KYLIE CANTRALL IS OPENING UP MORE IN HER NEW MUSIC
It felt like a dream come true getting to step into such a beloved franchise, especially one that I
fangirled over growing up! I think the coolest part about playing Red is the fact that I’ve gotten
to play a part in many memories in people’s lives.
Collaborating with Rita Ora must have been an incredible experience. What was your favorite moment working with her on the Descendants soundtrack, and what did you learn from her artistry that you apply to your own music?
I look up to Rita in so many ways but especially as an artist. She puts so much attention to detail
in everything she does, and I definitely got to witness that while filming with her. Everything
from her tone of voice and inflections as the Queen of Hearts to her totally transforming her
body language and mannerisms the minute the director would call action was incredible to
watch. It’s so inspiring working with someone who puts that much thought into every single creative choice – she’s MOTHER!
You’ve been pursuing a music career alongside your acting. Can you tell us about your single “Boy for a Day” and how it reflects your personal experiences and cultural background?
“Boy For a Day” feels like the most authentic representation of who I am as an artist. From the
90’s “Brandy” & “Aaliyah” inspired sonics & melodies to the playful yet empowering lyrics, it
really feels like pages out of my diary. I open up more on this song than I ever have in the past,
giving my fans a clear look into my honest feelings and opinions on the double standard
between guys and girls that I find so silly, yet frustrating. But if other girls out there can feel
heard and understood while having a laugh at the same time while listening, that’s really all I
can hope for!
As a Latina actress and singer, what challenges have you faced in Hollywood? How do you feel your presence in the industry is breaking barriers for other young Latina artists?
I‘m very grateful to be a Latina actress in this day and age where actors of different cultural
backgrounds are celebrated and given more opportunities, that they maybe wouldn’t have had
in the past. I definitely feel a responsibility to continue breaking barriers in this industry for the
next generation of young Latin artists!
Halloween is such a big part of the Descendants franchise. Do you have a favorite Halloween memory or tradition, and how do you like to celebrate the holiday, what are your plans and Halloween costume options?
One of my Halloween memories that I laugh about with my parents all the time was the year I
convinced them to take me to Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios. Keep in mind I was
only eight years old, so I was not prepared for how terrifying it was going to be! I think I lasted
about 5 minutes in the actual park because by the time the first monster ran up to me with a
chainsaw, I was like hell no! I jumped in my dads’ arms crying and screaming, so we pretty much went right back home! Luckily, I’ve gotten over my fear, and I love going to horror nights with my friends during Halloween! The chainsaws do still freak me out though!
As a child, what were some of your favorite Halloween candies? Do you have any fun memories associated with trick–or–treating or Halloween parties?
I’m a very classic chocolate girl, so I was typically the one that my friends would trade their
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups to in exchange for sour candies. I loved the year that my besties
and I all dressed up as different colored fairies! You know… it was the year that every girl in America dressed up as a fairy! Group costumes are always more fun, I’m trying to convince my besties right now to all go as Victoria Secret angels (PG–13 version of course)!
What are some of your favorite scary movies?
The Exorcist is my favorite of all time! I went through a kick of watching a bunch of 80s/90s
horror movies when I was 9 years old, but for some reason that one really stuck with me as the
most terrifying. I just always picture that scene where green stuff is coming out of her mouth, EW it’s so gross!
You’re known for your stunning red hair! Can you share your secrets for maintaining its vibrancy and health? Any favorite products or routines you swear by?
I’ve been using pulp riot hair dye for over a year now and I think it’s great! Especially for my
girlies out there who are thinking of trying out a semi–permanent vibrant color. I use the color Pyro for my red streaks in case you want to twin! But since I’ve been dying my hair for years, I try to stay up on using hair masks and leave in treatments like K18 for hair health!
Beyond hair, what other beauty secrets do you have? How do you balance looking stage–ready while keeping it simple for everyday life?
I really believe in less is more when it comes to my skin care routine. I stick with a simple
cleanse, tone, and moisturizing regimen, but I think having a good sleep schedule, staying
hydrated, and being mindful of what I put into my body are major factors at play. Also,
switching to a satin pillowcase has been a GAME CHANGER for my skin and hair!
Favorite beauty products at the moment?
Literally anything by Charlotte Tilbury! I live for her liquid primer, cream bronzer, setting spray
and of course the pillow talk in medium + the pillow talk lip liner is the DREAM lip combo!
Your style has garnered attention. Who are your fashion icons, and how do you incorporate their influence into your wardrobe, especially for events or performances?
Aaliyah has been my fashion icon for as long as I can remember! I love how she played with the
sexy tomboy vibe, and I try to incorporate that into my own style. I’m also obsessed with Jade
the Bratz doll! She’s FIERCE.
Looking ahead, what can fans expect from you in terms of new music or acting projects? Are there any genres or roles you’re particularly excited to explore?
Fans can anticipate another EP on the way! I’ll be elaborating on this very y2k, 90s swag that
I’ve done with “Boy For a Day” and who knows … I might be heading back to Wonderland soon!
In today’s digital age, social media plays a vital role in connecting with your audience. How do you use platforms like Instagram and TikTok to engage with your fans and promote your work?
I think social media has been an incredible way for me to directly communicate with my fans. I can tease songs and get their reactions within minutes. I can read their DM’s, have direct conversations with them, and watch and re-post their edits. It feels like I’ve built such a supportive community in the last year, and I can’t thank my QT’s enough for all their love and support!
Finally, what advice would you give to young artists trying to break into the industry? What key lessons have you learned that you believe are essential for success?
I love the saying “luck is when preparation meets opportunity.” I believe you have to put in
your 10,000 hours and get better at your craft each and every day, and then those magical
opportunities are going to find you.
TEAM CREDITS:
Interview By Editor-in-Chief: Prince Chenoa
Feature Editor: Taylor Winter Wilson (@taylorwinter)
Photographer, Creative Direction & Set Design: Tyler Patrick Kenny (@tylerpatrickkenny)
Wardrobe Stylist: Tabitha Sanchez (@tabitharsanchez) with The Only Agency (@theonly.agency)
Assistant Wardrobe Stylist: by Jess Mcatee (@jessmcatee)
Hair Stylist: Matilde Campos (@tildebymatilde)
Makeup Artist: Robert Bryan (@robertti)
Set Assistant: Ashley Van der Laan (@vandermeanor)
Public Relations: Jill Fritzo Public Relations (@jillfritzopr)
Videographer: Andrey Frazão (@andreyxfrazao)
Studio: Meech Studios (@meechstudios)
Special thanks to Dametreus Ward (@meech213) for the great space !