Words by Carol Wright |Photographs courtesy of New Line Talent Group
We got to chat with Lunden about her acting career, her project Payne, and her advice for aspiring actors.
Growing up did you often put on performances?
Absolutely, I was singing in my church choir before I could speak. I also participated in a handful of plays throughout middle school. My family was going through a lot but performing always took me to my “happy place”.
How do you go about choosing roles?
I normally pick roles that contribute to my growth as an actor. Something unique and challenging.
Tell us a bit about Payne. How did you get involved in the project?
Payne is a thriller centered around a serial killer terrorizing a small southern community. I portray the role of Detective Yvette Paige. I auditioned for the part, the producers loved it and offered me the role.
Why did you want to play Detective Yvette Paige?
Yvette Paige is smart and uses her intelligence to solve murders. After reading the script, I knew this was the role for me.
You also can be seen in Broken Halos. The subject matter is very emotional, was it a hard role to play?
There’s a scene that takes place in a cemetery. It was a very dark and emotional scene but I was able to connect with my character. I became her. Thankfully, I’ve trained with some of the best and was able to bring her to life.
Any future projects you can tell us about?
I recently booked the film Justice on Trial a film about a civil rights attorney suing the US Justice Department for reparations for Black Americans. I play the role of Mamie Till, mother of Emmett Till. The film is written by Chad Lawson Cooper and produced by Mann Robinson Productions.
What advice do you have for aspiring actors?
Study and don’t give up.