Two-time Emmy-nominated actress Sydney Mikayla (“General Hospital” fame) chatted about producing and starring in the thriller “Crybaby Bridge.”
The synopsis is: After being bullied at school, a pregnant teen’s family sets out to move from the city to the countryside, unexpectedly revealing a coveted secret of her past that threatens the fresh start they seek.
“Crybaby Bridge” explores the urban legend of a mother and child, but the sinister phenomenon may be more than just folklore.
How was your experience in “Crybaby Bridge”?
My experience in “Crybaby Bridge” was incredibly rewarding. Between the emotional depth of the role and the stunning Poconos backdrop, I felt fully immersed in the story’s world.
I really appreciated how collaborative the environment was and valued being able to connect closely with both the cast and crew. Working with Erik King was especially meaningful.
His dedication and presence helped create a genuine father-daughter dynamic that I truly treasure.
What did you like most about your character Samantha?
Samantha was such a layered and eerie character, and I loved exploring her complexity.
Her introspective nature required me to stay deeply connected to her internal world at all times, which was both challenging and exciting.
I created an extensive character backstory to ground her, especially since she is a 16-year-old pregnant girl who is adopted and struggling with identity and inner turmoil.
Bringing those layers to the surface was incredibly rewarding, even the ones that are not fully revealed yet.
How did it feel to also take on the role of producer?
This is the first film in which I also took on the role of a producer, and I felt incredibly grateful for the opportunity. What I valued most was having a greater sense of autonomy over my character.
As an actor, especially growing up in the industry, you are often told what to do and how to do it.
Stepping into a producing role allowed me to ask more questions and be part of shaping the character from the ground up.
While I always defer to our amazing director, Sarah, I really enjoyed collaborating with her to build Samantha and make her journey feel as honest and grounded as possible.
What did this screenplay teach you about yourself?
This screenplay showed me how much I enjoy the details of storytelling and opened the door for me to pursue producing more in the future.
I recently executive produced, directed, and wrote my first short film, Exposure, which was an incredible learning experience.
I’m drawn to building complex characters and exploring layered, challenging roles, and I hope to continue doing that.
In my everyday life, I enjoy feeling polished and put together, so I’m especially excited by characters that push me in the opposite direction.
What do your plans for the future include?
My future plans include premiering my directorial debut short film, Exposure. The film follows a 17-year-old starlet on the brink of a major movie deal that could change her image, and her relationship with her mom, in ways she cannot control.
In addition, I plan to continue acting. I have really enjoyed working in drama and horror, and I would love to explore more comedic roles next.
Overall, I am excited to keep growing and taking on new challenges as an actor.
Were there any moments in your career that have helped define you?
A defining moment in my career was playing young Gabby in The Gabby Douglas Story.
Working with Regina King and Gabby Douglas gave me the chance to be around women with such deep love and dedication for what they do, which left a lasting impact on me.
Being nominated for an Emmy at 16 and again at 19 was also incredibly meaningful. I try not to dwell on those moments for too long, but it is very rewarding to have your work recognized.
What does success mean to you?
I think success means trailblazing a path for others and making it easier for those who come after you to walk through doors that may not have been open before. That is something I truly hope to do.
I have many passions within this industry. I love acting, but I also dance, sing, write, and direct, and I know there are still talents I have yet to discover. I want to explore all of them.
More importantly, I hope to help push this industry forward and create more opportunities for people of color, especially Black women.
I want to open doors in ways they have not been opened before and continue to hold them open for those coming after me, just as others have done for me.
What would you like to say to your fans about the new thriller? (What’s the one thing you want them to get out of it?)
Expect the unexpected. I hope you see a version of Sydney Mikayla that you’ve never seen before.
To learn more about Sydney Mikayla, follow her on Instagram.
