Candice Patton photographed by Shane McCauley.
In the midst of tornado-like discouragement we hold our crossed fingers behind our back silently wishing that an otherworldly superhero would come save the desolation. Our contemporary superheros are those that are working at the frontlines, offering gleams of hope and light. This does not mean we cannot eagerly indulge in superhero storylines. [Candice Patton](https://www.instagram.com/candicepatton/?hl=en)’s rendition of the unstoppable powerhouse, Iris West-Allen, in CW’s _The Flash_ has powered her performance range. Iris West-Allen’s presence on Team Flash makes the entity of _The Flash,_ a cohesive mastery. Iris is strong-minded, empowered and the titular image of ‘productivity’, we all want to be. The theatrical-sized audience that seamlessly follows _The Flash_ have also found themselves smiling alongside Patton’s Tik-Tok concoctions. Patton finds herself energized by her enthusiastic fans that interact with her from Twitter live watches of _The Flash_ to the crowds at a Comic-Con Q&A. Much like Iris West-Allen, Patton has the showstopping, liveliness spirit we all want to embody.
**What makes you happy?**
Fame brings a certain level of anxiety with it and I’m grateful for the moments when I can let that go. That’s probably when I’m most myself and at peace.
**What tips do you have from going quarantine crazy?**
Nintendo Switch has consumed a lot of my time. I’m currently spending a lot of hours on Animal Crossing. Also, walks with my dog, working out, FaceTime with friends and family. I’m a homebody by nature.
**What is your phone/computer wallpaper?**
My niece Hadlee from Thanksgiving. She’s so chunky in that photo and I don’t get to see my family as often as I’d like so I like having her on my phone. Also keeps things in perspective for me and reminds me of what’s important.
**Aside from property what’s the most expensive thing you’ve ever bought?**
I don’t really spend money on anything. The basics: food, airfare to and from work(live in California, work in Canada), utilities, necessities. I have a hard time splurging on myself or justifying needing overly expensive things. I’m trying to get better at that though to some degree. The idea of “treating yourself” is a bit tough for me. I just don’t need or want for a lot of expensive things.
**What is a trait you deplore in yourself?**
Deplore is such a strong word. But I can be pretty impatient.
**What is your most unappealing habit?**
I bite the inside of my cheek/lip when I’m anxious. I can not do it for years and then I can start again out of nowhere. Sometime it gets so bad I subconsciously do it when I’m on camera.
Candice Patton photographed by Shane McCauley.
**What is your favorite smell?**
So many, but I’m doing laundry right now, and I’ve always loved the scent of dryer sheets.
**What do you owe your parents?**
Everything. My parents have always supported and encouraged me to do what I love and I know not everyone has that kind of support. I truly feel like a lot often my success is attributed to feeling confident and supported in the pursuit of my dreams.
**What keeps you awake at night?**
Currently, the COVID-19 crisis. I’m scared, sad, anxious, angry and just overall worried for the state of the world.
**How do you relax?**
Candles. Headspace app. Red wine. Working out.
**What does love feel like?**
Like borrowed time.
**If you could edit your past, what would you change?**
I’d say yes to more adventures.
**How has the dynamic of the cast of The Flash changed with the more time you all have shared together? Who is your cast bestie, and what do you guys do for fun in Vancouver?**
Keiynan and Jesse are the cast members I’m closest with. If I’m not shooting in Vancouver, I spend most of my days off in Los Angeles, where I’m based. We mostly have our fun on set when we can. Lots of laughs and jokes.
* * *
Photographed by: [Shane McCauley](https://www.instagram.com/shanemccauley/?hl=en).
Styling: [Janelle Miller](https://www.instagram.com/janellermiller/?hl=en).
Hair: [Rena Calhoun](https://www.instagram.com/rena.calhoun/?hl=en).
Makeup: [Adam Burrell](https://www.instagram.com/adamburrell/?hl=en).
.jpg)
