Kaitlyn Bernard On Titular Role In Lifetime’s ‘Surviving My Father: The Rachel Jeffs Story’

A talented actress on the rise!

You’ve seen Kaitlyn Bernard in everything from the Amazon Prime original series ‘The Lake’ to the star-studded 2018 film ‘The Professor’. Now fans get to see her in her arguably most emotional role yet, the titular character Rachel Jeffs in Lifetime’s ‘Surviving My Father: The Rachel Jeffs Story’.

We had the amazing opportunity to speak with Kaitlyn and talk about working with Johnny Depp, dream future roles, and more!

Congratulations on your leading role in the upcoming film Surviving My Father: The Rachel Jeffs Story. What was the filming experience for this movie like?

K: “Thank you so much. Filming this project was one of the most intense and rewarding experiences of my career. Because Rachel’s story is so personal and powerful, there was a real sense of responsibility on set. We all knew we were telling something bigger than ourselves so the environment was very focused and collaborative. It was emotionally heavy at times, but also deeply inspiring to portray her strength and resilience.”

This film is rooted in such an emotional heartbreaking story for your character. Does the nonfiction aspect of a role change how you approach it?

K: “It definitely does. When you are playing someone who has actually lived through trauma, you approach it with an added layer of care and respect. I spent time researching Rachel’s story and trying to understand her voice and perspective. With fictional characters, you can invent pieces of them but with nonfiction, you are honoring a life and a truth. For me, it became about channeling her resilience and humanity while making sure the performance felt authentic.”

You are no stranger to Lifetime films. Do you have an all-time favorite Lifetime film?

K: “What I really love about Lifetime is the way the network actively promotes and features female directors and women-centered stories. On Surviving My Father: The Rachel Jeffs Story we had a female director and the film itself is such an incredible story of female courage and resilience. I would not say I have one all-time favorite Lifetime film but I truly admire how the network continues to create opportunities for women in the industry and shines a light on their voices.”

From Johnny Depp to Katherine Langford you have worked with some iconic scene partners. Have you ever been starstruck?

K: “I think everyone has those moments of being starstruck and I have definitely had mine. Working opposite Johnny Depp early in my career was surreal because he is someone I grew up watching. But the wonderful thing about acting is that once you are in a scene the nerves fade and it becomes about connecting with the other person. That is when you realize no matter how famous they are you are both there for the same purpose: to tell a story.”

You have portrayed such a big range of characters on-screen. Is there a dream type of role that you would love to try and play?

K: “I would love to take on a role in a really gritty psychological thriller… something that allows me to completely disappear into a character who is raw and layered. I am also drawn to period pieces because they transport you into another world entirely. Ultimately, any role that pushes me out of my comfort zone and transforms me as both an actor and a person is a dream role.”

What is your best piece of advice for young girls who are inspired by you and want to pursue a career in acting?

K: “My advice would be do not chase success, chase growth. This industry is full of rejection and it can feel discouraging at times but every step, even the setbacks, builds you into a stronger artist. Focus on your craft, stay true to yourself and surround yourself with people who lift you up. And above all find joy in the process because it is in the journey where you will discover your resilience and your voice.”

Make sure to watch Kaitlyn shine in Lifetime’s ‘Surviving My Father: The Rachel Jeffs Story’, available now on Lifetime!

Photo Credit: Kristine Cofsky Photography

Je’Kayla Crawford– Founder and Director– Je’Kayla has been a journalist for years and decided to start a publication of her own, New Scene Magazine, back in October 2020. When not helping her team and working on their print issues, you can find her watching a movie on Netflix or baking using a viral TikTok recipe.