10 Things about Lesa Wilson
You started acting a young age. What inspired you to get into the business and how did you initially get your start?
I fell in love with storytelling as a kid. So, I feel like I’ve always been destined to be in entertainment. My first time on stage was when I was 8 years old. And, from that point forward, I felt drawn to the arts. I was inspired to get into the business because I saw people doing the things I wanted to do; singers, actors, dancers, etc. It was the only thing that really made sense for me.
I got my start when I was in high school behind the scenes in radio as a host for a talk radio station in my hometown. Then, I switched from that gig to a production assistant role at the local Comcast affiliate. Once I graduated high school, I signed with a modeling agency that I worked with for 5 years until I won Miss Georgia USA, then went on to be 2nd runner up at Miss USA and immediately after the Miss USA pageant, I moved to Atlanta. Once in Atlanta, I landed a role in a short film which got me an introduction to my first TV and film agent. From there, the rest is history. I’ve been a working actress ever since.
Which actors made an impression on you early on and which ones would you want to work with, if given the opportunity?
Growing up, I always loved Julia Roberts, especially because she was a Georgia girl. She gave me hope that someone from Georgia could actually make it as an actress. As I’ve studied more actors through the years, I fell in love with Reese Witherspoon and Jessica Chastain.
Reese is a force. I admire what she’s done not only as an actress but as a businesswoman. Working with her would be a dream come true for me. Interestingly enough, I see myself in Jessica. We look nothing alike, but the types of roles she takes are the kinds of roles I could see myself in. Both of these incredible women are on my vision board because of how much I admire them and their work. But also, because I would love to be on a project with them sometime in the future.
You’ve done an equal amount of both film and television work. What type of characters are you most excited to play on screen?
I really enjoy working in both mediums, so I don’t have a favorite between TV or film. As far as characters go, I do enjoy roles that are feisty, up to no good, or a bit of a troublemaker. That’s probably because I am a rule follower in real life, but the defiant part of me always wants to come out.
Coming up for you is the film, Stars Fell on Alabama. How were you first introduced to the project and what made you want to jump on board?
I was approached about the film by the director. He reached out through a mutual friend and asked if I’d read for the role of Charlotte. But once they saw my audition, they felt I was a perfect fit for Rachel. I got a phone call from the director about it and we discussed the role. He offered me the part and I accepted.
The film is a romantic comedy. What else can you tell us about the movie and what we can expect to see?
Yes! It’s a romantic comedy. A feel-good experience. I can tell you that it will leave you smiling. There’s dancing, there’s laughter, there’s football, there’s family values and there’s unexpected surprises.
In the film, you mentioned that play the role of Rachel Kemnade. What are the many facets that make up her personality and what did you enjoy most about bringing her character to life?
Rachel is kind, wise, and she’s the girl that you can easily become friends with. She is the definition of a sweet southern belle, so it was very natural for me to take on that role. I enjoyed living in her truth. I think Rachel is who I would have been, if I had chosen a more traditional path for my life.
In addition to your acting career, you are very passionate about environmentalism and you work closely with Environment Georgia. What can you share with us about the foundation’s initiatives and how others can get involved?
Environment Georgia’s current initiative is focused on renewable energy for college and university campuses. In addition, they provide volunteer opportunities to do cleanups of rivers and parks and other public areas that tend to need it. Currently, people can get involved through donations. Covid-19 has caused a complete stop for volunteer work but there is always an opportunity to support the ongoing initiatives of the organization. In addition to my volunteer work, I host a weekly segment on YouTube and IGTV called “Going Green”, where I discuss individual choices we can make that have a huge impact on our environment.
If you weren’t working as an actress, what other career would you consider instead?
If I wasn’t an actress, I’d work in marketing. I used to be a project manager for a digital marketing company and I had a lot of fun working with the team.
When it comes to fashion, which designers and styles appeal most to your personality?
I’m a sucker for Free People. I can’t resist the free flowing nature of their designs. I also love Alexis, Vince, Stella McCartney and Rag & Bone to name a few. When I’m at home or running errands, I like to wear cute but comfortable clothes. Maxi dresses, tee shirts, etc. And, when I’m out on the town, I usually choose something that’s on trend, sexy or flirty.
We look forward to seeing you in the film, Stars Fell on Alabama. What other projects do you have coming up in the near future?
Thank you! I’m excited for it as well. The next project of mine that you can catch airs on TV One. It’s a made for TV movie called Coins for Love. I play a character named Shellee. She’s a bit devious. The girl everyone loves to hate. Playing her was so much fun! That airs on July 19th. I hope you’ll watch!
Twitter: @HelloLesa
Instagram: @HelloLesa
Facebook: @LesaMarieWilson
Photo Credit: Angela Murray Photography