During our interview, actress Ashlei Foushee openly discussed her experiences in the entertainment industry. The conversation explored her involvement in the film On Fire, her experience as a performer, and the obstacles she encountered. Ashley’s career is a testament to her passion and resilience, providing valuable lessons for aspiring artists and enthusiasts.

“I think the film humanizes it. Sometimes when you see things play out on the news, there’s a dissociation that happens,” Foushee stated.

The way she portrayed Kayla, a young 911 operator, in the movie allowed her to bring a human touch to real-life events. Ashlei described the movie as a captivating story that deeply resonates with the audience, as they become emotionally invested in the struggles of a family and the brave first responders fighting for survival. She highlighted your deep connection to the emotions and experiences of the characters. This is important because these characters are inspired by actual individuals.

Kayla mentioned that she is relatively young, somewhat inexperienced, and still getting the hang of her new job. She had grown weary of her job at Trader Joe’s and yearned for a change. She elaborated on how this role challenged her, particularly during the call center scenes where she found herself essentially talking to no one. This was a refreshing departure from her usual on-screen experiences, where she typically shared scenes with other actors. She lacked the presence of another individual to draw energy from. She had complete control over using her imagination, experience, and skillset to bring the scene to life.

She strived to pay tribute to the bravery and commitment of first responders, bringing attention to the significant influence they have on communities. She mentioned that due to the delicate subject matter of the film and its basis on real individuals, she had to approach her character portrayal with extra care and thoughtfulness. “It’s not solely about my personal imagination and desires for this character.” Foushee stated that she was motivated to do it as a tribute to the first responders who tirelessly serve on the front lines every day.

It evokes a deep sense of humanity. It’s hard to believe that something like this could happen to me. According to Foushee, watching the news doesn’t always result in that outcome.

The interview also explores Ashley’s personal journey as an actress. The author effectively emphasized the difference between preparing for a role based on real events and one in a scripted series, underscoring the importance of approaching real-life stories with caution and purpose. Ashley’s sincere discussion of the emotional impact of certain scenes and the importance of decompression showcased her unwavering dedication to her craft.

“I feel like with this role I’m building momentum and fueling to level up my career,” Foushee explained.

Ashley fondly recalled her early experiences in the entertainment industry, specifically her breakthrough as an actress in a Microsoft commercial. The interview showcased her unwavering determination in the face of setbacks and highlighted the significant change in her attitude, underscoring the value of personal growth and tenacity. Her journey is a powerful example of the strength and perseverance needed to thrive in a challenging industry.

Ashley’s dreams as an actress center on her ambition to gain recognition for portraying a wide variety of powerful characters. Her commitment and relentless drive to improve are a source of motivation for fellow performers and creatives. Ashley’s journey provides a raw and honest perspective on the ups and downs of the entertainment industry, connecting with those who are also navigating their own artistic paths.

Photography Credit: Tim Schaffer