At just 14 years old, Kayla Bohan is making waves as both an actress and a recording artist. From her breakout role in KAYLA to her recent performance alongside Emmy and Tony-nominated star Matthew Morrison in From Embers, Bohan is proving that age is no barrier to success. The film now available to stream on Amazon prime Video, which also stars Kara Wang (Top Gun: Maverick) and Kathryn Morris (Cold Case), tells the story of a widowed mother struggling to rebuild her life while uncovering the truth behind her husband's death in a tragic lab fire.
Words Angel Neal
Photo Credit: Courtesy Kayla Bohan
Bohan, who stars as the lead, not only acts in the film but also contributed to its soundtrack by writing two theme songs. “Maybe This Is How Life Should Be”—performed by Glee star Heather Morris—and “Panorama”, performed by both Bohan and Morrison, are as integral to the film as its plot. We sat down with Bohan to talk about her journey in acting, her experience working on From Embers, and what’s next for this rising star.
Kayla, you've been acting since you were 7 years old. What first sparked your interest in the world of acting and music?
“When I was 5, I got to film some commercials. I think it's funny when I look back and see myself as a kid. I’ve always really loved performing for the camera. I think that was how things got started. That experience helped me to become who I am today.
You've already accomplished so much in your career. Looking back, what do you think has been the most rewarding part of your journey so far?
“The most rewarding part has definitely been the connections I’ve made and the growth I feel every day. I’m learning so much from each role, and I feel so lucky to be doing what I love. I feel like every role teaches me something new and brings me closer to my goals.”
Congratulations on landing the lead role in From Embers! Can you tell us a bit about your character and what drew you to this role?
“I’m really proud of my role in From Embers. The character I play faced a lot of challenges, but I feel she’s a very strong character. I was drawn to her story because it shows the importance of family and hope, even in tough situations. That was something I could relate to and feel a lot of other people could too.”
What was it like playing Matthew Morrison’s daughter on screen, and how did you both develop that father-daughter dynamic?
“Playing Matthew’s daughter was amazing. He’s such a talented and generous actor. Working with him taught me a lot about connecting with my character. He showed me how important emotion is in your performance. I feel like I learned how to bring authenticity to my character, which really helped us for our on-screen time. It felt really real.”
The film’s plot deals with heavy themes such as loss and the pursuit of truth. How did you approach portraying a character who experiences such deep emotional challenges?
“I tried to draw from my own experiences. I feel like it’s important that the emotions feel genuine, so I think about moments in my life that connect with what my character is feeling.”
What was the most challenging aspect of filming From Embers? Was there a scene or moment that really stood out to you as particularly intense or emotional?
“For me, the most emotional scene for my character was when Marty (played by Matthew Morrison) dropped me off at my mother's house. It was a really deep moment between us, and it really allowed the viewers to understand the bond between a father and daughter.”
You wrote two theme songs for the film, “Maybe This is How Life Should Be” and “Panorama.” Can you walk us through the creative process behind these songs? How did you approach writing music for such a dramatic and emotional film?
“Writing music for From Embers was a big step for me. I actually wrote ‘Panorama’ before meeting Matthew, and then we collaborated with him on it to make some adjustments. It was an amazing experience. I wanted the lyrics to have a sense of peace and beauty, which fits the story. I’m so happy with how it turned out.”
It’s impressive that Heather Morris is performing one of your songs. How did it feel to hear your lyrics brought to life by such a talented artist?
“It was amazing! Heather brought so much emotion to the song. I felt so honored to hear her perform it. She truly brought it to life in a way I couldn’t have imagined. Her voice is beautiful.”
You also perform ‘Panorama’ alongside Matthew Morrison. How was it working together on that track, and what was the experience like of creating music with someone you’ve admired?
“Working with Matthew on ‘Panorama’ was incredible. We both put a lot into making sure the song’s message came through. His support and ideas really helped me and the song. I feel like I grew so much as a songwriter through the process.”
At just 14, you’ve achieved so much in both acting and music. How do you balance your career with school and your personal life?
“I’m really focused on finding a good balance. My family and friends are so important to me. I feel like they keep me grounded. I have to put a focus on making time for school and other parts of my life too. Having a support system makes it all possible.”
You’ve earned recognition for your acting in films like KAYLA and Harper, which earned you several awards. How do you stay grounded and motivated with all the success coming your way?
“I always tell myself that hard work always pays off. Playing characters that remind me of myself motivate me naturally to perform my very best and to have fun on set while improving my skills along the way!”
You’re clearly passionate about both acting and music. How do you see your career evolving in the next few years? Are there any other areas of the industry you’re excited to explore?
“I would love to star in a comedy one day. It’s a genre I haven’t explored yet, and I think it would be so much fun! I’m also looking forward to doing more music and other projects.”
What advice would you give to young aspiring actors and musicians who look up to you and want to follow in your footsteps?
“Always do what you dream to do and never give up. It’s easy to be discouraged and to quit after mistakes, but everything you do will be worth it in the long run. Keep your head up and continue to work to make your dreams come true.”
When you’re not working on your music or acting, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
“I’m always socializing—literally all the time with everybody. I love to talk to people about my hobbies and interests. Some of my hobbies include surfing and swimming, so I spend a lot of time in the water.”
Are there any role models or artists—whether in acting or music—that you look up to and who inspire you in your career?
“I honestly really look up to Zendaya. She’s young but very professional and makes herself a great role model to other teens like myself. She has a great personality. And I personally think she is a great speaker.”
Since you’ve worked with some incredible people already, if you could collaborate with any artist or actor in the future, who would it be and why?
“I’d like to work with Jenna Ortega one day. She’s a very creative actor and I’ve always enjoyed her performances in every project she’s been in. She’s a very talented actress and I think she would be a great partner on set.”
Finally, what’s next for you after From Embers? Are there any exciting projects or personal goals you're looking forward to?
“There’s a lot going on. Some of it I’m unable to give any spoilers. But I am very much looking forward to a project where I get to collaborate with other teens my age and am able to have the best time on set. Something like Outer Banks, where the shooting takes place in the summer, would be a dream project.”
With her talent, ambition, and determination, Kayla Bohan is certainly a young star to watch in the years to come. Keep an eye on this rising star—she’s just getting started. Watch the trailer for From Embers below and catch up with all things Kayla here @kayla.bohan .
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