Stepping Into the Spotlight: A Conversation With Braxton Paul

Photo by Melissa Presti Photography

There’s a rare kind of talent that feels both fresh and familiar — someone who steps onto the screen with the ease of a seasoned performer yet carries the wonder of a young artist discovering her power in real time. Braxton Paul is exactly that.

From her early days on Sesame Street to modeling for global brands, and now starring as Lisa alongside Tracy Morgan in CBS’s new comedy Crutch, Braxton’s journey is a blend of hard work, natural charisma, and undeniable star quality.

In this exclusive interview, she opens up about booking her biggest role yet, navigating life on set, the lessons shaping her craft, and the dreams she’s chasing next. What shines through most is her humility — a reminder that behind every breakthrough moment is a kid who simply loves what she does.

This is Braxton Paul — grounded, gifted, and just getting started.

You’re starring as Lisa alongside Tracy Morgan in CBS’s new comedy Crutch — what was your reaction when you first booked the role?

“When I first booked the role, I was in disbelief. I had gotten a call from my manager, Ashley and she told me that “They didn’t like you for this role” and my heart dropped. But then she said, “They loved you for it!” and my heart started racing and I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. I was so excited!”

What was it like stepping onto a major network set and working with a comedy legend like Tracy Morgan?

“My first encounter with Tracy was at the table read. When I saw his name (and the other cast members), I remember thinking “Am I dreaming or am I dreaming?” It was intimidating and exciting at the same time. However, he came right up to me with a warm welcome almost as if I was his actual granddaughter. It was awesome. The first time walking on set was a little nerve wracking but such a new and exciting experience. I remember seeing my baby pictures all around the set which was so cool. It was like an instant feeling of comfort, like I was home. I couldn’t wait to get started."

How would you describe your character Lisa, and what do you love most about her?

“Lisa is a smart, pre-teen girl who is fascinated with her new life in Harlem. Even though she’s fascinated, it’s a big culture shock for her and she has to adjust too many new changes. What I love most about Lisa is she knows what she wants and she makes it known.”

What has this role taught you about yourself as an actress?

“This role has taught me that when you really lock in and work hard, you can achieve anything. I’ve always wanted to be in a comedy and once I got the script, I instantly related to it, so I dove in and gave it my all. So, when I finally got that “you booked it!” It made me really proud and I felt like it was meant to be.”

You’ve appeared on Sesame Street, PBS Kids, Tiny Time Travel, and now network

television — how has your career evolved over the years?

“Honestly, I’ve never really thought about my career evolving. I’ve always thought of it as a new opportunity that I’m blessed to have. However, when I first started, I was a commercial kid and then I stared taking more acting classes and getting into tv/ film more, which I’m so grateful to be able to do. So yeah, I guess I am evolving!"

Was there a moment you realized acting was more than just something you enjoyed, but something you truly wanted to pursue?

“Yes, it was when I filmed an episode for Sesame Street. On the set of Sesame Street, I got to visit all of my childhood memories in real life and even got to film an episode with Elmo! I remember feeling like “I made it” and I could do this forever! Little did I know that a few years later, I would be filming Crutch in the same location. It was definitely a full circle moment and even more of a reason to want to continue acting..”

What do you think has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned on set so far?

“The biggest lesson I’ve learned on set is something I already believed, but it was reinforced in a much deeper way: listening is more important than “acting”. Sets are places to learn, and collaborating with others while staying open and present is what makes the experience so fulfilling.”

Photo by Melissa Presti Photography

You’re also part of the upcoming Matchbox feature film and Missy’s Voice — what

excites you most about these projects?

“Definitely looking forward to the final product. For Matchbox, seeing John Cena for the first time was wild. He just walked into the room and dapped us up. He was so down to earth and made time for all of us to talk to him and take pictures. He was so cool! For Missy’s Voice, meeting and filming with the cast members was so much fun! I made lifelong friends during filming which started in August of 2025 and we’ve been talking every day since. Also, I cant wait to see the audience’s reaction because this film has such a powerful message that needs to be said and heard.”

You made your NYC theater debut in the Off-Broadway play Misty — how did performing on stage compare to being on camera?

“It was extremely different but a lot of fun. I say different because you have multiple takes when on camera, so you can make mistakes and it’s ok. But, you only get one shot when performing on stage. So, there’s no room for error. You have to be on for every show. If there is an error, you have to figure out a way to make it work and to get through the performance without showing them that you messed up”

You’ve modeled for over 40 brands including Ralph Lauren, Nike, Gap, Abercrombie,

and Target — what’s your favorite part about modeling?

“Definitely the fashion! I’ve always loved fashion so I love getting the first look at the newest clothes and shoes before they drop. I also love getting my hair and makeup done because it just makes me feel so cute. Lastly, getting to see the final product, especially in stores is the coolest thing ever.”

When you’re not on set, you’re very active — guitar, sports, gymnastics — how do these activities inspire your creativity?

“The more the merrier. The more activities that I’m open to doing, the more opportunities there are for me. I feel like it’s great to be able to do it all, to be well -rounded and it’s fun!”

Photo by Lily K Photography

What’s your favorite way to relax after a long shoot day?

“Playing guitar. I started playing nine months ago, and I enjoy self-learning. It's therapeutic and I play 24/7.”

You’ve credited your team at Nouveaux Talent Management and Stewart Talent —

what does having the right support system mean to you?

“Nouveaux and Stewart are the best and it means everything to me to have them in my corner. They have supported me throughout the years and even came to see me perform in Misty and Crutch. I feel like they truly want what is best for me and they make me want to work as hard as they work for me”

What advice would you give to other young actors who dream of following in your footsteps?

“I know it sounds cliché, but I would say to follow your dreams and to never give up. Be open minded, and patient because there will be more no’s than yes’s.

What do you want audiences to remember most about you as they watch your career grow?

“I want them to remember that I’m just a normal kid who has to go through life like everyone else".

As Braxton Paul continues carving her path through television, film, theater, and beyond, one thing is clear: her talent is matched only by her heart. She approaches every opportunity with gratitude, curiosity, and a work ethic far beyond her years.

Whether she’s stepping onto a major network set, playing her guitar after a long shoot day, or dreaming up her next big role, Braxton carries a sense of joy that makes her journey feel magnetic.

Audiences may see a rising star — but Braxton wants them to remember she’s still a kid growing, learning, and embracing every moment.

Here’s to the stories she’ll tell, the characters she’ll bring to life, and the generations she’ll inspire along the way.

Follow Braxton Paul journey, support her work, and stay tuned —

— Written By Asia DiAmond

 Your voice. Your vibe. Your vision.