At just 18, Lacey Katena has already made waves in the entertainment industry, transitioning from competitive cheer and dance to critically acclaimed acting roles. Known for her performances in A Christmas Love Story and Worm Radio, Katena is now stepping into a powerful new role in the upcoming indie feature SUGARCANE, a film tackling the dark realities of human trafficking in the digital age. In an exclusive interview, she discusses how her background in movement influences her craft, the importance of storytelling with impact, and her evolving career—from industry challenges to her passion for fashion and advocacy. With a bright future ahead, Katena teases upcoming projects and her excitement for exploring horror-comedy, all while embracing a new stage name that reflects her personal and artistic growth.
Photo Credit: Rick Beldon Photography
You began your career with competitive cheer and dance and even performed as mini Hugo at the French All-Star Game in Paris. How did these early experiences prepare you for the transition into acting?
These early experiences helped build the foundation of the performer I am today. Considering my background in cheer and dance I had to be able to tell a story strictly through physicality. I had to learn to connect with myself and understand when and how to use each part of my body.
Your performance in Hallmark’s A Christmas Love Story and the short film Worm Radio has received critical acclaim. What draws you to the roles you choose, and how do you prepare to bring such diverse characters to life?
When considering opportunities, I find that it is important for characters to convey a meaningful narrative. During the preparation process I look for parts of the character I am able to resonate with to be able to authentically bring their story to life. This has been more important to me as I got older, but for A Christmas Love Story – I was just excited to work with an iconic brand like Hallmark and with the Queen of Christmas, Kristin Chenoweth.
Your upcoming independent feature, SUGARCANE, is generating a lot of buzz. Can you tell us more about your role in the film and what makes this project so special to you?
In SUGARCANE, my character, Phoebe, is a victim of human trafficking whose experience is shared on the internet for the world to see. This story is particularly important in an age where technology is an integral part of our day-to-day lives and as accessibility to these platforms continues to grow so do the dangers that they present. I found fulfillment in being able to help shine a light on these lesser known but still incredibly relevant stories.
You’ve been recognized with awards like Best Actress at the LA Under the Stars Film Festival. How do these accolades impact your confidence and aspirations as an actress?
Accolades are an incredible honor and while awards aren’t everything, it’s always nice to get a little confidence boost. These accolades and accomplishments also help motivate me to work harder with the hopes of much larger awards in the future.
With a foundation in cheerleading and dance, do you find that these skills enhance your acting performances or provide unique opportunities in the industry?
Cheerleading and dance require you to use your entire body to tell a story. I have adopted that mentality into my performances and luckily my experiences have presented me with opportunities to showcase those talents in different contexts. Just recently, I played a cheerleader and while I am a little rusty I was able to use the skills I currently possess to help me prepare for that role.
You’re passionate about literacy and animal welfare. How do you use your platform to advocate for these causes, and why are they so important to you?
The importance of both literacy and animal welfare was instilled in me from a young age. Growing up with three dogs taught me compassion and responsibility. And my father runs a literacy program that is designed to motivate children to read and provide them with the resources they need. His work has driven my own deep appreciation for literacy and the impact it can have on individuals and communities.
Photo Credit: Rick Beldon Photography
Fashion is another area you’re passionate about. How do you incorporate your love for style into your personal brand and creative projects?
I try to incorporate fashion into everything I do. Fashion at its core is the most basic form of self expression and self expression is crucial for acting. With my personal style/brand I try to follow fashion while also thinking out of the box.
At just 18, you’ve already built an impressive career. What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in the industry, and how have you overcome them?
The biggest challenges I’ve faced in the industry have mainly been related to timing. My age has played a major role in this especially as my transition from a child actor to a more serious actor began during the pandemic, as well as the actors’ strike. In other words, it has been a waiting game but I’m always happy to have more time for training.
Social media plays a big role in connecting with fans today. How do you use platforms like Instagram to engage with your audience and share your journey?
I use Instagram pretty often, but I wouldn’t say I’m the best at it. I try to document my day-to-day life and my projects. I also prioritize staying connected with my family and friends. As my journey continues and as I embrace a new stage name, I am excited to help people understand the importance of this change as it relates to who I am.
Looking ahead, what types of roles or projects are you most excited to explore, and what can fans expect from you in the near future?
Recently I’ve been really interested in roles in horror comedies and classic zombie movies or TV shows. Right now I have a few projects in the works, but SUGARCANE is being released soon!! So please keep a lookout for that. It’s pretty graphic but if you are a classic thriller fan, it’s worth it.
Where can we follow you on social media?
You can follow me on Instagram at @laceykatena
