Zoe Kravitz felt she had to "protect" her parents when she was growing up

She said: "[I was like a] tiny gatekeeper trying to protect my parents, especially my dad, who's so nice to everyone. He lets people in. But I have a fiery side."

Zoe admits she is more of a "confrontational character" than her "patient" 'Big Little Lies' alter-ego Bonnie Carlson, and she felt "warm and fuzzy" starring in a series alongside so many talented actors.

She said: "She's a lot more patient than I am, and a lot more passive.

I love Bonnie. She's the type just to sit back and let things happen organically. I'm more of a confrontational character.

"I think we were all thrilled to be surrounded by so many wonderful women telling such an intriguing story. It's very rare to work with and be around such supportive women. Not that men aren't supportive, but it's just that women are more vocal about the way they feel.

"It was all, 'That was beautiful work,' and, 'That was a wonderful scene.' It really made me feel warm and fuzzy."

The 'Mad Max: Fury Road' star admitted she has always wanted to be an actress even before she knew what her parents did, but had to work "very hard" to prove herself as a talent in her own right rather than someone who is offered roles because of their famous family.

Speaking to Stella magazine, she added: "I've wanted to be an actor from a young age. From when I was six or seven I fell in love with films like 'The Wizard of Oz' and 'Grease', and I would always perform for my parents and grandparents.

"I wasn't even fully aware of the extent to which my family was involved in the entertainment industry. It was just a natural thing for me.

"Growing up, wanting to be an actor was a double-edged sword. I had opportunities because of who my family are, and I was able to get an agent very quickly. But that can lead into self-doubt. I then had to work very hard to earn my reputation based on my talent."