Actress Ashlei Foushee Names Her Dream Co-Star And Talks About New Role In Film ‘On Fire’

An actress you know and love!

From ‘S.W.A.T’ to ‘Ballers’, Ashlei Foushee is quickly becoming a household name. Her most recent role is in the highly-anticipated film ‘On Fire’, which is currently available to watch in theatres.

We had the amazing honor of talking with Ashlei about short film ‘Jinn’, her early-on acting inspirations, and more!

When did you first realize that you wanted to pursue a career in entertainment?

A: “I’ve been in love with movies since I was a small child. I remember being obsessed with the 1980’s Annie with Bernadette Peters and Carol Burnett. I knew all the songs and dances. I watched it so many times I’m surprised I didn’t break the VCR. I wanted so badly to be inside that box. I never stopped wanting to be inside the box!”

Tell us more about your role in the new film ‘On Fire’.

A: “I play Kayla, a young 911 operator. She’s new on the job and perhaps a bit naive. When a local forrest fire breaks out, she’s confronted with a lot of responsibility and is forced to rise to the occasion. Her arc throughout the film is really something.”

Do you think you have anything in common with your character ‘Kayla’?

A: “Absolutely! A big part of my process is finding a part of myself in the character I’m playing. I think both Kayla and I hold on to a bit of innocence. She feels blind-sighted by the sudden fire taking over and honestly, I would have a similar reaction.”

How does it feel knowing that something you star in is available for people to watch in theatres?

A: “AMAZING! It’s a dream come true.”

Can you share any behind-the-scenes stories from filming?

A: “We shot the film in Austin, Texas. We stayed in this huge, compound of a resort on the outskirts of town. It was a beautiful place but out in the wilderness for sure. I remember coming home one night after filming and finding a foot-long lizard in my room. I screamed so loud I think I woke up the whole floor.”

Besides ‘On Fire’, what has been your favorite acting experience so far and why?  

A: “I shot a film called Jinn back in 2016. It’s a coming-of-age story that deals with love, Islam and black girlhood. I’m so proud of that film but more importantly I made lifelong friends. The director, Nijla Mu’min and one of my co-stars Maya Morales were both bridesmaids in my wedding. It will always hold a special place in my heart.”

Who would be your dream actor/actress to work with next?

A: “No brainer. Denzel Washington.”

Where can we follow your amazing journey?

A: “Follow me on IG @afoushee!”

Make sure to watch Ashlei in ‘On Fire’, in theatres now!

Photographer Credit: Tim Schaeffer

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. When not helping her team and working on the monthly issues, you can find her watching a movie on Netflix or baking using a viral Tasty recipe.