Kyndra Sanchez has emerged as the breakout star of 2021. This year, she captivated audiences as Dawn in Netflix’s The Baby-Sitters Club. The acclaimed series has connected with generations of viewers with its timeless storytelling.
Pop Culturalist was lucky enough to speak with Kyndra about her career, joining the cast of The Baby-Sitters Club, and how she hopes her character inspires young girls everywhere to be their authentic selves.
PC: How did you discover your passion for acting and storytelling?
Kyndra: Since I was young, I’ve always loved performing, entertaining, and putting a smile on people’s faces. I always had tons of creativity in me! I would perform at family gatherings and school talent shows. I always knew that performing was something I wanted to do.
Music was also a big part of me, I grew up listening to Selena Quintanilla, Celia Cruz, and Jennifer Lopez, and listening to their songs helped grow my passion for music.
PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Kyndra: When I was around eight years old, I remember going to the mall with my mom and seeing this advertisement with this model who looked just like me. Right then, I looked up at my mom and asked, “How I can be like her? How can I put myself out there and be known?” Seeing someone up there who looked like me inspired me so much. My mom then registered me in a local acting program, and then I got my agent. That’s where my journey began!
PC: You’ve had a lot of success already in your young career. When you look back, is there a moment that stands out?
Kyndra: I worked a lot for Nickelodeon. I had the opportunity to travel to Chicago and train in the Nickelodeon Second City program! I met so many amazing people, and I grew so much as an actor.
PC: You’re joining the cast of The Baby-Sitters Club and taking over the role of Dawn. What was that experience like? Were there any nerves heading into this project?
Kyndra: It’s a dream come true! During the auditions, I met all the girls on Zoom for a chemistry read, and we instantly bonded. This made me want the role even more. Then when I got booked, I was sobbing happy tears.
My mom and I flew out to Canada. Once I was on set, I had no nerves! I was just happy to be doing what I love with my new friends (who are now my best friends). Everyone was so supportive and sweet. It was truly an incredible experience.
PC: The show continues to tackle very timely and relevant themes. Was there one in particular that hit home for you?
Kyndra: It’s so important to represent these topics. That’s why I love being a part of this show; the characters are so inclusive and supportive of everyone despite the challenges every individual faces. Getting to step into Dawn’s shoes was really emotional at times. Dawn has divorced parents and struggles with anxiety, and she bottles up all of her emotions until one day she explodes. That scene was an emotional rollercoaster, and I’m just glad I got to portray it because the people who are watching that episode also struggling with anxiety can see that they aren’t alone.
PC: You’ve said in previous interviews that you didn’t see yourself represented on screen. What has it meant to you to know that you and your character are ensuring that young girls growing up won’t have to experience the same thing?
Kyndra: It’s so heartwarming for me. Knowing that I can be the person that I never had growing up and now inspire others who look like me and let them know that if I can do it, they can do it—that makes me feel so happy. I hope to inspire everyone and spread a message that life will throw barriers to try and keep you down, but you can’t let that stop you! Instead, it should make you stronger. Learn, keep going, be the best you, be confident in who you are, and don’t give up. I believe in you! You can do whatever you put your mind to.
PC: If the series gets picked up for a third season, where would you like to see Dawn’s storyline head? Is there a relationship of hers that you want to explore further?
Kyndra: I would love to see Dawn’s father visit her! She mentions her dad a lot in the books and in the series, so I think it would be great for them to reunite.
PC: Guilty pleasure TV show?
Kyndra: Stranger Things.
PC: Guilty pleasure movie?
Kyndra: The Little Prince.
PC: Favorite book?
Kyndra: Fahrenheit 451.
PC: Favorite play or musical?
Kyndra: Beetlejuice.
PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Kyndra: The Smashing Pumpkins.
PC: Dream role?
Kyndra: I want to be in a horror or action-adventure film.
To keep up with Kyndra, follow her on Instagram. Watch Season 2 of The Baby-Sitters Club on Netflix today.
Photo Credit: Francis Hills
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