Rising Star Daniela Lugo On The Five Things You Need To Shine In The Entertainment Industry

An Interview With Guernslye Honoré

Embrace challenges and take calculated risks. No one understands your capabilities better than you do. Betting on your career and seizing every opportunity that comes your way can lead to unexpected breakthroughs.

As a part of our series about pop culture’s rising stars, we had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Daniela Lugo.

Daniela Lugo is a talented Latina actress and filmmaker hailing from Mexico City. Her passion for the entertainment industry has been evident from a very young age, as she began creating shows and movies for her family and friends.

In 2013, Daniela embarked on her journey by studying acting, singing, and dancing. However, it wasn’t until 2016, while working on the Oscar-winning movie “Roma” by the incredible Alfonso Cuarón, that she discovered her true calling as a filmmaker. At the age of 18, she made the bold decision to move to New York City to pursue her acting and filmmaking career. During her time there, she honed her skills at prestigious institutions such as The American Academy of Dramatic Arts (Class of 2022), Stella Adler (Class of 2019), Broadway Dance Center (ISVP), and Steps on Broadway.

Daniela’s talent has graced various renowned venues, including Carnegie Hall in New York City, The Hudson Theatre, YouTube Theatre in Los Angeles, and Bellas Artes in her hometown. She has had the privilege of collaborating with esteemed figures in the industry, such as Bella Thorne, Jennifer Lopez, Logan Browning, and many others.

Beyond her acting endeavors, Daniela is actively involved in film production, working on projects both in her home country and the United States. Her upcoming cinematic ventures include “THE WIFI DATE” and “THE MARCH OF THE PENGUINS” (La Marcha de los Pingüinos).

Currently, Daniela resides in Los Angeles, California, where she continues to make remarkable strides in the theatre, television, and film industries, achieving significant success in a relatively short span of time.

Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series! Can you tell us the story of how you grew up?

I was born and raised in Mexico City, Mexico, and my upbringing was filled with an abundance of love from my parents, siblings, extended family, and friends.

My family has consistently been incredibly supportive of my dreams. I fondly remember a particular moment from my past when “High School Musical” premiered in 2006. I took the initiative to organize and create concerts for my family. Every Friday, I would invite friends from my school and take on the role of director for the entire “High School Musical” show. I even had the pleasure of playing the character Sharpay Evans, alongside my little Yorkshire Terrier, Bolton. These cherished memories will forever hold a special place in my heart.

My family served as the most enthusiastic and appreciative audience I could ever ask for. To this day, they remain the most incredible audience in the entire world, supporting me in all of my endeavors.

Can you share a story with us about what brought you to this specific career path?

My fascination with the performing arts has been a constant in my life since I was eight years old. I can vividly recall the moment when I first watched “The Phantom of the Opera,” and right then and there, I knew that acting would be the purpose of my life. It was an epiphany that ignited my passion.

Following this revelation, I wasted no time and began taking classes in dancing, singing, and acting at various studios. My goal was clear: to build the foundation for a future career in the performing arts.

Can you tell us the most interesting story that happened to you since you began your career?

At the age of 15, I had the extraordinary opportunity to make my debut in the Oscar-winning movie “Roma,” directed by the remarkable Alfonso Cuarón. Although my role in the film was relatively small, the experience I gained was nothing short of incredible.

I distinctly recall that, after just my second day on set, I was deeply inspired. The entire atmosphere, the dedicated crew, the talented actors, and, of course, Alfonso Cuarón himself, left a profound impact on me. It was at that very moment that I made a life-changing decision: I knew I wanted to dedicate myself to becoming a professional filmmaker.

It has been said that mistakes can be our greatest teachers. Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you made when you were first starting? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?

When I was 13 years old, I had the incredible opportunity to take a dance class with the Broadway star Bianca Marroquin. I remember feeling an overwhelming sense of determination inside the dance studio, as if I had to prove myself and impress Bianca. I was so eager that I consistently fought to secure a spot in the front row, hoping to dance alongside her.

However, in the midst of one of the dance numbers, I suddenly stumbled and fell. While Bianca may not have noticed, my classmates certainly did. To my surprise, instead of laughter or ridicule, they immediately rushed to help me get back on my feet and continue dancing. I didn’t cry, but I felt deeply embarrassed because I had unintentionally recorded my misstep for all to see.

What struck me most about that moment was the genuine kindness and support of my classmates. They congratulated me for persevering and not giving up. It was a valuable lesson that has stayed with me throughout my entire career.

That day, I learned the importance of humility. I realized that it’s not about being the best or the most skilled in the room, but rather about being genuine, kind, and true to oneself. By fostering positive relationships with those around you and remaining grounded, you can navigate your journey towards your goals with grace and enjoyment. I may not have been the best dancer in that studio, but that experience provided me with one of the most significant lessons of my career.

What are some of the most interesting or exciting projects you are working on now?

I am thrilled to share that I have produced a short film in my home country, Mexico, and it’s set to premiere worldwide during the first week of October. This project holds immense significance for me because it’s not only based on true events but also carries a message that I believe needs to be heard.

The journey of creating this film has been unlike any other in my ten years of experience. It has imparted invaluable life lessons, and I’ve grown in ways I never anticipated. The story itself and the incredible cast and crew have been my greatest teachers.

What made this project even more special is that it was a collaboration with talented individuals from Mexico, my home country. Working with my own people in my own country was a profoundly beautiful experience. It felt like we were building a close-knit family, united by our shared passion for storytelling. And this is just the beginning; we aspire to create more compelling stories in the future.

I’m eager to invite you all to stay tuned for the premiere in Los Angeles. It’s a momentous occasion, and I can’t wait to share this powerful story with the world.

As a rising star, you’ve likely faced challenges along the way. How do you stay motivated and overcome obstacles in your career?

The acting career is a rollercoaster ride, filled with numerous highs and lows. There are no step-by-step instructions for achieving success, and it often feels like an unpredictable journey. I’ve faced my fair share of rejection for various roles, but those moments of disappointment served as opportunities for introspection.

During these challenging times, I’ve made a conscious effort to be objective with myself. My focus shifted from trying to impress casting directors or showcasing my auditions on social media to something far more profound. I began approaching every audition as a personal journey, an opportunity to live truthfully within the imaginary circumstances of the character I was portraying.

The act of performing, whether through monologues or scenes, has brought about indescribable feelings within me. Acting, for me, has evolved into a form of therapy. Over the course of a decade in this industry, this year has marked a significant shift in my perspective. I’ve become more deeply connected to my career than ever before because I’ve started doing it for myself, not to gain the approval of others.

By prioritizing authenticity and staying true to both myself and the characters I portray, I’ve come to understand that I’m on a path toward becoming the best version of myself as an artist and as a human being. Success in acting is not solely about external validation but also about personal growth, self-discovery, and a commitment to the art form itself.

We are very interested in diversity in the entertainment industry. Can you share three reasons with our readers about why you think it’s important to have diversity represented in film and television? How can that potentially affect our culture?

1. Representation holds immense significance in today’s world. I hail from Mexico, and during my childhood, there were no Disney princesses who looked like me. I can vividly recall having Dora the Explorer as the only character who resembled me. It was a positive representation, but it was limited. Today, it brings me immense joy to see young Latina girls wearing costumes inspired by a more diverse range of characters and exclaiming, “That character looks like me!” I hope this trend continues for future generations.
2. It’s essential to encourage others to envision themselves in new and diverse situations and experiences. Through on-screen representation, people can connect with characters who share their ethnicity or experiences, providing a source of inspiration. Every individual on this planet matters, and everyone deserves the chance to feel inspired and well-represented without being constrained by stereotypes.
3. Representation plays a crucial role in helping people accept themselves both mentally and, importantly, physically. I’m delighted that in today’s media landscape, we can witness a much more diverse cast in every new TV show and movie. All ethnicities, all types of bodies, and all backgrounds deserve to be seen and accepted for who they are. True representation extends beyond appearances; it fosters a sense of belonging and self-acceptance for individuals from all walks of life.

What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started” and why?

1. Prioritize actions that are true to your own aspirations and not merely to impress others. When you act from a place of authenticity, your passion shines through.
2. In the entertainment industry, humility and kindness go a long way. It’s a vast but interconnected world, and you never know who you might encounter or who might become the next Oscar winner. Being humble and kind not only fosters positive relationships but also leaves a lasting impression.
3. Networking is a fundamental aspect of success for actors and filmmakers alike. Build connections, attend industry events, and engage with fellow professionals. These relationships can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations.
4. Embrace challenges and take calculated risks. No one understands your capabilities better than you do. Betting on your career and seizing every opportunity that comes your way can lead to unexpected breakthroughs.
5. Don’t take rejection personally. The entertainment industry is filled with “NOs,” and often, casting decisions are based on specific criteria that may not align with your attributes. Remember that not getting a role doesn’t mean you did something wrong; it might simply be a matter of a different personality or physical appearance being sought after for that particular role. Stay resilient and continue pursuing your goals with determination.

Which tips would you recommend to your colleagues in your industry to help them to thrive and not “burn out”?

I wholeheartedly recommend aspiring actors to always be truthful and avoid the temptation to fabricate information to impress industry professionals. I’ve encountered numerous actors who, in their eagerness to make a mark, come across as though they’re delivering a rehearsed sales pitch about their careers. It’s understandable that many actors aspire to land that significant opportunity, but it’s crucial to understand that desperation won’t get you very far.

When actors have the chance to connect with people in the industry, it’s essential to approach these interactions with humility and authenticity. Filmmakers and casting directors are more interested in who you are as an individual and how you can contribute to a project than in your IMDb credits or social media following.

I strongly encourage all my colleagues to engage in genuine, organic conversations. Be yourself, and let your true character and passion for your craft shine through. Authenticity and sincerity are qualities that can make a lasting impression and foster meaningful connections in the entertainment industry. Be you.

You are a person of enormous influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. :-)

This is a thought-provoking question, and the first concept that springs to my mind is the importance of promoting mental health awareness. In today’s world, it is absolutely crucial for individuals to feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and emotions. When one feels isolated or overwhelmed, seeking help should be seen as a perfectly acceptable and courageous choice. At times, our surroundings can turn toxic, and we may require assistance to confront and overcome the negativity that our own minds may generate.

While it can be challenging, if I were fortunate enough to possess substantial resources, I would choose to invest in initiatives dedicated to advancing the cause of Mental Health Movements. My aspiration is to see people leading happier lives. As I’ve mentioned previously, life is a precious and finite journey, and everyone deserves the opportunity to experience a life they find fulfilling and enjoyable.

None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story about that?

My parents are an incredible source of inspiration for me. From the moment I embarked on my ambitious dream of moving to the US to pursue my passions, they have been unwaveringly supportive. Their dedication has known no bounds. They accompanied me to all my theatre classes, assisted me in preparing for auditions, and worked alongside me to plan my itinerary and set my goals in the US. In short, they’ve been there for me in every possible way.

I genuinely believe that my parents are the best parents in the entire universe. Without their unwavering support, there were moments when I might have given up, and I would not have reached the point where I am today. They are my rock, my guiding stars, and my everything. Their love and encouragement have played a pivotal role in shaping my journey and my success.

Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?

“No risk, no win” is the quote that has come to define my journey in 2023. Throughout the year, I’ve undertaken numerous ventures that carried uncertainty, and surprisingly, many of them led me to significant opportunities on big sets. Often, fear can be our most formidable adversary, but once you overcome that inner voice that whispers, “don’t do it, you’re not enough,” you’ll find yourself on the path to victory.

While seeking comfort in our safe spaces is entirely natural, the entertainment industry, in particular, demands that we embrace risks. Life is fleeting, and it’s far more fulfilling to proudly proclaim, “I did it” or “I tried,” than to ponder, “what if.” Taking chances and stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to remarkable achievements and experiences, and it’s a motto I’ve lived by in 2023.

Is there a person in the world, or in the US whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might just see this, especially if we tag them. :-)

Meeting Salma Hayek for lunch would be an absolute dream come true. She’s not only one of my favorite idols but also a tremendous source of inspiration for me. If I were fortunate enough to have that opportunity, I’d start by bringing mimosas to make the occasion extra special. Then, I’d be filled with questions and gratitude.

Salma Hayek’s impact on the entertainment industry, particularly for Latinos, has been monumental. I would express my deep appreciation to her for breaking barriers and paving the way for so many aspiring Latino actors in Hollywood. Her journey has truly opened doors and created opportunities for others, including myself, who aspire to be a part of this industry.

Our lunch would undoubtedly be a moment of profound inspiration and connection, and I would cherish every moment of it. Salma Hayek’s trailblazing spirit and success continue to motivate countless individuals like myself, and I would be honored to have the chance to learn from her experiences and wisdom.

How can our readers follow you online?

You can follow me on instagram @daniela_lugo_mtz or you can check my website

www.danielalugoactress.com for more news and updates about my work.

This was very meaningful, thank you so much! We wish you continued success!

About the interviewer: Guernslye Honoré, affectionately known as “Gee-Gee”, is an amalgamation of creativity, vision, and endless enthusiasm. She has elegantly twined the worlds of writing, acting, and digital marketing into an inspiring tapestry of achievement. As the creative genius at the heart of Esma Marketing & Publishing, she leads her team to unprecedented heights with her comprehensive understanding of the industry and her innate flair for innovation. Her boundless passion and sense of purpose radiate from every endeavor she undertakes, turning ideas into reality and creating a realm of infinite possibilities. A true dynamo, Gee-Gee’s name has become synonymous with inspirational leadership and the art of creating success.