If you watch television, you’ve probably heard of ABC Family’s hit series, The Fosters, which centers around a unique foster family as they struggle through all the same things that bog down normal American families, as well as quite a few shocking twists and turns! Perhaps you also remember The Secret Life of the American Teenager, one of ABC’s hottest soap-opera-esque series, full of intrigue and drama week after week. If so, you’ve definitely seen Cierra Ramirez rocking her incredible acting talents. From her reoccurring role on The Fosters playing the sassy and strong character, Mariana, to her awarding winning supporting role in the film, Girl in Progress, Cierra is certainly making a name for herself in Hollywood.
We sat down with the young starlet, and are here to tell you something. This girl is here to stay. She’s smart, passionate, and her future is looking very bright. From the first sentence, we know that you’ll agree…
You grew up in Texas – how did you get into acting? Is it something you’ve always wanted to pursue?
I actually accidentally got into acting through singing. I used to participate in many singing contests and in Oprys around town. One day, my Dad’s friend told us about a lady who was scouting for a showcase in LA at the mall. We went to meet her, and I qualified to attend the showcase. The lady said if we made the trip to California, then it would be best to participate in other categories, such as acting. That’s where I found my agent, who I’m still with 10 years later! He sent me to an audition right before I was going to board a plane to come home and I was hooked after that experience.
Who have been your greatest influences thus far?
For acting, I have to say Angelina Jolie, and for singing there are just too many to mention. It seriously extends from Patsy Cline to Drake.
That is quite the range. We’re big fans of both The Secret Life of the American Teenager and The Fosters. Both have a great air of melodrama about them, and both Kathy and Mariana are strong-willed characters. Between the two, do you identify more with one or the other?
I definitely identify with Mariana. Other than being a teen, the role of Kathy was stepping into new shoes for me. Mariana is young, and she’s constantly making mistakes while trying to find out who she really is. I think all girls can relate to that. She is also big on fancy nails, and I definitely relate to that!
The Fosters is currently going strong – what’s a typical day of filming like for you?
A typical day of filming consists of first going through hair and makeup and going over my lines. After that, I go change and wait for them to need me. I love to hang out at the set and talking to the producers, writers and directors for two reasons, because they are THE best, most authentic people ever, and to learn about what goes on behind the camera.
You work very closely with Jake T. Austin, who plays Jesus – what is that like?
Jake is very sweet and talented. He charms the pants off everyone who meets him. I’m glad I get to work with him.
In addition to your great television work, you’ve also been in a few films. Do you prefer one median to the other? Do you want to do more film acting in the future?
I don’t really have a preference for either television or films, but I’m definitely itching to film a movie.
I don’t think anyone was surprised when you won the ALMA for Favorite Movie Actress, Supporting Role for your performance in Girl in Progress. Can you tell us what went through your head when they called your name?
I was excited beyond words! It’s a project that’s very dear to my heart, and I so happy I couldn’t stop smiling.
What’s coming up for you in the coming year? Can you give us a glimpse into your 2015 plans?
The Fosters has been picked up for a 3rd season, so I will return to work on that in April. Meanwhile, I will be auditioning for other projects.
We like to end with something fun… What’s currently in your Netflix queue?
FRIENDS of course! Now that all of the seasons are up on Netflix, I don’t have an excuse to leave my bed!
Check Cierra out on season 3 of The Fosters now!
