Ciara Riley Wilson

Interview by Roman Portnoy
Photography by Manfred Baumann
Makeup by Nelly Baumann

Ciara Riley Wilson is an actor, dancer, and fashion designer born and raised in Portland, Oregon. After growing up in competitive dance, Ciara realized she also had a deep passion for acting, and came to LA in pursuit of it. She has acted in several notable projects including the upcoming Netflix series Freeridge.

How does it feel to be starring in the highly anticipated series “Freeridge” on Netlix?

I am SO excited to be starring in “Freeridge” — it’s genuinely my favorite project I’ve ever done. “On My Block” is such an inspiration and a groundbreaking show, I feel very honored to be a part of a spin-off set in the same world. Demi is a character so full of life and I really think this show sheds light on some important topics in a really entertaining way. 

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced in bringing Demi’s character to life?

Demi goes through a really big coming of age character arc throughout the series and learns to own up to her actions in regards to a judgemental comment she had said in the past. The hardest part was definitely finding compassion for Demi in the moments she’s defending herself and finding the “why” behind her words. I’ve been in situations where a version of what Demi said was said to me, so playing her helped me find understanding in those memories and a deep knowing that people can grow and change. 

What influenced you to pursue acting?

I was a very creative, outgoing child and I always knew I would pursue something in the arts. I had really supportive parents who put me in all types of classes (dancing, acting, singing) and acting just really stuck with me. It’s funny how there wasn’t a single moment, show, or actor that made me want to pursue this career, but I fell in love with it more each day and just went full force ahead at it. 

Who were your three biggest role models growing up?

In the early years of my life (doing competitive dance) my role models were definitely my amazing dance teachers Sara Anderson, Shelly Misevch, and Karin Kopacz. In my teen years pursuing acting, I also really looked up to my peers who were also moving fearlessly ahead at their dreams and inspiring me to do it too. That’s way more than three… but of course I also have to say my wonderful mom!

What is your dream role?

I would love to do a movie or show set in the 1970’s surrounding the rock music/fashion era. That’s my favorite decade and I’ve never seen female Filipino representation in that space, so it’d be cool to be the first! 

Have you been ever been starstruck and by whom?

Working with Jessica Alba and Gabrielle Union on “LA’s Finest” was definitely a “pinch me” moment!!! They are both so sweet, intelligent, and seriously just as stunningly beautiful in person as you’d expect. 

Which genre of acting do you feel you are most suited for?

After getting a couple more projects under my belt this year in different genres, I will say I’m a comedy girl through and through. I love drama, but I enjoy filming comedy more and I feel it comes easier to me at this point in my career! 

What are your favorite hobbies outside of filmmaking?

I love sewing, writing poetry, dancing, and hanging out with my lovely roommates!

What has been your most challenging role to date?

I would say Demi in “Freeridge” was my most most challenging role thus far. The tone and pacing of the show is very specific and nuanced so that took some time to get adjusted. Her storyline also deals with some intense issues that I had to really flush out and pull from personal feelings/experiences. 

What are you most excited for in 2023?

Full transparency, I saw a Tik Tok this week saying 2023 is going to be the year for Aries (I am an Aries) and who knows what that entails but it got me very excited. I am also looking forward to doing more with fashion design and starting my own brand in 2023! 

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.