From the interview archives.

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Luna Blaise began acting at six years old, and now ten years later she’s quickly become a familiar face with her recurring role on the hit show Fresh Off The Boat. VULKAN caught up with Luna to talk about her life in the industry so far, her upcoming role in Concrete Kids and her career aspirations. 

You began acting at such a young age. What has been the most important thing you’ve learned since you began?

For as long as I can remember my parents taught me the importance of loving what you do and to work really hard at it but also have fun in the process.

Who is Luna and what is the most interesting thing about her?

By nature I am very compassionate and I have always seen the world differently. My whole life people have always said I am an old soul I guess that would be it.

When you’re having a rough day but still are scheduled to film, how do you clear your head in order to get back to the task at hand?

I listen to music and that always gets me in the zone.

Whose career do you watch closely and would be thrilled if your career followed a similar trajectory?

I am inspired by two strong women; first, I would have to say Drew Barrymore. She started out as a child actor and continues to do what she loves but has also become a successful producer and mother. Next it would have to be Jennifer Lopez, she started out in TV, moved to film then did music. She has remained successful in all three as well as become a producer and mom along the way. Both are powerhouse creatives and great inspirations.

Fresh Off The Boat returns soon. How has Nicole grown since we were first introduced to her?

Nicole has grown so much since the show started, in the first season she was very sassy and had a small mean streak, now she is in high school and this season she is coming into her own, I hope people relate to her.

I know you likely can’t spill much but can you give us an indication to what kind of challenges she will face this season?

Well, Nicole is just like every young teenager in the world, trying to navigate life and find out who they truly are.

Fresh Off The Boat resonates with viewers so well, how does it feel to be a part of such a critically acclaimed series?

I was twelve when the show started and it will always have a deep meaning to me because it’s the first real show I ever booked. I didn’t know it was critically acclaimed because I was so young. Now at sixteen I have a greater understanding of how this show has impacted today’s culture even though it takes place in 90’s. We have the most incredible writers that have an amazing way of tackling important issues with a clever comedy twist. This is my family. I am so grateful.

Why do you think it’s important for shows like Fresh Off The Boat to challenge cultural representation? 

I think it’s absolutely important because we live in a world that is beautiful and diverse in so many ways. Shows should reflect the world we live in.

You’ll also be appearing in Lije Sarki’s “Concrete Kids”, can you tell us what it’s about?

Concrete Kids is the unique story about two 9 year olds that set off on skateboards in a Goonies-like adventure through the streets of LA in the middle of the night. I am so happy to be a part of it.

You appeared in Jacob Sartorius’ video for “Sweatshirt” – do you hope to do more music videos in the future?

Since I am writing and recording my own music,  I will for sure do more music videos as an artist.

What has been the best piece of advice you have received in your career and who was it from?

My mom and dad. Dad always told me that you can be anything in this business that you want except being late. My mom has always instilled that being an artist comes with great responsibility and that by having a public platform it is important to use your voice to make a difference and give back to the community.

How has being in the spotlight shaped the way you view yourself? 

Honestly I don’t see myself any different.I am just a girl born and raised in LA who loves to hang out with my friends, go to the movies, shop and do creative things. Just like every other girl teenager.

Who are you eager to work with in the future, whether it’s a fellow actor, producer, director?

I would have to say Steven Spielberg. He is one of the greatest storytellers in this business. My mom recently took me to see the 40th Anniversary Of Close Encounters, I loved it! His work is classic and timeless. I have wanted to work with him since I was a little girl, working with him would be a dream come true.

Apparently, you love Pancakes so much that you would follow Pennywise into a sewer from them. What’s your preferred way to enjoy your pancakes?

I’m all about blueberries in mine.  Yes I do love pancakes and I love them classic with butter and syrup.

What shows right now that you’re not involved with can you just not get enough of?

Stranger Things, Riverdale and American Horror Story.