YV Media: Tell us a little bit about your childhood.
Anissa Felix: I had a wonderful childhood. Growing up in Manassas, Virginia, with Trinidadian heritage was a unique experience. My parents always instilled in me a love for our culture, and it really influenced the way I see the world.
YVM: Where did you get your passion for acting? Who are some of your favorite actors? Is there anyone in the industry that you admire?
Anissa: I was one of those kids who was always performing. I was used to “tap dance” on the fireplace ledge, in the bathtub, etc. My teachers signed me up for the talent show when I was in Pre-K, because they saw that I could sing and dance, and they got excited. I was really lucky because even from early on, I had a lot of people supporting my art. My family and friends from were there for me from the beginning and they really nurtured my interests.
My favorite actors right now are women who are also writing and producing their own shows. Michaela Coel, Michelle Buteau, Diarra Kilpatrick, Sarah Cooper; these are all Black women who have stopped waiting for the industry to tell their stories and have taken control of their own narratives. I’m so inspired by them that I’ve begun to write my very first tv pilot.
YVM: Share with us how you landed the role on Netflix’s "Survival of the Thickest" and how your experience was on the set?
Anissa: "Survival of the Thickest" was an incredible opportunity. Being on set was such a fantastic experience. Something that really stuck out to me was how almost the entire team on and off camera were so diverse. All of our directors were women/ femmes and it felt like a departure from what I was used to. I loved that. The cast and crew were like a big family, and we had a lot of fun working together. I think it shows in the work.
YVM: You are also filming a new show for BET. Can you share any information about that with us? What the show is about and when it will be released to the public.
Anissa: I'm really excited about the new show for BET. Unfortunately, I can't divulge too much about the plot just yet. But I can tell you it's going to be a captivating and thought-provoking series that fans will love. Keep an eye out for announcements, and I promise you won't be disappointed!
YVM: Would you prefer to work on Broadway or film shows/films?
Anissa: Broadway holds a special place in my heart. Being my first Broadway show at the age of 8 was a revelation; I knew then that I wanted to pursue acting as a career. Making my Broadway debut in "Motown the Musical" was a dream come true. There's something indescribable about performing on those historic stages and connecting with a live audience. However, after my third Broadway show, I felt the need for something different and ventured into on-camera work, which I love. Both have their ups and downs, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to perform in any capacity.
YVM: What is your dream acting role?
Anissa: I'm currently writing my dream role, and I can't wait to share it with everyone when she's ready. It's a character I've been developing, and I'm putting my heart and soul into bringing her to life.
YVM: Outside of acting, what are other things that you are interested in? What are some of your hobbies?
Anissa: Outside of acting, I have a deep love for cooking. I cook every single day, preparing two meals from scratch. I love experimenting with food, and I try to cook foreign dishes as authentically as possible. Also, I've rediscovered my passion for traveling since the lockdowns eased. Planning full itineraries for trips has become a pastime for me.
YVM: What is your social media information?
Anissa: The best way to stay updated with me is through Instagram. You can find me at @anissafelix, and I love connecting with my fans there.
Photo Credit:
Photographer: Jordan Tiberio
Hair: Falon Jaloi
MUA: Latisha Rankin
Stylist: Angel Emmanuel
Skirt: Michael Fausto
