Kayla Manuel, a proud native of Inglewood, California, embarked on her journey in the entertainment industry at a young age, honing her skills in various Los Angeles performing arts programs and dance schools under the guidance of renowned mentors such as Debbie Allen and Alvin Ailey. Her early involvement in the arts saw her featured in Debbie Allen’s “Hot Chocolate Nutcracker,” which aired on BET.
After pursuing higher education at Long Beach State University, where she graduated from the Theatre Arts program and received the Dramatic Allied Arts Guild scholarship for Fine Arts in Acting, Kayla went on to perform in numerous theater productions, showcasing her talent in plays such as “Good Boys and True,” “Polaroid Stories,” “Antigone X,” and a Canadian tour remake of “The Little Prince,” titled “FLIGHT.”
On the rise in her career, Kayla has also made appearances in commercials for major brands like Apple and Dove Men+Care, as well as in films such as “Justice Delayed” and “…with Salt.” Her diverse experiences in the entertainment industry have shaped her into a versatile and talented actress.
Outside of acting, Kayla has a passion for yoga, art exhibits, creative directing music videos, and building her wellness and holistic brand, Grounded Closet. She is also actively involved in advocating for change in her community, holding a master’s degree in education and working to shape the lives of children in inner-city Los Angeles schools.
When asked about her role as Cassie in “Wild West Chronicles,” Kayla shared that she approached the complex and emotional character by delving deep into research about Black women in the 1800s, allowing her to authentically portray the role and challenge herself as an actress. The series, which highlights the story of Bass Reeves, the first Black U.S. Marshal, holds significant historical importance, and Kayla expressed her honor in being part of a project that sheds light on this pivotal figure.
Reflecting on her experience playing Cassie, Kayla connected with the character’s journey of young love and the impact of her husband’s jealousy, emphasizing Cassie’s vibrancy and unapologetic views. Kayla’s early training in dance and performing arts has greatly influenced her acting career, instilling in her a strong work ethic, professionalism, and the ability to trust her instincts as an actress.
As she continues to tackle diverse roles across different genres, including an upcoming role in a Sci-Fi film, Kayla remains excited about the creative possibilities that each project brings. Balancing her commercial work with more narrative-driven projects, she finds fulfillment in both avenues of storytelling and enjoys the challenges that come with each.
Aside from her acting career, Kayla’s involvement in yoga, wellness, and advocacy for inner-city schools align with her passion for making a positive impact in her community. She encourages other artists seeking to balance their creative careers with personal passions to stay the course, remain tenacious, and always remember their “why” for pursuing their creative endeavors.
Overall, Kayla Manuel’s journey in the entertainment industry is a testament to her dedication, versatility, and passion for storytelling, both on and off the screen.