Meg Donelly Star Power

Meg Donelly Star Power

BY VANESSA MAPES @vanessa.mapes

The actress, model, dancer, and singer Meg Donnelly is a more than accomplished young woman. Growing up in New York, her love for theatrical arts started young and flourished until she landed her dream, the lead role in a popular Disney Channel series Zombies. She then assumed the responsibility of being a role model for thousands of fans across the country and has done nothing but embrace the honor. With more than 900K Instagram followers, she stays true to herself and her passions.

PHOTOGRAPHER: MILOS NADAZDIN @milosnadazdin FASHION STYLIST: MICHELLE WU @michellewustylist MAKEUP ARTIST: MINA ABRAMOVIC @abramovicm HAIR STYLIST: MITCHELL CANTRELL @mitchellcantrellbeauty SPECIAL THANKS: PERSONA PR & ROSE STUDIOS LA

What was it like to start training in the theatrical arts at such a young age?

It was so much fun, honestly, I never thought of it as training. I loved being with my friends and teachers doing what we all had so much passion for… singing, dancing, acting and each other!

Who or what got you introduced to the art of dance and acting?

We sort of just found each other! When I was 6 years old, my dad and I saw a sign in a storefront window that read ‘Coming Soon: Sing, Dance & Act’. That space became Annie’s Playhouse, which soon after became my second home. Five nights per week and Saturday mornings, I sang, danced, acted, played piano and guitar there. Since my first day at Annie’s, performing is all I’ve ever wanted to do.

Tell us what it was like to grow up in Far Hill, New Jersey? What is your fondest memory from your childhood?

Besides being at Annie’s Playhouse, I would say I loved when it snowed and we were off school. Once the roads were cleared, my friends and I would meet at a local park that had the ultimate sleigh-riding hill!! We would sleigh ride for hours and then go to get hot chocolate. We had a blast!!

Who has been your biggest inspiration for your passions growing up?

Growing up I wanted to be Amy Poehler and Tina Fey - funny empowering women. I used to watch them on SNL and when I found out they wrote their own material I was in awe. Currently, I aspire to be like my TV parents, Katy Mixon and Deidrich Bader. We are a true family. They are so gracious with their time in helping me with my acting choices and shaping how I approach each scene. Not only do they help me professionally, but they are so kind to everyone around them. They appreciate what everyone brings to make “American Housewife” successful. I will always carry what I have learned from them with me.

“I love my fans. I am honored that they look up to me as a role model”

What was it like to get your first break out role as Ash in the Netflix series "Team Toon" back in 2013?

I had been on so many auditions so it was truly amazing to get the part. I was not sure it was real at first! I was so excited because it seemed like such as fun role to play. And it was!! I learned so much on set and made friends that I still keep in touch with today from the cast and crew.

How would you say your acting style has changed since you first started professionally.

I have allowed myself to transform into something I am not, but at the same time, I draw on my own experiences to develop the core of each character I play. When I was younger, I would just pretend.

What was it like to find out you had been cast for the role of Addison in Disney Channel’s Zombies?

I was so excited!! I was actually on the set of “American Housewife” when I got the news! I was bursting with happiness and running around. Everyone was so happy for me! Getting a lead role in a Disney Channel Original Movie had been a dream of mine since I was 6 years old! Then you add in the singing, dancing, amazing cast and powerful message. The experience could not have been better!

How would you describe the character you portray for Addison?

Addison is starting high school and is looking to “fit in” based on what she was taught as a child, but she soon realizes you cannot simply accept what others tell you. You need to experience people for who they are, not where they are from, what they look like or what others tell you about them. I, like Addison, pride myself on standing up for my friends, no matter what!

What is it like to now be part of the Disney Channel family?

It is truly one big family! I have met so many amazing people and we are all supportive of each other in all that we do. I could not ask for more. I had a dream come true by being in a DCOM and on top of that, I am working and are friends with incredibly talented and kind people. I am very lucky!!

You said you enjoy a variety of physical activity as part of your favorite 30 things. Which would you say is your favorite go-to to stay fit and de-stress?

Dance! It helps me unwind but also gets me pumped up.

How did you become interested in learning Japanese?

I have always been fascinated by Japanese culture. When transfer students from Japan were at my school in NYC, I knew it was my chance to learn more! They were learning English, and I started to learn the Japanese language and more about their culture and customs. They have since gone back to Japan, but I still pursue my Japanese studies. I was fortunate enough to be able to visit Tokyo this past summer. It was an incredible experience and I cannot wait to go back!

It is no secret that you are a role model for many girls who follow you on social media and watch your shows and films. What type of image do you look to present yourself as to your fan?

I am all about laughter, being your self and being kind to others. Hopefully, my social media posts and future projects will continue to reflect that. I try to live my life in such a way that I do not have to censor myself when I post on social media. Also, I would love to pass on the best advice I have received to date; ‘Be prepared, but do not over think. Always be in the moment, but most of all, have fun!’ I not only apply this to my professional life but my personal life as well. Just be you!

Not only are you a talented actress, model, and dancer but you also have an amazing voice as displayed in the Zombies soundtrack! Do you plan on starting up your own music career any time soon?

I released my debut single ‘Smile’ some months ago. It has a summer vibe and it is about being in the period of a relationship when you’re so in love, your goal is to always make that person smile! I think it's one of the best feelings ever. I was working at World Wide Practice studio, collaborating with an amazing team of songwriters and musicians. ‘Smile’ was the result, along with four other songs!

Where is your favorite destination your career has afforded you to go to so far?

Hawaii! Radio Disney sent me to Aulani, the Disney Resort and Spa to film an acoustic performance of “Smile” on the beach! I could not believe it! It was the perfect backdrop for “Smile.” I am so thankful for the experience.

What can we expect from Meg Donnelly in the near future?

I will be releasing my EP soon. The songs are about some of my personal experiences and combine a dose of hip-hop, R&B and pop. I can’t wait for everyone to hear it. I will also be releasing a Japanese version of “Smile” in Japan! I could not be happier! I also have some surprises for everyone that are “top secret.” What I can tell you is that they involve both acting and music! Stay Tuned!!

“You need to experience people for who they are, not where they are from, what they look like or what others tell you about them”