IN CONVERSATION WITH MARIANLY TEJADA

interview by JANA LETONJA

Actress Marianly Tejada will star in highly-anticipated Netflix Series ‘Ransom Canyon’ opposite Josh Duhamel, Minka Kelly, and James Brolin, premiering on 17th April. She is widely known for her breakout role in Peacock’s ‘One Of Us Is Lying’ and was crowned Miss Dominican Republic before going on to compete in Miss World. 

‘Ransom Canyon’ is based on Jodi Thomas’ book series. What can you tell us about your character, Ellie Estevez, and what drew you to this role? 

The first thing I knew about Ellie was that she used to be a nurse and was a firecracker of sorts, so that started painting the colors of her personality. Then the first audition was a tape, and I just remember it being one of those that flowed effortlessly. By then, I had read some of the script, and I connected with her heart, understood how she saw the world and what drove her. She has no time for games when it comes to relationships and feelings because she’s known what true loss is. Learning that for me was it. 

What can the viewers expect from this series? 

Our creatives put it best, so I’ll quote them: “Love, land and legacy.”

What was it like working alongside industry veterans like Josh Duhamel, Minka Kelly, and James Brolin? Any memorable on-set moments? 

Veterans is accurate. And these three are so talented. Any time I was in a scene with any of them, I found myself learning and taking in everything they did. You can’t improvise experience, and they’re the example of this. And then there’s the element of what exceptional humans they are. I cherish my conversations with Jim. The wisdom, humor, and undeniable love for the craft he still has. Minka’s such a great role model on conduct and set culture. She makes sure everyone’s good and taken care of, and she’s such a giving actor. There’s this sisterhood that she leads with in a very authentic way. Josh is hilarious and so refreshing to watch and be around. Also a very giving and truly caring actor.

The Western genre is known for its rich storytelling and rugged landscapes. What unique elements does ‘Ransom Canyon’ bring to the genre? 

I think and hope what will stay with the audience is the humanity of these characters. The nuances and complexities of navigating love, what’s right and wrong, and life’s curveballs. These are all such universal matters we all relate to. 

Your breakout role in ‘One of Us Is Lying’ gained a strong following. How has your experience on that show influenced your approach to acting? 

‘One of Us’ was a masterclass and my first long-term acting gig, so I learned and grew a lot. It gave me confidence but was also humbling. It’s that reminder to stay open and curious like the very first time I was entrusted with a character, whether it’s a play in acting school or a TV show. Telling a story is such a joint effort, so I can rely on my peers. You create a family environment on set, especially with the crew who is with you every single day and are so there for everyone. That relieves a lot of the pressure of wanting to get it perfect and places you in the mindset of a team player. 

What has been the most challenging role of your career so far, and why? 

Each project has brought its unique challenges. Whether it’s tackling long hours on set while balancing life as a new mom or finding artistic continuity in a more spread out schedule. The good thing about having challenges in this line of work is that you have a group of workmates lifting you up and doing their best so every person and department thrives because then the story comes to life. 

You were crowned Miss Dominican Republic before diving into acting. How has that experience shaped your confidence and career? 

Honestly, Miss Dominican Republic was the bridge that transported me from pursuing an architecture major to the other side, which was performing arts. Even though it was by chance I said yes to participating in the pageant, I think my soul knew it would lead to something I had longed for since I was a child. I’m naturally an introvert, so I don’t know that I would have had the courage to leave what was comfortable for me and step onto the unknown path of an actress. The pageant was a step in that direction, and I also got to play a character. There are costumes and a goal, you are simultaneously competing for a role, and at the same time, each girl can only project and share what is unique to her. It taught me a lot about discipline and honesty. 

You grew up in the Dominican Republic and now work internationally. How has your multicultural background influenced your acting career? 

It gives me a broader perspective as a person. To be able to see the world through the lenses of a Dominican and an American is a gift. I cherish both cultures so much, and they enrichen my views on everything, so it’s intrinsically a part of my processes. 

Outside of acting, what are some passions or hobbies that keep you inspired? 

Nothing inspires me more than being a wife and a mom, and growing my relationship with God. These are true passions of mine. The latter kind of selfishly because God is the ultimate creator, so as an artist, that is the purest source to tap into. 

What’s one thing your fans would be surprised to learn about you? 

I can make some entry-level latte art.  

TEAM CREDITS:

photography JON STARS
styling CAROLINE DEJEAN
hair BRADLEY LEAKE
makeup AKINA SHIMIZU