We had the pleasure of sitting down with the talented and versatile actress and singer, Lexie Stevenson, to discuss her remarkable journey in the world of entertainment. Lexie’s path to success began in Maine, where she discovered her passion for musical theater. However, it was her decision to forge her own path and head to Los Angeles right after high school that led to an unexpected plot twist—the role of Mattie Ashby on the acclaimed soap opera “The Young and the Restless.” In this interview, Stevenson shares how her diverse range of roles in musical theater and television has contributed to her growth as an actress. She also opens up about the profound impact of her training with Mary Setrakian in New York City, the valuable lessons she learned during her time on “The Young and the Restless,” and the motivation behind her involvement as the Head of the Advisory Board at The Endometriosis Foundation of America. Furthermore, Stevenson gives us a glimpse into her upcoming projects for 2023, including the premiere of her Lifetime movie “Love at First Lie” and the exciting film “Katie’s Mom.” This exclusive interview with Stevenson is a true testament to her dedication, talent, and unwavering passion for her craft.
Hey Lexie! Can you tell us about your journey into the world of acting and singing?
My journey into the world of acting and singing began in the lovely state of Maine. But let’s be honest, there aren’t too many singing opportunities in Maine, so I decided to dive into musical theater instead and that’s when the acting bug bit me. After high school, I had the amazing opportunity to attend SUNY-Purchase college, my top choice. But hey, I’m not one to follow a conventional path. So I deferred my acceptance and headed to LA, armed with dreams and a passion for acting. Lo and behold, during my LA adventure, I was presented with an incredible opportunity—the role of Mattie Ashby on “The Young and the Restless”. Sometimes life has a way of throwing unexpected plot twists your way, and that was mine. And let me tell you, it’s been a whirlwind ever since.
How did your training with Mary Setrakian in New York City shape your singing career? What was the most valuable lesson you learned from her?
My training with Mary Setrakian (in the heart of New York) profoundly shaped my singing career. Not only did she bless me with invaluable vocal techniques and stagecraft, but she also showed immense care for my well-being. This may not be the most valuable lesson I learned from Mary but it is my favorite; Whenever my throat needed soothing, she would make a special tea infused with lemon, honey, and a touch of fiery cayenne pepper. Remarkably, it worked wonders every time. Mary’s nurturing approach and personalized remedies added an extra layer of support to my journey, making her influence all the more impactful.
You’ve had a diverse range of roles in both musical theater and television. How have these experiences contributed to your growth as an actress?
The blend of musical theater and television in my acting career is like a secret weapon for me. Through musical theater, I learned the power of presence, live storytelling, and connecting with live audiences. Television taught me subtlety, on-screen chemistry, and adaptability in a controlled environment. Learning to fuse the two together has made me a versatile performer, equipped with a diverse skill set and deepened my understanding for characters.
What motivated your decision to move to California to pursue your acting career right after high school? How has that decision impacted your professional journey so far?
The decision to move to California immediately after high school to pursue my acting career was driven by the desire for real-life experience and the opportunity to immerse myself in the heart of the entertainment industry. It was a leap of faith but the decision has had a profound impact on my journey thus far. L.A. has a very vibrant entertainment scene and it has given me a multitude of opportunities, connections, and experiences that have helped shape me as an actress and as a person. From auditions to actually filming, each step has contributed to my journey as an actress in the best way. (Even if I don’t recognize it in the moment lol.)
Now, while I occasionally reflect on the possibility of what it would have been like pursuing a four-year college degree for the comprehensive training it offers, I believe that the real-world education I’ve gained through hands-on experiences has been and was the best route for me to take. The exposure to industry professionals, the challenges faced, and the lessons learned along the way have created a unique path for me. However, recognizing the value of ongoing learning and classical training, I am excited to share that I will be attending an acting class intensive at GuildHall College of Drama & Music in London, England this summer. I am extremely excited and can’t wait to get there.
You played the role of “Mattie” on The Young and the Restless for three years. How did this experience shape your understanding of the television industry, and what lessons did you learn during your time on the show?
Playing the role of “Mattie” on The Young and the Restless for three years was a transformative experience that deeply shaped my understanding of the television industry in my infancy as an actor. It taught me a ton of lessons that continue to resonate with me today. I learned the importance of never ceasing to take acting classes and seeking opportunities for personal and professional growth all the time. This lesson reinforced my commitment to ongoing learning especially after the show.
I’m not sure if this counts as a lesson, but my time on the show made me realize how truly grateful I am for having had the opportunity. Soap operas, like “The Young and the Restless”, are like boot camps for actors. The fast-paced production schedule, demanding scripts, and the need to deliver consistent performances also gave me lessons in self discipline, adaptability, and the importance of being fully present in every moment.
Congratulations on your Emmy nomination for Outstanding Younger Actress in a Drama Series! How did it feel to be recognized for your work, and how has this nomination influenced your career?
Thank you so much! Being one of the pre-noms for an Emmy for Outstanding Younger Actress in a Drama Series was an incredible honor and a surreal moment for me. It was nothing short of an affirmation for the hard work, dedication, and passion I pour into my acting. It was also a total testament to the collaborative efforts of the entire cast and writers who worked tirelessly to bring our characters and stories to life. The nomination has opened doors to new opportunities and expanded my visibility within the industry. The biggest thing I took away from the experience was it served as a motivating force, inspiring me to push myself even further in my artistic pursuits.
Can you tell us about your involvement with The Endometriosis Foundation of America? What led you to become the Head of the Advisory Board, and what initiatives are you currently working on
My involvement with The Endometriosis Foundation of America began when our head of fundraising, Jeanne, discovered a blog post I had written about my journey with Endo. She kindly invited me to the 2019 Blossom Ball, an annual event organized by the foundation. Attending the ball and seeing all of the amazing women speaking at it, made me want to get involved and make a difference too. Jeanne offered me a place on the advisory board, and from there, I gradually worked my way up to become the Head Chair.
As Head of the Advisory Board, I am passionate about raising awareness for endometriosis and supporting initiatives that make a tangible impact. One of our key initiatives is to continue organizing events similar to the Blossom Ball, which not only raise funds but also create spaces for education, community building, and spreading awareness. We are also actively exploring various fundraising opportunities to generate resources for research, treatment, and educational programs. I believe that by collaborating with partners, organizations, and individuals who share our vision, we can amplify our impact and make a difference in the lives of those affected by Endometriosis. I would also like to add that we are developing school programs to educate young individuals about Endometriosis, its symptoms, and the importance of early detection. By promoting awareness at a young age, we hope to empower young women to seek help and hope to foster a more understanding and compassionate society that supports them.
What are some of the major projects you have in the works for 2023, and what can your fans look forward to?
I have some exciting projects in the works that I can’t wait to share with my fans! First up, I’m thrilled to announce the premiere of my Lifetime movie called “Love at First Lie”. It’s a captivating story, similar to Netflix’s “The Tinder Swindler”, that will have you on the edge of your seat, and it’s set to premiere Sunday, July 25th at 8/7 central on Lifetime. I’m incredibly proud of the film and the talented cast and crew who brought it to life. In addition to “Love at First Lie”, I’m also working on another exciting project called “Katie’s Mom”. This film is filled with comedy, drama, total shock factors and I’m honored to be a part of it. The premiere is scheduled to take place at the iconic TCL Chinese Theater on July 2nd. It’s a special moment for me, and I can’t wait to see the audience’s reaction to this wonderful film. Both of these projects represent unique opportunities for me as an actress, and I’m very excited to bring these characters to life on the screen. My fans can look forward to seeing me explore new depths and embrace different genres. So, mark your calendars and get ready for some incredible storytelling! Whether you join me for the thrilling ride of “Love at First Lie” on Lifetime or the hilarious journey of “Katie’s Mom”, I’m excited to share these projects with all of you. Your support means the world to me, and I can’t wait to continue this journey together.
You’re known for your passion for travel. How has exploring different places and cultures inspired your artistic endeavors?
Exploring different places and cultures has been a wellspring of inspiration for my acting. Each new country that I explore brings fresh perspectives, diverse stories, and unique experiences that help my understanding of the human condition, which I then infuse into my acting. From the melodies of foreign languages to the different landscapes, travel elevates my work with authenticity and a global perspective. It helps fuel my curiosity more than anything and that is also why I am so excited to be going to Guildhall in London soon. I may have to make a few other stops while I’m over there!
Finally, outside of traveling and acting, how do you enjoy the free time you have?
Outside of traveling and acting, I have started up a few hobbies that are bringing me a lot of happiness. One of them is thrifting and reselling clothes on my Depop storefront. (@lexiestevenson) It’s a creative outlet that allows me to curate unique pieces and share them with others who appreciate sustainable fashion. Recently, I’ve also started taking golfing lessons. Golfing provides a refreshing change of pace and believe it or not continues to help in my acting career. My golf coach told me the other day that golfing is a lot like acting in that it requires you to be completely present and not overthink. Additionally, painting has become a beloved hobby of mine. I am not very good at it, but I find peace and self-expression through it. Painting allows me to create visual representations of my thoughts and emotions which is personally my favorite part about it. I think it’s important for actors to have hobbies outside of acting. Hobbies provide balance to hectic schedules and allow you to unwind and recharge. Whether it’s exploring fashion, honing my golfing skills, or indulging in artistic endeavors, they all bring me joy and fulfillment in my leisure time.
Follow Lexie: @lexiestevenson
