Interviewing actress Ashley Kirkland

1-. How was your childhood?

When I was four years old, I was diagnosed with an incurable childhood kidney disease. One way I managed to get through it was by focusing on art instead of the illness. I was a creative child with an active imagination, always drawing, painting, writing stories, or making movies with my mom’s video camera. I remember creating characters in my head and building entire stories and universes for them to exist in. I believe this skill has deeply helped me in acting, especially when it comes to connecting with characters. I was a shy child, still am. But there’s something about acting and stepping into a character that removes the walls I normally carry.

2.- From what age did you decide to be an actress and how did you know you had the skills to go on TV?

This was something I struggled with for a long time. I wanted to be an actress for as long as I can remember, but I lacked the courage and confidence to fully pursue it. Growing up in the southeastern United States, I often felt limited by my surroundings and by what I thought was possible. It wasn’t until I became an adult that I realized opportunities exist everywhere, and that there were no real excuses holding me back. Once I made the decision to follow my dreams, everything clicked. When I began taking acting classes and building my craft, I gained confidence in my skills and knew this was what I was meant to do. That’s when I felt ready to work professionally. You’re never too old to follow your dreams!

3.- Did your parents support you in the decision you made to be an actress?

I wouldn’t be able to do what I do without the support and encouragement of those around me.

4.- What was your first appearance on the screens?

My first on-screen role was a commercial for a college EMT recruitment campaign. It was my first official booking, and soon after, I booked another

commercial. For a while, I had two commercials airing at the same time across the Southeast.

5.- What was the role you liked the most?

My favorite role so far has been in the TV series Grayson and the Ivy Genie, where I play the mother of a young boy. Being a mom is something that comes naturally to me, so I felt an immediate connection to the character. The series is ongoing, and the character exists in a world of magic and fantasy, which I absolutely love. I’m excited to see where the story, and the character, goes next.

6.- What do you think led you to fame?

I don’t consider myself at a place of fame, nor is that my goal. What matters most to me is acting and being part of stories that excite people and create connection. At the end of my career, I want to look back with pride and be able to say, “I did what I love.”

7-. What types of characters would you like to interpret?

There are so many characters I would love to play. When I was younger, I was drawn to heroes and heroines I admired, characters who were tough, cool, and inspiring. Now, I find myself most drawn to complex characters, ones shaped by love, vulnerability, and deeper weaknesses. Characters that feel human and relatable. I’m especially interested in roles that challenge me and allow the character to evolve and develop over the course of their journey.

8-. What actresses and actors do you feel comfortable working with?

I’ve been fortunate to work with many talented, professional actors who fully commit to their roles and are wonderful people both on and off screen. For me, what matters most is chemistry and trust. When you’re working with another actor you truly connect with, it allows you to fully embody the character and explore the emotions in an organic, honest way.

9-. In what other genres of art would you like to participate? (Works of theater, music, among others)

I love working behind the camera as well. Filmmaking and storytelling are aspects that I want to explore one day.

10.- Do you have any anecdotes that have marked you in your life and as a person?

I remember being in a creative writing class in high school and feeling genuinely excited about a particular assignment. We were required to work in groups, but most of my group members were focused on doing the bare minimum for an easy grade. I, on the other hand, wanted to challenge myself creatively. I was overruled and largely ignored, and that experience stayed with me. It was the moment I realized that art matters, and that artists deserve a voice. From then on, I made a conscious effort to find safe, creative spaces where my work could exist, whether through writing or performing. Even something as small as a high school project can reflect a larger truth: throughout life, creative voices are often suppressed. That experience taught me how important it is to follow your heart, protect your creativity, and continue bringing art to life.

11.- What has been your greatest achievement?

I think my greatest achievement so far has been gaining the confidence I have today. Growing up, my shyness and timidity held me back, and I often told myself I could never do what I’m doing now. The fact that I’ve consciously worked to overcome that fear and step fully into my craft is something I’m really proud of.

I’m still early in my acting career and know there are many milestones ahead, but I feel proud of the growth and progress I’ve made so far.

12.- What projects will you make next and which ones do you have in mind?

I just wrapped a few commercials that will be airing soon, as well as several films still in production, including a feature film and a TV series. I was also part of a production filmed in 2025 that is set to release on Netflix this spring/summer.

There are a few upcoming projects I can’t share many details about yet, but I’m really excited for people to see what’s coming next.

13.- Would you like to make a movie in Spain?

Absolutely! I would love the opportunity to make a movie in Spain, and if the chance ever arises, I would be thrilled to take it.

14.- Do you like spanish cinema?

I think Spanish cinema is beautiful, and I have many favorites. I’m especially drawn to the horror genre, and one of my all-time favorite horror films is actually from Spanish cinema.