YOUNG HOLLYWOOD: THE YOUTH WILL LEAD THE CULTURE
“Age is no barrier. It is a limitation you put on your mind.“ – Jackie Joyner-Kersee
In our latest cover story child actor Kai Wener shares a mountain of gems with our readers. The youth are seemingly leading the culture and conversation when it comes to Hollywood, society and entertainment. And it is refreshing. The optimism of youth adds its own beat to how we see society. Kids often tell it how it is or tell a story in a voice of their very own.
With the power of social media, the voices of the younger generation have become energized, accessible, viral and even more valuable as companies and the industry seek to appeal to the newer generation. The internet has allowed child-centric platforms and programming for younger individuals to flourish and create conversations about how to integrate the artistic talent of those very young.
Many often wonder how young kid stars balance the pressures of school or just being a kid alongside the demands that comes with working in the industry. Kai’s sweet smile and energetic personality comes across in his photos and on screen. He sat down with Cachet Digital to share how his life has been impacted by being an actor, The Orville, his latest projects as well as his take on the new wave of creative voices coming out of Hollywood.
We caught up with Kai to photograph him on a sunny day in Southern California and spent the afternoon with him and his family. The young star was alert, intelligent and easy to direct during our shoot. Small but with a huger personality; we are looking forward to seeing more of Kai Wener as he continues to grow and hone his craft.
Tell us little about you, Kai Wener as well as your background?
I’m pretty much your average 10 year old who is wrapping up the 5th grade and looking forward to summer break! I was born and raised in Southern Cali and I live with my parents, my big sister, our family dog, and my pet tortoise. Even though I’m a young actor, I’ve been lucky enough to work with some very established people in the industry on some really cool projects and travel to some really cool places while doing it.
What projects are you currently working on?
Well, I’m really proud to be one of the new faces for the McDonalds campaign that just launched. It is called, “Black and Positively Golden,” which is the biggest African-American campaign McDonalds has done in 16 years. I also just wrapped the second season of “The Orville,” which was a huge season for me and my character, “Ty Finn”. On top of that, pilot season is now coming to an end and I’ve been super busy auditioning for new tv shows that are coming out in the Fall.
Tell us about your experience on The Orville.
Working on “The Orville” has been so much fun. Mr. Seth MacFarlane is an awesome boss to have, and Mr. Jon Cassar is also a great Director to work under. Not to mention I get to be the son of “Dr. Claire Finn” played by Penny Johnson-Jerald, who is so sweet! I’m really surrounded by so many talented people both on-screen, and behind the scenes, so I’m always learning something new. I’m also the youngest on the show, so I definitely get a little spoiled sometimes!
Kids in Hollywood are playing a larger role in the conversation on entertainment and the world around it. How does that inspire you?
I love that kids are able to use their voice to be heard. Even more so that Hollywood is being more open to listening and allowing us kids the opportunity to be more active with our ideas. It totally inspires me to take advantage of my surroundings in this entertainment industry, by taking everything in and one day make a positive impact on Hollywood and the world.
You are a role model for other kids. How does that make you feel?
It’s a big honor to be able to inspire others, especially kids. I feel so thankful to be in a position where anyone would look up to me as a role model. My motto is to always try to keep it positive and to do my best in whatever situation I am in.
What do you enjoy the most about shooting commercials for brands?
I think the best part about shooting commercials for different brands is that I get to see new products before anyone else! For example, I’ve done a lot of print work for Disney and it’s always so exciting for a kid my age to see some of the new Avengers or Star Wars toys before they come out.
How does it feel to see your face everywhere and on tv screens?
Believe or not, I’m still a little shy when it comes to seeing myself on TV! But a lot of times I’ll watch because I love to see the final editing. Especially, when working on a show like “The Orville” where they use so many special effects that production adds in after I’ve filmed my scenes.
Who would be a dream of yours to work with in a television show or movie?
I would love to work with Will Smith. I’ve been such a fan of his since I watched “Men In Black.” I’ve always thought that it was so cool that he could go from being an action hero, to the funniest guy, then rap his own theme song for the same movie.
(Little, Blackish) just recently became the youngest producer at 14 years old; How does her achievements make you feel about your future in entertainment? How does it inspire you?
I’ve been a fan of “Blackish” and Marsai Marshall for the longest time and it’s a show that my family and I watch together. We also just saw “Little” in theaters, and it was hilarious. My parents didn’t tell me until after we watched the movie that it was produced by Marsai Marshall, and I was in complete amazement! I thought it was so cool that someone only a couple of years older than myself could create a movie like that. As a kid actor, I think we believe that only adults are the ones that can create opportunities and jobs for us kids, but seeing what Marsai has done really motivates me to not only create projects for other people, but for myself as well. The sky is the limit!
Who is your role model and why?
For me, my role models start in my home, so definitely my parents. I see how hard they work, the sacrifice and their creativity with both my sister and I. They have accomplished so much and I definitely think I get my work ethics from them.
How do you conquer your nerves when you go on set?
Actually, I’m more nervous when I’m studying my script and juggling multiple script changes right before hitting the stage, because I want to make sure that i have everything down. But once i walk onto set with the other cast members all of the butterflies seem to just go away, we feed off of each other and at that point we just have fun!
How do you balance school and shooting for TV or Film?
My parents think it’s important that I stay in school rather than do schooling at home at this point, so it can definitely be a lot of work to balance school and filming. I’ve been lucky enough to get supportive teachers at school and on set, so they help by working with each other to make sure i’m on track with everything. I’m proud to say that I’ve been on the Principal’s Honor roll with straight “A’s” since the first grade!
What are your hobbies?
On Season 2 of “The Orville,” my character has to play classical piano in two episodes, so the producers offered for me take piano lessons for the show. I began going to the piano lessons with a great instructor and I loved it so much, that I’m continuing to take lessons now personally. I also love my video games in my spare time, and “Yes,” I am a huge “Fortnite” fan!
Favorite movie of all time?
My favorite movie of all time is Disney’s “The Lion King.”
What would be your dream role?
Hands down, “Miles Morales.” We have SO much in common and I totally think I look like him!
What advice would you give to other kids that want to act?
My advice would be to “go for it!” It’s not easy, but if you are committed it can be very rewarding. Take some acting classes, learn new skills and build a support system where an adult can guide you into the business.
How does your family help support your busy schedule?
All of my family members do their part to help. It’s definitely a team effort! Whether its driving me to auditions, helping me learn a script, talking with my agents, coordinating my calendar, or just showing up on set to keep me company. Even though it’s just me you see on the screen, it’s a total team effort and we all win at the same time.
What is next for you?
Of course, I have my fingers crossed that there will be a Season 3 of “The Orville” with more story lines for my character, “Ty Finn”!
I am also excited to say that I just found out that I’ll be working on another project for the FOX network which is coming very soon! I can’t wait to give you the details, so as always, stay tuned!
Photo Credit: @lovelenaocean for @cachetdigital
