Check out our interview with talented “Wolf Pack” actress Bailey Stender who can also be seen on popular TV shows like iCarly and Bunk’d.
Follow Bailey @baileystender
Hi Bailey, please tell us a little about you?
I am a joyful, weird, free thinking, overly optimistic actress and comedian from Northern Minnesota! I grew up doing musical theater and played roles like Wednesday Addams in the Addams Family Musical and Elle Woods in Legally Blonde the Musical, before transitioning into TV and Film in 2019. My goal as an actress is to inspire and I love that TV and Film can be an outlet for people to forget about their problems and escape into another reality.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
The 3 words I would use to describe myself are exuberant, sunshiney, and kind-hearted.
How did you get started into acting?
Oddly enough, I used to be an incredibly shy little kid. So much so that my mom had to stay in class with me for HOURS every day in kindergarten. I was so scared to talk to people. My grandma told my mom she should put me in theater to pull me out of my comfort zone. Day one of my first play I cried my eyes out, and day two I was happy as a clam. Years and years of theater led me to be the extroverted actress I am today.
How has this changed your life?
Acting has always been an escape for me. I’ve dealt with pretty severe depression and anxiety, and it always melted away while performing. My safe space was at play practice with the nonjudgmental theater kids. As I’ve grown older, I’ve seen how much movies and TV affect people and open their minds to new ways of thinking. TV and Movies are truly changing the world. That’s why I feel so lucky to be a part of this industry.
What is the best and worst part of being an actress?
The best part of being an actress is being given an opportunity to inspire and a platform to provoke thought. The worst part about being an actress… is probably that it’s scary to be put on display for the world to see. Not everyone is going to like you, and on the internet people can be very vocal about that, no matter who you are. I continue to remind myself that I LOVE ME, and that’s all that really matters.
How do you prepare for a role?
I usually try to find ways to relate to each character. I find ways to make them endearing and interesting, but grounded. I ask myself, “How would I feel in this situation, and how would this specific character express those feelings?” I think that’s why Phoebe went from being in one episode to being in six, because I tried to play her as if she had so much more happening internally than what the audience could see.
Tell us about your work in “Wolf Pack?” And about your role as Phoebe?
I play Phoebe Caldwell in Wolf Pack. Phoebe is Blakes (our leads) former best friend. Phoebe is the mean girl and is incredibly cold to Blake from the beginning, but the audience doesn’t know why. Phoebe is very layered in my eyes, and I absolutely love her, despite her bitchiness. Phoebe can be seen in 6/8 episodes.
What other projects you have been part of?
I was lucky enough to be on BUNK’d on Disney Channel and am now a recurring Guest Star on the iCarly reboot on Paramount+! I also had a movie come out recently on Hulu!
What kind of roles do you like or would like to play and why?
I like to play characters that are outside of the box. I love to get ugly and weird and be goofy and push the boundaries of what women are “supposed” to act like. I want to play more roles like Melissa McCarthy in Bridesmaids. She’s absolutely hilarious and doesn’t give a shit what she looks like. I have no desire to be the over-sexualized token hot character. I also love playing complex female characters that think outside the box and inspire others to do the same.
Which fictional character would be the most exciting to meet in real life?
Honestly, Brick from Anchorman. Can you imagine that? Or maybe Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Oh wait… 😉
Can you name 3 actors/actresses you would love to work with?
I would absolutely love to work with Maya Rudolph and Amy Poehler together on something. If I got to work with them at the same time I would pass out out of excitement. I just love women in comedy and they are two of the best, and an iconic duo! I would love to work with Will Ferrell as well. I love comedy that’s so dumb and outrageous it makes your stomach hurt with laughter!
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
I think the final result and the way it impacted people will always be the most rewarding part. Not to mention, the fun of acting! I’m pursuing this career because it’s FUN for me and life is supposed to be fun! It doesn’t feel like work! It’s inspired action!
What’s your advice for the newer actors?
HAVE FUN WITH IT! DON’T STRESS! If it’s not fun for you, it’s not worth it. You’re not in any rush. It will unfold exactly how it’s meant to in perfect divine timing.
What would say are the greatest lessons you learned so far in this business?
You will see the most success when you are your 100% authentic genuine self. I’m such a bold, goofy, weirdo, and showcasing that in my auditions and on set has gotten me farther than I could’ve ever imagined. You will never regret being yourself. There’s no need to pretend you’re something you’re not. Shine brightly as who you truly are, so your soul tribe can see your light and find you.
How would your best friend describe you?
She would say I’m the weirdest person she’s ever met. But I would take it as a compliment because she loves me, and she’s weird too! I think she would say I’m incredibly caring and full of love. At least I try to be!
If you are a book, what would be the title of the book and why?
“How to Change Your Life!” because over the past two years I have completely transformed my life! I went from a very depressed, insecure, unhappy person, to the happiest person you’ll ever meet, who is achieving all of her wildest dreams and in love with life AND herself! A year and a half ago I was really in a rut mentally, and I was lucky enough to be introduced to the Laws of the Universe and Manifestation. I basically had a major spiritual awakening and woke up to my power and beauty, and to the infinite possibilities that exist for all of us. I started implementing spiritual practices like affirmations, journaling, meditation, and even seeing a Channeler to help me get in touch with my Guardian Angels. I know it sounds crazy, but it saved my life, and is the reason I’m alive and thriving today!
What advice would you give to your younger self and why?
Be here now, and focus on joy. Be present. Focus on the good. You are worthy. Trust that it’s all coming together, and just enjoy the journey. The journey is the most important part.
What’s next for Bailey Stender in 2023?
I’ve had some amazing auditions and callbacks recently, so I’m sure there’s incredible things on the horizon, but I can’t quite see them yet! (I also can’t say on a few things, but stay tuned!;)
What is your favorite healthy food?
I love making my own smoothies!
And your favorite cheat food?
Pizza with ranch!
What is your own definition of happiness?
Being fully present in each moment.
Best advice ever given?
Be here now.
Do you support any charity?
Yes! I support the NAACP and recommend going to their website and clicking the “take action” bar! I’m also a huge advocate for Planned Parenthood.
Favorite song? Why?
My favorite song is Past Lives by BORNS because I have absolutely lived MANY lives before this one. It just moves something in my soul every time I hear it!
What do you think of Social Media?
I think social media CAN be used for good! I try to share inspirational messages and not make it only about appearances. I follow a lot of inspiring people so I actually enjoy social media. You just have to remember that it’s a highlight reel and not everything on social media is as it seems. Don’t compare yourself. 🙂
Where we can follow you?
My Instagram is @baileystender and… I think that’s my platform on everything actually! XOXO!
Quote: “Who you are will always be more important than what you do.” – Paula Suarez Gomis
Movie: Everything Everywhere All at Once
Tv Series: The Office
Favorite Food: honestly, coffee!
Travel Destination: The Maldives!
Sports Team: Welp. I’m a theater kid.:)
Photo Credit: @callmepashaa
