Interviews

BSCKIDS Talks With Aalyrah Caldwell About Uncle Buck and More – Interview

Sarah

June 18, 2016

Photo: Alex Krux

BSCkids recently got to chat with “Uncle Buck” star, Aalyrah Caldwell about her role on the series and what she would do if she got into an “uncle buck” situation.

Aalyrah Caldwell began her acting career at the age of three and appeared in numerous print campaigns and national commercials over the next five years. Since her beginning, she has appeared in a wide variety of television shows already. In 2014, she made her film debut in the dramatic film “Cardinal X” and co-starred in “The Foster’s” and the popular “Key and Peele” comedy television show.

Caldwell currently stars as “Maizy” in ABC’s comedy,” Uncle Buck.”

Even though she is young, Caldwell is immensely talented. But her life isn’t all acting. When not on set, she enjoys creating art with her four siblings, writing, biking, piano, ballet and gymnastics. She is also very passionate about helping others. She supports causes for homeless children, attends the annual “Sketchers Walk for Education” to assist children with special needs, and recently participated at “A Window Between Worlds” fund raiser, an event that empowers individuals and communities impacted by violence and trauma.

BSCkids: Aalyrah Caldwell

Aalyrah, Tell us a little bit about your character on Uncle Buck? Do you and Maizy share any of the same traits?

Maizy is a sweet girl who is often shy but when provoked can be a little feisty. She’s also smart and likes to play pranks with her brother. Sometimes this gets her into trouble because she is very trusting and looks up to her siblings. I’m not shy, so I would say mostly Maizy and I share our love for fun and games and a quirky sense of fashion.

Were you ever able to watch the original movie that the show is based on?

Yes, I watched the original movie. It was very funny. There are some similarities but with a fresh look.

How would you feel if you really were being raised by Uncle Buck?

Afraid – at first. Then I would be comforted knowing that he (Buck) cares so much about us that he allows himself to change.

Who have you learned the most from on the show about acting?

I learned the most about acting from Nia. She gave me the great advice on staying in character.

Can you tell us some of your hobbies?

I enjoy reading, drawing and craft making, origami, piano, gymnastics, traveling with my family, and just hanging out with my four siblings.

You also do some modeling, how is acting different from modeling and how is it a little bit the same for you?

In modeling, it’s more about selling a product, so you have to keep in mind who you are selling to. Acting is more about telling stories with emotion. Both are the same in that they require you to take on a personality that may be different from your own.

How supportive of your career has your family been?

Super-supportive! I am fortunate to have parents that are able to make their work schedules around my auditions and projects and spend a lot of time helping me to prepare. It’s really a family effort, I have siblings in the business too and we do fun improv at home. My older brother rehearses scripts with me and helps me with accents – so yes, everyone is very supportive.

Any funny behind the scenes stories that you can tell us about while filming?

There was one time we finished filming a scene but Mike stayed in character after it was over. He started yelling and reprimanding me, Iman, and Sayeed like he was our real uncle. It was very funny – but a little scary at first!

If you could guest star on any show which one would it be and why?

I would love to guest star on the Best Friends Whenever show because they have dynamic on screen relationships and seem to have lots of fun while filming.

Are there any celebrities you are dying to meet?

Of course! I would love to meet Peyton List, China McClain, Taylor Swift, Meghan Trainor, and Riele Downs. There are lots more, but that’s a start.

Any advice for other children getting into acting?

Be yourself and never let people’s judgments discourage you.

Where can we find you on social media? Any other projects you are working on?

I’m on Instagram: @aalyrahcaldwell, Twitter: @aalyrah, and Facebook: Aalyrah I am working on a project that is still in development so I can’t say much about it other than kids will love it. I also recently finished a week-long commercial shoot for American Family Insurance. I played an astronaut on Mars! Besides that, I am on hiatus, looking forward to summer vacation and hope to film Season 2 of Uncle Buck.

Why should we all tune in for Uncle Buck?

Because it’s funny and it reflects some situations that happen in real families today. So families can learn how to deal with challenges they might have while laughing and having a good time.