This year has been one of change and charged emotions. We caught up with actress Madison Shamoun to talk a bit about the state of society as well as her life on and off screen. Madison is most known for her roles on BlackAF and Black-ish and she has been in the entertainment industry for years. Despite her success, she is down to earth and grounded. Recognized for her star potential and undeniable talent, Madison is the recipient of two National Youth Theater Awards for Best Supporting Actress, for her performance as Lucy in “13” (2013) and Motormouth Maybelle in “Hairspray” (2015). As a graduate of University of California, Los Angeles she has had the chance to learn about the world of theatre, film and television in a formal setting and also tap into the Black Lives Matter movement locally. Being part of a show that showcases a positive side of the black identity has given her a chance to be seen in a positive light on screen at a time where roles can be sometimes limiting as well as act alongside a majority black cast directed also be a black director—Kenya Barris.
Beyond her beauty, she has a strength of character that translates off-screen. 2020 has been a year to remember and continues to be charged with political undertones that have become normal despite the fact that we all area also living with an unprecedented health pandemic. Madison has not shied away from being vocal about being an agent of change and working to spread awareness about deep racial systematic injustices.
For me, it starts at home. Having those tough conversations with friends, family, and colleagues. Staying informed, even when you’re burnt out and don’t want to. I’m committed to surrounding myself with people who want to make the world a better place, in every way, shape, and form.-Madison Shamoun
Even within her identity as a black woman of mixed heritage are complex issues rooted in slavery and colonialism that we see in many countries like colorism and the ongoing conversation about skin shades and hair textures. Many women of color have seen how the sharp divides between race help reinforce ideals that even within minority communities there exists tension that comes from privileges based on one’s ability to blend, have a mixed background or seem more palatable to the general white population. Madison advocates education and earnest conversations to explain what others in society face. She know that she can use her platform to be a leader and is not afraid to tackle conversations that others ignore that center on privilege and race.
Madison also took time to discuss some lighter topics, share memories about her road to fame and even details about fashion and hair care.
Tell us a bit about your background?
I was born in San Diego, but have moved more times than I can count. Eldest sibling of 3, and I’ve always loved performing!
How did you get your big break in acting?
I’ve been acting since I was young, but I’d say Black-ish was my first big guest-star role! It’s so funny it was kind of a last minute audition that I threw on tape, and I booked it off of that.
Tell us more about your experiences on set on BlackAF and Black-ish. What is a memorable moment? What are you left with from the experience?
I loved watching Rashida Jones act out being high at a rave. I’ll never forget that. With Black-ish, the first scene I’m in where Junior is playing cornhole with his siblings, was kind of a hard take to get. He had to stop me in my tracks by throwing the prop at me, and I just remember we were all in tears laughing, because it was surprisingly challenging. I think in the end we got the shot because a crew member had a good arm, and was able to hit me gently with it right at the perfect moment. The biggest takeaway from both experiences was to come prepared but be ready for anything. TV production moves fast, and always keeps you on your toes.
I really just enjoyed working with such kind, talented individuals. They had it down to a science. I think when you’ve been working 6+ years with the same people everyday, you become a family. It looked effortless! As far as challenges go, both shoots were a breeze. I feel really lucky to have worked with the creatives that I have.
What do you do to build your confidence on camera?
The most difficult thing for me was getting comfortable seeing myself on camera. There was a point pre-pandemic where I was getting anywhere from 5-10 auditions a week, so having to put myself on camera that frequently and look at myself objectively for work, helped solve that problem.
What would you tell your 16 year old self if you could go back in time:
I would just keep repeating the phrase, “you have time.”
Did you always know your calling in entertainment or is it something you discovered or later in life?
I always knew I wanted to work in the entertainment industry. I kind of came out of the womb performing. I just loved singing, dancing, making people laugh.
Who would be a dream director to work with?
Ooo I don’t think I can pick just one. These two are polar opposites but Greta Gerwig and Quentin Tarantino. Greta is a female director I’m just dying to work with. I identify with her work, and she seems so kind and thoughtful. Tarantino is deliberate and adventurous with his projects, and I’d love to see him in action.
How do you prepare for auditions? What is the mental process?
It’s case by case really. I don’t have a checklist I go to when preparing for a role, it’s more of a process that changes with each character. But I will say, first and foremost I get off book. Once the sides are out of my hand, the real work can begin. It’s a lot of character development, research, physical and mental preparation. Making sure I’ve slept enough, I’m hydrated, and have meditated or had a quiet moment before auditioning, usually puts me in a good headspace.
What are your tips for young adults wanting to get into the industry?
Be ready to work really hard. If you’re moving to NYC or LA, you’re entering the Olympics of acting. You’re going up against people who’ve been working in the industry since they were 10. So get into a class, and find mentor-ship. People you can really trust and go to for help and advice. Build a network of fellow actors and support each other. Invest in yourself and be kind to yourself. Rome wasn’t built in a day.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time outside of the entertainment industry?
I love travelling, eating good food, working out, and visiting friends and family!
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Wow, 5 years! I see myself being a series-regular on a show. Doing features on the side when I can. Hopefully I’ve adopted a dog, am contributing to the world, and growing both professionally and personally.
Tell us a bit about your thoughts on the current state of society?
I feel sad and somehow simultaneously happy all the time. It feels like an awakening. There’s no going back to “normal,” It didn’t work before. So much is happening all the time, and there’s a lot to be worried about, but I’m also seeing progress and a growing awareness in general.
What has been your stance on the social movements that have swept the nation?
It’s unfortunate that they’re even necessary, but it’s important work. Initially, I was overwhelmed by all of it. It felt like there was something new every day, and I didn’t know how to grab it all by the horns. I have family and friends who were just misinformed about the movement, and I spent a lot of time really getting into it with them. It’s been exhausting and emotionally draining to be honest, but entirely necessary and worth it.
How are you being an agent for change?
For me, it starts at home. Having those tough conversations with friends, family, and colleagues. Staying informed, even when you’re burnt out and don’t want to. I’m committed to surrounding myself with people who want to make the world a better place, in every way, shape, and form. I’m plant based, I foster, work with kids, donate when I can, share and sign petitions daily. Being an agent for change means leading by example in your own life.
This is a transformational year for our world. What have you learned so far and what lessons would you say have been invaluable?
It really has been! We’re going through some growing pains. I’ve learned that, for the most part, people aren’t bad people. Everyone is scared, concerned, and confused. Everyone is human, so whatever I do, I need to do with kindness and empathy.
Why do you think Black Lives Matter has polarized so many people and why do you think the youth support it so heavily?
I think that Conservatives, generally, don’t recognize the depth of issues surrounding race in America, as a problem. They don’t believe that PoC have these struggles that’re unique to them because of their skin color, and if they did it would disrupt their whole world view. So then Liberals are having to push back even more so than usual, to try and convince them of that truth.
The youth of America are growing up in a crazy time. People who’re graduating high school, leaving college, getting a job for the first time, are all going to be voting in the next election, and they aren’t satisfied with the world they now have to be a part of. They want things to change, they want better.
There is a lot of talk of colorism as well as racism. Have you found yourself impacted by either or both? What has caused you to become a vocal advocate for change?
I’ve definitely been affected by both. It always blows my mind how people can’t recognize their privilege, when even I, as a woman of color, realize I am more privileged than a darker skinned Black female. I benefit from being half white, but also receive racist comments about being mixed. People in my close circle of friends and family didn’t even know about colorism until recently. I’m all about advocating by communicating and educating.
Lately, a lot of online communities on Instagram are tackling the issue of women sometimes tearing each other down, how do you bond with and collaborate with women locally?
I like to reach out to fellow industry professionals through Instagram, and see if there’s anything I have to offer them and vice versa to collaborate! I actually have a shoot coming up that started because I reached out to someone that I knew a friend loved working with, linked up with my friend as well, and now the three of us ladies are trading skills for a project!
How would you describe your style aesthetic:
I’m kind of strange! One day I’ll be wearing biker shorts and a hoodie, the next athleisure wear, and another day it’ll be an entirely black ensemble. I’m all over the place!
Who is your style crush and why:
Love Zendaya! Dove Cameron is another style crush of mine. I like versatility, and I feel like both women are all around stylish.
What brands are you currently crazy about?
Funny you ask! I recently discovered a brand called “ASOS.” They’re a UK online only store, and I’ve only ever bought bathing suits from them, but they offer so many options for all shapes and sizes. I also read the other day that they’ve made a commitment to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, and purchase renewable energy for their direct operations which I love. Affordable, stylish, eco-friendly clothing for all!
What products are in your beauty bag?
For my mixed chicks out there, I love Bobbi Brown foundation. It’s so creamy, and I’m always able to find products that fit my skin shade perfectly. Glossier is my go to for a more natural look. Laura Mercier for powders. My favorite skin care products are a little pricey but work like magic. A good LED mask, Vitamin C wash, seabuckthorn oil, Renee Rouleau’s Toner, and Opti Crystal eye cream will change your life!
How do you maintain your hair? What is your care routine? What products do you use?
Hair care is a process for me! Detangling, washing, conditioning, styling, and then drying can add up to almost an hour of work! I have big curly hair, so I try to focus on hydration and undoing the damage that happens when I have to blow-dry and straighten it for work. I use Innersense Organic Shampoo and Conditioner probably 3 times a week, the scalp cleanser and serum from TPH by Taraji after that, and I style with Devacurl’s B’leave-in and Ultradefining gel. Then I diffuse, and I’m good to go!
Did you ever have a self-defining moment that involved bullying or defeating someone who believed in your worth?
Not a particular moment, but there’ve been people in my life that’ve said I’d never make it, or I wouldn’t succeed. That it’s too hard, and I should have a back-up plan. I’ve been picked on, made fun of because of the color of my skin, my big hair, lips, and body shape. I defeat the haters by continuing to grow in my craft and letting the work speak for itself.
What is next on the horizon for you?
Two projects that I shot last year are currently in post-production. To be completely honest with you, I’m not sure how much I can say about either, but one is a pilot and the other is a horror film. Since quarantine, I’ve mostly been reading scripts, auditioning, doing research on my LA market, and collaborating with creatives on social media.
Keep up with all things Madison Shamoun by following her on IG via @madisonshamoun!
Photo Credit: Lowell Taylor
Styling: Cara Gordon
HMU: Teresa Ammons
Article: Lena Ocean
