Interview by Carol Wright | Photographer: Lindsey Ruth
Actress and singer Kayden Muller-Janssen knew she had a passion for performing at a young age. This passion has led her to go from performing at friends’ parties to starring in television shows. Muller-Janssen talked to NYOTA about her EP Unraveled, Season 2 of The Villains of Valley View, and her advice for aspiring actors.
Please note this interview was conducted prior to the SAG-AFTRA strike
Was it clear from a young age that you had a passion for performing?
From a young age, I always knew I liked to perform. I started by singing at family friends’ parties and gradually made my way to musical theater where I found a passion for acting as well. Once my family saw how much I loved it, they supported me to follow my dreams and pursue the arts as a full-time career.
Who are some musicians or actors that you look up to?
I’ve had many inspirations over the years but as of right now, my favorite artist is Jessie Reyez. I’ve been listening to her music since she came out with her song “Gatekeeper.” She has a way of drawing you in and telling a story as if you’re experiencing it with her. One actress I look up to is Zendaya. Growing up, I watched Disney Channel religiously! Zendaya, who not only came from Disney Channel, but is a phenomenal actress with multiple awards and a fashion icon. Inspires girls who look like us to follow our dreams and I hope to be just as successful as her someday.
Tell our readers about your EP Unraveled that you came out with earlier this year. What story are you telling through the EP?
Unraveled is about letting go of the feelings I’ve had bottled up. Each song is about a personal experience I’ve been through and I created them so I could process what I was feeling and heal from it. I hope that people can relate to the lyrics and the songs can help them in any way that applies in their life.
You also released a single called “Meant to Be.” What was the inspiration for this track?
“Meant To Be” was written about me going back to my hometown to have a break. While finally having the time in my busy schedule to sit down and think, it made me realize how much I missed home, how grateful I am to be following the career of my dreams and that this is where I’m meant to be in my life.
Do you have a particular songwriting process or do you only write once inspiration hits?
It depends. Sometimes I have writing sessions where I have to write a song about a particular message or situation. Other times, I’m writing for myself so they’re a bit more personal. I think my best writing comes from a moment of spontaneity, especially when I’ve been through something very emotional.
What can you tell us about Season 2 of The Villains of Valley View? What can viewers expect from Hartley this season?
You can expect many more laughs in Villains of Valley View Season 2. All the characters are evolving and some new ones come to play. Hartley herself is showing more confidence in expressing her feelings and standing up for herself, maybe even showing a little mischief.
After working on Villains of Valley View are you hoping to tackle more acting projects in 2023?
Yes of course, I hope to be involved in many more projects after Villains of Valley View. This is just the beginning for me; I can see myself in some action or drama projects. I love to act and I love to sing. I hope to do this for a very long time.
What advice do you have for aspiring actors?
The industry is very competitive and can be tough. It’s filled with more no’s than yeses. But if you stay motivated, work hard and perfect your craft, you can have a great start to a successful career. Don’t be deterred when you lose a role. It just means there’s a perfect role out there for you!