Upcoming from the Monte-Carlo Television Festival 2026 below.

Interview by The Upcoming at the Monte-Carlo Television Festival 2026 - Interviewer: Sarah Bradbury - Editing: Olivia Barker