Child actor Kayden Koshelev is building quite a career for himself. At his young age Kayden has appeared in over 29 major commercials, TV series, and films. His credits include Night Court, 9-1-1: Lone Star, “Grimcutty,” “Me Time,” Search Party, Shameless, Chicago Med, and Patriot.
Along with some TV show appearances, later this year you can watch Kayden in the highly anticipated Netflix film “Rebel Moon” directed by Zack Snyder. “Rebel Moon” follows Sara (Sofia Boutella), a woman who “seeks out warriors from other planets to fight the tyrannical armies terrorizing her peaceful colony.” Charlie Hunnam, Cary Elwes, Jena Malone, Michiel Huisman, Anthony Hopkins, Corey Stoll, Djimon Hounsou, Cleopatra Coleman, and Bae Doona are in the ensemble cast.
When Kayden isn’t acting he strengthens his talent for math and chess. He’s also a vocal advocate for LGBTQA+ youth, mental health awareness, and is a proud supporter of animal rescues. Glambergirlblog had to the opportunity to highlight Kayden and all the amazing things he has going on. Check out the chat with Kayden Koshelev below.
Glambergirlblog (GGB): How did you get started in the entertainment industry?
Kayden Koshelev (KK): Ever since I can remember it’s what I always wanted to do. I have always loved to sing, dance, and perform. I’ve seen videos of myself at 2-3 years old putting on shows for my family. Basically, I told my mom I wanted to be an actor, and she explained a lot about the industry to me. At the time I was already in dance and musical theater classes, so she said I could start with modeling. I did the modeling thing for a few months, and it was fine, but what I really wanted to be was an actor! I wanted to be on TV and on stage performing. I wanted to have lines and act and sing and dance. I auditioned for the Paonessa Talent Agency in Chicago and sang an entire song from “Matilda the Musical.” Marisa was so nice and loving! I signed with them immediately and the rest is history!
GGB: What have been the most rewarding and challenging aspects of being an actor?
KK: The hardest part about being an actor is not knowing which audition will get you a role and which ones won’t. You could do 20 auditions back to back and not receive a single callback. At the same time, you could have only two auditions and book them both. It’s crazy! That’s why I always give it my 100% because you really just never know. I always try my best and remain professional because the industry can be unpredictable. I always remind myself that every audition is an audition for another audition. That helps keep me motivated. I keep in mind that even if I am not the right fit for this particular role at the time, I might be the right fit for a different one in the future, and by always giving it my best, they’ll remember me for future projects and roles. Another challenge is that now a lot of these auditions are self-tapes, and I feel that I’m someone who thrives from auditioning in an actual room in front of the casting directors. I love talking with them, receiving feedback, and connecting with them during the audition process. This is sort of a way for them to really see my personality. As for what is rewarding? GETTING TO ACT! Being on set, creating characters, working with amazing actors and directors, and making friends, the whole process is the reward! Being able to see the final product and all of your hard work paying off, it’s the best!
GGB: Tell me about your role in the upcoming Zack Snyder-directed Netflix movie “Rebel Moon.” (What was the audition process like and getting familiar with the material?)
KK: I really can’t say much, but what I can say is I remember being deathly sick the week of the audition. In the end, I pulled it together and did my best. I couldn’t believe it when I got the callback! After months of waiting, I got the exciting news from my manager that I got the role.
GGB: What was it like working on the “Rebel Moon” set alongside the cast?
KK: It was so much fun and the cast was so nice. I met a lot of great people! I definitely learned a lot from the experience to help me grow as an actor.
GGB: How excited are you about “Rebel Moon”?
KK: I am SO excited. I can’t even put it into words. I can’t wait for you guys to see it!
GGB: How did you get involved with your advocacy work with LGBTQA+ youth and mental health awareness?
KK: I got involved in LGTBQ+ advocacy because I felt passionate about helping and supporting those who don’t get the love and acceptance they deserve just because they don’t fit societal norms. Everyone deserves to be loved and accepted for who they are. As for mental health awareness, this is a prominent issue for young people like myself that I would like to bring awareness to. Getting help and having support available to them is something everyone should have free of judgment. It can save lives.
GGB: Do you have upcoming projects that you can discuss?
KK: I have some great things coming out this year. I also have a few other projects I can’t talk about just yet. I have two guest star roles airing this summer, Bunk’d and How I Met Your Father. I had a great time filming those. Also, I have an amazing recurring voiceover opportunity that I can’t wait to share! As far as new projects, it’s been a very slow year for many of us actors with this strike going on. I hope the writers get what they deserve and are asking for. I look forward to auditioning for all the great projects currently on hold.
GGB: Where can we follow you on social media?
KK: My mom helps run my IG (@kaydenkoshelev_official), so we post about my projects, behind-the-scenes fun, and everyday life. You can also see my past and current projects on IMDB at imdb.me/kaydenkoshelev. My reels are all on youtube as well, TheKaydenShow – Kayden Koshelev
GGB: Anything else you want to add?
KK: I think we covered it all! Thank you so much for taking the time to ask me questions and learn more about me and my life. I appreciate it!
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Photo: Diana Ragland