Mirabelle Lee is a wholesome talent whose light shines beyond the television screen. She is dedicated to her dreams and what it takes to achieve them. With immense talent and a large social media following, she continues to inspire her generation. We sat down with Mirabelle to discuss her latest role, representation, self-care, sisterhood, and future aspirations.

Who is Mirabelle Lee? Born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, she began modeling at three years old and transitioned into acting soon after. Truth be told, her first audition experience did not go as planned. She struggled to meet the casting director’s expectations and was rejected. However, her mother refused to accept defeat and sought another chance from the casting director. 

Many would not have been so bold, but Mama Lee knew the gifts that her daughter possessed. Her courage proved purposeful, and Lee received a second opportunity to prove herself. The second time was a charm; after reauditioning, she booked the role on the spot. She credits her mother’s persistence and unwavering belief in her.

“On the train ride from Philly to New York for the second audition, my mom gave me and my sister a pep talk telling us that it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, we could do it, and we had it, and she was right,” Lee said.

That first role was in the film Blood Ties. It was the spark that fueled her journey. Lee has obtained various credits, including 9-1-1, The Blacklist, Slapface, Madam Secretary, and Sydney to the Max. Her most recent achievement is the role of Sonia Little on the new Disney series Saturdays.

Saturdays was created by talented actress and producer Marsai Martin and Roll Bounce creator Norman Vance Jr. It showcases skating culture in the black community and follows Paris Johnson and her skate crew We-B-Girlz who show off their one-of-a-kind routines at a popular roller rink on the weekends. Sonia Little is a sassy “mean girl” and the crew’s rival. Lee enjoyed playing a character that contrasts with her sweet personality. That is the beauty of the art form for her.

“My favorite part about acting is becoming a different person, and I am so happy that I had the opportunity to play Sonia,” Lee said. 

Lee’s character development process utilizes Pinterest boards and music. Girl power anthems from confident black female artists like Rihanna, Megan Thee Stallion, and Saweetie helped her channel Sonia’s unapologetic ego. She even meditated to Rihanna’s song “Woo.” Kudos to the process because Lee does not disappoint this season! The series wrapped up its first season in May, with fans anxiously awaiting season 2.

Growing up in the entertainment industry as an actress of color, Lee saw the importance of representation firsthand. She shared her feelings about sitting in the chairs of makeup artists and hairstylists that were blind to her needs. Not having the correct shade of foundation to compliment her skin tone or the right hair products to embrace her curls was a disservice to her as an actress and a black girl. Saturdays changed all of that with its predominantly black cast and crew. Lee expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the groundbreaking show and work with Marsai Martin, who inspires black youth with her talents. 

“Mostly everyone in the cast and crew was black, which made me feel so seen,” Lee said. “I got to work with an amazing group of people. I am so blessed to have been a part of this show because it was such a life-changing experience.”

When she’s not captivating audiences on screen, she is engaged in lectures in the classroom. Lee’s ability to conquer a full-time acting career and a full-time school schedule as a teen is admirable. She is a go-getter who thrives on filling her time with things she is passionate about. The formula for balancing her demanding schedule is collaboration, to-do lists, a strong support system, and refraining from putting so much weight on herself. 

Amid finding balance, Lee also prioritizes time for self-care. An intricate skincare routine, long showers, reading, and positive affirmations influence her to show up as the best version of herself each day. She takes solace in making time for what matters at the moment and listening to her body. She has her loving family to lean on when the stress and pressure are overbearing.

Lee’s family is her biggest inspiration. She has a beautiful relationship with her mother. Growing up, she had a front-row seat to a woman’s strength and determination, which were attributes also instilled in her and her twin. 

“My mom is also super ambitious and one of the smartest people I know,” Lee said. “Her drive and hard work inspired me to do the same.”

She shares an unbreakable bond with her twin sister Anais Lee. While her mother is her joy, Anais is her peace, and she can be her 100% authentic self with her. It is a sacred connection.

“Anais understands my emotions better than anybody on earth,” Lee said. “When there is a slight change in my tone and an energy shift in the room, I don’t even have to say anything. She comes to me and hugs me, and I love her so much for that.”

Not only are they bonded by blood, but their talents as well. The twins are taking on Hollywood together, each shining in their careers. As one another’s biggest cheerleaders, they refuse to allow anyone or anything, especially work, to hinder their relationship. “We love each other too much to let anything separate us,” said Lee. They are #sisterhoodgoals!

“Sisterhood is so important because it is a bond like no other,” Lee said. “I think every woman needs that. The comfort and the ability to be vulnerable with that person matters.”

The future looks bright for the savvy sisters. They are preparing to launch their skincare line Reflect, encouraging women to love who they see in the mirror. Lee aspires to eventually create and star in a film or show with her sister. She even envisions working amongst some of the industry’s influential black actresses and filmmakers, such as Zendaya and Ava Duvernay. 

Aside from acting, her passions include directing and screenwriting. She wrote a short film called Gazelle which won an award at the Indie Short Fest recently. It tells the story of the plight of black women in the ballet industry. The work of art stems from personal experience since she also has a ballerina background. She hopes her creation will make it to the big screen one day to inspire others. 

“Storytelling is a huge passion of mine, and I would love to advance more in that,” Lee said.

Lee is bound to have a promising career thanks to the devoted village uplifting her and the women that impact her. She presents herself with a warm smile and a humble spirit that is esteemed. The conversation concluded on an inspirational note. 

“Loving yourself is the most important thing,” Lee said. “So be confident and love yourself exactly the way you are.”

Mirabelle Lee is a radiant reflection.

Photo Credit: Collette Bonaparte