Brande Roderick’s journey in the entertainment industry is a captivating tale of evolution and perseverance. From her breakout role as ‘Leigh Dyer’ in the Baywatch spinoff Baywatch Hawaii to her recent involvement in the highly anticipated Hulu documentary, Baywatch: A Moment in the Sun, Roderick’s career has been marked by a series of notable achievements. The documentary, set to stream on Hulu starting August 28th, celebrates the iconic Baywatch franchise, a testament to her enduring impact on the industry. Roderick’s career trajectory—from a celebrated playmate to a multifaceted professional in acting, directing, and producing—reflects her dedication and adaptability in the ever-evolving world of entertainment.

In addition, Brande takes on the director role in the 1970s horror movie Wineville. She both produced the film and plays the role of ‘Tess Lott,’ a character who successfully broke free from her abusive father in her teenage years. Following the death of her father, Tess, who is now a single mother, decides to return to her family’s vineyard. Her goal is to confront the hidden truths and painful memories that she had left behind. Little does she know that her journey will trigger a chain of intense and dangerous events.

Wineville will be releasing in select theaters on September 6th and available on digital/on demand on September 10th

I had the chance to chat with her about her journey in Hollywood and how to tackle being both an actress and producer. 

Roderick’s journey into the world of acting began with a spark of youthful creativity. As a young child, she transformed her living room into a stage, organizing plays and selling tickets to her neighbors. “It was a lifelong dream of mine,” she reflects with a smile. “When I was just a young child, around 5 or 6 years old, I would organize plays in my home and sell tickets to neighbors.” This early passion for entertainment and her natural entrepreneurial spirit set the foundation for a career that would later captivate audiences across the globe. Watching movies and feeling inspired by the emotions they evoked fueled her desire to create similar experiences for others.

As Roderick grew older, her influences became more defined. “During my childhood, I was exposed to numerous influences that sparked my inspiration,” she recalls. “However, as I matured, it was individuals such as Meryl Streep and Julia Roberts who left a profound impression on me.” Their exceptional acting skills and compelling performances inspired her to pursue a career in acting, while filmmakers like Steven Spielberg motivated her to explore the creative aspects of storytelling. These role models became the benchmarks of her artistic ambitions, guiding her journey from a young dreamer to a dedicated actress.

However, the path to success in Hollywood is seldom straightforward. “It has not been easy and it’s certainly not for the faint of heart,” Roderick admits candidly. “If it’s something you want to do, you have to keep hitting the pavement, knocking down doors, and going after your dream.” The industry is rife with challenges and rejections, but Roderick’s passion and determination have propelled her forward. Her resilience is a testament to her commitment to her craft, despite the numerous obstacles she has faced along the way.

The COVID pandemic marked a significant turning point in Roderick’s career. With traditional film production halted, she saw an opportunity to shift her focus towards producing. “During the pandemic, I realized that to further my career, I needed to start producing my films,” she explains. 

Roderick’s recent project, the 1970s horror film Wineville, highlights her remarkable transition from actress to director and producer. In this film, she not only directs and produces but also stars as ‘Tess Lott,’ a character who confronts her dark past upon returning to her family’s vineyard. Scheduled for a theatrical release in select theaters before its digital debut in September 2024, Wineville showcases Roderick’s ability to blend creativity with leadership. “Producing has been an exhilarating challenge,” she reveals. “It requires flexibility and a willingness to adapt to constant changes.” 

As she continues to navigate the complexities of Hollywood, Roderick’s journey underscores her resilience and her passion for storytelling, proving that she can master both the creative and practical demands of the entertainment industry.

Photography Credit: Ashlee Krutzfeldt