Sophia Woodward

You started your television career at just 12 years old on Lethal Weapon. What was that experience like for you as a young actress?

It was incredible. As a kid everything about being on a set was (and still is) so magical and exciting. I had no idea what I was doing but I had a blast.

Many people know you as Luna Loud from The Really Loud House and A Loud House Christmas. How did you prepare for that role, and what do you love most about playing Luna?

The director, Jonathan, and I talked a lot about how Luna Loud should be a manifestation of Joan Jett if she was on a kids show, so I watched every Joan Jett interview there is and really channeled her as much as I could. I also spent hours every week learning and drilling the music that Luna plays in the show. The musical aspect of Luna was one of my favorite parts of playing her.

You’ve also worked on Game Shakers and now star in Oceanless Beach. How do these roles differ from each other, and what was the biggest challenge in your latest film?

Oceanless Beach is very different from anything I’ve gotten to do in my career thus far. It’s a coming of age short film where I had the opportunity to play a wonderfully vulnerable and raw character. I love doing children’s programming, but it was also so rewarding and challenging to break myself out of that mold of what I’ve been doing for years and put on a completely different character.

Oceanless Beach is set to premiere at film festivals soon. What can audiences expect from the movie, and what was your favorite moment on set?

I loved any moment with that team of people. The director, Brent, and the writer, Alex, are such a powerful creative team and a huge part of why I wanted to be a part of the project in the first place. It’s a film about not knowing where you fit and navigating your personal values when they aren’t respected by your peers.

You have built a strong fanbase on social media. How do you balance your personal life, acting career, and online presence?

I try not to think about it. I love my job and my craft. I also love my family and the people I surround myself with That’s all that matters to me.

In addition to acting, you are passionate about advocating for the foster care system. What inspired you to support this cause, and how do you use your platform to raise awareness?

Even as a child I was always passionate about adoption and fostering. I had so much empathy for kids who were less fortunate and didn’t understand why I couldn’t just share my parents, my family, and the love we had for each other with other children. As an adult, I’ve become educated on the logistics of the foster care system and have met many people who have experienced abuse and maltreatment first hand under the supervision of people who were supposed to be a support system. It’s  frankly disgusting and desperately needs to be fixed.

As a rising star in the industry, what advice would you give to young actors who want to follow in your footsteps?

I’d say that you have to love the work. If you’re in this industry for the fame, attention, money, or validation, then you’ll be miserable. You HAVE to genuinely love the work and have the grit to keep getting better.

If you could play any dream role in the future—whether in TV, film, or theater—what would it be and why?

My dream project is a period piece for sure. A “Pride and Prejudice” type film or show would be wildly fulfilling to me. I mean who doesn’t want to live briefly in that world?

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not acting? Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of the entertainment industry?

I love playing and writing music. I play guitar and after doing it so much in the show I’m trying to retrain my brain to not think of it as work.

Finally, what’s next for you? Are there any exciting projects or goals you’re working toward that you can share with us?

I’m just excited for whatever the next thing is. I’m on the edge of my seat and itching to work again. So, if anyone wants to hire me, let me know.