Laila Pruitt, a rising star in the entertainment industry, has captured the hearts of audiences with her compelling performances and undeniable talent. From her humble beginnings in Atlanta to her journey at Howard University and her breakout role in the hit series "BMF," Laila's story is one of passion, perseverance, and purpose.
Words: Angel Neal
Photographer: Maya Darasaw with MAD Works @madworksphoto
In a candid interview, Laila shares her insights on her acting career, her experiences at Howard University, her role in "BMF," and her aspirations for the future. Laila’'s journey into the world of acting began at a young age, with memorable experiences on set and a deep-seated passion for the craft. Her first acting role was a commercial spot for HARIBOS gummy bears. Reflecting on her earliest memories, she recalls the awe-inspiring moment of watching "The Lion King'' musical, where she felt an irresistible urge to join the performers on stage. This innate desire to be part of the magic of storytelling ignited her passion for acting and set her on a path to pursue her dreams relentlessly.
Growing up in Atlanta, often referred to as "Black Hollywood," Laila found inspiration in the achievements of trailblazers like Tyler Perry and the vibrant creative community around her. Witnessing black excellence firsthand fueled her determination to carve out her own path in the industry.
Embracing the Journey at Howard University
Laila's decision to attend Howard University was influenced by the rich legacy of its theater program and the opportunity to learn from esteemed faculty members like Dean Felicia Rashad and Nicole Salter. Immersed in the vibrant culture of the historically black institution, Laila found herself drawn to the theater arts department, where she honed her skills and discovered new dimensions of her craft. Reflecting on her experience at Howard, Laila emphasizes the importance of representation and the power of storytelling in amplifying diverse voices and experiences. The nurturing environment of the university provided her with a platform to explore her artistic expression and connect with her roots.
As a student actor, Laila found herself navigating the demanding schedule of academic commitments while pursuing her passion for acting. She credits her education at Howard for equipping her with the tools and techniques to excel in her craft, both on stage and on screen. The opportunity to apply her learnings to real-world projects, such as "BMF," allowed her to seamlessly transition between the worlds of academia and entertainment.
In "BMF," Laila portrays Nicole, a character grappling with the complexities of family, identity, and resilience. Drawing inspiration from real-life experiences and conversations with the real Nicole, Laila brings depth and authenticity to her portrayal, capturing the nuances of her character's journey with grace and empathy. As the series delves deeper into Nicole's narrative in its upcoming season, Leila hopes to shed light on the challenges faced by black adolescents and the importance of self-discovery and resilience in the face of adversity.
Laila's transformation through Nicole's wardrobe reflects her character's evolution and journey towards self-discovery. From hand-me-downs to expressions of individuality, Laila highlights the significance of costume design in conveying character arcs and enriching storytelling. Laila advocates for greater diversity and representation in the entertainment industry, emphasizing the importance of authentic storytelling and the power of narratives that reflect the complexity and diversity of human experiences. Through her work, she strives to amplify underrepresented voices and challenge existing narratives, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future in Hollywood.
As Laila embarks on her next chapter, she remains committed to pushing boundaries, exploring new horizons, and embracing the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. With a passion for storytelling, a dedication to her craft, and an unwavering belief in the power of representation, Laila Pruitt is poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
In the ever-evolving landscape of Hollywood, Pruitt stands as a beacon of hope, resilience, and inspiration—a testament to the transformative power of storytelling and the limitless potential of the human spirit. As she continues to blaze a trail in the industry, her journey serves as a reminder that dreams, when pursued with passion and purpose, have the power to shape destinies and change lives.
To read the full interview grab the Spring 24' issue of Disrupshion Next Gen available here.
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