At only 14 years old, actress and singer Ruby Jay is already the star of her own Hulu show, Holly Hobbie, and the artist of four original singles. Simply scrolling through her Instagram, which has amassed over 400 thousand fans, we can see Ruby’s various pursuits—from her impeccable style to beautifully sung covers. Unhindered by her young age, Ruby fearlessly creates and embodies girl power through each creation. Truly a #GIRLBOSS, Ruby has inspired girls around the world through her talent and charisma. In the following interview, we spoke with Ruby on her new show, music, and how she hopes to continue inspiring others.
Keke: Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Ruby: I’m a 14-year-old actress, singer and songwriter. I love performing whether on stage or off!
K: How did you get started in acting and singing?
R: I got started in TV and film acting when I was around 10 years old, but I have been doing musical theatre since I was 5. I hope to do them both forever.
K: Can you talk about your new show Holly Hobbie? What is it about?
R: It’s about a 13-year-old singer-songwriter, who wants to change the world. She is coming of age and is experiencing normal teenage problems such as friendship, relationship problems, and family misunderstandings. The show is about how Holly overcomes these problems while hitting a few bumps along the way.
K: Describe your character Holly Hobbie. How does she represent an empowering female figure?
Holly is very down to earth and understands (or eventually understands) what’s happening in the world. She stands up for what she thinks is right and fights for what she wants.
K: Describe your favorite acting experience you’ve had so far.
My favorite acting experience I have had so far would honestly have to be Holly Hobbie!! It was the first time I had the opportunity to play a lead role in a series, and getting to know and work with the cast was amazing. Everyone was so talented and sweet. And voicing twins on Disney’s Fancy Nancy is super fun too!!
K: Can you describe your musical style? What do you like to sing about?
R: I would describe my music as pop with a musical theatre twist. I love the upbeat aspect of pop, but I love the way that theatre uses music to tell a story, so I try and combine both of those things.
K: Tell us about your new song “Young Love“. What inspired you to create this song?
R: I wrote this song to express how I feel about kids getting involved with relationships at a young age. I feel like people should understand that by the younger generation getting involved at a young age, it’s not us trying to fall in love and be with this person for the rest of our lives. It is more about us figure out how it all works, and more specifically, starting to figure out what works for us.
K: How do you hope to inspire other girls through your acting and singing?
R: I hope to inspire them by letting them know that they really are capable of anything they set their minds to. If they really want it, and they fight for it, they can get whatever they want! I hope to tell them through my music that it’s okay to be sad or be happy, or just be meh. It’s all normal.
K: Can you give advice to an aspiring singer and/or actress?
R: The biggest thing I can tell you is to just keep going. If you really want it, don’t stop.
K: Can you talk about a hardship you experienced and how you were able to overcome it?
R: A hardship I have experienced is being able to not be affected by cyber bullying, or rude comments on social media. The way I overcame that was just by ignoring them and realizing that “those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind” – Dr. Seuss.
K: How do you feel as a young girl in the spotlight? How do you deal with fame at a young age?
R: For me, because I use music as an outlet or a way to express myself, I just see it as people who enjoy the music I create and who respect the art. It’s honestly amazing to know that people can relate and connect to the music I create. It inspires me to create more!
K: Do you think your age has ever prevented you from achieving something? What would you like to tell other girls who think that they can’t do something because of their age?
R: Not at all! If I really want something, I know I have to fight for it, just like any adult or anyone else would have to. No matter what people tell you, just keep in mind that you are you, and no one else can be you, so embrace your individuality.
K: Who are some of your female role models and how have they shaped you?
R: I have always looked up to Christina Aguilera for her vocal power, Hailee Steinfeld for her passion in pursuing multiple arts, and Zendaya for her amazing style.
K: What is a fun fact about you that people don’t know about?
R: People may not know that I am a crochet addict!! (Yes, just like what your grandma does)
K: How do you channel girl power?
R: I channel girl power through style, music and performance, and by supporting other girls chasing their dreams!
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