Netflix’s breakout comedy series Free Bert has quickly become a fan favorite, and one of its standout performances comes from Ava Ryan, who plays Georgia, Bert’s teenage daughter navigating middle school, popularity, and family chaos.
In a new interview with Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias, Ava opened up about landing the role, connecting with her character, and what she hopes fans might see in a potential Season 2.
Falling in Love With the Script
Ava knew Free Bert was special the moment she read it.
“When I read this one, I was laughing so hard. I was like, I have to get this. This is mine.”
Unlike many auditions, Ava said this script genuinely stood out because it felt like the kind of comedy she personally enjoyed watching.
“This is one of the first comedy scripts I read where I thought, wow, this is something I would really enjoy.”
After a callback and a surprise trip to Los Angeles for a table read, Ava met the cast — including Bert Kreischer and Arden Myrin — and instantly felt at home.
“I fell in love with everybody immediately. Bert was just so funny.”
Georgia’s Journey: From Outcast to Popular
Georgia’s storyline resonates with many viewers who remember how intimidating a new school can be.
“At first, Georgia was a nerd at school… she was kind of bullied. Starting at a new school is really scary.”
Over the course of the season, Georgia’s popularity rises, but it comes with emotional consequences.
“I think at the end she almost realizes popularity is not the most important thing. True friendships and bonds are more important.”
Ava explained that Georgia’s struggles reflect what many kids go through when trying to fit in.
“She’s just a teenage girl trying to get through school without her dad embarrassing her.”
Working With Bert Kreischer
Playing Bert Kreischer’s daughter meant building a believable bond — and Ava says the chemistry was easy.
“Bert was always hyping us up. He would say, ‘You’re so good at playing Georgia. It feels like you’re actually my daughter.’”
The improv moments were some of her favorites on set.
“We had so many funny bloopers. I’d improv a line, he’d improv back, and we’d just start laughing.”
Despite Bert’s over-the-top chaos in the show, Ava believes Georgia eventually understands her dad’s intentions.
“She realizes he just wants the best for her and he means well.”
Popularity vs. Real Friendship
One of the core themes of Free Bert is the idea that popularity doesn’t equal happiness.
“I’d tell Georgia: popularity is not the most important thing. True bonds and true friendships matter more.”
By the end of the season, Georgia has to decide who she can truly trust.
“She learns what real friendship actually means.”
Her relationship with her younger sister Lila also plays a big role.
“Lila was always looking out for me in the show. And in real life, too. Our bond is real.”
Looking Ahead to Season 2
While no official renewal has been announced yet, Ava is hopeful.
“I really hope we get a Season 2.”
If the show returns, she’d love to see Georgia become more confident.
“I want to see her become her true self… stop caring so much about popularity and fight back against the bullies.”
And of course, she’s ready for more chaos with Bert.
“I’d love more scenes with Bert. We work so well together and always end up laughing.”
What’s Next for Ava Ryan
Beyond Free Bert, Ava revealed she’s working on an animated series called Keeping Up with the Joneses, which she says is “very, very funny” and coming later this year.
Fans can keep up with her on social media:
Instagram & TikTok: @avaryanofficial
Final Thoughts
With humor, heart, and relatable themes, Free Bert has struck a chord with audiences — and Ava Ryan’s Georgia is a big reason why. Her performance captures the awkwardness of growing up, the pressure to fit in, and the realization that family and real friends matter more than popularity.
As Ava puts it best:
“At the end of the day, true friendships are more important than popularity.”
And that message may be the most important takeaway of all.