The Future is Bright: An Interview with Young and Talented Ayaamii Sledge, Star of "Don't Tell Mom the Babysitter's Dead"
Photo credit: Diana Ragland; Stylist: Shelli Bradley; MUA: Rejae Clopton
Ayaamii Sledge is the captivating new talent that has left audiences intrigued with her performance in the remake of “Don't Tell Mom The Babysitter’s Dead”. As the cool and quiet gamer with a goth style, Ayaamii defies conventions and breathes life into her enigmatic character, Melissa Crandell.
In our exclusive interview, we delve into Ayaamii’s journey – from script study sessions with her acting coach, Lori Lively, to collaborating with the visionary director, Mr. Wade. Ayaamii Sledge has shown that age is no barrier for her to deliver several mesmerizing performances, at the same time she excels in many other disciplines.
Join us as we explore Melissa Crandell’s universe, uncover Ayaamii's inspirations, and get to know what the future looks like for the promising young artist.
Congratulations on your recent role in the remake of "Don't Tell Mom The Babysitter's Dead"! We hear you play a very intriguing character – A cool and quiet gamer with a goth style! What was it like bringing this unique character, Melissa Crandell, to life?
What can I say? It was so much fun and different for me, but it was very exciting to play a different role than I normally play. I have similarities to Melissa. I love murder mysteries and problem-solving, so that part was easy for me to play.
Early reports say your portrayal of Melissa is captivating audiences. How did you prepare to embody such a distinct character, especially considering your young age?
I studied the script and worked with my acting coach, Lori Lively, to understand the character and become Melissa. When I went on set, I was able to bring my interpretation of Melissa and worked with the amazing Director, Mr. Wade to bring the character to life to captivate the audiences.
Photo credit: Diana Ragland; Stylist: Shelli Bradley; MUA: Rejae Clopton
Did you find your character Melissa relatable?
Absolutely! She is smart, a problem solver, and gets things done—no time to play around. LOL. My mom says you always have a "Melissa" in the family. As I mentioned earlier, I have similarities with Melissa but also differences. I love the fact I had the opportunity to play a goth-style character because that's the opposite of who I am. To be honest, after that role, I kind of liked the goth style, so I am incorporating that into my aesthetic.
Your diverse filmography is impressive! Beyond "Don't Tell Mom The Babysitter's Dead," you've played such different roles – from a young Angela Bassett on "9-1-1" to a young Jedi on Disney's "Obi-Wan Kenobi." What do you enjoy most about showcasing your range as an actress?
I love the fact that I get to play all these different characters because it's not always the same style. It challenges me to learn and expand my creativity. The fact that I was blessed to audition and play a different style of character helps me not be so intimidated by any project that may come my way.
We hear you're also a multi-talented artist with a passion for music and creativity! How do you find ways to express yourself creatively outside of acting?
My family is naturally musically talented; my father Aaron Sledge is a 10x Grammy-nominated producer, songwriter, and artist; my uncle BJ the Chicago Kid is an amazing artist and songwriter. I was born into a music family, so music is in my blood, but acting is what I add to the family lol. Outside of acting and singing, I love to express my creativity by crocheting, cooking, and dancing.
Now, can you tell us what first got you interested in acting? Are there any actresses that inspired you?
Well, I have always been animated, and I was very good at playing by myself as a kid, so I was very creative. I would put on a show for my mom and dad. I didn't really think it was a big deal, but one day, a friend of my parents saw how I was so expressive, and they told my parents they needed to put me in acting class and I needed my own show. Growing up, I used to watch Jessie, and I loved Sky Jackson. I also loved watching KC Undercover with Zendaya; they inspired me.
How do you balance acting with school and other activities? Being a young actress must keep you busy!
I don't really think about it because it's something I have to do; you just have to balance it! When I have to be on set or audition, I make time to study my lines/scripts, and when I am not working, I am in school getting that work done. My parents help me stay on task, and they teach me the importance of work ethics and being responsible if I want to continue to be an actress. I did not like being off during the strike; it was so boring, and I was ready to be busy with learning lines and working.
Your aspirations seem to reach for the stars! What does the future look like for you? What kind of challenges you would like to tackle next?
I would love to work on a horror movie. That's a challenge for me because I love watching horror movies, and I haven't had the opportunity to book a horror movie yet.
Finally, what advice would you give to other young people who are interested in acting, especially those who might feel drawn to playing unique characters like Melissa?
I would tell them to feel confident in who you are and don't change yourself to fit in. When you get a character like Melissa, study the character, add your interpretation, and take direction from the director at the same time, give your feedback on how the line should be delivered. This process will bring the character to life.
STAY IN TOUCH WITH AYAAMII SLEDGE ON INSTAGRAM
Photo credit: Diana Ragland; Stylist: Shelli Bradley; MUA: Rejae Clopton