Mila Harris, a 14-year-old actress from Atlanta, has made a significant mark in the entertainment industry since her early role on Nickelodeon’s hit series, Tyler Perry’s Young Dylan.
At just eight years old, Harris’s performance catapulted her into the spotlight, setting her on a path that has led to numerous feature film roles alongside notable actors such as Dennis Haysbert and Colin Ford.
With several exciting projects lined up, including the highly anticipated sci-fi film World Breaker and the horror-thriller Coyote, Harris is poised for even greater success.
World Breaker, set to hit theaters this year, showcases creatures from another dimension invading Earth, while Coyote, which Harris filmed in Colombia, features big names like Kate Bosworth and Justin Long.
In a recent interview with Atlanta magazine, Harris shared insights about her journey and the factors that keep her grounded in an industry often filled with demands and distractions.
“I’m fortunate that show business is a family business for me, so having my family with me is what keeps me grounded,” she said.
Her father, Joshua Harris, works as a producer, while her mother ensures she feels safe and supported on set.
Reflecting on her early interest in acting, Harris revealed, “I’ve kind of known since I was little that I would do something in the arts or onstage.
I used to write scripts and have my dog, Lulu, be the actress.
My parents say I always wanted to put on a show.”
Harris expressed her admiration for working with A-list actors and the unique insights she gains from them.
“I love getting to work with such famous actors and getting to see behind the scenes with them.
It’s like creating a little family within each film,” she noted.
She mentioned observing how different actors prepare for their roles, each bringing their own distinct storytelling style.
One of her recent projects, Netflix’s Mary, holds a special place in her heart as it addresses a crucial time in history.
“Mary was a very special movie because it’s about such an important time in history, and she was chosen to fulfill this enormous destiny,” she explained.
In this film, Harris portrayed a young Mary, reflecting on her character’s relatability as a typical child enjoying life.
Notably, this was also the first film that she and her father collaborated on, with him as a producer.
Filming in Morocco provided Harris with the opportunity to immerse herself in a different culture, combining work with adventure as she enjoyed dune buggy rides in the desert during her free time.
Balancing her career with school and friendships presents a challenge for Harris.
As a member of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG), she receives tutoring on set, ensuring she keeps up with her education while traveling for work.
“That’s one of the hardest parts of my job—balancing school and work.
It can be hard, but it’s worth it because I get to travel,” Harris said.
Despite her busy schedule, she maintains a supportive circle of friends in Atlanta who know her simply as Mila, often engaging in typical teenage activities like shopping.
Cheerleading is another passion of hers, where she enjoys working on stunts and being part of a team.
Discussing her auditioning process, Harris described how her team—comprising her manager, agent, and publicist—screens scripts, allowing her to explore characters she feels connected to after her parents approve.
“I’m always grateful to have the opportunity to meet with directors and audition,” she shared.
In her upcoming role in World Breaker, filmed in Ireland, Harris plays a character encountered by the main protagonists in a post-apocalyptic setting, hinting at thrilling dynamics in the story.
“My character is encountered along the lead characters’ journey, and let’s just say things go a little crazy,” she teased.
Finally, when asked about the significance of her name, Harris revealed that Mila is a shortened version of Milan, which means ‘loved by all people’, fitting with her mother Mika’s name.
With an exciting career ahead and a grounded approach to her life as an actress, Mila Harris continues to capture the attention of fans and industry insiders alike.
image source from:atlantamagazine