Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Dora and the Lost City of Gold’s Madelyn Miranda

Madelyn Miranda is starring in her biggest role to date as the younger version of the title character in Dora and the Lost City of Gold. It’s a dream project for Madelyn, who grew up watching and idolizing the character. Pop Culturalist chatted with Madelyn about the live-action adaptation.

PC: Tell us about Dora and the Lost City of Gold, your character, and what drew you to this project.
Madelyn: I play young Dora in Dora and the Lost City of Gold. In the film, Dora and Diego live together in the jungle, like the animated series. They love to play and explore together. Diego has moved to the city and they’re sad to be separated. This was a dream role for me because I grew up watching Dora the Explorer and I knew playing her would be so much fun!

PC: What was your earliest memory of Dora the Explorer?
Madelyn: I watched her cartoon every day when I was little. I would sing along to her songs and I loved answering her questions.

PC: Were there any nerves?
Madelyn: This is my first big movie, so I was definitely nervous. The cast and crew were so nice and easy to work with—it put me at ease. Also, young Diego and I became really good friends while we shot in Australia.

PC: What do you hope audiences takeaway?
Madelyn: Dora and the Lost City of Gold is a family fun movie with lots of adventure and it’s very funny. You won’t be disappointed!

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: Guilty pleasure TV show?
Madelyn: Nailed It on Netflix

PC: Guilty pleasure movie?
Madelyn: Grease

PC: Favorite book?
Madelyn: I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban

PC: Favorite play or musical?
Madelyn: I loved the new Aladdin.

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn on your playlist?
Madelyn: Beastie Boys

PC: Last show you binge-watched?
Madelyn: Stranger Things

PC: Hidden talent?
Madelyn: I can make donuts with my dirt bike.

To keep up with Madelyn, follow her on Instagram, and catch Dora and the Lost City of Gold in theaters today.

Photo Credit: Jennifer Tinucci