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!
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
Steven Spielberg's Disclosure Day asks a deceptively simple question: who gets to control the truth?…
Twenty-five years after helping redefine parody filmmaking, Scary Movie returns with the reunion audiences have…
Among the breakout stars of the 2026 Tribeca Film Festival is Mia Vallet, who delivers…
Pop Culturalist is excited to be partnering with Paramount Pictures to give away tickets to…
Against the glittering backdrop of Hong Kong's elite boating scene, The Season invites audiences into…
Among the many films premiering at the 2026 Tribeca Festival, few are as emotionally affecting…