Reese Antoinette is a standout talent with an uncompromising commitment to staying true to her roots. The rising star’s artistic journey reflects a deep dedication to her Caribbean heritage, a passion for storytelling, and a drive to pave the way for more nuanced portrayals of underrepresented communities. From her academic beginnings at NYU to the bright lights of Hollywood, Reese has quickly become a dynamic force across acting, music, and production.

A Multi-Talented Artist With a Caribbean Heart

Reese Antoinette’s story begins in a household steeped in the rich tradition of Caribbean storytelling. Her upbringing not only grounded her in cultural pride but also cultivated a love for narratives that explore the human condition. “Growing up in a Caribbean family, storytelling was a way of connecting with people and understanding ourselves,” she explains. This cultural foundation inspired her to pursue an artistic career where she could give voice to experiences often sidelined in mainstream media.

Credits
Photographer: Tommy Chung
Stylist: Joey Rolon
Hair & Makeup: Cassandra Celestin

Her academic pursuits at NYU were marked by an eagerness to explore multiple creative disciplines. It was here that Reese sharpened her skills as an actor, producer, and musician. She immersed herself in various artistic mediums, all in pursuit of one goal: to create stories that reflect the diverse world around her. “My education at NYU was about more than just acting; it was about understanding all the ways stories can be told and how we can use art to break down barriers,” Reese shares.

Bringing Dawnie to Life in Bad Monkey

Reese’s big break came with her role as Dawnie in Apple TV’s Bad Monkey, a character that resonates deeply with her personal experiences and cultural identity. Portraying a Caribbean-American woman was more than just a job—it was a chance to bring a rarely seen narrative to life. “It’s a beautiful opportunity for any young actress of Caribbean descent to see it’s possible to be two things. It’s possible to represent culture that you feel connected to and also be yourself,” she says.

For Reese, Dawnie represents a complex and vibrant portrayal of a Caribbean woman. She’s neither a stereotype nor a superficial character. “I took a lot of time in thinking about the different ways that Dawnie communicates, her motherhood, and her quest for connection,” Reese reflects, emphasizing the importance of bringing a full spectrum of humanity to her character. Dawni’s story isn’t confined to her identity; instead, it’s interwoven with universal themes of love, resilience, and personal growth.

Reese’s dedication to capturing Dawni’s essence went beyond her performance. It extended into the smallest, most personal details—like the jewelry her character wore on screen. “I’m wearing a necklace in the show. I never take it off. It’s a cowrie shell necklace. That necklace connects me to Lulu, my daughter. I communicated that that was important to me, that I had something that I wore in every episode that connected me to my daughter, because I think that is the center of what I do and who I am—taking care of this little girl,” she shared. This subtle yet meaningful choice was her way of grounding Dawnie’s character, embodying the deep, unseen connections that define her, and adding layers of authenticity and emotional depth to the role.

She credits the team behind Bad Monkey for their dedication to authenticity. “They didn’t just keep the Caribbean storyline one-dimensional. They really took the time to get into the complexity of that,” she says. The collaboration allowed her to infuse Dawnie with layers that reflect the rich and diverse nature of Caribbean life, highlighting both the joys and the challenges.

Bridging Hollywood and Heritage

Reese’s experience on Bad Monkey has only deepened her commitment to crafting stories that honor her heritage. “It’s not just about putting a Caribbean woman on the screen; it’s about putting a Caribbean woman on the screen that feels real,” she asserts. This ethos drives her in every project she undertakes, whether it’s in front of the camera or behind the scenes as a producer. For Reese, the goal is not just visibility but meaningful representation.

Her passion for cultural authenticity extends beyond acting. Reese is also preparing to release her debut EP, a music project that blends her Caribbean roots with contemporary sounds. “Music, like acting, is another way for me to tell stories. It’s a way to connect on a deeper level,” she explains. The EP is set to feature a mix of soulful rhythms and introspective lyrics that reflect her journey as a young Caribbean-American woman navigating multiple worlds.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Reese Antoinette’s journey is not just about personal success; it’s about creating a blueprint for future generations of artists who want to tell their stories without compromise. She’s acutely aware of the barriers that still exist for artists of color in Hollywood, but her approach is one of optimism and resilience. “Representation is about more than just being seen. It’s about being heard and understood,” she says.

Her work on Bad Monkey and her upcoming music projects are just the beginning. As she continues to expand her artistic repertoire, Reese hopes to open doors for other young artists, particularly those from the Caribbean and other underrepresented communities. By embracing the complexity of her identity and weaving it into every role and song, she sets an example for those who are often told to choose between heritage and opportunity.

“I want to leave a place for love in everything I do,” Reese says. It’s a simple yet profound statement that captures the essence of her artistic philosophy. Whether through her nuanced portrayal of Dawnie or her evocative music, Reese Antoinette is carving out a unique space in the industry—one that celebrates the richness of her heritage and the universality of her humanity.

Looking Ahead

As Reese looks to the future, she remains focused on staying true to her roots while pushing the boundaries of her craft. “I’m excited for what’s next,” she teases, hinting at upcoming projects that will continue to spotlight underrepresented voices. With her talent, passion, and dedication, Reese Antoinette is not just making her mark on the industry—she’s redefining what it means to be a storyteller in Hollywood, one powerful narrative at a time.

In an era where authenticity is more important than ever, Reese Antoinette stands as a beacon of what it means to be a storyteller who honors her heritage while reaching for new horizons.