Interview by Carol Wright | Photographer: Justinesphotography | Wardrobe: Justine Scott | Hair and Makeup: Keisha Broadnax
We got to chat with up-and-coming actress Zion Broadnax about dance, helping her become comfortable as a performer, and her role in the Netflix original film, Day Shift.
You started out as a dancer. Do you think that being comfortable performing on stage has helped you in your acting career?
Absolutely, yes. I started off as a dancer with DADA Academy and later with The Heart Art Academy, and by taking different cultural dancing, which has allowed me to overcome my shyness and made me more comfortable with my acting career.
Who are some of your acting inspirations?
I would have to say Marsai Martin. She made such a huge statement by showing young actors (such as myself) that we can become young executive producers in Hollywood and how she encourages all to stay confident in believing in themselves is a motto that I choose to live by today.
Tell our readers about your character Paige in Day Shift. What did you do to step into her shoes?
My character Paige is a witty, fun, and feisty daughter to Bud, played by Mr. Jamie Foxx, and Jocelyn, played by Ms. Meagan Good. Bud hunts vampires to get their fangs in return for money so that he can provide for me and to keep us (myself and my mom) Joycelyn from moving to another state. It’s such good action Netflix n Chill movie directed by Mr. JJ Perry. So please check out if you haven’t already.
You are a voice actor in the upcoming Paramount+ series Transformers EarthSpark. Are there different acting muscles you have to use when it comes to voice acting vs. live-action projects?
Yes, before I go into my Malto character. I do vocal warm-ups to avoid vocal injuries. These warm-ups help relax my vocal folds before a big recording and expand my vocal range. Super excited about this project, can’t wait for all to tune in to check me and the rest of my Transformer EarthSpark family out on Paramount + and Nickelodeon!
What is your advice for aspiring actors?
See your goals, embrace the challenges, stay focused and show the world that you can do it!