Interview With Akira Akbar
From Captain Marvel to the ritzy gated communities of LA, Akira Akbar is one to watch as she puts her own stamp on the famous Ashley Banks in the reimagining of ‘90s cult classic “The Fresh Prince Of Bel Air”, in the new - and tremendously woke - “Bel-Air”.
Putting the coming of age spin into play with LGBTQ+, internet fame and mental health representation delightfully intact, Bel-Air shows many of the original cast be reshaped and influenced by modern realities. But no more so than Akira’s character, Ashley, who depicts her battle with present day racial discrimination, as well as the internal struggle and questioning she faces around her own sexuality and the seeming fluidity of it.
Moved by her on screen navigation of these tender topics, we sat down with Akira to talk Bel-Air, fantasy projects and how to unwind as a cool and successful teen.
two piece set ANNAKIKI, jewelry CHARLIE LAPSON
Your most recent work sees you play Ashley Banks in the Bel-Air sitcom. Now, The Fresh Prince of Bel Air is obviously iconic, how did it feel when you were cast to play in a re-imagination of the original show?
Akira: Being that the original show was an iconic success, I definitely had a “pinch me” moment— it is such an honour to play the role of “Ashley”. And to have the original Ashley Banks, played by Tatyana Ali, call me and say she was “passing the torch to me” had to be the most surreal moment. I was literally shocked and speechless.
Why - do you feel - it was important to have this show reimagined in the current day?
A: I feel it was extremely important to reimagine Bel-Air in the current day to show what it’s like to be a Black family living in Bel-Air dealing with real issues like being discriminated because of your colour in a predominantly white area. Also, the struggles we face with sexual preferences and the feeling to belong and fit in, but also stand out and be heard. I think it’s really important to touch on all these bases especially in current days.
dress BALESTRA ROMA
Ashley was always a favourite of ours. Can you make any connections between her as a character and yourself?
A: Ashley and I are very different yet we have a lot of similarities too. For one she speaks up and speaks her mind. I’m not necessarily a person that speaks up and speaks my mind but I guess you can say from playing this character I now have gained the courage to speak up a little bit more. We also love our family and are both fashionistas.
Did you feel any struggle at all when representing / navigating the LGBTQ+ community on screen?
A: I think the biggest challenge I had was making sure that I represented the LGBTQ+ community in a great light. Something that really helped me prepare for this storyline was speaking with people who identify as LGBTQ+ and listening to their stories. I spent time researching stories of people coming out, too. Also, one of our directors, Aurora Gurerra, shared her personal experiences with me and that was so helpful! I really appreciated that. I am still learning about the community, and it has been so rewarding to learn more through playing Ashley.
top TIBI, skirt BAUM UND PFERDGARTEN
Since we’re here and it’s happening, can you think of any other 90s sitcoms you’d like to see reimagined and who would you like to play?
A: I love the 90s sitcom Martin! If I had to see it being re-imagined, I would love to play “Pam”. She is so funny, feisty, and charismatic all wrapped up in one. I would love to play her.
Ashley is an on screen activist, do you feel that her beliefs pour into your everyday life and your own personal beliefs?
A: Ashley definitely stands up for what she believes in and is not afraid to use her voice on an everyday basis. I, personally, am extremely passionate about mental health.
You’ve hit success rather young in your teens, where do you wish to see your career take you in the future?
A: I love what I do and would love to do this for a lifetime. I love being in front of the camera, but I would love to see what it’s like behind the camera and become a producer or director one day.
Last thing, since we’re curious, how does Akira unwind/hang when she’s not on set?
A: I am a normal kid! When I’m done filming, I go back to school. I’m currently running track right now. I also spend a lot of time with my family and friends. When it comes to unwinding, I love going to the beach, listening to good music, and eating good food. One of my favorite restaurants to eat at is Din Tai Fung.
Words / Jessie Pink
This PIBE online exclusive has been produced by:
Talent / Akira Akbar
Photography / Meg Young
Styling / Janelle Miller @A-Frame Agency
Make up / Mylah Morales @Six K using YSL Beauty
Hair / Sabrina Porsche @Mane Addicts
Production & Casting / Jasmine Perrier @J•T•P
Styling Assistant / Jennifer Afalla