The Complete Taylor Hickson Movies and TV Shows List From Deadpool to Motherland

Taylor Hickson has established herself as one of Canada's most compelling acting talents, transitioning from a childhood passion for music to lead roles in major international television franchises. Best known for her portrayal of the gritty and rebellious Raelle Collar in the supernatural drama Motherland: Fort Salem, Hickson’s career spans high-octane blockbusters, cult-classic television, and sensitive independent cinema.

For those looking for a quick overview, her most significant works include the Freeform hit Motherland: Fort Salem, the Syfy assassin drama Deadly Class, and her breakout role in the 2016 Marvel film Deadpool. As of 2024 and heading into 2025, her filmography continues to expand with new thrillers and prestige television projects.

The Early Career of Taylor Hickson: From Kelowna to Hollywood

Born in December 1997 in Kelowna, British Columbia, Taylor Hickson did not initially set out to be a professional actress. Her early years were defined by music. Influenced by her father, she began performing folk tunes at local talent shows at the age of 11. By her mid-teens, she was writing her own material and had developed a deep proficiency in guitar and piano.

The shift to acting occurred almost by chance. At age 16, a relative encouraged her to meet with a casting agent. Despite an initial lack of interest in the craft, Hickson’s natural screen presence was undeniable; she was signed the same day she auditioned. Her professional debut came shortly after with a minor role in the 2015 thriller Blackway (also released as Go with Me), where she performed alongside screen legends like Anthony Hopkins and Ray Liotta. Though the role was small, it served as the catalyst for what would become a rapid ascent in the industry.

Breakthrough in the Marvel Universe: Deadpool (2016)

The turning point for Hickson’s career arrived in 2016 with the release of the R-rated superhero phenomenon Deadpool. In the film, she played Meghan Orlovsky, a young girl protected by Ryan Reynolds' titular character. While the screen time was limited, the experience of working on a massive studio production fundamentally changed her perspective on acting.

Hickson has noted in interviews that Deadpool was the project that ignited her passion for the industry. The scale of the production and the technical requirements of a speaking role in a blockbuster helped her realize that acting could be more than just a hobby. Following the success of Deadpool, she became a sought-after name for both Canadian independent films and North American television pilots.

Leading the Charge: Taylor Hickson in Television

Television has provided the platform for Hickson’s most complex and celebrated work. Her ability to portray "tough-on-the-outside, vulnerable-on-the-inside" characters has made her a favorite for genre-bending series.

Motherland: Fort Salem (2020–2022)

The most defining role of Taylor Hickson’s career to date is Raelle Collar in Motherland: Fort Salem. Set in an alternate version of America where witches ended their persecution by striking a deal with the government to serve as the nation's primary military force, the show required Hickson to carry significant emotional and physical weight.

Raelle Collar is introduced as a reluctant conscript, a "fixer" witch from a marginalized background with a chip on her shoulder. Hickson’s performance was widely praised for its raw intensity. Critics, including those from the A.V. Club, noted that she was the standout performer of the series, portraying Raelle as "flinty and raw."

Beyond the military action, Hickson’s portrayal of the "Raelle and Scylla" (Raylla) relationship became a cultural touchstone. The chemistry between Hickson and co-star Amalia Holm resonated deeply with the LGBTQ+ community, turning the show into a cult hit and solidifying Hickson’s status as a leading lady capable of handling heavy thematic material involving identity, duty, and love.

Deadly Class (2018–2019)

Before Motherland, Hickson starred in the Syfy series Deadly Class, executive produced by the Russo Brothers (directors of Avengers: Endgame). Based on the popular graphic novel by Rick Remender, the series is set in the late 1980s at King’s Dominion, a private academy for the children of the world’s elite assassins.

Hickson played Petra, a goth teenager associated with a death cult. The role allowed her to lean into a darker, more cynical aesthetic. Petra was a character of quiet observation and hidden strength, providing a stark contrast to the more explosive personalities in the cast. Though the series was canceled after one season, it remains a fan favorite and showcased Hickson’s ability to fit into highly stylized, high-stakes ensemble dramas.

Aftermath (2016)

In the post-apocalyptic series Aftermath, Hickson played Brianna Copeland. The show follows the Copeland family as they struggle to survive a series of catastrophic weather events and the rise of supernatural creatures. Brianna was a headstrong and sarcastic teenager, a role Hickson felt particularly connected to due to the character’s impulsive and fiercely loyal nature. This series was instrumental in proving she could handle the rigors of a 13-episode season as a primary cast member.

Notable Film Roles: From Indie Dramas to Horror

While television has occupied much of her recent schedule, Hickson’s filmography is diverse, ranging from coming-of-age stories to intense psychological thrillers.

Giant Little Ones (2018)

In the critically acclaimed indie drama Giant Little Ones, Hickson played Natasha Kohl. The film explores the complexities of teenage sexuality and the fallout of a single incident at a birthday party. Hickson’s performance as the ostracized sister of one of the lead characters was a "scene-stealer," earning her a nomination for Best Female Lead at the 2019 Leo Awards. This role demonstrated her capacity for understated, naturalistic acting in a prestige drama setting.

Bad Genius (2024)

In 2024, Hickson appeared in Bad Genius, a high-stakes thriller centered around a group of students who orchestrate an elaborate cheating scheme to take down a rigged admissions system. Playing the role of Grace Simon, Hickson returned to the thriller genre, bringing a sense of urgency and tension to the film. The project reaffirmed her ability to anchor contemporary stories that deal with social pressure and systemic corruption.

Everything, Everything (2017)

Hickson had a supporting role as Kayra in the romantic drama Everything, Everything, based on the best-selling novel by Nicola Yoon. While the film centered on the romance between characters played by Amandla Stenberg and Nick Robinson, Hickson’s presence added to the film’s portrayal of teenage social dynamics.

Hunting Pignut (2016)

In this Canadian independent film, Hickson took on the lead role of Bernice (Story) Kilfoy. Based on a true story, the film follows a 15-year-old girl who runs away from home to find a man who stole her father’s ashes. It is perhaps one of her most visceral and grounded performances, highlighting her roots in the Canadian "indie" scene.

The Incident in a Ghostland Controversy

It is impossible to discuss Taylor Hickson’s filmography without mentioning the 2018 horror film Incident in a Ghostland. While the film itself received attention for its brutal storytelling, the production was overshadowed by a serious on-set accident involving Hickson.

During a scene where she was instructed to pound her fists against a glass door, the glass shattered, causing Hickson to fall through. She suffered a severe facial laceration that required roughly 70 to 90 stitches and left her with permanent scarring. Hickson subsequently sued the production company, Incident Productions, which eventually pleaded guilty to failing to ensure the safety of a worker and was fined.

This event was a significant moment in Hickson’s life and career. She has spoken candidly about the psychological toll of the accident, including the struggle with self-esteem and the "trust issues" it created regarding set safety. However, her return to acting in Deadly Class and Motherland: Fort Salem served as a testament to her resilience. The industry’s support, particularly from executive producers like Adam Kane, helped her regain her confidence on set.

Upcoming Projects: What’s Next for Taylor Hickson in 2025?

As we move into 2025, Taylor Hickson shows no signs of slowing down. She has several high-profile projects in various stages of production that are expected to further elevate her profile.

1. Untamed (2025): Hickson is set to appear in this new TV series, playing the character Summer. The series is highly anticipated and marks her return to the crime/drama genre.
2. North of North (2025): A Canadian comedy series where Hickson plays Alexis. This project suggests a shift in tone for the actress, allowing her to explore comedic timing alongside her established dramatic range.
3. The Eden Express: Currently in post-production, this film features Hickson as Virginia 'Virge' Fletcher. It is expected to be a significant dramatic entry in her 2025 slate.
4. Magic: A short film where she plays the role of Jo, expected to hit the festival circuit or digital platforms in 2025.

Summary of Taylor Hickson’s Filmography

For easy reference, the following table summarizes the most prominent movies and television shows featuring Taylor Hickson.

How Taylor Hickson Selects Her Roles

A common thread in Taylor Hickson’s career is her preference for "emotionally driven and impulsive" characters. She has often stated that she gravitates toward roles that feel like an extension of her own personality—outspoken, stubborn, but deeply loving.

Her background as a singer-songwriter also informs her acting. The "adrenaline" she found in music performance transitioned into the high-stakes environment of film sets. Hickson remains a vocal advocate for mental health and self-love, often using her platform to discuss the pressures of the entertainment industry and the importance of workplace safety following her 2018 accident.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Taylor Hickson's most famous movie?

While her role in Deadpool (2016) gave her the most mainstream exposure, Giant Little Ones (2018) is her most critically acclaimed film, earning her a Leo Award nomination.

Is Taylor Hickson still in Motherland: Fort Salem?

Taylor Hickson played the lead role of Raelle Collar throughout the entire three-season run of Motherland: Fort Salem, which concluded in 2022.

What happened to Taylor Hickson's face?

In December 2016, while filming Incident in a Ghostland, Hickson suffered a severe facial injury when a glass pane shattered during a scene. She required nearly 70 stitches and was left with a permanent scar on the left side of her face. She has since become an advocate for stricter set safety protocols.

Does Taylor Hickson still make music?

Yes, Hickson remains a singer-songwriter. While her acting career is her primary focus, she has performed on soundtracks, including a performance of "The Book of Love" in an episode of Motherland: Fort Salem.

What are Taylor Hickson's new shows for 2025?

Hickson is scheduled to appear in the crime drama Untamed and the Canadian comedy series North of North, both set for release in 2025.

Conclusion

From her breakout moments in Deadpool to her commanding lead performance in Motherland: Fort Salem, Taylor Hickson has proven herself to be a versatile and resilient force in the acting world. Her filmography reflects a willingness to take on challenging, often dark, and emotionally resonant roles. As she moves into 2025 with projects like Untamed and North of North, fans can expect to see her continue to push the boundaries of her craft across both film and television. Whether she is playing a witch, an assassin, or a teenager navigating the complexities of modern life, Hickson brings a unique intensity that makes her one of the most interesting actresses of her generation.