Interview with talented Netflix’s “BlackAF” and ABC’s “Black-ish” Actress Madison Shamoun.
Born and raised in San Diego, California, Madison’s passion for musical theater and talents for acting, dancing, and singing started when she was very young. Recognized for her star potential and undeniable talent, Madison is the recipient of two National Youth Theater Awards for Best Supporting Actress, for her performance asLucy in “13” (2013) and Motormouth Maybelle in “Hairspray” (2015). Madison recently graduated from the University of California Los Angeles with a Bachelor of Arts in Acting for Theater, Film, and Television.
Follow Madison at @madisonshamoun
How did you get started into acting?
I’ve always been performing in one way or another. It was singing, then dance, then theater, then commercials. It kept transforming. I went to UCLA for acting, and now I’m working my way through the tv/film industry.
What kind of roles do you like or would like to play and why?
I love dark comedies! Working on a show like Barry, Derry Girls, or Shameless. Complex characters who you don’t typically root for at first are the most fun.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
When someone tells me I’ve changed their mind, or opened them up to new ways of thinking/feeling. That, and seeing everyone’s hard work come together. When design, lighting, acting, directing, and sound come together and create that perfect moment. It’s beautiful.
What is your favorite healthy food?
Juices/Smoothies! I love making them at home and trying out new flavor combinations.
And your favorite cheat food?
French fries! I could eat them everyday!
How would your best friend describe you?
Weird, witty, hard-working
What’s next for Madison Shamoun in 2020?
Lots of auditioning and script reading. I want to continue to grow in my craft, and challenge myself.
What is your own definition of happiness?
Happiness is a choice! You have to intentionally choose it everyday.
How is a normal day in your life?
I usually wake up and workout. I love cycling, pilates, and lifting weights! I’ll make my celery juice, take my supplements, then feed/play with my pets! After that it’s work all day until the evening, when I’ll make dinner and watch something on one of the streaming platforms.
Best advice ever given?
Change the way you look at things, and the things you look at will change.
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years from now?
I’d love to be a series regular on a show. Do films when I can. Adopt another animal and hopefully still have time to travel, explore, and contribute to the world with my friends and family.
Favorite song? Why?
I have “Forgive Me” by ChloexHalle on repeat. The vocals are insane, those girls are so talented. It’s a total bop.
Where we can follow you?
You can find me on instagram @madisonshamoun!
Favorite Travel Destination: Amsterdam
Book: The Fantasy Bond by Robert Firestone
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Madison Shamoun
