Singer-Songwriter Hayes Warner Makes Acting Debut in FX’s The Shards

Hayes Warner has found her place in the spotlight as she makes her acting debut in the new FX series, The Shards, where she portrays Debbie Schaffer, the high school lover of author Bret Easton Ellis. The rising star fought for the role after auditioning for producers who were initially uncertain about the character’s direction. “I read the book before I knew there was even an adaptation happening,” Warner shared during a Zoom interview, reflecting on her early connection to the character. “I remember liking Debbie. She’s really mysterious, but a lot smarter than she lets on.”

The series, which is loosely based on Ellis’ high school experiences with his friends in Bel-Air during the early ’80s, adds a chilling twist with a murder plot involving a serial killer dubbed “The Trawler.” As Warner describes, “no one is safe from being a suspect — including Debbie.” Throughout the casting process, Warner’s determination to portray Debbie authentically earned her praise from executive producer Ryan Murphy, who encouraged her to explore different facets of the character, including moments where she could embody more sinister traits.

Before the suspense unfolds, Warner’s character enjoys a youthful, carefree romance with Bret, played by Igby Rigney, amid close friendships with characters Susan and Thom, portrayed by Kaia Gerber and Graham Campbell, respectively. Warner noted a strong bond formed among the cast early on, enhancing their on-screen chemistry. “Because we’re all comfortable with each other, it allowed us to just go off the rails when we needed to,” she recalled. This supportive environment helped the new actors navigate their inaugural major roles.

Aside from acting, Warner, who previously established herself as a pop artist with popular tracks like “Oh!” and “Zip,” has incorporated her passion for music into the series by writing songs for Debbie’s character. She describes her upcoming music project inspired by The Shards as “Sky Ferreira-esque” and believes it to be her most significant work yet.

Get to know more about Warner in the Bustle Booth questionnaire, where she opens up about her coffee order, favorite childhood cartoons, and what inspires her in the pop music scene.