Priah Ferguson

Q: What initially got you interested in acting?

A: I had a very outgoing personality when I was really young. I’d talk to anyone, anywhere and I’d always make these funny or interesting facial expressions, like an adult. Around the age of 4, I begged my mom to play the movie Daddy’s Little Girls and Crooklyn over and over. I knew all the lines and thought I was watching their real lives — the actresses looked like me and their emotions seemed authentic. When I asked my parents if their stories were real or fake, they explained how the people on tv are actors and how it takes years of work. Afterward, I kept pointing to the television non-stop and said: “I really want to do that.” They put me in local theatre plays, dance, workshops, just for fun...but to also learn the craft. I always stood out and had a good time, so my parents looked into getting an agent for me.

Q: How did the opportunity to be in “Stranger Things” come about?

A: The show films in Atlanta, so my local agent and CDs emailed an audition request for the role of Lucas Sinclair’s little sister, called “Tina.” I heard about Stranger Things from my little sister, she’s into horror movies, but I hadn’t watched it yet. The role was supposed to be very small, just one episode, maybe two. The Duffer Brothers enjoyed my work and how well I took direction, so they started writing me in. I didn’t expect that. I just wanted the opportunity to show good work and what I can do.

Q: Were you nervous when you auditioned?

A: No, I wasn’t nervous. I taped the audition and forgot about it.

Q: Were you expecting fans to love Erica as much as they have?

A: Well, I knew fans would love Erica because the writing was really good. Even if I didn’t book it, I thought it’ll be a fun character to watch. I didn’t expect so many fans to like it like this though (laugh). Some fans don’t, but that’s fine. I guess that means I did a good job, but I’m not like her in real life. I’m acting.

Q: How did it feel to be added to the main cast?

A: It feels really good. Many girls from Atlanta or of color never really book big roles like this, especially for shows that film in our state. So, I’m very, very grateful to The Duffer Brothers and Netflix for adding me. It was very unexpected.

Q: What is your favorite part about playing Erica?

A: I love her style, her hair, I like how she’s direct and has an “it is what it is” attitude, she’s a leader. It’s fun to play her. I feel like she’s relatable and you want to learn more.

Q: Can we expect Erica to be more involved in the action in season 3?

A: Yep, you sure can. She has a squad and they have a mission. That’s about all I can say for now (laughs).

Q: Any upcoming projects you can tell us about?

A: I want to tell stories about tween subjects people don’t really talk about. I’m planning out a documentary I want to create on colorism, how girls my age feel about it. I have some cool ideas I’m creating spec scripts for and of course, continuing to act. I really want to create and work on projects with strong writing and use my platform to inspire others and create opportunities.

Q: Our theme for this issue is ‘Art is Life’. How has art changed your life?

A: Every piece of art tells a story...fashion, photography, dancing, painting, acting, designing, music...all of it. And these stories start a conversation. The conversations help me learn more about myself and what I like, it inspires me and helps me to appreciate and celebrate my history more.

Q: What advice do you have for aspiring actors?

A: Don’t get depressed about not booking a role you may really want. Just focus on doing good work.