Beyond the Gates Star Angela Fairley Teases Deanna's Next Chapter and What's Ahead

Angela Fairley may be one of the newest faces on Beyond the Gates, but her arrival as Deanna McBride has already made a lasting impression. Introduced as the outspoken daughter of Vanessa McBride and the late Doug McBride, Deanna has quickly become one of the show's most compelling younger characters. During a recent interview with The TV Cave's Soap Wire Podcast, Fairley reflected on joining daytime television, the overwhelming fan response to Deanna's debut, and why the character's story is only getting started.

One of the biggest surprises for Fairley wasn't stepping into the world of daytime television—it was discovering just how eagerly fans had been waiting for Deanna to finally appear on screen. Before landing the role, she admitted she wasn't familiar with soap operas, explaining that they simply weren't part of her upbringing. It wasn't until Beyond the Gates entered her life that friends and family filled her in on the rich history and passionate audience that comes with the genre.

That enthusiasm became impossible to ignore once she arrived on set. Fairley recalled cast members and crew immediately telling her, "We've been waiting for you," referring to Deanna's long-teased arrival. She was even warned not to post anything on social media because eagle-eyed fans would immediately figure out she had joined the cast. Considering how closely soap viewers follow every behind-the-scenes clue, that advice probably wasn't an exaggeration.

Since making her debut, Deanna has been driven by grief following Doug's death while fiercely opposing Joey Armstrong's growing influence over her mother. Fairley believes viewers have primarily seen Deanna's raw emotions, but says there's another side still waiting to emerge. Beneath the anger and frustration is a genuinely caring young woman who's trying to navigate unimaginable loss while watching her family change before her eyes. That softer layer, she teased, is still ahead.

Deanna's wardrobe, particularly during the memorable cotillion episode was a highlight. While Fairley stopped short of speaking for the costume department, she praised the intentionality behind the show's fashion choices, noting that Deanna's dramatic black ensemble reflected both her grief and her determination to make a statement. Had life been different, Fairley joked, Deanna probably would have been wearing bright colors instead. Instead, the all-black look perfectly captured a young woman carrying heartbreak into one of the biggest moments of her life.

Fans have also embraced Deanna's growing friendship with Kat, and Fairley completely understands why. She described their relationship as something resembling the big sister connection Deanna desperately needs. While both women are dealing with very different family struggles, Fairley believes Kat gives Deanna something few others have—a safe place to be heard instead of being dismissed. It's a refreshing dynamic that adds another emotional layer to both characters.

Of course, Deanna's biggest obstacle remains Joey, and Fairley offered an interesting way of looking at their ongoing battle. She compared Joey to the "final boss" in a video game, forcing Deanna to become smarter, stronger, and more strategic every time they clash. Rather than simply reacting emotionally, Deanna is slowly learning how to play the long game, making every confrontation feel like another step in her evolution. It's an unexpectedly clever way to describe one of Beyond the Gates' strongest ongoing rivalries.

The actress also spoke warmly about Deanna's relationship with her late father, Doug. Even though viewers only see him through emotional appearances after his death, Fairley imagined a father who constantly encouraged his daughter, challenged her, and helped build the confidence viewers now see. That emotional foundation continues to influence every decision Deanna makes, even in his absence, making those scenes resonate long after they end.

Looking toward the future, Fairley hopes viewers get to see Deanna grow beyond the Joey storyline. She'd love to explore Deanna's college experience, her journey into adulthood, and the choices that will ultimately define who she becomes. When asked to describe what's ahead in just three words, she settled on "spontaneous," "outside," and "curious"—three intriguing hints that should leave Beyond the Gates fans paying very close attention.

Fairley's performance has already established Deanna as far more than the grieving daughter caught in family drama. She brings determination, vulnerability, and just enough attitude to make every appearance memorable. If this interview is any indication, viewers have only scratched the surface of who Deanna McBride really is. And if Fairley's teases are anything to go by, her biggest moments may still be waiting around the corner.

Check out our full interview below: