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You grew up onstage in musicals like Annie and Peter Pan—now you’re chasing screen roles in Hollywood. Is Broadway still the dream, or has your spotlight shifted?
I definitely have aspirations of both Film and Television plus Broadway. In fact, I just had the honor of originating a role in a new musical movie that should be out in 2026. In many ways it was like a return to my musical theatre roots and it really fed my soul. It reminded me how much love I have for the stage. At the moment I am focused on film and television but you will definitely see me back on the stage some day.
You’ve worn a lot of hats- from studying Accounting to launching S.T.A.R.S in partnership with the Alabama Arts Alliance. What inspired you to pursue these different paths, and do you feel it gives you a unique perspective in an industry full of smoke and mirrors?
I feel like the only thing that limits a person is themself. I have many different aspirations in many different areas of life, and I never want to limit myself into thinking that I can’t achieve all of them. I run my own arts scholarship program, have a marketing degree from Auburn, am pursuing a career as a film/television actress, and continue to grow every day. God is very faithful, and has opened more doors than I could have imagined.
As a girl from Birmingham walking into casting rooms in L.A., do you ever feel underestimated? Or do you feel like your Southern roots give you something others don’t have?
I feel like growing up in the south has helped to keep me grounded. I grew up in a regular family with chores and having to work from the time I could drive. The hard work and for lack of a better term “normal” life, has taught me to work hard to get the things I want. I also think sometimes there’s a misconception that just because you have a southern sweetness to you, you may not be tough enough for this industry. I completely disagree. I think in the south we are raised socializing and knowing how to work a room. I think being southern gave me a more optimistic outlook but also the tough skin that can come from being a girl in the south. We know not everyone likes us and we are ok with that and we still know how to smile and talk to them anyway. I think Southern charm is an underrated super power.
Hollywood is full of power dynamics—especially for young women early in their careers. How do you navigate these situations when something just feels off?
My faith and relationship with God is the biggest part of who I am. I have prayed over my career from day one. I firmly believe that God will open the doors He wants me to walk through and shut the ones that need to be shut. I have to say, I know people talk about the seedy side of Hollywood and I’m not saying it doesn’t exist, but I just haven’t experienced that side of things. I have been blessed to be surrounded by some of the most amazing directors, producers and actors during my 10 years in the industry. People have poured into me and I hope that as my career grows I can be the same influence to other young actors.
I think Southern charm is an underrated super power.
Is there a mental timer for you? Like, ‘If I don’t land something by X, I’m out’?
I’m here until I hear “that’s a wrap” on my own terms. The reality is, some very talented people never make it. It’s not always about talent. I was told very early on in my career that you have a better chance of winning the lottery twice in your lifetime than having a stable successful career as an actor. This job isn’t for the weak. There is a misconception that it’s all glam and celebrity. But the reality is we are artists who love the craft. We would rather be broke and doing what we love. It’s like oxygen to an artist. When I’m not on set, I’m working on vocal training, dance or in an acting class. And then preparing for auditions and self tapes. I’ve also started writing. I just finished my first short story and it was such a proud moment for me. It’s a full time job that you only get paid to do every once in a while. I’m fortunate that I have worked each year and then have side jobs that help to keep me here during the slow times. Your learn to live simply. My friends and I are usually at someone’s house because going out is a luxury! Between Ubers and the cost of one drink, one night can cost you your weeks grocery bill! It’s not a cheap place to live.
When you do have time off and you’re back in Birmingham, what’s your ideal ‘day about town’ here?
Waking up in the morning and going for a walk with my mom in my neighborhood is my favorite way to start the day back home. The other is stopping by to hug on two people who helped get me where I am today; Amy Murphy at Amy Murphy Studio and Meg Deusner at Acting Out! Academy. I owe so much to both of these amazing women and while I still work with both of them via zoom, nothing beats a moment in person!
What’s next on your radar—on screen, off screen, or maybe something completely unexpected?
I have a movie coming out in 2026 that I just finished in May. I play Charli in this movie musical set in high school. The title is Saturday! That experience and the people I met changed my life forever. I was in 9-1-1 Lonestar earlier this year and I’m also in several episodes of Tyler Perry’s House of Payne that’s currently airing and another film coming out later this year.
Marcelle LeBlanc is a 22 year old actress who grew up in Birmingham. She has appeared in projects like Fear Street, The Waltons, Grey’s Anatomy, Criminal Minds, Cobra Kai, Stranger Things and more. Her upcoming projects include Saturday the Movie Musical, House of Payne, and Colleen Hoover’s Regretting You.
