We recently had the chance to connect with Karen Ceesay and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Karen, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
Generally, I like to start the day with meditation, then go to the gym. I am not always successful reaching those two goals everyday but since I don’t have a “regular” job, this is the only way I can keep a routine. Also, I’ve been a member of my gym for over twenty years, and I really appreciate the community there so it always sets me in a good mood to complete whatever the rest of my day has in store for me.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Karen Ceesay and I am a producer/writer/actor working out of Metro Atlanta. Originally from Philly, I moved to Atlanta to attend Spelman College, married a chef and our son is now a film major in college. I have served on several entertainment organizations over the years and was recently elected SAG-AFTRA Atlanta Local president.
I have had a some fun credits over the years including recurring roles on Stranger Things and The Walking Dead, but this summer (2025) I launched my lifestyle brand for women over 45. It will include a podcast, social media content and live events.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
When I was ten years old, a friend of mine from my theater & dance classes was diagnosed with cancer. She was a beautiful girl both inside and out, but tumor developed on her face as the disease progressed. I felt helpless, but my parents encouraged me to start a fundraiser for her at my school and we raised much more than I thought possible. Though she ultimately lost her battle, I was proud to do something. I’ve been trying to “do something” ever since.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
All the time. Being an actor is a tough life. There are so many things that happen, (actually more things that DON’T happen) that constantly make you question, “Why am I doing this?” It’s really a ridiculous business with so few, tangible returns, after years on the grind, it can feel like you’re wasting time for nothing. But then I remember, I am doing this because I love it and because there are so many out there who wish they could have the courage and determination to work in this industry long term. As the industry continues to change with technology, I’ve become to appreciate my journey so much more. I can look back and see what I have accomplished and rejoice in the fact that I did it on my terms.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The biggest lie in the entertainment industry is that your talent is what puts you on. It’s important…. but maybe fourth on the list of what actually gets you booked.
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.
For so long I’ve been waiting to “blow up” or book that really big role but it’s escaped me. Post pandemic and strikes, the entertainment industry has completely imploded and the outlook has been bleak for those of us in it. So there has been a lot of fear and worry especially since I’m in my fifties now. The fear of not knowing what I’m supposed to do now has been intense. But I found purpose in a way that I could use my career and my age to benefit women. This summer (2025) I launched my lifestyle brand for women over 45 called, The Last of the Analog Girls.” It has been the first time in a very long time that I have been completely optimistic about what is in store for me.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @karenceesay
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-ceesay-5391478
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@karenceesay9679
Image Credits
All photos are mine with the exception of the two photos from my launch party for The Last of the Analog Girls were taken by: Francesca Lowe
