When it comes to uplifting, family-friendly movies, I find myself regularly looking for new films and actors to investigate. In light of the fact that UP TV has been “upping” its game over the past few years, it is a delight to discover and interview actors who are new to me as a result of their original programming. And Madeline Leon happens to be one of those excellent young people. In anticipation of her new movie that premieres on UP this Saturday (June 8th) entitled After the Storm, it is my pleasure to feature our recent interview on my site today.
Photo by Jason Harynuk
RH: Why did you decide to pursue a career in entertainment? What kind of training have you had for this career?
ML: I always loved acting as a kid, but I never thought of it as a career! It wasn’t until I graduated from University that I thought I could try pursuing it as a job. I’ve studied with several acting coaches both in LA and Toronto.
I understand your first professional role was in a production of The Sound of Music. Please tell us about that experience and what was most memorable about it.
My music teacher had mentioned that a dinner theatre was putting on a production and that I could audition. So my Mom drove me to the first round of auditions, and I remember they gave us sheet music to sing three-part harmony. I got the callback, and went home and practiced with that sheet music for hours. That was my first taste of really wanting a role.
with David Grimes in Modern Classic
What was your first on-screen credit, and what are your memories of working on that project?
My first on-screen credit was in a Canadian film called Modern Classic. It was such a great cast and crew! I actually met the director Jono {Jonathon M.B. Hunter} in an acting class. I remember I had no idea what I was doing, and I had texted Jono one night asking about rescheduling a shoot day thinking it was easy to shuffle some dates. I soon learned that in this industry, “rescheduling” isn’t so easy.
Brain Power Studio
You are most known for the series Ponysitter’s Club. How did you get involved with this show? What did you appreciate about your character and being a part of this series?
I had already done some work with Brain Power Studio, so when the idea of a TV series came up, I jumped on it! I loved that my character Billy, who was the Mother of Skye, had just as much fun as the kids. My favourite part about shooting Ponysitters Club was being outdoors on a beautiful farm in rural Ontario with an awesome cast and crew!
48 Christmas Wishes
You’ve done a handful of Christmas movies. Why do you believe Christmas movies are so popular in this day and age?
Christmas is all about family and giving to others. I think any time we watch characters in this spirit, it moves us in a powerful way.
U.S. viewers will soon see you on UP in the movie After the Storm. Please tell us about your role and how it fits into the overall story. Why do you believe this movie will resonate with the viewers?
After the Storm
After the Storm is a story about rebuilding. I think everyone can relate to picking up the pieces after something devastating happens. It’s never an easy journey, and this is true for my character Lauren. She has struggled with relationships, and then she loses her home in a storm. When she begins to see the light at the end of the tunnel, she realizes love is all around her.
After the Storm
Any other upcoming roles you can tell us about?
Keep an eye out for another Harlequin Romance film with myself and Sebastian Sacco coming out later this year!
What is your advice to other young people who may wish to pursue a career in the entertainment industry?
My advice is to keep your life full in many areas outside of the industry because the work comes in waves. If you learn to ride those waves and appreciate the work while you have it, then you’ll be golden! I’d also recommend creating your own projects!
Do you have any special plans for this summer?
Hanging out in Toronto!
After the Storm
In spite of the fact that Madeline is a new actress to me and her credit list may not be extensive at this point, it is entirely indisputable that she is one who is committed to honing her craft while pursuing her passion in the world of entertainment. While I know that she has a variety of interests, there is no doubt that her calling is that of acting. She is undaunted by the hard work she must invest in this industry in order to make a living and be a successful working actress, and I am completely persuaded that she possesses the skillset and fortitude to not give up in spite of any challenges that may come her way.
I hope that everyone will make a point to either tune in on Saturday (June 8th) to UP TV or at least set your DVR for the premiere of After the Storm, a movie that will provide not only entertainment, but also a relatable story with characters who understand how hardships are compulsory in life, and in order to overcome those obstacles, a determined attitude and an uncompromising spirit must be exemplified. Of course, it probably helps when a handsome carpenter comes along to offer aid in your time of need (watch out for another interview with her co-star, Bo Yokely, before the premiere). Additionally, I hope that all of my readers will consider visiting Madeline’s links below and perhaps even giving her a follow on her Instagram account. I greatly anticipate what is yet to come for the irrepressible, talented Madeline, and I can hardly wait to see this weekend’s movie as well as all of her future and soon-to-be-released projects.
FOLLOW MADELINE
