Today we’d like to introduce you to Kennedy Chanel And Kendra Clemons.
Kennedy , we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Kennedy: My journey in the entertainment industry has been anything but conventional. It all began with a dream and an unyielding drive—both mine and my mother’s. Acting has always been my passion, but it was my mother, Kendra Clemons, who helped turn that dream into a reality. Growing up, I was always ‘talkative’, and while my family explored various activities—sports, dance, gymnastics—it wasn’t until we tapped into the crossroads of my love for reading and storytelling that I truly found my calling in acting. I started in theater, with my first role as Alice in Alice in Wonderland—and if I do say so myself, my British accent was spot-on! I was discovered at the Cynthia Bailey Modeling Agency’s acting and modeling competition when I was 9. Going in, I had no clue that this very serious modeling expose and elite convention was any different than a theater summer camp! I walked in with my sunshine T-shirt and lunchbox on day one, learned what a headshot was (how to take one outside of walgreens and print it out to be on par with the other girls) memorize a monologue off of youtube on day two and by day three I was walking away as the winner of this competition, with invaluable knowledge and connections that aided in sparking my career. Shortly after, I was signed by JPervis Talent Agency. That was just the beginning. I landed my first professional role in the Netflix reboot of Dynasty, and now, almost ten years later, I have an intense web of connections in this industry, knowledge that has shaped me, a fearless management team with Luber Roklin Entertainment am I am staring in my first lead role on Lifetime in SIngle Black Female 3. The journey has been a testament to passion, perseverance, and a whole lot of faith- and this is still only the beginning!
Through it all, my mother and I have remained a dynamic duo, proving that with dedication, teamwork, and faith, dreams can turn into reality.
Kendra: I agree with Kennedy in that this journey has been anything but conventional. Kennedy started school at a very small religious private school and expressed a love for the stage very early on. It was once she transferred to a larger Atlanta area private school that she realized that acting was her calling. This came after many (sorry Kenney) failed attempts at sports and other organized clubs. I didn’t know which road she would take, but I knew, as her mom, I would not let this transition to the new school break her spirit. So we focus on her strengths! Reading and memorization. It was through this adventure that we stumbled across a local stage play audition. When we took her to the audition, I was hoping for her to simply be cast as part of the ensemble…just wanted her to scratch the surface of acting. BUT, when we got the cast list, it said she was the LEAD. I quickly reached out to the director to say hey…just so you know Kennedy has NO professional experience. The director quickly dismissed my message. Kennedy went on to star in her 1st community theater play. With 72 lines. Her character never left the stage. She nailed it. I knew we had something special and set out to help make her dreams of becoming an actor a reality.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Kennedy: Breaking into the entertainment industry while juggling school, extracurriculars and a social life was not a venture that people deemed ‘easy’. But it is my personal life goal to dispel the myth of the jack of all trades. There were countless late nights, early mornings, and moments of doubt. My mom and I had to carve out opportunities from nothing—setting up auditions in her office, networking, and constantly refining my skills. There was also the challenge of balancing my identity as a student, a performer, and a young woman navigating an industry that requires both resilience and adaptability. But with every challenge, we adapted, pushed forward, and found ways to make it work.
Kendra:It was tough! Lol, let’s remember I work full time and at the time had a second job as a testing coordinator for the SAT as well as a young active son and a whole husband! Navigating all my responsibilities required lots of planning and organization, but more than anything, it required a belief that it could be done.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Kennedy: As for me, I’ve been blessed with a successful scholastic career—graduating with honors from Woodward Academy and now attending the #1 HBCU, Spelman College. I’ve had the honor of working with icons like Jennifer Hudson, Dolly Parton, Porsha Williams, and Kevin Hart on productions such as *Fight Night*, *Dynasty*, and *Respect*. Most recently, I had the joy of working alongside women I grew up watching—Amber Riley and Raven Goodwin—as leads in *Single Black Female 3* on Lifetime.
I’m truly grateful for the duality in my life—living my own “Hannah Montana” dreams. On campus, I’m a dedicated service leader with over 800 hours of community service. I proudly serve as Miss Alpha Rho for the Alpha Rho Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, and yes, I still find time for a social life!
Between classes, I’m doing script work, running to set, and even filming auditions between final exams.
The ‘jack of all trades’ is a title I wear proudly!
Kendra: My passion for shaping young talent didn’t stop with Kennedy. With Kennedy’s assistance, I created two summer intensives for children interested in entertainment. Last summer we hosted our first sessions and had great success. This year, we will host four sessions and have connected with other Atlanta talent and “momagers” to put together a dynamic experience. This program gives kids the confidence and tools to walk into any audition room fully prepared. The camp brings in experts from different aspects of performance, including actors, professional dancers, and Broadway professionals. Another awesome project I created is my unique ( and very FUN) Organization and Time Management workshops. This couples my passion and professional therapeutic experience with the growing need for organizational and time management skills. If this journey to stardom has taught us anything, it’s that you have to plan your work, then WORK YOUR PLAN.
In an industry filled with uncertainties, I find immense joy in guiding families through the intricate landscape of professional acting. My mission is to help ensure that their children are emotionally, physically, and spiritually safe as they explore this exciting career path. By providing tailored support and resources, I empower both parents and aspiring actors to navigate challenges with confidence. Together, we can foster a nurturing environment that encourages creativity and resilience, enabling young talents to thrive while pursuing their dreams in the performing arts.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Kennedy: Raised in the church, my faith is my foundation. I believe that the Lord has a plan for my life, and he would not place me on this earth with this dream and this drive if he wasn’t planning on seeing me through it!! I have a passion for storytelling, whether that be as an advocate for my community or on screen, I strongly believe that communication creates change. I know that if my passion continues to light a fire under me, my faith will protect me, my purpose and village will guide me on this road to success.
Kendra: The cornerstone of our journey is simply that I’m a mom with unwavering faith and a belief in my child’s potential. This is coupled with relentless drive and minimal sleep:) Kennedy’s belief in the power of storytelling and the importance of perseverance fueled our shared dreams, creating an environment where creativity could flourish. My prayer is to provide steadfast support to nurture her ambition. I want to be the loudest voice in her head and drown out any doubt that creeps in, and provide guidance and encouragement through every challenge. I believe this powerful combination of faith, drive, and unwavering support not only opened doors but also instilled a sense of resilience that will continue to propel us forward.
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