Valerie Marie of Los Angeles, California on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We recently had the chance to connect with Valerie Marie and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Valerie, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What do you think is misunderstood about your business? 
I think the biggest misconception about being an actor is that it’s an easy and glamorous career that is simply based on talent and luck. When in reality, acting is a demanding, disciplined craft that requires extensive training, hard work, and a realistic understanding of a highly competitive industry. There is no set timeline for “success”!

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Valerie Marie— an actress, writer, and storyteller with a deep love for characters who reflect the beautifully messy reality of life.

My acting journey began at age seven with a wildly unexpected mall encounter when a woman came up to me and asked the question every kid dreams of: “Do you want to be on Disney Channel?” The opportunity turned out to be a scam, but the spark it lit was real — and it’s never gone out. With the support of my parents, I began training and never looked back. Since earning my BFA in Acting for Film in 2020, I’ve spent every year building a career rooted in passion, persistence, and truth.

When I’m not on set or writing, I’m soaking up stories — anything that helps me understand people more deeply and bring more truth to my work. I’d describe myself as creatively-driven, passionate, and infectiously optimistic. I love collaborating with others who are equally hungry to create something that moves people.

At the end of the day, I hope my work helps others feel seen. I want people to find a piece of themselves in the characters I bring to life — because that’s the kind of storytelling that stays with you.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
My amazing and talented father, who I lost at the age of 13, gave me the gift of seeing myself through a creative lens. In the short amount of time I got to share with my dad, I watched him chase his creative dream of becoming a singer. He went through many struggles and hurdles to build his dream life. But the most important lesson I learned from him was to never spend your life doing something you hate, even if you die trying. Because at the end of the day, if you’re not doing what makes you happy, did you ever really live life with purpose? So that’s how I will continue to see myself— dedicated, passionate, and grateful to chase my dreams.

What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
Shortly after graduating college, I was diagnosed with Lupus SLE. It was one of the hardest and most confusing battles I’ve ever been through in my life. Lupus is an autoimmune disease that attacks the body’s own healthy tissues. In my case, the Lupus attacked my thyroid, joints, and muscles. This resulted in gaining over 100 pounds, swollen and painful joints, and stiff muscles. I unfortunately was bed ridden for about 4 months with very limited movement. After ending up in the hospital, with a proper diagnoses, I was able to start healing with a proper treatment plan. It took me about a year to fully heal and I went through one of the biggest physical transformations. I am happy to say that I have been in remission for 4 years, I’ve lost over 100 pounds, and I feel the healthiest I have ever felt. Right out of college, I was wide-eyed and ready to begin my life as a working actress in Hollywood. Getting this diagnosis put a pause I could’ve never seen coming on something I have been working toward my entire life. I felt defeated. I was constantly asking “why…why me?” After reflection, I realized that everything that happens to us, happens for a reason. I couldn’t see the light then, but I know now that I had to go through that in order to come out stronger mentally and physically. In turn, I do believe it has made me a better actor. I now have a passion that is stronger, and I am even more dedicated to my craft than I was back then.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I am committed to believing in myself as an artist, no matter how long my “success” takes. I celebrate every win, big or small, with the same amount of excitement. I am constantly manifesting, and little by little, I am able to cross achievements off my list. Each time I do, it makes me even more driven to go after the next thing the universe has in store for me.

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days. 
I recently wrapped my first lead role in a mini series, and it was honestly the best experience. I was tap dancing, skipping, and flying to set everyday. It wasn’t the fact that I finally booked something, it was the people involved in the project that made my experience as amazing as it was. The genuine connections I was able to make with my costars and crew was invaluable. Not one moment felt like work, and that is why I do what I do. I can’t wait for the next one!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.thevaleriemarie.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevaleriemarie
• Other: IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm11560666/

Image Credits
DEIDHRA FAHEY

CHRIS GAMEZ